The Ultimate Guide To Multitools: Everything You Need To Know

The roughest, most inaccurate power tool on the market can also be one of the biggest lifesavers when you are in a difficult position. Everything you need to know about this oscillating tool including how to resharpen the blades.

The Amazon links above are affiliate links. It doesn't cost you anything to click on them but I do earn a small commission if you do. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

[akilheffer]

A very useful tool which as a plumber I have used many times in many situations, one thing i have learned is to go with a variable speed unit and when cutting wood run it at the lowest speed, it is easier to control and won’t burn the blade as easy. Another thing, don’t force the cut, let the tool do the work and back it out periodically to clear the sawdust.

[kenbrown]

when you cut through the OSB and found solid framing behind and said "you must be joking" I felt it in my soul.

[leslieaustin]

Very useful, thanks. If using a thin Angle-Grinder cutting blade to re sharpen multitool blades (or anything else) note that they are not supposed to be used as side-grinding discs. You might get away with slight side-pressure (you might not). You really don’t want a faceful of 12000 rpm shattering cutting disc - it is not a beauty treatment! Les

[tree]

Very useful advice. Thanks Stuart. For those on a budget, without the angle grinder, catching the blunted blade earlier, before the teeth have gone, can save time and effort. 60 seconds on a needle or triangular file would be enough to bring it back. Much like regularly making a few passes on the stones with your chisels.

[andyking]

I have found is that the bulk boxes from the like of Amazon are just as good and last just as long as the named brands ones. Box of 50 blades for about £20 rather than £5 a blade from a shop.

[StrawbyteWorkshop]

"See Jane Drill" did an excellent primer a while ago on re-sharpening blades and I've been re-using mine for ages.

[mhdjango]

I watched this video and went straight to Amazon and bought one! THANK YOU!!!!

[manylch]

Very useful and practical, especially resharpening. For straight cuts in timber, it can be helpful to score the pencilmark a few times with a craft knife or a sharp scribe to O.5 mm to create a little track to guide the blade.

[steveearlse]

I'm a laminate floor fitter and I use a Fein multitool with Bosch blades, I sharpen/ cut new teeth with a dremel and some tiny discs I found on Amazon, since doing so I haven't needed/ bought any new blades in over a year, and my blades get a lot of hammer. Takes a little practice but the little discs and mandrel cost around a fiver. Glad I kept loads of old blunt ones. Saved a small fortune.

[samuelwort]

A must have tool for any serious DIYer have found a multitude of uses for it. Wouldn't be without it.

[FerociousSniper]

I used one for the first time yesterday. These things are freaking awesome.

[joneym]

Lol, I have a multitool and don't use it a lot.

Last saturday I had a friend over to do some DIY on my home and it was the first time he has used one. Some tricks you've shown, using a guide for a straight cut (the surface of a workmate, serving the clamping force and a straight edge) and using masking tape for a depth stop, we have been using as well. I will send him this video so he can see we were a the right track. I'm not a proper DIY-er as you are, but I'm glad that my experience and common sense is sort of in your level regarding multitools.

I own a cheap corded Parkside with a quick change clamp and am very pleased with it.

[generallyhelpfulsoftware]

My favorite oscillating tool attachment is a rectangular box saw that cuts a perfect single gang opening for an electrical box in one go. Somehow incompatible with the oscillations of my Dewalt tool, so I keep a Skil branded tool around just for that purpose. Goes through drywall perfectly, not so good on wood.

[chproy]

Good tips, Thanks. Also when blades worn out 10 seconds with angle grinder and you have a scraper.

[tjdevroede]

I own both cordless and plug-in versions of this tool and use them often as a builder. Still enjoyed your vid and appreciate the tip on resharpening blades. Cheers from over the pond!

[andrewarthurmatthews]

I have the Erbauer 18 v model which for my old trade as antique furniture restorer and for all work tasks this tool is a must for every serious project.
Yes you can buy cheap or expensive blades so I have a large selection of different types with the carbide tipped being expensive but very effective and efficient. Not had any problems with inaccuracy with the trick being not to force the cut but to let the teeth do the cutting.

[haydendoan]

I use a scratch awl to pre-scratch a straight line across the wood and the blade will tend to follow the line.

[tomlittle]

I bought a Fein Multi-tool years ago after seeing it at a woodworking show. I was worried a bit at the time as it was the most expensive tool in my arsenal. However it became my 'Get Out Of Jail Free Card' on countless occasions. Every serious DiYer or Tradesman should have this in their tool kit. Thanks for the video Stuart, very informative and clearly explained as always.

[MarkartStudio]

Another fabulously clear, to-the-point, and very helpful presentation, Stuart - I hope you continue with your kind and brilliant contributions to our DIY world.

[gentlegnt]

I've never purchased a. multipurpose tool, but your video has shown me many purposes of what I could use one for, if ever needed-thank you so much. Especially love the repurposing of worn out blades by using the angle grinder to make new cuts and start over again. Love it!