I had to install baseboard hot water into a log home. This required removing (squaring) out a section of the bottom logs so the baseboard would sit flush. I decided I needed a multi-cut tool to help with this project. I looked for alternatives to the expensive Fein and found the Craftsman 2.0 Amp Compact A/C Multi-Tool and the new Porter-Cable PC250MTK 2.5 Amp. These are both corded models which I compare below.
Features: The PC comes with a plastic case and the CR with a bag. I like the case better although too many compartments. I like a case with one area for the tool and another large area for attachments. This makes it much easier to shut the case without having to line everything up. The CR comes with a power indicator on the tool and a small built in light which may come in handy. Both tools have an easy to use variable speed dial. The CR has a vacuum port although I found it pretty useless in practice since the suction does not get close enough to the business end. The PC has a more flexible (rubber) power cord than the CR. I bet it would be less stiff in the cold as well. I really liked the quick change system on the PC compared to the hex key on the CR. Since the PC is relatively new the CR has more attachments options. In addition, I believe the CR is compatible with the Fein which has a very large assortment. Due to the quick change system on the PC other manufacturer's accessories will not fit. Besides the connection point on the blades they seem to be very similar in quality from both manufactures. The blades come marked for identification and depth of cut. These marking are painted and wear off just about on first use. Both manuals had very little useful information once you get past the pages of safety instructions. I liked the fact that the CR manual did not come folded like an old map you pulled from the glove compartment. You can actually lay it flat on a table and read it.
Ergonomics: The CR was smaller and felt good in the hand. You could certainly fit it into tighter spaces than with the PC. Vibration in the tools were about the same with a slight edge to the CR which I imagine can be attributed to smaller motor and less angle of oscillation. Both tools have good balance and seem well made.
Performance: The PC is the clear winner here for several reasons. The angle of oscillation and speed of oscillation is greater with the PC. This allows a similar blade to cut faster and the PC did seem to cut faster. My test was plunge cutting to the stops (1.5-2") into a pine log. Note: as you start to penetrate into an interior piece of wood, use GENTLE pressure which will allow the blade to work. If you try to force the tool the blade will stop oscillating with the energy transferring back into the tool; i.e. the tool with shake and it will not cut. In extended runs the PC does not get has hot at the CR. Changing the blade on the CR after an extended run can be a real pain with the hex nut, receiving housing and blade becoming super hot. In addition it takes time to back the hex nut out, install new blade or change angle and re-tighten. On the PC you simply squeeze a spring loaded lever, change blade or adjust angle and release lever to lock in place. Another advantage with the PC's blade change system is the blade stays connected with nothing to loosen. On the CR I found the hex nut to loosen with extended use, especially if you try to force the tool. I am sure this will lead to over tightening and stripping of that hex screw. In the end I kept the PC with the quick change system winning day. I would have given the CR 3 stars. Hope this helps. Porter-Cable PC250MTK 2.5 Amp Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit
I have both this tool and the Rockwell Sonicrafter. Overall, I like the PC better simply because of the quick change blades. The chuck is well designed using a heavy, trigger actuated spring that locks the blades in place. So far, I have had no problems with blades slipping and I don't envision any.
The Sonicrafter is a well-made tool and seems fairly heavy duty. Mine has taken quite a beating. The only complaint I could have with it is the chuck, which requires removing and replacing an allen bolt in order to change blades. This can become tiresome, especially when you are working under very dusty conditions, when the dust can get into the bolt threads and make the bolt difficult to remove and tighten.
The PC has a tough plastic gear housing as opposed to the Sonicrafter's metal housing. I don't know what the gears are made out of in either tool, though both tools are about the same weight. The only other difference I notice is that the fan in the Sonicrafter seems to push more air than the PC's. In actual use I have not noticed that either tool runs cooler than the other. Both tools seem to cut at about the same speed. I haven't noticed any other differences.
Overall, I prefer using the PC because blade changes are so much faster.
This is one of two of these that has a tool less tool changer. The other is the FEIN oscillating multi tool. This also has 2.5 amps like all the other ones. Granted the dremel one is 1.5 amp and the craftsman one is 2 amps.
Though there are not many third party tool suppliers for this one. It will change it has only been out for two or so months. I am looking forward to getting a few more of the tool attachments, especially the wood rasp attachment.
I testing it out and was surprised how fast it cut the 3/4 pine I had sitting around. It is amazing to make straight plunge cuts. It will be neat to make small mortise and tanner joints.
I have had the Porter-Cable oscillating multi-tool for a while now. I decided to buy this because I had used a friends high dollar name brand multi-tool and really liked it, but I couldn't see paying triple the price for the big name. I have used this every day for many different things including cabinet and deck work. The "no tool" blade change is great and time saving. The 10' cord is a good length. The Porter-Cable is very comparable to the Big Name Brand. The only down side is that the blades are a bit pricey and don't last very long. - Multi-max - Oscillating Tool - Oscillating Saw - Dremel'
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