Flex Shaft 101, taught by Mark Nelson of Rio Grande was today’s class. I’ve had a Grobet flex shaft for a couple of years, but I didn’t really know too much about using it for more than drilling and basic polishing.
The class was really helpful and interesting. I can now say, I am no longer intimidated by the flex shaft. I understand what I need to do to maintain it. (incredible simple really) Mark explained the uses of a whole range of attachments, accessories and handpieces. I’ve got loads of notes! The Rio Grande classes are especially helpful because they give the students an opportunity to try out the tools first hand. It makes a world of difference. For example, have wanted to get a quick change handpiece for my flex shaft, but I wasn’t sure what to buy. Having a chance to try a couple of styles, I found out that I am much more comfortable using the version with the duplex spring. It’s much kinder to my small hands. I really couldn’t have figured that out without trying the different handpieces.
The hammer handpiece was lots of fun to use too. The diamond tip made a great texture on the copper we were working with.
They had a great camera set-up for the class, so that everyone was able to get a close up view of the demos. It really helped make everything clear.
