
When we consider the best oscillating multi-tool ergonomics, it starts with weight. Then, our three-man testing team spends time cutting and sanding to rank them into groups and assign their final scores. That’s all changing, though.Īs we test speed, we build our first impressions of each tool’s vibration control. Their technology has been so far ahead of everyone else that it hasn’t been competitive at all. Vibration control has been dominated by Fein for a long time. We also test how the blade affects your ability to work when you’re switching between tasks. To test speed, we compare how fast we can cut wood, drywall, nails, remove grout, and sand. Regardless, our team looks for the same general characteristics even if they’re in a different order. Some Pros just want the fastest performance, others might value vibration control the highest. Price: $99 bare, $169 kit (1 x 1.5Ah battery)īuy at Amazon Oscillating Multi-Tool Buying Guide | What We Look ForĮveryone has different priorities when searching for the best oscillating multi-tool. At $99 for the bare tool and $169 for the kit, it’s an excellent value. If you’re still not convinced, the price might just tip you over the edge. Blade changes are agreeably easy and the ergonomics are comfortable. Its brushless motor tops out at 20000 OPM (variable down to 11000 OPM) and a 3.6° oscillating angle help keep it competitve.įor the design, the KMT 124B-03 does just about everything well even though it doesn’t necessarily stand out like some of its competitors. In our testing, its cutting speed was in the top tier and its isolated head design offers a nice reduction in how much vibration you feel. Kobalt quietly has one of the best oscillating multi-tools for the money.

Price: $64 bare, $89 kit (1 x 1.5Ah battery) The bare tool is just $64 and the kit is $89. It’s also one of the most affordable options we recommend. Using the dial in front of the trigger, you can set its 20000 OPM top speed lower for a more controlled approach when you need it.Īt just 1.6 pounds bare, it’s one of the lighter models available and the 1.5Ah battery that comes in the kit doesn’t add a ton to it. It drifts from the standard design trend with a one-finger trigger and a handle design that’s comfortable to use. Hart makes a compelling case for DIYers with the HPMT01. Heads up: DeWalt has a 12V Xtreme oscillating multi-tool on the way that’s an even lighter and more compact design.īuy at Acme Tools Best Hart Oscillating Multi-Tool There’s also a $99 kit available that makes this the best value oscillating multi-tool available. It has three speeds instead of one and a higher top-end speed. The handle fits comfortably in your hand and the variable speed paddle trigger gives you control over both the speed and grip location.īetween this model and the 20V Max Atomic, we still prefer the DCS356. Both the cutting speed and vibration control are far better than the brushed model it replaced.Įven though the performance is better, the physical design didn’t change much. DeWalt’s XR brushless multi-tool has been out for a couple of years, but it’s an excellent design. We’ve gone down that road before and were left disappointed. We didn’t bother testing the cheapest models. It might also be worth keeping a spare quick-link or master link in your saddle bag to minimise roadside hassles.There’s a difference between getting the cheapest oscillating multi-tool and a good tool on a budget.

The small size of multi-tool chain tools can make them awkward to use when compared to the best chain tools, but they can really save the day. Some stems and other places on your bike might also use Torx bolts, so it’s best to check to see if you’ll need these on your multi-tool.

T25 and T20 Torx keys are most common and are often needed for disc brake and rotor bolts. Most multi-tools come with 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8mm sizes and this should be more than enough for your bike.Ī big 8mm Allen key is enough to nip tight crank bolts but don’t expect it to do the job of a big workshop 8mm because it won’t have the same amount of leverage as a longer tool.Ĭhamfered tips are a sign of quality and also prevent the rounding of bolts and the keys.
Best multi tool 2021 full#
Look for a full array, in order to be covered for most eventualities. If you have tubeless tyres, a plug tool is a good shout, and if you run rim brakes there’s no need for a disc brake rotor truing tool.īut away from more specialist tools, here are the most basic tools that almost every rider will benefit from having on a multi-tool. What you need from your multi-tool will often depend on your style of riding and bike. Buyer’s guide to bike multi-tools | What to look for
