Using a multi-tool. Multifunctional tool - how to choose by power, size, number of attachments, manufacturer and price. Where and how to use a multi-tool

Evgeniy Sedov

When hands grow out the right place, life is more fun :)

Content

Renovator is the trade name of the manufacturer of the first electric multi-tools and has become the common name for all such multi-tools. Renovator – universal assistant. You can buy multi-tools from most well-known manufacturers, such as Bosch, Makita, Dremel, Hitachi.

What is a multi-tool

The multifunctional tool has a compact body and a huge number of attachments. The device cannot cope with a large volume of work, so the renovator is useless at a construction site. For small home repairs, a multitool is ideal. The renovator works with any materials: wood, plastic, metal. It is indispensable for working in hard-to-reach places where a grinder or a circular saw cannot pass. Unlike professional power tools, the renovator does not pose a risk of injury.

A multifunctional power tool with attachments will help you perform the following types of work:

• sand the surface;
• trim finishing materials;
• cut off the protruding nail;
• cut a hole in the board;
• remove paint;
• dismantle individual tiles;
• clean the tile joints;
• sharpen hand tools.

How does it work

The renovator is an oscillating power tool. Oscillation is translated from German as rocking. The working blades of the renovator do not rotate, but oscillate with a small amplitude. A multifunctional oscillating tool has advantages over conventional cutting and sawing devices:

• sawdust does not scatter behind the blade;
• destruction of the cutting blade does not cause harm to the user;
• You can make a plunge cut.

Technical specifications

The power of multifunctional renovators ranges from 180 to 500 W. At high productivity, the working surface makes 20,000 vibrations per minute. The higher the power, the more efficient the renovator will work. The speed can be adjusted. For sanding and woodworking, the maximum frequency is recommended, and for cutting metal, the average frequency is recommended. The full amplitude of oscillations is from 2.6 to 3.0 degrees. There are corded and cordless multifunctional electric tools.

Previously, manufacturers produced universal tool with its own type of fastening. Users had to look for adapters. Nowadays, most models use the universal twelve-point Oscillating Interface System (OIS) fastening system offered by Bosh. The working blades are installed relative to the body at one of 12 angles.

In 2016, giant companies Fein and Bosch developed new fastening standards: Starlock, Starlock PLUS, Starlock MAX, which allow you to change equipment without using keys. Renovators with a Starlock MAX mounting socket can use three accessory standards. Devices with Starlock PLUS mount – Starlock and PLUS accessories. Only Starlock accessories are suitable for tools with a Starlock socket. You can assemble a set of attachments with different functions. This:

• Sanding attachments – pads different forms(round, triangular or small for hard-to-reach places), to which abrasive sandpapers are attached.
• Polishing pads are felt pads used with polishing liquids.
• Sawing attachments – blades of different shapes and sizes. Rectangular ones are used to make cuts. Disc blades are used for long and straight cuts. Half-round cutters are suitable for working near corners.
• Diamond-coated nozzles are blades that cut tiles and clear tile joints.
• Scrapers - blades various shapes and thickness for removing paint, flooring and other coatings.

This basic set multifunctional accessories for the universal cutter. There is equipment for special purposes. For example:

• knives for removing car windows;
• nozzles for grinding profiled moldings and grooves.

Best multi-tool

Fein specialists began using the oscillating principle to produce power tools 40 years ago. In 2008, the patent for this invention expired, and all leading manufacturers began to mass produce multifunctional electric tools. Today you can buy renovator in the online store of many famous brands.

Makita tools

Makita is a leading manufacturer of power tools. You can purchase a multitool, and select and purchase additional equipment yourself. Or immediately order a device with a large set of accessories:

Cordless tools are expensive. The purchase of such a device is not always justified. If you work at home, it is better to choose a corded power tool:

Dremel

Dremel is known for another multi-tool that bears its name: the Dremel. The manufacturer also has oscillating devices:

If you try, you can find a battery version of Multimax for sale:

Bosch

Pay attention to models where you can replace equipment without keys and additional accessories:

The blue professional power tool is designed for intensive use and has high power:

Hitachi

The Japanese brand Hitachi produces multifunctional devices that are in demand among professionals and amateurs:

Due to the absence of a battery, the network device weighs less and is easier to use:

Hammer

Pay attention to the budget renovator German company Hammer:

The Hammer range includes both corded and practical cordless tools:

Black&Decker

Inexpensive renovators from the American manufacturer Black & Decker are in demand. Models have their own Superlok keyless fastening system:

In an effort to expand the capabilities of the multitool, Black & Decker went even further and created a device that can replace a drill, screwdriver, jigsaw, small circular saw, grinder and classic renovator:

Anchor

The renovators of the domestic company Enkor are suitable for working blades from leading brands, but the manufacturer can offer a wide selection of its own equipment, which is cheap. Among the models there are powerful devices at an affordable price:

For beginners, a less powerful tool from the same manufacturer is suitable:

How to Choose a Multi-Tool

The higher the power of the tool, the larger and less convenient it is. Think about what is more important to you. The advantage of battery models is their independence from the network, but such devices are more expensive. A half-charged or old battery will not allow you to work at full capacity. When working indoors, it is better to choose a network option. Please note whether the work blades can be installed at different angles and whether they are compatible with universal types fastenings. Convenient modern devices with the ability to quickly change attachments without keys.

How many various operations must fulfill multifunctional tool to be considered as such – two, three or much more? Let's clarify this issue.

What is a multi-tool?

Universality and professionalism at work are practically incompatible concepts, since the more different areas of activity are covered, the lower the efficiency in each individual area. The same applies to tools; the more functions that can be performed with the same device, the lower the quality of the work performed. Let's compare two options: a claw hammer and universal pliers, one of the jaws of which has a protrusion in the shape of a hammer, one of the handles is equipped with a claw puller. In the first case, we have only two functions, and both are performed equally well; hammer pliers are already much worse at handling nails large sizes, and nail pliers are a rather ineffective lever.
Apparently, the more tasks a tool can perform, the lower its performance. But this only applies to those devices whose configuration has been changed for the sake of versatility, for example, a universal bicycle wrench is very inconvenient to use. In fact, a hand-held multifunctional tool is when several are installed on one base. various devices, each of which is responsible for a specific area of ​​work. The name of such a bundle is known to many; it is multitool, or, translated from English, a multi-tool, which comes in several types: mechanical and cordless. Let's look at each option separately.
A mechanical multitool is, for the most part, a familiar keychain based on pliers that fold inside their own handles. There, inside the handles, are hidden various screwdrivers, tweezers, bottle openers, manicure scissors, nail files, knives, forks and other useful things. But, of course, such a tool is only suitable for small repair work within the house or, if necessary, can be used somewhere outside the city, for example, to repair a bicycle or radio. For serious professional tasks, you need a battery-powered multitool, with an electric motor in the handle, equipped with a torque to linear torque converter installed in the working part. By changing attachments (saw, knife, abrasive), you can perform a lot of different jobs.

Attachments for cordless multi-tools

So, a multitool in the form of a keychain doesn’t suit you, and you can’t afford to buy a bunch of different devices for every occasion. Of course, many electrical devices combine several functions; for example, a drill can be used both as a screwdriver and as a hammer drill. But in the first case, the power is too high, and in the second, on the contrary, it is too low. The performance of the multi-tool is calculated down to the smallest detail, and even the resistance of the material to processing does not greatly affect the efficiency of work. The main thing is to choose the right attachment, be it a saw or a knife.
Even the basic package of a multitool includes about ten different accessories. Let's look at the groups into which attachments for multifunctional tools are divided. First of all, these are sawing and cutting blades that can be used to perform a fairly wide range of tasks. Next come the work surfaces for milling and grinding. Several different types of attachments are designed for scraping, for example, to remove plaster from brick or concrete walls. And a lot of different sanding pads, plates and sheets are produced for fine processing and polishing of almost all existing materials. Additionally, the electric multitool can be equipped with depth gauges and dust extraction elements.
All of the attachments listed are different from those installed on angle grinders. Firstly, the saws on multitools are not circular saws, but segmented ones, of which exactly a third is missing as unnecessary. Secondly, since the movement of the mechanism is reciprocating, it is possible to work with the tool like an ordinary knife, for which special plunge-cut saw blades are installed. There are models for cutting through wood, metal and various soft or porous materials, such as insulation, linoleum or carpet. Special attachments with an abrasive edge or solid sanding pads allow you to perform rough or fine processing of materials, make cuts and smooth edges.

Due to the fact that the multitool has no rotation work surface, the use of the device eliminates the formation of dust and centrifugal ejection of large particles of material.

Where and how is a multi-tool used?

Both in an apartment and in a suburban area, various small and sometimes quite large everyday problems constantly arise that need to be solved promptly and, if possible, efficiently. Repair a loose floorboard, replace a warped baseboard, cut out an opening for an electrical outlet, cut off a piece of pipe, or remove old paint before updating the trim. There is always a lot to do, and you need no less tools, so at home, a multitool will never be superfluous. let's consider specific examples, where a universal tool can be used, and which devices are responsible for which area of ​​work.
Let's say a tile on a wall or floor has broken and needs to be replaced. First you need to remove the seams that hold the damaged ceramic element in place. For this purpose, it is allowed to use a universal nozzle for jointing joints (when fixing tiles with adhesive) or any segmented milling disk. There is also a special attachment for removing cement mortar. Next, you need to clean the surface for laying the new facing element, for which we install a rigid or flexible scraper on the multitool. If necessary, you can then use a sanding pad to finalize the base to the desired degree of smoothness. And with a sanding sheet and polishing felt it’s easy to polish scratched cladding.
Often there is a need to cut grooves in various surfaces, both wooden and plastic, not to mention drywall. It is impossible to perform such a delicate operation with a grinder; with a drill using a crown cutter you will only get a round hole. The rectangular slot is easy to make using a multitool dip blade. Other cutting attachments are used to cut down metal or plastic profiles, cut sheets of plasterboard, as well as chipboard, fibreboard and other particle boards. With the help of segmented blades you can work with ordinary boards and thin beams; such a saw blade will not cut through only a beam or log large section. At the same time, by choosing the right edge, you can cut off a nail head, a wooden protrusion, or the edge of a tile protruding at a corner flush.

Regular multi-tool with oscillating drive? What makes an electric multitool versatile? Where is it used and how is it chosen? It seems that we are again bogged down in questions - we will delve into and figure it out.

Passion for versatility

The versatility of the tool causes mixed feelings among experienced craftsmen. On the one hand, everyone wants to have a miracle machine in their arsenal that can cover many other positions, the wallet will remain thicker, the toolbox will be lighter. On the other hand, we understand that universality is the enemy of specialization - functionality restrictions increase, the quality of a single operation clearly decreases. This is reality. Even at the current technological level, it is unlikely that manufacturers can offer professionals a decent “centaur” with a power of, say, more than one kilowatt, which would even come close to the characteristics of single instruments. And no one has the desire to try and invest money in a development that is obviously a failure.

But for a home workshop, where the intensity of use is moderate and the situation with quality is somewhat simpler, a universal tool is extremely in demand. As an illustration, the Kulibins’ constant attempts (with varying success) with non-standard devices to expand the scope of application of conventional units. The idea of ​​using one power base (motor and controls) with several actuators has been around for a long time, but is being implemented by manufacturing companies very carefully. The most striking example is additional attachments for drills, or the Black & Decker MFL143KB-S modular screwdriver model.

In 2008, something happened. The patent for a multifunctional tool using oscillatory technology has expired. Since 1967, one of the oldest and highly respected tool companies, C. & E. FEIN GmbH, has had a monopoly. Their MultiMaster was a pioneer in its class; interestingly, it was first used in medical institutions - as a cutter for removing plaster. And so, when the legal veil fell, many manufacturers began to produce their “oscillating” multitools, or renovators, including professional ones. So this instrument ceased to be exotic and began its formation as a separate class. People have received mixed reactions to the new cars; there have been debates around them for several years now, and there are many of them. It is worth noting that a large group of admirers of such “universalists” has already formed, but there are also those who are lukewarm about universality. And many simply don’t know what it is; they consider them to be a replica of conventional angle grinders, apparently due to their external similarity.

What are oscillating multitools

If speak about internal structure, then all multifunctional instruments (from now on we will only call oscillatory devices that way) are very similar. This only speaks of the design accuracy of the first developers - the new class turned out to be very successful, almost perfect, for example, drills are also not much different from each other in principle. The base is an oblong body-handle (like a small grinder), in which a small motor is located. Torque is transmitted to the working part, where the rotational motion is transformed into oscillatory, reciprocating movements of the working shaft.

In general, oscillatory movement is a high-frequency oscillation with a small amplitude, named by analogy with a specific movement elementary particles, opened in the 30s of the last century. This operating principle of the drive has its own clear advantages before translational or rotational:

• There is no centrifugal ejection of material.
• There is no serious danger from rupture of the equipment.
• It is possible to perform a plunge cut.
• It is possible to process, cut, and remove elastic materials.
• There is no recoil or possibility of kickback.
• Low dust formation.
• Relatively easy to use.
• High quality processing.

Compared to the eccentric movement, it is possible to cut materials, and a wide variety of them. Such a tool is subject to: wood and its sheet derivatives, plastic, metals, concrete, brick, fiberglass, laminates, tiles - there are no insurmountable restrictions, everything depends on the competent choice of a suitable canvas. It is the equipment that expands the number of available operations, and there can be many attachments. Sometimes manufacturers divide them into groups and, in addition to the basic configuration, offer special sets designed for a specific area of ​​application (floors, kitchen/bath, interior renovation, auto repair shop, street/garden, shipbuilding). The main difference between all available canvases and traditional ones is Z shape, and the cutting discs have a disc configuration. Due to this circumstance, the working edge is located at a certain distance from the body (sometimes at an advantageous angle), and multitools have special capabilities:

• It is possible to dismantle the elements flush with the plane.
• You can cut close to an obstacle (wall, column).
• You can load the equipment at any point of the workpiece and make an opening.
• Scraper cleaning of a flat surface is carried out without problems.
• The tool is functional even in very tight places (corners, niches).

You are probably wondering what main types of work are performed with a multitool, at least the most “special” ones? Please:

• Removing grout and mortar from tile joints.
• Cleaning the plane from tile adhesives, mortar/concrete sagging (rasp).
• Figured cutting of ceramic tiles.
• Cutting channels in mineral structures.
• Trimming in place of slat, door leaf, baseboard, platband, laminate, parquet.
• Dismantling of rolled floor coverings (carpet, linoleum).
• Cutting soft rolled floor coverings.
• Removing elastic adhesives.
• Submersible cutting of technical openings.
• Grinding of complex shaped surfaces made of wood, metal, fiberglass, concrete, epoxy material.
• Flush cutting of nails, studs, pipes.
• Sawing and trimming of wooden, metal, plastic profiles.
• Grinding, rough fitting of parts with a block and emery.
• Dismantling of sealants, putties, waterproofing, anti-corrosion layers, paints.
• Sawing gypsum plasterboard, gypsum fiberboard, fibreboard, OSB, chipboard, plywood, including curved cutting.
• Dismantling of subsystems of metal and wooden frames.
• Making expansion joints for temperature gaps on walls and floors.
• Easy milling of grooves, chamfering.
• Cutting soft insulating materials.
• Polishing.
• Cutting and polishing stone.
• Compacting concrete.
• Sharpening hand tools.

Technical features of the multi-tool

Power

The motors used in renovators are not too strong; the emphasis here is on the compactness of the tool and on a high stroke rate. You will have to choose from machines with a power of 150 to 300 watts. Naturally, those that are more powerful will give you more productivity, all other things being equal, they will provide longer continuous operation, therefore they are intended for commercial use. Bosch station wagons, consuming 250 and 300 watts, are made in blue cases and are located in the professional catalog. For home craftsmen, the Germans offered tools with a power of 180, 190 and only one machine with a power of 250 W (Bosch PMF 250 CES). As you can see, manufacturers (many of them) put the strength indicator in the name of the model, which emphasizes the importance of the characteristic.

Speed ​​and amplitude

The equipment of any multitool runs short, this movement is more like vibration. However, the speed of movement is quite high, and the higher it is, the faster and cleaner the work is done. Average is around 20,000 strokes per minute, but there are devices even faster. For example, Fein FMM 250 Q produces 22,000 vibrations at idle.

In product data sheets you can almost always find an indication of the speed range, this is explained by the fact that for processing different materials it makes sense to select your own speed. For sawing metal we slow down, for plastics a medium frequency is suitable, and for working with non-solid wood there is no need to grind it, we go all the way. There is always speed control, it is always implemented in in electronic format. In most cases, the speed is set in steps - with a dial with divisions, which is located on the handle, or from the end (near the cord), as on the Skil 1470AA. Multifunctional tool FEIN also has a “magic” wheel, but it operates steplessly. Special attention can be given to the AEG BWS 12C Li Kit3 or RYOBI RMT 1801 M models, where instead of the power-on slider, a start key is used, which allows you to adjust the speed in real time by changing the pressing force (0-20,000 rpm). In general, the frequency adjustment range of different models varies greatly; the larger it is, the more more options will be with the operator. For example, the Bosch PMF 180 E has the ability to preset 15,000-21,000 strokes per minute, and in the Makita BTM 40RFE the oscillation can be slowed down to 6,000 oscillations.

Under load, the speed of the tool drops significantly, but if the multitool is equipped with constant electronics (constancy electronics), then the machine will automatically maintain the rotation speed of the equipment that the operator has chosen, and the quality of the operations performed will remain at the proper level. Of course, a lot here depends on the manner in which the tool is presented and the availability of power reserves. This system is the prerogative of relatively powerful pro-class station wagons (Bosch GOP 250 CE Professional).

Angle (range) of oscillation

Let's say a few words about the stroke length. If you start comparing the specifications of several models, you may notice that some have an oscillation angle of 2.8-3 degrees, and some have an angle of about 1.4-1.5 degrees. No, this does not mean the super capabilities of specific multitools, it’s just that their developers indicate in their data sheets either the full amplitude (RYOBI RMT 1801 M - 3 degrees) or a separate deviation from the axis to the right/left (DREMEL MULTI-MAX MM40). Makita LXMT025 and TM3000CX5 have one of the widest ranges - 3.2 degrees.

Smooth start

Despite the modest power, some renovator models can boast of the “ smooth start" — Makita BTM 40RFE, DREMEL Multi-Max MM 40. Obviously, this is not a matter of protection from high inrush currents; the manufacturer thus stabilizes the tool at the beginning of work, allowing it to carefully cut into the material, preventing damage to an expensive part.

Dust removal

Due to the fact that multitools are often used on finishing stages carrying out work, and grinding is one of the main functions of this tool - the issue of dust protection becomes very relevant. Most station wagons can be connected to an industrial vacuum cleaner. But there is no corresponding pipe on the body; it must be connected before starting work. The plastic element of the dust removal system is put on the casing near the canvas using the suction edge, after which it is attached to the body from below with clamps/brackets (Skil 1470). Ergonomics suffer somewhat from this (it becomes difficult to grasp the handle), but it should be possible to work cleanly. The FEIN company went even further; its marketers offered the consumer a top-end set, which in addition to the “multi-master” includes a vacuum cleaner.

Please note that if you are using a delta sanding platform from another manufacturer, then it, like the corresponding sanding sheets, must have holes for dust extraction.

Fastening equipment

Multitool accessories are everything. There are a great variety of all kinds of attachments, and the number of their standard sizes is growing steadily. The specificity, the very principle of existence of multifunctional machines requires frequent changes of equipment. Not only the feeling of comfort from using an innovative machine, but also the overall efficiency of the device, for example, on a construction site, depends on how quickly and reliably this is done. The standard option is when the nozzle is put on the seat and secured with a hex head screw (Milwaukee C12 MT, Bosch PMF 190 E). An advanced option is toolless (the Boshe people called it SDS) - usually you just need to move the locking lever to the side and return it to initial position after installing the equipment (Fein FMM 250 Q, Bosch GOP 300 SCE Professional).

The next important point is the interchangeability of equipment from different companies. Nozzles are expensive, their range is huge, some manufacturers are constantly coming up with something new - all this pushes both users and developers towards unification. At one time, consumers were guilty of making handicraft modifications of inexpensive attachments to fit their universal drives, but now they don’t have to do this. Bosch proposed introducing a common tool fastening system, and many companies supported it. Oscillating Interface System (OIS) is a new 12-point mounting system in which the blade can be installed not only frontally, but also at an angle relative to the axis of the body - in a full 360° range. By rearranging the equipment during installation, we can ensure even greater maneuverability of the tool, making the most pinched areas accessible for processing. The OIS system is not accepted by all manufacturers (FEIN GmbH goes its own way), but inexpensive equipment from domestic companies will be suitable. Bosch developers also equip their multitools with a universal adapter for attaching (without play or loss of torque) attachments from third-party manufacturers that cannot be unified. Makita developers also include adapters in the kit.

Battery renovator

A miniature tool with low power consumption is an ideal object for wireless technology. The value of mobility here increases significantly, and economical motors do not drain batteries so quickly. Many models of network tools, with minor changes, are sold powered by a battery. The relatively small amount of energy is compensated by the high charging speed - some devices restore the battery in 30 minutes (Black & Decker HPL108MTKA), and the unit receives 75-80% of the energy in a third to a half of the estimated time. All charging processes are controlled electronically - it is simply impossible to overload the battery, overheat it, or deeply discharge it. Control systems can even recognize load and idle speed; in the second case, the tool speed is automatically reduced, saving battery energy. The LED indication of the remaining charge will be incredibly useful.

Most manufacturers use ultra-small batteries for multitools that fit in the handle (voltage 9.6-12 volts, capacity 1.3-1.5 Ah) - for example, Bosch GOP 10.8 V-LI Professional, Milwaukee C12 MT , AEG BWS 12C Li Kit3, Fein MSX 315. Their performance is not the most outstanding, but quite suitable for many conditions. But the mass of such devices (even with a battery) is around one kilogram. Makito did not go too small; they relied on solid energy resources and decent torque. Their machines are powered by “adult” batteries, which they install on angle grinders: Makita BTM 40RFE (14.4 V, 3 Ah), Makita BTM50Z (18 V, 3 Ah). Here the manufacturer can already indicate the full power of the tool (250-280 W), but the mass of the units is approaching the 2 kg mark. Solid characteristics similar to network models are shown by Fein AFMM 14 with a unit (14.4 V, 3 Ah) weighing 1.7 kg. The new model PORTER-CABLE PCCK510LA (18 V) has also entered the fight for the palm.

As for the price, you have to pay a little extra for mobility, but some manufacturers offer a flexible solution for their regular customers. You can purchase a device with two batteries and a charger, or with one battery. If you already have a tool with unified power supplies, and you have a charger, you can purchase a completely “naked” multitool several times cheaper than an equipped one.

Let's add that many cordless multitools have a built-in LED flashlight to illuminate the work area (wired machines due to the parameters shared network cannot boast of such an option). In some cases, it is simply an irreplaceable thing.

Ease of use is the second productivity

The ergonomics of hand tools are always very important criterion choice. The device should be as convenient as possible for its owner, only then can you count on high quality work and enjoyment from the process. That is why we always recommend conducting a comprehensive inspection of the machine before purchasing, and, if possible, even conducting a light test drive. Where to look? Why shake?

Let's check how large the body of the multitool is - after all, it doubles as the main handle. Most users prefer the unit to be easy to grip for better grip and control. High-quality anti-slip pads will be a big plus.

We pay attention to the weight distribution of the tool - one of the drawbacks is the excessive “pecking” of the machine by the front part, this is especially true for powerful devices that weigh close to two kilograms.

Testing the controls. The power slider must be securely fixed in the on position, and in no case should it be knocked out during operation. If you are interested in a model with a trigger, then try to understand how sensitive it is and whether it can be used to “throw” it correctly. The speed adjustment wheel should be positioned away from the palm of your hand, otherwise the setting may change unintentionally.

Be sure to inspect the power cord. One should be wary of being too tough and too short cable- it can greatly limit freedom of movement. A length of 3 meters will be normal; the FEIN GmbH instrument is equipped with a 5-meter cord - this is ideal. An important node is the entry point into the tool; its reliability should not be in doubt. The Boshevites even used their “proprietary” hinge technology here.

An interesting point is the additional handle, which allows for a two-handed grip. Such an element is available in the powerful household model Bosch PMF 250 CES; moreover, it has an anti-vibration design and can be screwed in on both sides.

Immersion limitation. Control of the depth of the equipment is usually carried out visually, using a scale located directly on the blade. But there is an option with a remote limiter - this is a multi-stage large plastic washer that fits onto the “trunk” of the gearbox. The tool is plunged into the material until one of the different-sized protrusions of the washer rests on the workpiece.

Let's see how easily the dust extraction system is attached, and figure out how this changes the overall ergonomics of the product.

Compare the actual and possible configurations of several multitools. A tool will become truly multifunctional only if it is possible to use as many types of equipment as possible, even if it needs to be purchased additionally. You shouldn’t give up such advantages as: a good-quality case, a box for attachments, and a high-quality tool bag.

Well, let’s get to work... We plug in the tool and run it at idle speeds. If they allow you (this happens at authorized points of sale, in large stores), then we give the load. For an oscillating multifunctional unit, vibration indicators can be critical - so all attention here. Plus we listen carefully to the engine.

Now we can draw some conclusions and answer a couple of fundamental questions. So, let's go.

An “oscillating” multitool is not a hybrid of several traditional units; it is a separate class of tool.

A station wagon operating on an oscillating drive cannot in many cases be replaced with something else.

The multitool is ideal for restoration and repair work. There are a lot of options for using a multifunctional drive, their number is constantly growing with the production of new attachments.

The real popular popularity of such an instrument is just around the corner.

Actually, both one and the second name of this device are not entirely correct. After all, besides it they call a multifunctional tool grinding machines, and renovator is the name of one of these devices.

This is almost the same as the Makita name for a circular hand-held circular saw, although the Makita company manufactures almost the entire line of hand-held power tools, including this miracle of technology, which for ease of understanding we will continue to call the renovator in the article.

This tool appeared in our stores several years ago and, if you unconditionally believe the commercials, it should have swept out almost everything else from our workshops and storerooms: from a jigsaw and a chisel with a hammer to an angle grinder with a hammer drill. Is this really so, we will try to figure it out in this article.

Design and principle of operation of a multifunctional tool

Let's talk about this first of all. Because many not very fair critics of the instrument, not understanding this very principle, claim that the design of the device itself provokes its rapid failure.

It is quite difficult for a non-specialist to understand this almost X-ray image of a renovator, but anyone will notice that the main unit in it is the same electric motor as in most hand-held power tools comparable to it. So, at the end of the output shaft of this electric motor there is an eccentric, which, through a fork, transmits oscillatory movements to the working head of the renovator. This, practically the only loaded unit, is completely lubricated with grease, which provides for a fairly long service life.

As you can see, something that was not originally intended for long-term use can quickly break down here. And it could be a tool from a disgusting manufacturer. But they began to produce it both from large manufacturers of similar equipment and from numerous Chinese garage cooperatives, which sometimes do not even put a label on their products. Therefore, you need to approach the choice of a renovator wisely.

How to choose a renovator?

Everyone who already owns this multifunctional tool cites the high cost of the attachments as its main disadvantage. One high-quality working attachment can cost as much as 1/3 of the tool itself, which already includes several of the same ones. Paradox? You might even think that the renovator itself is just a free add-on to its attachments. Of course this is not true. Simply, if you are offered a tool complete with a huge number of attachments for 3,000 rubles, then you should think about it.

Therefore, if you decide to purchase this multifunctional device, we recommend that you pay attention to companies that you trust unconditionally, and it is better to choose the minimum number of attachments.

Firstly, most users claim that they actually work with 3-4 of them, and secondly, it is better to buy expensive, but initially high-quality, branded attachments separately - it will definitely be cheaper. Well, and thirdly, there is an even more rational way, but we will talk about it in a separate section of this article.

If you, not knowing what kind of beast this is - a renovator - decide to try out a very inexpensive multifunctional tool: from an obviously dark horse at a price of 1200 rubles, then follow a few simple rules:

• if at this price it comes with more than 2 attachments, don’t buy it;
• if the hand vibration continues after turning off the tool, do not pick it up;
• turn it on and let it idle for at least 3 - 4 minutes and if the tool gets hot, do not take it.

If the top 3 points have been completed, and the desire to purchase a cheap renovator has not disappeared, remember that the cost of a normal tool starts at least 5 thousand rubles, and it is intended for the types of work that we will list below, but first about the attachments.

Attachments for the renovator

The renovator can come with up to 40 attachments for various purposes. Not all of them will be useful to you in your work, so weigh your needs with the proposed set of tools.

Purpose of nozzles:

• triangular attachments: with sandpaper - for grinding, with other replaceable surfaces - for polishing wood and soft metals;
• E-scraper scrapers - for linoleum, carpet, for removing paint and glue;
• semicircular circular saws with teeth - for cutting plastic and soft metal;
• semicircular circular saws with diamond coating - remove hardened mortar in the joints between tiles, make small grooves in concrete and brick;
• E-cut angle saws are plunge-cut blades for cutting wood, plastic, copper and plastic pipes, the best examples are for ferrous metal.

This is the main purpose of the attachments, but they can be combined at your discretion and used for other types of work. In this multifunctional tool, the boundaries of the purpose of one or another type of attachment are quite blurred. Of course, you definitely won’t be able to achieve the vigorous cutting of thick hardened bolts demonstrated in commercials with the attachments included with the tool, but there are expensive saws for this on sale. Complete your renovator with them, and save the standard blades for soft materials where he is indispensable.

It should be mentioned that there are also replaceable heads for some tools: screwdriver, impact wrench, etc.

But, in our opinion, this is a very unjustified unification, although some users who have completed certain tasks with their help, especially in hard-to-reach places, may disagree with us.

Types of work performed using a renovator

First of all, this tool is intended for mechanization large number small, auxiliary work around the house. It is almost indispensable for finishing and working in hard-to-reach places on small surface areas.

Using it to cut reinforcement or split large-section wood to great lengths is the height of stupidity.

What a renovator can do and what it is intended for:

1. Provide assistance in removing old coverings of various types - carpet, linoleum, tiles, etc., remove silicone or sealant from the seams.

2. Cut holes of rectangular or any other polygonal shape in drywall, wood, fiberboard, chipboard, plastic and the same tile.

3. Execute a large number of cutting and trimming work in hard-to-reach places that are beyond the reach of any other tool.

4. Sand or polish surfaces, incl. in those hard-to-reach corners that cannot be treated with anything with such care.

5. Make perfect flush cuts, various kinds of cuts in soft (and sometimes not so soft, due to active wear of the nozzle) material with amazing cleanliness, which you cannot get when using other tools.

It is also worth mentioning the exceptional safety of this multifunctional tool. It is almost impossible for them to be injured.

In addition to networked renovators, of course, there are also battery versions of the tool, which makes it even more mobile to use.

It is precisely these specific types of work that either cannot be performed at all or are extremely difficult to perform with the help of another electric or manual tool, and all the arguments of his opponents are broken. And, I must say, there are many of them. First of all, because of manufacturers, who fill the market with clearly low-quality products (including attachments), and secondly, because of consumers who are trying to get from the tool something for which it is not intended.

If the tool bits are worn out

This section of the article is just for those who have not joined the ranks of opponents of the renovator, but are experiencing difficulties in fully using the tool due to the high cost of high-quality attachments for it.

And here in order:

1. If your delta sanding and polishing attachment is worn out, you can replace it with a small diameter grinder attachment. To do this, you need to remove the standard mount for this disk and install it using the fixing screw of the renovator through a suitable washer. The standard tightening force is quite enough for the device to perform confidently during grinding and polishing. To work in hard-to-reach places, you can cut the round attachment to its original deltoid shape. In this case, the sandpaper pads and polishing wheels will also need to be adjusted to fit.

The situation is a little worse with Bosch renovators and the like, with a self-clamping device, but there the attachments will not fail so quickly, but you can use the same pads, but cut to size.

2. If your scraper blade has worn out during work, restore it by simply sharpening it; if you need to harden it, harden it. The only condition: do not overheat. Heat until slightly reddish in color and place in oil for 3-4 seconds, and then in water. After this, polish thoroughly until the black coating is removed.

3. Naturally, you cannot restore diamond coating on attachments for working with concrete, mortar and brick at home, and this is the only attachment that is worth buying. But abrasive material from under a good coarse-grained wheel, collected after separating metal dust using a magnet and glued to the nozzle using polyurethane glue, will restore some of its performance. Having several of them, you can do the same work, and carry out the restoration procedure many times.

4. Now about the most worn attachments - E-cut miter saws. If your saw has broken down after long-term use, having served you faithfully, then you should simply sharpen such a saw. This can be done using a small diamond disc and a drill.

The same procedure can be done with semicircular circular saws with teeth, and repeat it more than once. In the case when you grind off the hardened layer, carry out the hardening according to the procedure described above. Harden only the cutting part.

If your E-cut miter saw is not worth a good word and has worn out at first wooden blocks– still, don’t rush to throw it away. There is a way to restore it and get a quality tool, spending significantly less money than you would spend on purchasing a quality attachment, the cost of which can be up to half the price of the restorer itself.

Making a nozzle for a renovator with your own hands

The described method allows you to make an excellent, durable saw for wood and plastic; more about metal a little later.

1. We buy a high-quality woodworking hacksaw with a fine tooth in the store. As a rule, it has high quality steel and, most importantly, a wide blade, which allows us to fully restore the nozzle, including its length.

2. Mark the hacksaw blade along the width of the nozzle and cut it into blanks using a grinder. This saw will make 7 of them.

3. Cut off the working part from the original nozzle.

4. Mark and drill 2 mounting holes in it. First we use a 1.5 - 2 mm drill.

5. We release the back part of the blanks from the file, heating it with gas burner until it glows crimson and let it cool in the air.

6. We mark the holes, aligning them with the prepared part of the standard nozzle, and drill them, using drills sequentially: first, the same as when drilling the shank of the nozzle, and then with a diameter of 6 mm. Using the same drill, we enlarge the holes in the shank.

7. After drilling and marking, we bend the released part of our blanks to an angle slightly less than that of the standard tool. We connect both parts using short M6 bolts - the angle will be leveled.

This attachment will serve you for a long time no worse than the standard one. good manufacturer, will cost at least 5-6 times less, taking into account the cost of a hacksaw and 6 spare working surfaces. And it will do its job just as well as a purchased one, or even better.

Yes, do not forget about the possibility of repeated sharpening, which is provided by the manufacturer of the hacksaw that served as the donor of the blades.

Lastly. For metal, you can also take a good hacksaw blade, cut it into pieces and carefully weld it to the base, removing the worn part. Here it is important to weld the blade with teeth efficiently and without overheating and carefully process the thickness of the seam.

Dear readers, if you have any questions, please ask them using the form below. We will be glad to communicate with you;)

There is still controversy surrounding this issue on forums, although the multifunctional tool (MFI) has begun to gain popularity since 2008. Can it really be used as a full-fledged replacement for a grinder, reciprocating and circular saw, jigsaw and hand chisel, or will the renovator, like a can opener, be needed in rare cases? Let's sort it out in order.

Renovator what is it

The renovator uses the principle of oscillation, or simply oscillation. The universal cutter swings the installed attachments with great speed and minimal amplitude. In the video you can see how they cutting edges blurry and trembling. It is the equipment and high-frequency vibrations that make the renovator a multifunctional tool.

What a multitool can do

Here are some MFI opportunities:

• cable channels are being installed for them;
• cut installed sewer pipes and internal wall reinforcement;
• remove deposits of plaster, glue, polyurethane foam, and clean off paint;
• peel off linoleum from the floor;
• file nails and screws flush;
• remove grooves in wood and drywall from the end and mortise (submersible);
• cut sheet elastic materials and soft seals;
• trim skirting boards, fillets and cornices in place;
• unstitch the seams on the laid tiles and cut the tiles themselves;
• trim installed door frames;
• grind complex surfaces and hard-to-reach internal corners;
• sharpen tools.

Let us now clarify what a renovator is. Professionals give it the following definition: a tool of last resort. It is indispensable as an auxiliary construction tool for final stages work or during rework. And when used at home, a multitool will completely save you from buying several power tools.

Types of MFIs and device features

By class, renovators are divided into professional and household. Expensive models have the ability to connect to a vacuum cleaner and have a flashlight that illuminates work area. Professional power tools allow you to do more work in one go and last longer.

Based on the type of power supply, power tools are divided into mains-powered and battery-powered. One of the advantages of a multitool is its light weight and small size. The battery, unfortunately, increases both. The reduced engine power of battery-powered cutters has virtually no effect on their functionality.

Renovators operating from the network consume from 170 to 600 watts. For battery-powered models, the power is determined by the battery voltage. Low-power models up to 100 W are used for cutting soft and non-viscous materials. To work with metals and ceramics, models from 200 W are needed. It's enough to buy a tool at home medium power– up to 250 W or up to 18 W for battery-powered devices.

The oscillation frequency range at idle varies from 5000 to 22000 kol/min. There are tools with fixed frequency and with adjustable smoothly or stepwise. Metal, ceramics and elastic materials are processed at low frequencies, and wood, plasterboard or plastic – at medium and high frequencies. It is important that the tool is with soft start– this will allow you to start cutting without errors.

A multi-tool allows you to quickly move from one type of work to another. For this, the type of fastening is important - quick-clamping or key. With a quick release, the attachment is instantly locked in place, and with a key release, it is tightened with a hex bolt. It is also worth paying attention to whether it is possible to use attachments from other manufacturers, with or without an adapter, or not. For some models, you can change the angle of attachment of the files if you have to work in hard-to-reach places.

Consumables and components

MFIs are optionally equipped with cases for tools and accessories. Systems for connecting a vacuum cleaner, cut-in depth limiters, protective linings against touching the canvas, and adapters for using attachments from different manufacturers are sold separately. Multi-tools also sometimes provide for the installation of an additional handle, like on a drill.

The battery and charger are not a mandatory part of the package, and if you purchase them separately, you need to make sure that they match the voltage.

Consumables for renovators include polishing attachments, knives and files for scraping and cutting. For different tasks and materials, there are different forms of nozzles:

• triangular plates for self-adhesive sanding or polishing sheets with Velcro;
• carbide triangular soles and tongues for grinding and polishing;
• semicircular or triangular cutting attachments with diamond or carbide chips for sawing metal and gating concrete and tile adhesive;
• submersible blades with a width of 10 to 70 mm with teeth at the end for wood or metal;
• scrapers (scrapers) for scraping off glued linoleum or residues of “liquid nails”, silicone and polyurethane foam;
• knives with a double-edged blade for gating walls or cutting carpet, linoleum, cardboard, polystyrene foam, fiberglass;
• attachments for attaching narrow cutting flat and spiral blades and threads, as in manual jigsaws.

What's unique about the universal cutter?

If you remember that renovators are not intended to perform a large volume of work, then you can find from them negative characteristics difficult.

Renovators produce cuts with smooth, polished edges. The multi-tool is indispensable for cutting “sandwiches” from materials of different densities.

There is very little dust when working with the multitool, and it does not fly in all directions. And with the attached vacuum cleaner you can do it at home minor repairs without preparing the premises.

The first renovators used it to remove plaster in traumatology. It is difficult to get hurt with the tool. And there are no fragments that fly apart like shrapnel when the canvas is damaged.

The choice of a multi-tool depends little on its class and comes down to consumables and equipment. You can buy it for your home household appliance without a kit and select equipment for it only for the planned types of work. If you do not overload the equipment, it will serve no worse than professional ones. And consumables from top manufacturers are becoming practically immortal for home use.

Most Popular professional tools and accessories are made by Bosch, Makita, DeWalt, Dremel and Fein. Among inexpensive brands, Renovator, Intertool, Enkor and Rhythm devices are popular. Knives and saws for the home should be chosen with the “BiM” marking as the most universal.

Bottom line

Renovator what is it? There are things you don’t feel you need until you start using them. Multi-tool is one of them. See photos, specifications, reviews and buy with confidence. A multi-tool is not indispensable - it expands the capabilities of conventional construction tools and serves as a lifesaver.