Dewalt Oscillating Multi
As we started making our initial cuts, two things because clear. For starters, the tool seemed to be genuinely faster than the last brushless model and clearly a big upgrade from the initial brushed one. That was a little bit of a surprise considering the DeWalt DCS356 has the same 20,000 OPM speed and 3.2° arc as the 355. This cordless DEWALT multi-tool has 20 volts, which allows it to quickly slice through sheetrock, light woods, and metal. Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about ourreview process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
Over at Amazon, the Dewalt DCS355C1 20V max cordless oscillating multi-tool kit is on sale for just $99. It’s currently “temporarily out of stock,” but you can still place your order and they’ll ship a kit out to you once they receive a resupply shipment. I’m not the one to sing praises dewalt accessories about a tool like a fanboy but this is a very special tool. From the powerful ultra smooth brushless motor to the perfectly molded rubberized grips everything about this tool is top notch. The first thing you notice when you pick up this tool is how well balanced and how solid it feels.
In one instance, the Dremel, we tested a previous version but haven’t gotten the new one in hand yet, so we’ll update that review with impressions once we do. The built-in LED light is a bonus and brighter than most cordless units. This makes working in cramped, dark spaces or in and around inner doorways easier. The unit comes with adapters that can work with other brands of oscillating tools. The large on and off switch is easy to manipulate when wearing bulky gloves, and the lock-on button ensures that the tool doesn’t inadvertently switch off in the middle of a job.
Make as many passes as necessary to cut through the material. Take care not to press down hard; let the tool do the work. Pressing the blade down too hard can cause it to overheat and wear out quickly, and also makes it likelier you’ll veer off your desired cut line.
To see our selection of blades compatible with this adapter see our ‘Bosch’ tab on the website selection bar. Given DEWALT’s recent push for dust collection I’m surprised the sanding attachment doesn’t have an adapter for the hepa vac. The only small issue I have with the DWE315 is the set screw for the Tool Guide. It has a tendency to work itself loose when the tool is on and vibrating. I’d like to see some sort of clamp that would lock the guide into position better under substantial vibration. This is a pretty small gripe considering how important and useful I think the guide is.
Most oscillating tools are available in kits with accessories and attachments. They include several blades for wood, metal, and blades that can handle both. One interesting thing to know about oscillating tools is that they’re very safe, regardless of additional safety features. While not impossible to cut yourself, the saw’s small arc makes it very challenging to cut skin. Your skin’s elasticity is greater than the saw’s amplitude . This relationship means that an oscillating tool will simply vibrate the skin, as the stroke isn’t long enough to tear it.
There are several different attachment styles to choose from, so finding the right one can be somewhat confusing. Keep in mind, however, that power isn’t as important as having the right blade on your tool and setting it to the proper speed. Cutting metal requires lower speeds than wood, so be sure to choose an oscillating tool with an adjustable speed range. Look for dewalt tools tools with oscillating speed ranges between 8,000 and 20,000 oscillations per minute for optimal usability in most home improvement projects. A corded oscillating tool is the way to go for someone who uses their oscillating tool frequently and for long durations, like during woodworking and sanding. Corded power tools work as long as there is electricity available.