A Decent/Affordable Multi-Tool

[larry4406]

I have a Makita 18V cordless. Works well. It is a bit load. After prolonged use hand gets numb.

I’ve not used any other brand so no basis for comparison.

 

[Alexander]

I have experience with a few brands.


My dad owned a dremel. It died prematurely repairing the deck, and wasn't a big loss.



He bought a nicer bosch to replace it and that has worked well for a few years, but it doesn't see much use anymore. Way nicer than the dremel was.



I have a makita cordless that needs an allen key to change the blade, and use it often at work. The blade change is a pain, and the allen key drops out of the onboard holder every three seconds, so that got lost pretty quickly. Overall I still like the tool, and if it needed replacement I wouldn't hesitate to get a new one with the toolless blade change. Battery life is decent for my needs.



My coworker has a fein, and it's pretty nice. Would definitely consider buying one if I wanted corded.


We have a harbor freight one at work. The switch broke on day one, so we rewired it to turn on when it's plugged in. Scary, loud, lots of vibration.



A previous coworker had a milwaukee m12 and used it constantly. He loved that thing. He showed me just how useful scraper blades can be in a multitool.


We just got an m18 at work, but it hasn't been used much yet.


Obviously, work got done before multitools existed, but tons of jobs are way faster and easier with one. I'd consider it to be a standard shop tool now, not just a gimmicky gadget.

 

[jgromada]

I have the Ridgid Jobmax which i must admit I don't use much for the orbital multi tool but for the right angle impact and rotary tool for cutting sheet rock. I have heard some complaints about lack of power, which i don't really have, my biggest observation is the entire tool with battery is rather long which makes it a bit unwieldy.

I also have a Milwaukee M12 multitool which i basically got for free since it came in a bundle with drill (Sold) bag (Sold), the multi tool and two batteries. I really just needed some more batteries. I have used the M12 multitool and it works fine, some claim it is very vibration prone and uses an allen wrench to change blades. I am fine with it, but then again never used a Fein.

The Fein strikes me as very heavy (handled it at Home Depot) so not sure i would like it.

 

[JonnyC]

I bought a Porter Cable from Menards online sale a few weeks ago. Well it was advertised as having more pieces than it did, so they automatically fully refunded everyone that purchased it, yet you got to keep it. So even if it blows up, well, it was free!

 

[gtsgarage]

I have the M12 multitool paid $79 with a free 2.0 battery. Seemed like a good deal and fit my M12 eco system.

 

[Crazyjake8493]

Fein makes the best tool and some of the best blades, though I consider oscillating blades a consumable item and get cheap multi-packs on Amazon. I usually get 8 plunge cut blades for about $10.

I used a $15 corded HF oscillating tool for years and I still can't kill that thing. It's super loud but it just doesn't quit. I finally had a job to justify a cordless model so I got the Milwaukee M18 and it's a great tool. Definitely nicer than the HF cheapo, but at a price.

It's one of those tools you didn't know you needed until you really need it and nothing else will work.

 

[gtsgarage]

I think Fein was one of the first to market a multitool, and they have a typical Fein BIG price tag.

Interesting video about one person who replaced a well worn Bosch mulitool with a Fein. The Fein only lasted a couple of days.

I like that guy! Thanks for sharing.

 

[kctyphoon]

I realize you bought the dremel already - but for the benefit of others:

I think any of the tools will be fine. I think the bigger question here is corded or cordless, tool or tool-less blade change - and quality of the blades. I cant see any big named brand NOT satisfying your needs..

Like many of these type threads, you’ll get suggestions for just about every brand out there. If you have cordless stuff, I’d consider going cordless unless you have like hours and hours of work to do. Dont you have Milwaukee stuff? There’s options in both m12 and m18 if i recall, and I’d always go with an 18 over a 12 if i were getting ONE of them instead of both. I have an older 12v craftsman i got as a gift, and i wont even bother replacing it with Milwaukee cause i just dont use it enough to justify that or feel any different model is gonna open the door to a whole new world for what i need.

I wont buy corded tools anymore unless there is a big reason as to why its needed. This would be no exception - esp if i already had the batteries for a good cordless model. I would expect to see difference between 12 and 18 volt models in terms of runtime and power, but the power of 18v compared to corded - no.

Fein was first so therefore held the patent. When it ran out every other tool company put out their own, and they had plenty of time to do so. All they do is vibrate. I doubt you’ll find any life changing difference from one to the next expect what I listed in my opening.

If you need proof to ditch the cord, here:

 

[PugetDude]

3 Dremel Rotary Tools with stripped collet locks and dead switches were enough to convince me to never buy another Dremel product.

I have an old HF Oscillating Multitool that I've been trying to kill for 10+ years. So far it has cost me less than a buck a year and it just keeps on going. It's been dropped off a ladder more than once, dragged around the shop and across the gravel driveway apron by the cord, used on masonry, steel, and wood. I've run it until it's too hot to hold barehanded, so I put on gloves and ran it some more. I've loaned it out to neighbors of questionable DIY character, but it keeps coming back. Hard to fault the performance, so I haven't been able to justify replacing it.

I've also got a Milwaukee M12 Multi-tool. It's my go-to for a quick job, the battery life isn't that great, but it's hard to beat the cordless for convenience.

 

[lakelandcat]

Had a chance to use all but the Fein, I use to work for Lowes as a Tool Dept. Mang. people would ask me all the time which was best. Lowes at the time was carrying Dremel, Porter Cable, Rockwell, Dewalt, Bosch and Worx. I use to let people make up their own mind. They all work real well. At the time the Dremel wouldn't last as long and lacked a little power, it was also a pain to change the blade (you had to use a Allen wrench), same with the PC only they had a better verity of pwr. options. Rockwell sonic crafters had good pwr and a quick release blade. It also lasted longer than the other2, the Dewalt and Bosch were the HD and I always recommended them to the person who used them for a living. I.E. plumbers, sheet rockers and elec.. Me I don't use mine all the time and I have the Rockwell Sonicrafter. But I do recommend one for any shop, it will pull you out of a lot of tight spots.

 

[zktk01]

I had a HF one the nut would vibrate loose all the time in the middle of a cut I actually threw it in the garbage. I bought a Fein it seems like it was only $150 or so. It blows away the HF for sure. I am sure the Dremel will be great too.

 

[jd_1138]

I had a HF one the nut would vibrate loose all the time in the middle of a cut I actually threw it in the garbage. I bought a Fein it seems like it was only $150 or so. It blows away the HF for sure. I am sure the Dremel will be great too.

I think a lot of people have rage quit HF tools by slamming them down on concrete unless they're within the return period.

 

[Danglerb]

To me its all about the blades. Find the brand and type of blades you like and get a tool that can use them.

 

[samsquamch]

Rockwell Sonicrafter owner here.
Beefy and well-built.
Tool-less attachment change, variable speed, universal fit for any tool.
They make several different models, so you need to see which version would work for you.

Sonicrafter has treated me well also. I have an older model that requires Alan wrench for blade changes but it's not a problem. It's not a tool I use a lot but it's one that is awfully useful when the need arises. That need is almost always related to renovation vs building something new. Cutting nails out, removing sections of paneling/sheathing, plunge cutting drywall etc.

 

[engineer2]

I'm starting a gut kitchen remodel and I need a low-dust way to remove the drywall ceiling. I think I'll be using the Sonicrafter to get a clean line at the family room end.

 

[Jazz1]

Never seen one of these "multi-tools". I guess I could find a use for it.

 

[engineer2]

Anybody ever find a decent attachment for cutting drywall? i'm talking desctruction rather than construction.

 

[rlitman]

Anybody ever find a decent attachment for cutting drywall? i'm talking desctruction rather than construction.

I just made a drywall blade out of an old blade after the teeth wore out, based on the equilateral triangular tooth shape of a sawzall drywall blade that I used to use in a Lenox folding jab saw handle. It took all of 2 minutes to cut with my angle grinder and a zip disc.

The thing about drywall is that the teeth just need to be spaced close enough that one tooth passes beyond the movement of the next, so that the paper is completely cut. But the tooth geometry or sharpness isn't critical at all. I've seen all sorts of designs, and they all work about equally well. Triangles, rectangles, it really doesn't matter too much. Just look at some drywall blades, and copy the simplest pattern. Just be sure that the tips of the teeth are about the same height, and that the tooth spacing is no coarser than about 5 TPI.

However, the multi-tool isn't well suited to demolition. Because of how the blade pivots, it's great for plunge cuts, but not for zipping down walls. It isn't a sawzall replacement.

 

[engineer2]

Good idea! I cut teeth on a straight blade with my diamond wheel and it wasn't big enough. I'll cut teeth in an old semi-circular blade tomorrow. I'm just revising a few kitchen cabinet soffits. I can salvage some of the drywall if I make neat cuts. Of course, some of the mass destruction will require the Sawzall.

 

[redragoon]

What about the ridgid jobmax. I've got a $100 gift card to HD and was thinking of getting an oscillating tool. I've already got some ridgid tools and batteries so I wouldn't need to buy more batteries. And I like the you can swap the head for different tools, like the rotary/drywall cutter, right angle drill/driver and the shear head.

Last year, I purchased a Rigid Jobmax 12V oscillating tool and a few of the other heads that were on sale at the time. The rest of my tools are Milwaukee M12/18, but I don't really like their price on the oscillating tool. Also I like being able to mount the head, trigger, and light in the different positions for small working spaces.

It has been great trimming wood studs, sheetrock, and the occaisional metal piece. Also have used the sander head a lot to do odd angles and holes.

The other heads I purchased have also worked well for quick jobs. Currently I have the jigsaw, reciprocating saw, and right angle drill attachments. I keep everything in a small tool box with a regular Ridgid 12V drill.

For large jobs that will take all day, I still use my Milwaukee and corded tools, but this kit has been great for doing electrical work on the house and boat, getting into really tight places, and other tasks that I would rather not keep going to get more tools.

 

[freekwonder]

Last year, I purchased a Rigid Jobmax 12V oscillating tool and a few of the other heads that were on sale at the time. The rest of my tools are Milwaukee M12/18, but I don't really like their price on the oscillating tool. Also I like being able to mount the head, trigger, and light in the different positions for small working spaces.

It has been great trimming wood studs, sheetrock, and the occaisional metal piece. Also have used the sander head a lot to do odd angles and holes.

The other heads I purchased have also worked well for quick jobs. Currently I have the jigsaw, reciprocating saw, and right angle drill attachments. I keep everything in a small tool box with a regular Ridgid 12V drill.

For large jobs that will take all day, I still use my Milwaukee and corded tools, but this kit has been great for doing electrical work on the house and boat, getting into really tight places, and other tasks that I would rather not keep going to get more tools.

Cool, thanks for the feedback. Just a home hobbyist, but the right angle, jigsaw attachments interest me. They would have come in handy a few times.

 

[rlitman]

Good idea! I cut teeth on a straight blade with my diamond wheel and it wasn't big enough. I'll cut teeth in an old semi-circular blade tomorrow. I'm just revising a few kitchen cabinet soffits. I can salvage some of the drywall if I make neat cuts. Of course, some of the mass destruction will require the Sawzall.

I forgot to point that out, but you've got the idea. The straight blades are good for plunge cuts. The semi-circular blades are what you want if you want to make long cuts. It still isn't a sawzall, but I could see a modified semi-circular blade zipping through drywall rather quickly, with surgical precision (something you can't say about a sawzall).

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Oh! Go cordless or GTFO.

You might as well tether yourself to a water wheel & start to have people call you Jebediah.

 

[LX-Markham]

My wife got me the Porter Cable one on some ridiculous sale.
It's one of those tools that I never knew I needed until I got one. I don't use it often, but there's the odd job that it has been indispensable.

 

[Cactus1]

I've had my corded Fein for probably close to 20 years now and it is indespensible for certain tasks. I just recently grabbed a 20v Dewalt (tool only for $99 I think?) to add to my ever growing collection of tools I keep on my service truck. FYI it takes the star-lock blades but comes with an adapter for standard blades as well. (The corded/cordless shop vac and the little chainsaw kick *** as too! Dewalt FTW!!)

 

[redragoon]

Cool, thanks for the feedback. Just a home hobbyist, but the right angle, jigsaw attachments interest me. They would have come in handy a few times.

For hobby and DIY work, it will be a very handy set. If you ever need more power, they also make 18V and corded power heads that work with all the attachments too.

 

[ItsNemo]

I've got the Dewalt 20v brushless one myself, it's been solid and handy in a few of those really odd cuts that you can't quite make with a jigsaw or sawzall or even a hand saw.

 

[edde808]

These are great for making holes in drywall, thin kerf and clean lines. you can keep the section you cut out and put it back in the same spot. Or making cut outs for outlets.

 

[PureLeaf]

All of your other tools that I've seen in your videos Ryan are Festool. Why would you cheap out now? Fein or Festool (since you're already on their system). Festool's has a unique plunge cut add on too.

 

[Ryan]

All of your other tools that I've seen in your videos Ryan are Festool. Why would you cheap out now? Fein or Festool (since you're already on their system). Festool's has a unique plunge cut add on too.

I hate being held prisoner by an ecosystem... I'm already being held by Apple with tech, Festool with corded, and Milwaukee with uncorded. It's sort of madness... And I know there is no way around it, but every now and then I think it's good for the soul to rebel.

I actually just used the Dremel for the first time and it did exactly what I was hoping it would do. I have no regrets given what I paid for it... Hell, I kind of feel like this thing is a pretty good value actually. It's not typical Dremel.

 

[Cruzan80]

I don't know if they changed the design at all, but I had one that burned up within a year. This was about 4-5 years ago, when Fein still had the star design. The problem was that the venting was at the back of the hand-grip, right where you hold it for just a bit of extra reach. Once it happened, looked around and found several more people saying the same thing. Got a bosch corded, and a HF for anything extremely dirty (cutting grout, etc). Been SO much nicer than the dremel.

 

[turnthewrench 2.0]

That's a tool I need in my collection. I want cordless so Dewalt will be my choice - already own several of their tools and have plenty of batteries around.

 

[Dumber than lumber]

Dremel is owned by Bosch, so the engineering is certainly there. You got an excellent tool, and one that has a wider range of blade compatibility than most.

For my part, I don't use the multi-tool much, mainly because the noise offends me. But for some jobs, it is simply indispensable. Because mine sits in the drawer for sometimes over a year at a stretch, I chose corded.

BTW, yes, the scraper is one of the best uses of this tool.

" ... so the engineering is certainly there ... "
That is a howler.
There is a reason that these mega-companies have multiple brands. I don't think it is to give the consumers the best product at a bargain price by changing the wrapper. If you want cheap just go with Harder Fart (TM) products. Use it until it fails. Rinse, Lather, Repeat.

 

[Ryan]

" ... so the engineering is certainly there ... "
That is a howler.
There is a reason that these mega-companies have multiple brands. I don't think it is to give the consumers the best product at a bargain price by changing the wrapper. If you want cheap just go with Harder Fart (TM) products. Use it until it fails. Rinse, Lather, Repeat.

I hear your conspiracy, but Bosch is a bit different. They don't sponsor me and I've never taken a dime or a free tool from them.

I have, however, been to one of their events before and it's a super interesting company. About 92% of Bosch's shares are owned by a non-profit that was set up by Robert Bosch's family. The remaining 8% is owned by the family.

Most of the profits earned throughout the year go back into Bosch... But dividends that are paid out go mostly (92% actually) to charitable/humanitarian causes. When I was getting my MBA at OU, I did a paper on the company and became obsessed with how they run the joint.

Two things fascinated me:

1. It's one of the largest private companies in the world... And it's ran not for the health of any one person, but for the health of the company itself and longevity. Lots of strange and unique policies within.

2. They spend more on R&D than just about any competing company in the space and yet, they aren't head and shoulders above any of them. I've always wanted to see a break down of that... but, of course, it's private.

Anyway, Bosch has different brands to attack different markets. So, I'd bet Dremel was acquired to hit a lower price point. For instance, they design a multi-tool for professionals and give it the Bosch brand. They then take that same basic design, cut some corners, lower the price and give it the Dremel brand.

From what I know about Bosch, I'd be shocked if there was anything nefarious going on as far as marketing, branding, etc...

But then again, there is that whole Bosch/VW emission thing...

 

[Urambo Tauro]

Heh. Not gonna lie, when I clicked this thread, I was expecting a discussion on Leatherman-type multi tools. It's funny (and kind of irritating) that the term "multi tool" has caught on like it has in the context of oscillating tools (or, "oscillating multi-tools", if you will). "Multi tool" is technically still accurate, but still terribly vague as well.

 

[eastbaysubaru]

I've had the MM40 kit for a few years and have nothing bad to say about it. It's handled all of the tasks I've thrown at it without a hiccup and that's the lesser powered 3.8amp model. The MM45 is a 5amp model. I do like having the hard case though as it's easier to store and keeps all of the blades together with the tool.

Also, FWIW, my Dremel rotary tool that I purchased in 1997 is still going strong as well and that thing's been through the wringer!

-Brian

 

[Ryan]

And now, of course, the Bosch is 1/2 off:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ER7J976/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Damnit.

 

[b-boy]

I bought a Dremel Multi Max. I loved it, and used it all the time. I eventually burned it out doing grout removal. In my opinion, it should not have burned out like it did. I replaced it with another Multi-Max. Hopefully this one holds up a little better.

I love the drywall blade. It's great for cutting out around electrical boxes or doing free-form cuts.

https://www.grainger.com/product/34...kwcid=AL!2966!3!264955916339!!!g!436703485616!

 

[Perry H]

I have one of the first Dremel models. It gets very hot - too hot to hold if you use it very long (continuously).

I also have the Ryobi cordless Rigid JobMax compatible base that accepts the Rigid tool heads. It came with the multi-tool attachment.