Binghamton, NY
I also have tried out the Dremmel 443 brush due to everybody's EM pal, NicoVolta's, insistence that it's all that and more. I like it for a few applications, but have mostly switched back to the 428 brush(Nic calls this the "pinwheel" brush), for cleaning contacts. I initially learned this tip from TimMe, which many of you have credited already. Even though the 428 sends wire filaments flying, some of which end up embedded in your face, it's way better in my opinion for getting into tight contact points, and just cleans better than the 443. I really WANTED the 443 to work since it sends much less metal slivers flying...it just isn't doing as good as the 428. I also use the 428 for degunking/derusting small metal parts...once again, on this point, the 443 just doesn't get it done to my liking.
I also still use the flexfile for tough to reach switch contacts, like almost all GTB relay banks, and as far as the high voltage/low voltage debate - I generally will only revisit those high voltage contacts if there's a problem... then I hit it with the flexstone or sandpaper, or even swap out contacts/blades.
I never used the Dremmel on stepper rivets...always a scotch brite pad, but I tried the 443 and found it too tedious, and just not as effective as the good old green scotch-brite.
I do like the 443 for cleaning light sockets...I find it to be ideal for that...I used to used the chainsaw sharpening attachment(#454) for this job...but it was really overkill. The 443 is softer and better suited for this task.
Overall, it's just another tool in the arsenal, and I use them all at different times...that's what I always liked about pinwork...there's never ONE way to do anything, although some people talk like their way is always best...
Sean Kavanagh
The 428:
