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The multi tool – also called an oscillating tool – is a relatively new addition to the power tool stable, but it’s a useful one. This versatile and capable tool can be used in a variety of projects, from sanding and grout removal to plunge cuts and more.
A multi tool uses a mounting head that moves from side to side (oscillates) at very high speed, up to approximately 20,000opm (oscillations per minute).
Attach the multi tool blade or accessory of your choice to the fixing point on the head, tightening the retaining bolt securely. Start the tool to check the blade is properly fastened; if it comes loose, the notches in the accessory might not be engaged correctly. To fix this, just loosen the bolt, carefully align the notches with the pins on the mounting head and re-tighten.
Multi tool blades designed to aggressively cut timber, plywood, particleboard and similar materials have relatively large teeth, similar to a handsaw. A half-moon or segment blade is often easiest to use as a flush cut blade if, for example, you need to trim shims you’re using to pack out a door frame in its wall opening.This round blade is also perfect for trimming door jambs for floating floor installation. Use an offcut of flooring as a spacer to cut at exactly the right height (add a scrap of underlay beneath it, too). Some timber blades feature an extra-long design to maximise cut depth, but it’s generally safer to assume most accessories will only cut to a depth of about 30–40mm.
To make a long, precise cut using your multi tool, use a scrap length of hardwood as a straight-edge guide and run the blade along it. It’s best to clamp the guide timber, but if the flooring is already in place, simply use your bodyweight to press down the guide at the edge of the flooring. The best attachment to use for this type of cut is a segment blade or a cut and saw blade.
While a multifunction tool is not designed for cutting heavyweight metal profiles such as plate steel or reinforcing mesh, it can easily handle thin sheet steel, nails and screws, as well as copper pipe.
The best metal cutting blade for an oscillating tool is a bimetal blade, which has a hardened or toughened fine-tooth cutting edge bonded to a spring steel body. This gives you the best of both worlds: durability for cutting and the flexibility to handle vibration and other forces that could otherwise fracture a blade.
Similar to laminate flooring, a right-angle guide can help you make neat cuts through aluminium floor or window trim. If you are cutting the trim in situ, press or clamp a combination square against the workpiece and run the underside of the blade along it, taking care not to gouge the metal of the combination square.
Several common multifunction tool accessories are normally included when you buy the tool itself, allowing you to get started straight away. Typically, one of them is a delta-shaped sanding pad that lets you use your multi tool and compatible hook-and-loop abrasive sheets as a detail sander.
For more aggressive material removal, you can use the edge of a carbide segment blade or a purpose-designed carbide rasp. This is also suitable for light grinding applications, such as de-burring weld seams.
Can a multi tool cut concrete? The answer is yes. Tungsten carbide-edged attachments are tough enough to work with masonry, making it possible to remove mortar or plunge cut into render or concrete. A carbide-edge attachment is often the best grout removal blade for an oscillating tool as well, but a diamond blade may be more durable.
A diamond blade is generally the best multi tool blade for cutting tile. Use the oscillating tool to mill a groove on the glazed ceramic face of the tile along the cut line, then snap it off neatly. A diamond flush cut oscillating blade can also be used for working with granite pavers and similar stonework in confined spaces where it may be difficult to use an angle grinder with a diamond wheel.
Most multi tool attachments are designed for universal fitment, meaning they are compatible with virtually all brands. Oscillating tools with a Starlock fast-change mounting head require blades that are designed for this system, but many Starlock blades are backwards-compatible with ‘standard’ multi tools.
Check out our range of specialised multi tool attachments.
Photo Credit: James Moffatt
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
