Bauer Oscillating Multi Tool

Finding the Right Oscillating Tool for Your Projects

If you’re a DIYer, contractor, or home improvement enthusiast like me, you know how invaluable a good oscillating multi tool can be. This versatile tool can sand, cut, grind, scrape and more – making it an essential addition to any toolbox.

So when my old oscillating tool started to lose its edge, I knew it was time to start researching a replacement. I wanted to find a high-performing, durable oscillating multi tool that could keep up with my frequent projects without breaking the bank. After hours of research comparing features, prices and reviews, one brand stood out from the pack – Bauer.

Bauer offers professional-grade power tools at affordable prices, and their oscillating multi tool seemed to have everything I needed. But with so many options and add-on accessories, I wanted to be sure I was making the right choice.

That’s why I decided to put together this in-depth buying guide looking at all the features and benefits of the Bauer Oscillating Multi Tool. Read on to learn everything you need to know to decide if this versatile tool is the right choice for your workshop!

Key Features of the Bauer Oscillating Multi Tool

Here are some of the most important features that make the Bauer oscillating tool a top choice:

• Powerful Motor: The Bauer oscillating tool packs a powerful 3.0 Amp motor that delivers up to 20,000 OPM (oscillations per minute) for smooth, efficient cutting and sanding. This high-performance motor can power through tough materials.
• Variable Speed Dial: A variable speed dial gives you precise control over the oscillation speed from 10,000 – 20,000 OPM to match the speed to the material and application. Slower speeds help prevent splintering on wood.
• Tool-Free Blade Change: The Bauer makes it easy to swap out accessories quickly thanks to the tool-free blade change system. No tools required!
• LED Light: An integrated LED light illuminates the work area for more precision and visibility.
• Quick Release Cord: The 8 foot cord has a quick release for maneuverability and safety.
• Comfort Grip: A rubberized soft grip gives you more comfort and control during extended use.
• 1 Year Warranty: Bauer covers the oscillating tool with a 1 year warranty for peace of mind.

How Does the Bauer Oscillating Tool Stack Up to Other Brands?

The Bauer oscillating multi tool definitely competes with similar models from other leading brands like DeWalt, Rockwell and Craftsman. Here’s how it compares:

• Power: With a 3 Amp motor, the Bauer has more power than the DeWalt DWE315 (2.5 Amps) but a bit less than the Rockwell RK5132 (3.5 Amps).
• Variable Speed: The Bauer has a good variable speed range up to 20,000 OPM, which is on par or better than similar models.
• Price: At around $50-$75, the Bauer provides excellent value for the performance. It costs significantly less than many competitors.
• Accessories: The Bauer includes 3 popular accessories (saw blade, sanding pad, scraper blade) which is standard for most kits. Higher end kits include 5-10 accessories.
• Corded vs Cordless: The Bauer is a corded model. For cordless convenience, I’d recommend looking at the DeWalt or Rockwell oscillating tools.

Overall, the Bauer really holds its own against the leading brands and delivers comparable power and performance at a more budget-friendly price point!

Where to Buy the Bauer Oscillating Multi Tool

Since Bauer tools are exclusive to Harbor Freight, that’s the only retailer that sells the Bauer oscillating multi tool. Here are some ways to get your hands on this versatile tool:

• Harbor Freight Website: You can order the Bauer oscillating tool directly on the Harbor Freight website and have it shipped to your door.
• Harbor Freight Stores: Head to your nearest brick-and-mortar Harbor Freight location to buy it off the shelf. Use the store locator to find a store near you.
• Coupons: Harbor Freight frequently offers percent-off coupons and promos, so keep an eye out for deals to save even more on the already budget-friendly Bauer oscillating tool. Sign up for their email list to receive coupons.

Once you decide on the Bauer, Harbor Freight makes it easy to get it in your hands! Online, in-store or with a coupon, you can find the Bauer at an affordable price point.

Unboxing the Bauer Oscillating Tool: What’s Included?

One thing that attracted me to the Bauer oscillating tool was that it came with 3 useful attachments right in the box, which not all kits include. Here’s what comes standard:

• Oscillating Multi Tool – The powerful corded oscillating tool with 3 Amp motor.
• 3″ Wood & Metal Saw Blade – Aggressive bi-metal blade for cutting wood, metal, plastics and more. Great for plunge cuts and tight spaces.
• 2″ Fine Grit Sanding Pad – Ideal for fine sanding and finishing of wood and metal surfaces.
• 2″ Scraper Blade – Easily removes paint, glue and other adhesives from various surfaces. Great for cleaning.
• Accessory Storage Box – Durable box to keep all your attachments organized in one place.
• Hex Key Wrench – Required for changing out the oscillating heads and attachments.

That’s an excellent starter kit with popular accessories I knew I’d use frequently. Of course, there are tons of additional blades and attachments available to expand the capabilities of this tool even more!

Cutting Metal with the Bauer Oscillating Tool

One main reason I opted for the Bauer is that it consistently gets high marks for its metal cutting abilities from both pros and DIYers. The durable 3 Amp motor and aggressive saw blades allow it to cut through tougher materials like metal with ease.

Here are some tips for success when using the Bauer oscillating tool for metal cutting projects:

• Select a bi-metal oscillating saw blade specifically designed for cutting metal – the one included in the kit is a great option. Carbide grit blades also work well.
• Start your cuts gradually, don’t force the blade. Let the Bauer’s power do the work.
• For longer cuts, score the metal first with several shallow passes. Then go deeper once the cut is established.
• Apply firm, even pressure and control the speed to avoid overheating and blade wear. Keep blades lubricated.
• The Bauer’s variable speed dial allows you to adjust between 10,000 – 20,000 OPM to optimize performance.

With the right blade and techniques, the Bauer oscillating tool makes cutting metal for HVAC, plumbing, auto repair, and general fabrication projects much easier. The results speak for themselves – smooth precise cuts every time!

Just How Powerful is the Bauer Oscillating Tool?

With its efficient 3 Amp motor, the Bauer oscillating tool packs some serious power and performance. Here are some examples of what all that muscle can handle:

• Cuts through 2×4 lumber in seconds.
• Powers through PVC, composite materials, and plywood with no bogging.
• Aggressively sands and smooths wood and metal surfaces.
• Generates 20,000 oscillations per minute for fast cutting action.
• Quickly cuts through sheet metal and small gauge pipe.
• Removes tile, grout, adhesives, and sealants with scraper blades.
• Shapes and contours door jambs, molding, and trim boards.

The variable speed dial lets you adjust the OPM from 10,000 – 20,000 to match the intensity to the job. For heavy duty applications, the Bauer’s 3 Amp motor delivers all the strength you need without losing power.

This makes it much more capable than smaller hobbyist oscillating tools. With the Bauer, you get professional-grade power at a DIY-friendly price.

Bauer Oscillating Tool Price Range

One of the biggest advantages of the Bauer brand is the affordable pricing on their power tools. Despite the professional-grade features and performance, Bauer tools are very budget-friendly.

The Bauer oscillating multi tool consistently sells for $50 – $75 at Harbor Freight. And it’s often discounted even lower with Harbor Freight’s regular coupons and promos.

Here’s a look at the typical pricing you’ll find:

• Non-sale Price: $59.99
• Typical Sale Price: $54.99
• With 20% Off Coupon: As low as $47.99

That’s an incredible value when you consider most comparable oscillating tools from DeWalt, Rockwell and Milwaukee sell for $100 and up. You simply can’t beat the combination of power plus price with the Bauer oscillating tool.

For budget-conscious DIYers and pros, the affordable price tag makes this versatile tool easily accessible for all your cutting and sanding jobs. Bauer performance without busting your wallet!

Changing Out Accessories on the Bauer is a Breeze

The brilliant tool-free blade change system makes it incredibly quick and easy to swap out accessories on the Bauer oscillating tool without any frustration. Here’s how simple it is:

1. Press the accessory change button on the side to release the blade.
2. The accessory clamp will open, allowing you to slide the attachment straight out.
3. Align your new sanding pad, saw blade, or scraper in the clamp.
4. Push it into the clamp until it clicks securely into place.

And that’s it – you can go from cutting to sanding to scraping in seconds with just the press of a button!

The process is identical when attaching blades to the universal adapter – just slide the blade in until it clicks into place. No hunting for hex keys or wasting time with screws.

Bauer’s clever clamp design eliminates the headaches of accessory changes. You can keep your momentum going and complete jobs faster.

What Users are Saying in Bauer Oscillating Tool Reviews

To get the real scoop on how the Bauer performed for real owners, I scoured reviews from sites like Harbor Freight, YouTube channels, forums and more. Here’s what I found:

The overall consensus was very positive:

• “Cuts through wood and metal with no problem”
• “Powerful for the price”
• “Good value for homeowners”
• “AC/DC so you can use it anywhere”
• “Versatile – makes home improvement projects easier”

Many praised the accessible price point and performance combo:

• “Half the price of the competition and works just as well.”
• “Professional quality at a DIY cost.”

Some noted that while powerful, it is lighter duty than high end 18V cordless models. But most found the power sufficient for typical homeowner tasks.

Users also appreciated the easy blade changes and ergonomic design. The handful of critical reviews mainly noted issues with the brushes wearing out – an inexpensive fix.

Overall, buyers felt the Bauer oscillating multi tool provided tremendous capability and versatility at a budget-friendly price point ideal for home DIYers.

Cordless or Corded? Comparing the Options

Cordless oscillating tools offer maximum convenience and portability to use anywhere, but corded models like the Bauer still have advantages:

Bauer Corded Oscillating Tool

Pros

• Consistent power – never fades as battery drains
• No battery to charge
• Lower price point

Cons

• Limited by cord length
• Not as portable

Cordless Oscillating Tool

Pros

• Completely portable
• Use anywhere – no cord limitations
• Quicker to get to work

Cons

• Run time limited by battery life
• Batteries gradually lose power
• Cost more than corded

For most home DIYers, the Bauer corded model offers an excellent balance of power and affordability. But contractors or pros needing maximum portability may want to invest in a cordless model.

Luckily, the Bauer oscillating tool’s AC/DC capability lets you use it corded or cordlessly! Just add any 18V Bauer lithium battery to make it portable. Best of both worlds.

Get the Most from the Battery on Cordless Mode

While the Bauer oscillating tool works corded out of the box, you can easily upgrade it to cordless convenience by adding an 18V Bauer lithium ion battery.

Running it on cordless mode does drain the battery faster than other tools due to the high-speed motor. Here are tips to maximize the battery life:

• Use a higher capacity 3.0Ah or 4.0Ah battery – gives you extended runtime vs lower capacity batteries.
• Have multiple charged batteries on hand to swap out as needed.
• Don’t overload the tool – let it work at its own pace.
• Use shorter variable speed bursts rather than continuous max speed.
• Keep battery contacts clean – prevents power drain.
• Store battery properly when not in use to maintain charge.

Following those battery care tips will keep your Bauer running at peak cordless performance. Plus having backup batteries ready lets you work indefinitely without waiting on recharges.

Materials the Bauer Oscillating Tool Can Tame

The Bauer oscillating tool makes short work of a wide range of common materials thanks to its 20,000 OPM power. Here are some of the materials it handles with ease:

• Wood: Cuts and sands lumber, plywood, chipboard, MDF, Door jambs, framing, molding
• Metal: Cuts sheet metal, thin steel rods, small pipes, sheet aluminium
• Plastic: Trims and cuts PVC, ABS, acrylics, polycarbonate
• Composite Materials: Fiberglass, carbon fiber, fibreglass reinforced plastic
• Drywall: Precision cutting of drywall panels and openings
• Flooring: Cuts laminate and hardwood flooring planks
• Masonry: Scrapes mortar, concrete, stone
• Tile: Cuts ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tile
• Grout: Quickly removes old grout
• Adhesives: Scrapes glue, epoxies, sealants and other adhesives

With the right accessories, you can use the Bauer for virtually any construction material out there. It definitely lives up to its “multi” tool name!

Bauer Oscillating Tool Warranty Coverage

The Bauer oscillating multi tool comes backed by Harbor Freight’s 1 year limited warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for a full 12 months from the date of purchase.

If the tool fails or breaks under normal use, simply return it to any Harbor Freight store or contact customer service online to initiate a warranty claim. You’ll need to have your receipt on hand.

Harbor Freight will inspect the tool and repair or replace any qualifying parts, or the entire tool if unrepairable.

This 1 year warranty provides good peace of mind and protection in case you get a defective unit or experience premature failure. Compare that to Rockwell and Craftsman (3 yr warranty) or DeWalt (3 yr limited).

For added protection, consider supplementing with Harbor Freight’s extended service plan. This gives up to 3 years of additional coverage.

Maintaining Your Bauer Oscillating Tool

To keep your Bauer oscillating tool running at peak performance for years to come, be sure to follow these maintenance tips:

• Blow out dust using compressed air after heavy use to prevent debris buildup
• Lubricate the blade periodically to prevent overheating. UseProjects are Ideal for the Bauer Oscillating Multi Tool? manufacturing oil or lubricant.
• Inspect brushes and have them replaced if worn down. This is an easy fix.
• Check for debris in the blade clamp to ensure smooth accessory changes.
• Store properly in a dry location to prevent moisture damage.
• Clean ventilation slots to prevent overheating.
• Replace carbon brushes as needed (inexpensive part)
• Avoid excessive strain – let the tool work at its own pace.

Taking the time to properly maintain your Bauer will ensure it delivers reliable performance project after project. A little preventative care goes a long way!

Smooth Sanding with the Bauer Oscillating Sander

The Bauer oscillating tool really shines for detail sanding and finish work thanks to the oscillating action that follows contours smoothly.

Simply attach an oscillating sanding pad in place of the saw blade to tackle tasks like:

• Smoothing and contouring molding, trim and spiraled decorative pieces
• Sanding hard to reach areas around door frames, cabinets, etc.
• Removing finish or stain from wood surfaces
• Blending repairs on damaged wood
• Polishing metal prior to painting
• Smoothing welds on metal fabrication projects
• Deburring metal after cutting

The fine grit sanding pad included with the Bauer is ideal for most smoothing, finishing and polishing tasks. For more aggressive stock removal, upgrade to a coarser 80 grit pad.

Thanks to the precision control, the Bauer oscillating sander produces smooth, swirl-free results even on intricate profiles. No awkward sanding motions required!

Handy Bauer Oscillating Tool Dimensions

Handheld power tools are all about balancing power and comfort in use. Here are the key dimensions on the Bauer oscillating multi tool:

• Length: 15 inches
• Height: 4 inches
• Width: 3 inches
• Weight: 3.2 lbs

As you can see, the Bauer oscillating tool maintains a very compact, maneuverable size under 16 inches despite its robust motor. And at just over 3 lbs, it’s light enough for comfortable extended use.

The short length paired with the soft grip makes it easy to control the Bauer even when working in tight spots. Reviewers loved how the size enhanced comfort and reduced fatigue.

If you prefer a more compact 12V oscillating tool, check out the Rockwell RK1231K. But the Bauer’s slightly larger size contributes to its power advantage.

Lightweight Bauer Oscillating Tool Weight

One common concern with powerful shop tools is increased weight and vibration that can make them uncomfortable or tiring to use for long periods.

Luckily, the Bauer oscillating multi tool maintains a very lightweight feel at just 3.2 lbs – at least 1 lb lighter than many similar models.

That feather-weight feel enhances comfort, reduces fatigue and allows excellent control for precision work. Even after hours of extended runtime, the Bauer won’t bog your arms down.

Between the light weight and the soft rubberized grip, the Bauer is one of the most comfortable oscillating tools to wield. Users say the reduced vibration is another plus.

For overhead work, lighter is better. If your projects demand an oscillating tool you can comfortably use all day, the Bauer is up to the task.

Using the Bauer Oscillating Tool Safely

As with any power tool, safety should be your top priority. Follow these tips when using the Bauer oscillating multi tool to reduce risks:

• Read the manual and heed all warnings prior to use
• Keep hands clear of the blade and wear gloves to avoid cuts
• Secure workpiece with clamps if possible to prevent movement
• Wear eye protection to shield eyes from flying debris
• Avoid awkward positions that make the tool hard to control
• Don’t apply excessive pressure – let the tool do the work
• Maintain good footing and balance
• Unplug when changing accessories
• Ensure accessories are firmly locked before operating
• Keep guards in place and in working order

With training, care, and proper safety gear, the Bauer oscillating tool can be used securely. Respect the power and always put safety first!

Perfect Projects for the Bauer Oscillating Multi Tool

With so many capabilities, what are the best applications for the Bauer oscillating tool? Here are some projects where it really shines:

• Cutting openings in drywall for outlets, fixtures, vents, etc.
• Trimming door jambs to install flooring underneath
• Removing old grout from tile floors or walls
• Cutting small diameter PVC piping
• Sanding and smoothing finished wood projects
• Plunge cutting lumber – great for starting holes
• Detail sanding tight corners and curved profiles
• Cutting flooring like laminate planks for fitting
• Scraping paint and glue from various surfaces
• Cutting small metal pieces – sheet metal, aluminum, etc.

From detailed finish work to aggressive cutting, the Bauer oscillating tool tackles a huge range of home improvement tasks with ease. It’s a versatile problem solver!

Easy for Beginners to Master the Bauer

While the Bauer oscillating tool is packed with pro-level features, it’s also designed for easy use – even for complete beginners. Here’s how it simplifies the learning curve:

• Tool-free blade changes – no hex keys to lose, just click on/off
• Variable speed dial – adjusts power level to material
• Compact size and soft grip – enhances control and comfort
• Cordless convenience – use anywhere (with battery)
• Precision oscillating action – no kickback or complicated motions
• Shallow learning curve – intuitive once you try it

Between the clever design and precision oscillating action, most users find the Bauer very intuitive to use right out of the box.

It doesn’t require the learning curve of a reciprocating saw or circular saw. Follow basic safety tips, read the manual, and you’ll be off to the races.

For newbies, I recommend starting on soft materials like wood to get a feel for controlling the Bauer before moving to harder surfaces. With a little practice, you’ll be cutting and sanding with confidence!

Conclusion

After going in-depth on all the capabilities and performance of the Bauer oscillating multi tool, I knew this was the right choice as my new oscillating tool upgrade.

The professional 3 Amp motor, tool-free clamp system, variable speed, and compact comfortable design make this a top oscillating tool option – even rivaling premium brands.

Whether you’re a contractor tackling heavy duty jobs or a DIYer like me taking on home projects, the Bauer oscillating tool delivers tremendous versatility and value. And at under $75, it’s easy to fit in any budget.

I’m excited to put my Bauer oscillating multi tool through its paces on many future woodworking, metal cutting, remodeling, repair, and detailing projects. I’m confident it will handle anything I throw at it!

So if you’re looking for an oscillating tool that combines power, performance and price, be sure to consider the Bauer. I have no doubts it will exceed your expectations and become your go-to problem solver.