Oscillating Multi-Tools
Oscillating multi-tools make flush cuts, plunge cuts, scrape and sand in tight spots. Their blades move fast in a small arc. People think of them as “safe” tools, but they can still cut deeply into fingers and straight through hidden wires and pipes.
- Construction
- Remodeling
Photo: flush-cutting a door casing with an oscillating tool, other hand clear of the blade path
Common attachments
| Attachment | Used for |
|---|---|
| Wood and plunge blades | Flush cuts on trim, door jambs, openings in drywall and subfloor |
| Bi-metal blades | Nails, screws, thin metal and wood with nails |
| Carbide and diamond blades | Grout removal, tile and masonry |
| Scraper blades | Removing caulk, adhesive, vinyl and paint |
| Sanding pads | Detail sanding in corners |
Safe use
- Check for wires, pipes and nails before plunge-cutting walls, floors and trim. Turn off nearby circuits when in doubt. See Hidden Wiring.
- Use the correct blade for the material, locked securely in the tool.
- Hold the tool with both hands when possible, and keep your other hand out of the blade path, especially on the back side of the material.
- Start slowly and let the blade do the work; high speed and heavy pressure overheat the blade.
- Make plunge cuts with a slight rocking motion, starting at low speed.
- Clamp small work instead of holding it.
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection; use dust collection or a respirator when sanding or cutting grout and drywall.
- Unplug or remove the battery before changing blades. Blades get hot.
- Don’t cut grout, old flooring, mastic or plaster without checking for silica and asbestos hazards.
- Don’t use dull or cracked blades.
- Don’t use it for long periods without breaks; the vibration adds up. See Hand-Arm Vibration.
Dust from small tools still counts. Removing grout produces silica dust, and scraping old vinyl flooring or mastic may release asbestos. Test older materials first, use dust extraction, and see Silica and Asbestos.
Before you cut
- Hidden wiring, pipes and ducts checked
- Old materials checked for asbestos or lead paint
- Right blade, tight and in good condition
- Other hand clear of the blade path and back side of the cut
- Safety glasses, hearing protection and dust control ready
Standards & references
- 29 CFR 1926.302: Power-operated hand tools
- See also: Jigsaws · Dust Extractors
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