How to Use an Oscillating Multi-Tool?

How to Use an Oscillating Multi-Tool?

Oscillating tools are one of the few power tools that every professional and DIY-er should have in their workshop. Capable of increasing efficiency, performance, and speed in a wide variety of applications, you’ll be amazed at how versatile these compact tools truly are. Best of all, these multi-tools are incredibly simple to operate. With a little instruction, anyone can produce professional, high-quality results.

How do Oscillating Tools Operate?

Oscillating tools operate by making a very small (about 3 or 4 degrees) and very rapid (around 21,000 oscillations per minute) side-to-side movement. The movement is so swift that, while you probably won’t see it, you’ll feel a vibration while you hold it in your hand.

What are the Benefits of using an Oscillating Multi-Tool?

The major benefit of these multi-tools is their incomparable versatility. These tools are built with arbors that accept a variety of accessories including grinders, sanding pads, scrapers, and an assortment of blades. This functionality allows them to tackle a number of applications including cutting wood, trimming door jambs and casings, removing grout and caulk, scraping away old paint and adhesives, and cutting metal piping.

Before going out and buying any accessories, you need to look at what sort of attachments your tool is compatible with. Some oscillating tools are designed with proprietary arbors that are only capable of accepting accessories made by that specific brand. Other models feature universal arbors that allow the tool to work with any accessory, regardless of the manufacturer.

What Brands of Attachments should I go for?

Once you determine what brands of accessories your tool is capable of accepting, you have to choose the right accessory for the specific task at hand. There is an assortment of sanding components available such as sandpapers of various grits and sanding pads, perfect for smoothing wood projects.

What Attachments do I need for the Job?

For cutting applications, there are wood and metal cutting blades designed to cut drywall, make flush cuts on door casings, or even cut copper or galvanized metal pipes. For the removal of paint or caulk, there are flexible and rigid metal scrapers. And for removing old grout, there are specifically-designed grout-removing blades.

Most models now feature a tool-free attachment system that allows you to press a lever or adjust the arbor to quickly swap out attachments. Other models require an Allen key or hex wrench to loosen the gripping mechanism and secure a new attachment in the housing.

If your multi-tool comes with a variable speed dial, you can adjust the speed of the tool’s motion, ensuring optimal operating performance and velocity for your application. From there, you simply pull the trigger or flip the on/off switch and you’re ready to start working. Simple to use and compatible with an assortment of accessories, oscillating tools are perfect for anyone tackling home improvement or renovation projects.