A Complete Guide to Multi Tool Blades and Accessories
Posted by Katy | Toolstop on 4th Jan 2021
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Oscillating Multi Tools are the most versatile tools on the market. They can cut, grind, sand and so much more. This Toolstop Guide focuses on Multi Tool Blades and what they can be used for. We will discuss which Oscillating Multi Tool Accessories you need for which job and the different types of Multi Cutter Blades at Toolstop. We also define Starlock Blades and why they are so popular nowadays.
What Multi Tool Blades do I need?
Oscillating Multi Tools are one of the most, if not the most versatile tools on the market. They can be used for so many different things and are loved in so many trades. Whether its for cutting, sanding or grinding, Toolstop has the accessories for you.
The key to getting the most out of your multi tool is choosing the right blade for the job!
This Toolstop Blog will guide you through what multi tool blades you need for which application, Starlock blades explained and some of our Top Picks available to shop at Toolstop.
But first, check out our Toolstop Guide to oscillating multi tools.
Which Multi Tool Blade for which job?
Matching your blade to the job
There are thousands of different types of multi tool blades and accessories on the market. For this reason, the application you wish to carry out may require a specific blade, or one thats more suited to the material. Take a look at our guide below on which multi cutter accessory you should use when carrying out a specific job:
Segmented Cutting Blades
Segmented cutting blades resemble a round, half moon shape. They are typically used for making long, linear cuts and creating plunge cuts in wood, metal PVC, and more (depending on the material the blade is designed for, of course). The teeth on these blades have zero offset so provide a neat and smooth finish.
Plunge Cut Blades
Though segmented blades can make plunge cuts, straight cutting blades are able to do so in much smaller, precise scales. They have the ability to cut deeper into the material than segmented blades do. These blades are perfect for creating cutouts in drywall, laminate, skirting boards and more as well as simply making rough cuts in wood.
Check out our blog post here on how to cut skirting board with a multi tool!
Bi-Metal Cuttting Blades
Look out for oscillating blades labelled 'Bi-Metal' (BIM). These blades perform best in metal cutting applications as they are tougher, stronger, sharper and longer lasting than standard blades. They are great at cutting wood with embedded nails.
Scraping Blades
Scraper blades exist and are great at removing old wallpaper and caulk or bringing up linoleum. They are much quicker and more efficient than using a manual scraper would be.
Sanding
Did you know you can also sand with your oscillating multi tool? Simply replace the blade attachment with a sanding pad and you are good to go. Of course, this method is only really designed for smaller surface sanding and prepping jobs. *Tip - Use hook and loop sandpaper as this is better at removing the dust!*
Carbide / Diamond Grit Blades
Multi tool blades with diamond grit or carbide edges are typically more expensive, though worth it. They are capable of cutting through much tougher materials such as tile and grout and are often much more resistant and longer lasting.
Oscillating multi tool blades come in a huge range of different sizes and styles. Simply check out our product descriptions on Toolstop to find out which material and applications they are best suited to.
What are Starlock Blades?
More and more brands these days are making their multi tool blades Starlock compatible. But what are Starlock Blades and why are they so special?
Starlock was created by Bosch and Fein, two of the market leaders in oscillating multi tools. It was introduced back in 2016 and has been a favourite choice of accessory ever since.
Starlock is the name for the new standardised fitting of oscillating multi tool blades. Its specal shape and design ensures greater power transfer so you can get the most out of your multi cutter. These blades can be used with almost any multi cutter (as long as its starlock compatible), so even with your Bosch Multi Tool, you can use Smart Starlock Accessories. They simply click onto your multi tool, no need for hex keys, allowing for much faster and efficient accessory changes. You will find that they are often colour coded for easier identification of blade type for the specificed application.
Multi Tool Blades - Toolstop's Top Picks
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Comparing Oscillating Multi Tool Accessories
We’d love to hear from you with regards to the multi-cutter accessories you use the most and how you’ve made them do the niggly little jobs you’d struggle with otherwise! Feel free to share your stories with us.