An oscillating multi-tool is perfect for cutting and sanding, trimming wood or plastic, as well as cutting PVC and copper pipe. Its small foot print makes it the ideal tool to reach those tight spaces. With the right blade it is an invaluable tool to remove grout around tile and can allow you to remove a counter top without destroying a tile back splash. When renovating old windows, doors and sashes it can make quick work of stripping the old paint.
The oscillating multi-tool is made to cut hard surfaces, not soft such as any fingers that happen to get in the way. The oscillating multi-tool was first used in hospitals to remove casts; it would easily cut through the plaster or fiberglass but wouldn’t leave a scratch on the underlying skin.
If your plan is to add an oscillating multi-tool to your tool box for an occasional job then the 1.5 amp motor will do just fine, however, if you are planning any major renovations or even using it as a full-time tool in home building and renovation then the larger and more powerful 2.5 amp motor will handle any job you can throw at it. Once you decide on the amount you will be using the oscillating multi-tool, the next decision is to either go with a cordless battery operated type or use it with a cord.
If you will be using the tool in hard to reach places the cordless model will be your best bet, but if you will be using for prolonged periods you will have to make sure that you have extra battery packs. For the home handy man the simple corded model might be the answer. customizable multi tool
Whatever your choice, keep in mind of the flexibility of this tool. It’s not just a cut off saw. It can be used as a sander, scraper, or even used to cut metal such as nails, or wood as well as plastics. Plumbers have been using it as a cut off saw for copper pipes because of the smooth edge it leaves.
Every year there are more and more uses found for the oscillating multi-tool. New blades are being manufactured for new uses all the time. There is even a specialty blade made for removing the caulking on deck boards on boats that doesn’t harm the wood.
Some of the blades can be expensive and the best tip to add to the life of any of the blades is to let the oscillating multi-tool do most of the work. It may cut through a surface a bit faster if you add pressure but this will surly shorten the life of the blade. You will find that just a bit too much pressure while cutting wood will actually burn the wood so practice that light touch.