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Tool review: Oscillating Multi-Tools

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More things to look for

Lifting a lever on the Fein MultiMaster
releases the retaining bolt. Seat the
blade, press the bolt in, then flip the
lever back down.

The open end of the Dremel
attachments allows you to slide
them in place without fully removing
the retaining bolt.

More things to look for

With as many attachments as these tools accept, swapping them becomes a common task. Fein's toolless system, shown at right top, takes only seconds. All others, except the Dremel models, require completely removing the retaining bolt with a supplied hex wrench. However, by using Dremel's adapter (see The Fit Can Give You Fits, next page), any tool benefits from the Dremel blades' unique mounting, shown at right bottom.

Before purchasing a multi-tool, find out if the attachments your local retailers carry fit that tool. A local supplier provides more convenience, and often lower cost, than ordering attachments online.

Task lights. Because multi-tools work well in tight quarters, such as inside a cabinet, we appreciate the LED task lights found on some models.

Continued on page 4: The Fit Can Give You Fits

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Comments (6)

#mowry wrote:

The HF multi tool I bought for my son 2 years ago is still going on occasional use but mine died after 1 month of mild-modest useage. Reviews suggest vibration causing electrical joints to fail but checking mine, all seemed tight. Question is do I replace it? Honestly,it's a 50/50 decision based on my mood if I ever get past a store. I probably should have returned it but the cost of gas to and from was a lot higher than it cost. (I live rural)

1/7/2013 08:10:01 PM Report Abuse

AxlMyk wrote:

I have also been using the Harbor Freight Multi-tool. Why didn't you include it in your testing? Just because it's $20 doesn't mean it isn't any good.

1/26/2012 10:59:46 AM Report Abuse

tenpenny3315200 wrote:

I have to agree with your choice of the Fein. Mine is the older type with bolt. Bought this many years ago and as a general contractor carpenter have put this tool thru much abuse and use. I have replaced the bolt a few times but not the allen wrench. It has been a great tool for me.

8/17/2011 10:04:46 PM Report Abuse