Oscillating tools: many choices, uses

One of the most interesting tools currently on the market is what's known generically as an "oscillating tool." The first, and for a long time the only one on the market, was the Fein MultiMaster. As its patent expired, other companies have introduced competing tools with different pros, cons and prices.

A tool for all reasons

So what exactly is an oscillating tool, and how does it differ from other cutting and sanding tools on the market? As the name implies, these tools utilize cutting attachments that oscillate rapidly from side to side, as opposed to rotating like a circular saw, or moving out and back like a jig saw or reciprocating saw. It's this oscillation that sets the tool apart. And while it won't replace your circular saw or your favorite pad sander, it's a unique tool that's extremely handy for a number of do-it-yourself projects all around the house.

The tool itself looks something like an angle grinder, long and roughly cylindrical. The screw fitting for connecting attachments turns down at 90 degrees at one end, and the on/off switch is located on top of the handle. Both corded and cordless versions are available.

There are three basic types of attachments used with an oscillating tool: cutting, sanding and scraping. With one of the different types of cutting blades attached, the oscillating tool can undertake a number of different cutting jobs that would be difficult if not impossible for most other types of saws. The blades can be mounted at any of several different offsets in relation to the handle, to suit whatever cutting task you have.

With a cutting blade installed, you can undercut door casings and jambs for fitting flooring. You can cut out a section of baseboard right in the middle, without having to remove it from the wall. Slip the thin blade between a molding and the wall and cut off the nails. Make accurate plunge or pocket cuts without predrilling, and without danger of damaging the surfaces behind the cutout. You can cut off pipes, nails, dowels and other materials anywhere, even flush with a surface. The cutting uses go on and on, and best of all, you can make any of these cuts without damaging the adjacent surfaces.

Change attachments, and you have a sander that can reach right into the tightest corners. The sanding pads are triangular, and have a hook and loop surface for quick and easy sanding pad changes. Add diamond paper, and you can grind off thinset mortar and cement. Switch to a grout blade for easy and fast removal of grout without damaging the tiles, even in corners. Then change to a rigid scraper blade for removing paint or flooring, or a flexible blade for scraping up soft materials such as caulk and adhesive.

Dremel Multi-Max

One of the new oscillating tools now on the market is from Dremel, called the Multi-Max (Model 6300-01, $99.99). As with all of the great Dremel tools, the Multi-Max is powerful and easy to operate. This is a corded tool, with a nice rubberized handle for a comfortable, non-slip grip. It has a speed dial that's located on the back of the tool, allowing you to adjust it from 10,000 to 21,000 oscillations per minute. ...CONTINUED

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