Oscillating Multi Tools
by Shopify on April 07, 2012
Oscillating Multi Tools-General
Oscillating multi tools recently began to show up on the market from all the major tool manufacturers developing their own versions like the Bosch Multi-X, Fein Multimaster, Rockwell Sonicrafter, to name a few. These multi tools have been a boon to woodworkers and construction workers alike. Tasks like cutting drywall, scraping adhesives, sanding, grinding, and cutting through pipes and metal can now be done with one tool instead of a separate tool for each task. In a matter of seconds, the oscillating blade can be changed to a scraper or a grinder.
Method of Action
Oscillating multi tools vibrates work on a back-and-forth vibration of a blade or attachment within a narrow arc (3-4°) at speeds of up to 21,000 oscillations per minute. The short range of motion allows the multi tools to work in tight areas that traditional tools were unable to reach. Additionally, the front-end profile allows for flush cuts.
Cost of Ownership
One of the main problems with the oscillating multi tools is not the tools themselves, but the cost of replacement blades, as blades tend to wear out quickly. As beneficial as the tools are, the cost of replacing the blades is almost as equally disadvantageous. The true cost of owning and operating the tools is the blades and other attachments, not the machine itself.
Why do the blades generally wear out so quickly?
With a regular saw, say for instance a hacksaw, there anywhere from 140 to 200 teeth that are engaged when sawing. On the other hand, an oscillating blade generally has around 14 teeth that are engaged in sawing, using as an example a basic 1-3/8" fine wood saw blade. Already it’s evident that the oscillating blades have about one-tenth the amount of teeth to engage in the cut; but it’s also important to note that the oscillations per minute are far greater than person could replicate by hand. Multi tool users should be aware of the limited cutting area and try to engage all of the teeth to reduce the wear on the blade.
Can’t I just buy a wider blade then?
Yes and no. The blade should fit the project. Oscillating multi tools were design for small cuts or for working in and on small surface areas. To cut 2 x 4 pieces of lumber it wouldn’t make sense to use an oscillating tool with a 1-3/8" Japanese blade, but instead a circular saw or a miter saw. However, to cut a small rectangle in drywall for an electrical outlet, a multi tool would be more than appropriate.
General Tips
Engage the entire surface area of the blade or attachment—try not to use just one corner or one section.
Pay attention to the motor of the oscillating tool. One can tell a lot by listening to how hard the tool is having to work and paying attention to signs of overuse or bad angles.
Saving Money on Blades and Accessories
Momentum Blades is the best source for replacement blades and accessories for oscillating multi tools. We provide the most economical prices on the internet allowing customers to reduce their operating costs. Our high-quality aftermarket blades fit all the major tools like Milwaukee®, Fein® MultiMaster™, Dremel® MultiMax, and Bosch® Multi-X. Our blades our designed with the end user in mind—pay for a quality blade, not for the brand name.
