For optimal control and precision in various applications, the Dremel 3100 offers two recommended grips: the "Golf Grip" and the "Pencil Grip."
Golf Grip: Use the "Golf Grip" for more aggressive tasks such as grinding and using cutoff wheels. Place the tool in the palm of your hand, wrap your fingers around the body of the tool, avoiding the exhaust vents. Rest your thumb on the power switch for easy operation.
Pencil Grip: For detailed work, hold the rotary tool like a pencil between your thumb and forefinger. Still need more control and precision? Use our Detailers Grip or Flex Shaft attachments with your Dremel Rotary Tool for extra accuracy

Installing accessories on your Dremel 3100 is a breeze thanks to the EZ Twist™ nose cap and the included wrench. This versatile tool offers two methods for accessory installation, providing you with flexibility and convenience. Here's how to do it

1. EZ-Twist Nose Cap: The EZ-Twist nose cap simplifies accessory changes without requiring a separate wrench. Start by loosening the collet. Hold down the shaft lock button and rotate the collet counterclockwise. Ensure that the nose cap is clear of the tool's threads. Align the internal wrench with the collet nut and turn counterclockwise to loosen the collet. Finish loosening with your fingers. Next, install your accessory, leaving a gap of less than ¼" between the accessory and the collet nut. Tighten the collet by hand while holding the shaft lock button and use the EZ-Twist nose cap for the final snug fit.
 

2. Included Wrench: In some cases, when using attachments, you may need to use the included wrench instead of the EZ-Twist nose cap to secure your accessory.

The Dremel 3100 is compatible with all current accessories in our lineup suitable for high-speed rotary tools. Most of these accessories have a 1/8” shank. If you're not using the keyless chuck (sold separately), ensure you use the provided alternative collet and collet nut. The supplied collet works with 1/8” shank accessories. Smaller shank accessories require separate collets (#481, #482, #483) or a complete set (#4485). Select the collet that matches your accessory's shank size.

Verify the collet is present at the end of the tool. Hold down the shaft lock button and unthread the collet nut. If the collet is stuck in the collet nut, you'll notice a silver sleeve within the threaded end of the collet nut.

To release the collet, insert the shank end of the accessory into the silver sleeve. If that doesn't work, use the pointed end of a pencil to push the collet out of the nut.

When using the Lawn Mower Blade and Garden Tool Sharpener attachment, we recommend using the #932 Grinding & Sharpening stone. For more details, watch our getting started video.

If you've correctly placed the #932 stone in the tool, but it's still hitting the inside top of the attachment, please contact us. This should not occur.

The Dremel 3100 offers variable speed options, allowing you to adapt to the specific requirements of your project. Speed selection can be guided by the sound and feel of the tool, but for precise applications, consult the owner's manual's speed chart, for when to use the speed settings of 2/4/6/8/10 on the tool. Detailed recommendations for accessory and material combinations can be found in the kit contents breakdown.

In most cases, it's advisable to place the accessory before attaching the accessory. This is especially true when the attachment goes over the collet nut or chuck, making it inaccessible once the attachment is in place. Examples include the Shaper Router Table and depth-managing guides like the Cutting Guide or Circle Guide.

The Dremel 3100 features replaceable motor brushes to maintain peak efficiency. Typically, these brushes last between 50 and 100 hours, depending on your usage. For more aggressive applications, you may need to replace them more frequently. We recommend checking the brushes every 30 hours. To check the brushes, use the flat end of the included wrench to unscrew the plastic piece near the DREMEL label. If the carbon piece is shorter than 1/8”, both brushes should be replaced. Replacing brushes is essential to prevent tool damage. After replacement, run the tool with no load for 5 to 10 minutes to seat the new brushes. Replacement brushes are available by calling 1.800.437.3635.