Choosing The Right Blade For The Job

The most important thing you can do is make sure that you're using an adequate blade for each project. Since there are several types of multi tool blades like flat scrapers, flush scrapers, Japan tooth, etc., you need to attach the right one to your oscillating multi tool. Making your selection will ultimately depend upon the type of material you're working on. For example, a flush scraper is ideal for carpet, leather, linoleum and cardboard. Japan tooth multi tool blades are best suited for particle board, plywood, drywall, green board, cement board, fiberglass, plexiglass and plastics. That's why it's important to check which blades work best for which materials before starting a project. Otherwise, using the wrong blade can result in damage and potentially injury.

Blade Seating 

It's also important that the blade is properly seated into place before using it. Without proper seating, you will end up gouging the arbor which can result in damage. When fitting a blade into a multi tool, you will hear a clicking sound that will let you know for sure that it's seated correctly. When placing the blade against a material, you should only be using the cutting surface. Keeping it square against the material will optimize your cutting efficiency and will prevent the blade from being worn down as quickly. 

Using The Right Speed

One common mistake that people make it using too high of an oscillating speed for an extended period of time. In order to extend the lifetime of multi tool blades, it's best to maintain a relatively steady speed. Since most oscillating multi tools have a speed of 12,000 to 21,000 oscillations per minute, it's smart to stay somewhere in the middle. Otherwise, too many oscillations for too long will make your blade excessively hot and can lead to damage. 

Being In The Right Frame Of Mind 

Along with this, you always want to have your wits about your when operating any type of multi tool. The last thing you want to do is be intoxicated, sleep deprived or mentally impaired in any way when working on a project. Not only can this reduce the quality of your project and damage your blades, but you can wind up getting seriously injured as well. That's why you should never use multi tool blades if after you have consumed alcohol or any mind altering substance. 

Cleaning Your Blades

Finally, it's a good idea to keep your blades nice and clean. Any time they accumulate wood dust, metal shavings or any other type of debris, you should wipe them off with a clean rag. Doing so is a simple task, but can prolong the lifetime of your blades considerably.