Oscillating tools, sometimes referred to as multi-tools (because they can perform multiple tasks), are relatively new to the power tool market. They have only been produced for a few decades, but have already become iconic in the construction and renovation industry. Several well-known instrument manufacturers make their own versions, so my husband, who is a licensed contractor, and I tested some of the best oscillating instruments to see how they perform.
The Bosch StarlockPlus oscillating tool received top honors in our field trials and I think it deserves more attention. Then find answers to the most frequently asked questions about StarlockPlus to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your collection.
This is a saw. This is a sander. Wait, that’s also a scraper. Oscillating tools are named after the movement of their blades. The blade of the Bosch vibrating tool is fixed at one end and moves quickly from side to side in small arcing movements at the other end, simulating the swing of a pendulum. This oscillating motion is part vibration, part sawing, a combination that is great for cutting wood, some types of metal, and drywall.
An oscillating tool can also be a powerful mechanical grinder if equipped with a sanding pad, and because it is long and narrow, its design is ideal for working in tight spaces. Oscillating tools were originally used for trimming door frames and trim when replacing an existing floor with a thicker floor, but with a variety of blades and accessories, they are more versatile than ever. Bosch multi-tools are the leader in vibrating tools.
The Bosch Oscillating Tool is one of the simplest power tools, nothing fancy. It is relatively light at 2.7 lbs and can be held with one or two hands (if needed) while cutting or sanding. It features adjustable speed (ranging from 8,000 to 20,000 vibrations per minute) so users can select the vibration speed that best suits their particular project.
One of our favorite features of the Bosch StarlockPlus is the tool-free blade change system. Oscillating tools used to require a hex wrench or wrench to change blades, but this model is equipped with a blade change lever. All I have to do is pull the lever to release the current blade, put the other blade in place and close the lever to secure the new blade.
The original purpose of the oscillating tool was to trim door frames along the bottom during refurbishment to accommodate thicker floor materials. For example, if the house has 6mm (less than ⅓ inch thick) linoleum and the homeowner wants to install a medium 3/4 inch thick hardwood floor, the door frame needs to be cut to fit a thicker floor in order to install the flooring. thicker floor. fits underneath. The oscillating tool cuts the sheet into place without dismantling and reinstalling.
The Bosch multitool performed well in our pruning tests, but it does more. We’ve also used it to cut drywall socket boxes, cut sheet metal, and even cut the nails that hold wall studs to the floor. However, we don’t like using the included sand removal blade to remove old grout between tiles. We tried, but the strong vibration of the blade scratched the glass of the tile and left shards on the surface.
While all of the tools that make up our finest collection of oscillating tools are good choices for a variety of cutting and grinding projects, StarlockPlus fits the bill. It offers tool-free blade changes and a variable speed adjustment dial, and it performed well in our wood and sheet metal cutting tests. We also found it comfortable to use during our long testing sessions. It doesn’t get as hot or vibrate as some other models, so your hands don’t get tired.
However, one notable disadvantage is the inability to use conventional oscillating blades with the Bosch StarlockPlus. Some of the other models we tested came with universal attachments that allowed us to change blades between models. However, Bosch blades and accessories can be found everywhere at sawmills, DIY centers and home improvement stores.
The Bosch StarlockPlus Oscillator currently costs $140-$150. That’s more than some of the other models we’ve tested. That’s more than double the price of some of the other models we’ve tested, but in the same price range as the other best tool in our lineup, the DeWalt 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool. Both models performed well in our tests, and both offer the same speed setting. The most notable difference is that StarlockPlus is wired while DeWalt is wireless.
Cordless power tools cost more in many cases, but their portability makes them more versatile. The final decision is up to the buyer, but we believe that StarlockPlus is worth the money. We love the idea of remembering to charge your battery and we know StarlockPlus is a powerful tool.
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in construction, renovation and real estate. She and her husband own a general contracting firm and have extensive experience in both residential and commercial construction. She tests various power tools and other home, home, lawn and garden products.
Post time: Jul-18-2023