i got this form the get go and can't imagine not having multiple power /heat settings. makes your tools even more versatile, depending on the material and cut you are making!
I love this product! I design and build sets for school plays and it's a "must have" product to keep on hand that makes foam pieces more sturdy and longer lasting.
I use this tool in making Christmas Village displays. It cuts through 2 inch foam like it was butter, and is especially handy when cutting out holes in the center of a sheet of styrofoam. The shorter length (vs. the 8 inch version) allows for easy maneuvering to create details using either the side or tip of the heated rod.
I have had this for years now and it has become an invaluable part of my tool box. I use it to cut large blocks of polystyrene into smaller ones. It cuts accurately and quickly and is a perfect tool for this sort of work. I also use it to start sculpting landscapes for my gaming tables. It must be 10years old now and has been one of my best buys in all those years.