Multi-Tools

Oscillating multi-tools can handle a wide range of tasks because their vibrating head can accommodate many attachments. Some of the main tasks they are used for include -

• Sanding - corners, edges and small patches, similar to where a detail sander would be used.
• Polishing - on small-scale jobs and hard-to-reach areas, on materials such as stone, metal and wood.
• Scraping - removing old adhesive, silicone, caulk, paint and tile cement, as well as lifting vinyl flooring.
• Sawing - ideal for sawing, cutting and trimming. The compact size of a multi-tool makes it ideal for precision sawing and when carrying out plunge cuts (cutting into the middle of a surface).
• Grinding - but only when carrying out precise, detailed grinding. For more heavy-duty and large-scale jobs, we always recommend using a grinder.
• Grout removal - perfect for quickly removing grout between tiles, or cutting sealant around baths, sinks and showers.

DIYers normally opt for cordless models because of the freedom they offer, allowing the operator to use them around the house and in the garage, without the need to be near a power source. However, batteries do run out of power and we always recommend having a spare charged battery to hand, to ensure minimal downtime.

Professionals, especially those in workshops and near a power supply, usually opt for electric/corded models. This is because corded multi-tools can provide continuous power over longer periods of time, as well as consistent power, even when the tool is under load.

Yes, oscillating multi-tools excel at detailed DIY work. Their compact size enhances accuracy for the operator and makes them best suited when detail is required rather than speed, because the blade or attachment only moves in small side-to-side motions, sometimes making them more suitable than larger and more aggressive tools like grinders, sanders and power saws.

Ultimately, the correct accessory needs to be selected for the job at hand, but an oscillating multi-tool probably isn't the best tool for demolition work, long cuts or sanding large areas.

Yes, multi-tools are perfectly suited to grout removal, as well as cutting sealant around baths, showers and sinks.

The correct multi-tool accessory needs to be selected for grout removal, such as this one, and it enables the operator to remove grout from between tiles with more accuracy and control than a hammer and chisel can provide. Always start the job with the tool running at a low or medium speed and work through the grout slowly to avoid chipping tile edges.

Even though multi-tools have a compact size and are used for precision work, they are still capable of creating debris. Because of this, the operator should always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including -

• Eye protection should be worn because cutting wood, metal or other materials creates dust and debris, potentially throwing fragments towards the operator's face.
• The correct blade for the job at hand should always be used. Using a worn or incorrect blade can cause it to snap, slip or overheat.
• A clamp is recommended when working with unsteady materials. Clamping the material makes it easier for the operator to work accurately.
• Protective gloves should be worn to protect the operator's fingers from shards flying off the material that is being cut, ground or sanded.

Yes, many oscillating multi-tools come with an assortment of blades and accessories, such as spare batteries and chargers.

If you are looking for an oscillating multi-tool as a bare tool, we also sell those too.

Choose the tool set that best suits the work you plan to carry out. For example, you may want a multi-tool that specialises in cutting out car windows, and if so, this one would be suitable. Alternatively, you might want a multi-tool with attachments for sawing wood, metal and plastic, as well as attachments for cutting tiles, silicone joints and carpets, and if so, this multi-tool would be most suitable.

If there isn't a set that suits exactly what is needed, we also sell a wide range of oscillating multi-tool blades, so that you can use the tool exactly as you would like.

Yes, with the correct blade attachment, multi-tools can cut through thin metal, making them useful for plumbing, HVAC and automotive applications.

Normally, the cutting blade will be bi-metal or made from carbide, however, oscillating multi-tool blades are not designed for heavy metalwork. Instead, they are used to cut metal for smaller, more precise jobs, such as -

• Cutting nails or screws
• Trimming small bolts
• Cutting thin metal pipe
• Cutting metal brackets or fixings
• Cutting through plasterboard with hidden nails
• Trimming thin sheet metal

Oscillating multi-tools that are manufactured by Bosch and Fein use a connection system called 'Starlock' to quickly and securely attach blades to the tool via a 'snap-in' blade fitting. The Starlock accessory fitting system takes less than three seconds to change a blade, has no loose parts and reduces vibration, making it an ideal solution for modern oscillating multi-tools.

Below is a quick rundown of each of the Starlock variants you will see on these tools -

• Starlock - This fitting has a 'cake-tin' shape that is designed for a three-dimensional connection between the tool and the accessory, providing enhanced contact and helping to create better power transfer. When the blade is attached to the tool, the operator will hear a 'click' sound to confirm the connection between the blade and tool, and to release the blade, simply click the lever on the tool and the blade will be released.
• Starlock Plus - Starlock Plus accessories are compatible with Starlock Plus and Starlock Max multi-tools, which are more powerful than tools that only accept standard Starlock blades. Starlock Plus oscillating multi-tools will also accept standard Starlock blades.
• Starlock Max - This accessory fitting system is designed for the most powerful oscillating tools. A Starlock Max multi-tool will work with any Starlock, Starlock Plus or Starlock Max accessory.

Yes, oscillating multi-tools are excellent for plunge cutting (cutting straight in from the surface rather than cutting in from an edge) into wood, plasterboard or plastic, especially in tight spaces where other tools may struggle to access, such as a jigsaw or circular saw.

An oscillating multi-tool is a perfect tool for plunge cutting because the blade vibrates in a tight motion, providing the operator with a lot of control and enabling the cut to be extremely precise.

Examples of plunge cuts that can be made with an oscillating multi-tool include -

• Cutting openings in plasterboard for sockets or access panels.
• Trimming wood flooring or laminate.
• Cutting neat recesses in timber.
• Making small cut-outs in cabinets or panels.
• Removing a damaged section of material.
• Cutting into skirting boards or architrave for adjustments.

It should be noted that oscillating multi-tools are not the fastest option for larger plunge cuts, but are perfectly suited to smaller, detailed cuts.