As an example when I use a straight router bit, if you have to make a deep cut, you should go in steps and you don’t need to go fast. When using a router, I know I am hard on them. In fact I am just plain mean to them and if any real wood worker saw how I used the router, they would probably slap me around. Well I am not really friendly to my routers. You may be wondering why I keep saying tough. It’s tough, easy to use and produces quality work. Actually I hate the case it came in, but the router is awesome. I currently own a Porter Cable 690 that I bought around 2003 and I love this router.

Which brings me to the Porter Cable 693LRPK which is a router with a plunge base. I just want a tough, easy to use and quality router. So for me, I don’t need the high end router. Now I can’t say I am a hardcore woodworker, but I have built my share of tables, cabinet doors and more. Well not a whole building, but I think you get my point. You can create designs on the face of wood, build shelves, tables or just about anything your mind can think of. Out of the oscillating tools here, one is sure to serve you well.Routers are one of those tools that can make your work really stand out. To gauge ease of use, we took into account whether it was easy to mount and dismount blades and accessories, and how comfortable the tools are to use, particularly in tough deep cuts. We gathered a range, some corded and others cordless, and tested their power by cutting hardwood, softwood, and wood with nails embedded in it. We research the market, survey user reviews, speak with product managers and engineers, and use our own experience operating these tools to determine the best options. Run a battery down, then swap it for a fresh one.Įvery oscillating tool on this list has been thoroughly vetted and evaluated by our test editors.

And if you’re already plugged into a power tool company’s platform, it makes sense to buy a bare cordless oscillating tool and use the batteries and charger from your other power tools. If all you need to do is make the occasional cut or do a little sanding, then a cordless model will work well a single battery will have more than sufficient charge for those jobs. Say you’re renovating an old house or tackling a big remodeling job, and you’re going to be constantly cutting, grinding and sanding, go with a corded power tool so you can work without worrying about time and battery charge. A variety of blades fit in its tool-free chuck: fine-tooth saw blades, triangular-shaped sanding or grinding pads, and putty knife blades. The motor’s output shaft leads to a gear box that re-orients the rotational force 90 degrees and converts it into a side-to-side sweeping motion. The oscillating tool’s unusual shape and configuration incorporates a sturdy horizontal motor. Best for Small Projects: Porter-Cable PCE605K52.Best for Milwaukee Tool Owners: Milwaukee M2626-20.

Best Overall: Fein FMM 350QSL MultiMaster.

Read on for quick info on the best oscillating tools from our testing, then scroll down for buying advice and in-depth reviews. (For more insight into this mighty power tool, read our story on its versatility.) Use it on a variety of materials: wood, metal, stone and mortar, tile, and grout. It does nearly anything you need to do, with the exception of drilling holes and works in places other powers tools can’t reach, such as undercutting wood door trim to clear thin-plank flooring. It saws, grinds, sands, scrapes, and polishes. What MacGyver was to action-adventure heroes, so the oscillating multitool is to home repair and remodeling. If there is one power tool that can get you out of a tough spot, it’s the oscillating multitool.

Review porter cable multi tool