Last month, Dremel unveiled its new 12-volt MAX Lithium-Ion™ 8200 Rotary Tool, which the company says "combines the best of both worlds—the performance of a corded tool and the convenience and flexibility of a cordless tool."

The new 8200 model features a variable-speed range of 5,000 to 30,000 rpm and is the only cordless Dremel rotary tool that is compatible with all Dremel accessories and attachments, including the recip-style MultiSaw and Planer attachments. The company has enhanced the tool's grip zone with soft overmold that wraps completely around the gripping area of the motor housing. It has a separate On/Off switch from the variable speed control so the tool can retain motor speed settings between uses. Controls are now placed so as not to interfere with gripping. A shaft lock should make the collet easy to adjust with one wrench when changing accessories.

A larger motor and fan unit in this tool enable it to cut "two times faster than the leading cordless rotary tool," and its one-hour charger and two batteries should help minimize downtime for charging. You can monitor the amount of charge left in the battery you're using, thanks to a fuel gauge on the tool. The Dremel 8200 Cordless Rotary Tool sells for around $149.99 and should be available now in most hardware stores and home centers.