It used to be that you only had one oscillating tool to choose from. But as the patents have run out, more and more tool manufactures are coming out with their own oscillating tools. This article considers a few basics to hopefully whet you appetite for these versatile little tools.
An oscillating tool works by moving the blade back and forth very quickly, oscillating if you will. This allows for a very controllable, safe and easy to use tool. I have read that you can put your finger right on the blade and it won't cut you. I am a chicken so I will never know unless I see someone else do it.
Who needs an oscillating type tool? Really these tools have so many uses that most any trade can find a use for them. They can cut many different types of material including plastic, steel, copper, laminate, plywood, drywall and on and on. What are some specific uses? One thing that an oscillating tool is very useful for is for flush cutting. That means if you have to cut a pipe, nail, stud or anything off flush to the wall or floor, these tools will do it. These tools are very useful in installing flooring like laminate, and tile. Most every tool maker shows their tool cutting under the door jamb to install the flooring. Cutting grout out between tile is also easy to do if you have the right cutting blade.
Besides cutting, an oscillating tool is also handy for detail sanding. While they really can't replace an orbital sander for covering larger areas, the many different shape sanding pads allow you to get into tight areas. This makes the tool for many more applications than just a saw would.
You can get an oscillating tool in a cordless or corded version. As with so many tool purchases, what you buy is based on the usual equation: budget, plus use, divided by application, divided by the square root of your tool preference. Or something like that, I failed math. You can find the tools from under 0 to 0. An argument can be made for any to the tools, but I have made the mistake to many times of trying to get by with a tool that isn't quite what I wanted and I was always disappointed. So consider what you need to do with the tool and how often you will use it and make sure you buy the tool you will be happy with. Check out the reviews at Amazon and see what people are saying.
Make sure you check out some of the different kits available for oscillating tools. For one, you usually get a better deal in a kit plus you may get a few extra blades that you wouldn't have bought, but you may find are very useful to have. You may want to consider a remanufactured tool as they come with a warranty and can save you a few dollars.
If you have been considering an oscillating tool, give one a try. You will find them lightweight, easy to use and a great time saver on the job and around the house.
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