Essential tools: The Multi-Tool - A Tradesman's Best Friend

Why Buy A Multi-Tool Cutter?

For any carpenter, or any tradesman for that matter. A multitool is the king of solving problems. Versatile, neat and nifty. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of the tool bag except way cooler and a lot safer. Traditionally sniggered at for being a cheat code, these magnificent pieces of kit have wriggled there way into every trade van in the country. Its a testament to its unique benefits and in this post I will try my best to explain why.

Why Every Tool Bag Needs a Multitool

• The Most Versatile Tool – The simplicity of this tool is what makes it so helpful. It can do anything. From cutting skirting and floorboards to sanding or scraping remnants of glue or finish. By switching blades this tool is capable of performing with wood, steel, plastic or composites.

• Excellent in tight spaces –If you've ever tried to fit a saw into a tight space, you will understand why this cunning tool is so handy. Its compact shape and slimline blade make it essential and the only tool for the job in a lot of instances.  The benefits of this tool are felt throughout the fitted furniture, carpentry and joinery world. 

• Speed & Efficiency – All trades evolve over time. New ideas and innovation has changed the landscape forever. A multitool saves time and energy. Instead of bumbling around juggling tools, you can be hitting snags head on with a multitool. Your wife, wallet and workmates will thank you.

• Easy On-Site Adjustments – Ever had to scuttle back to base to adjust a part or rejig something? You can take a few mm off here, nick a piece from off there, cut sockets holes or plasterboard. A multitool solves so many problems.

• Minimise damage – Aggressive jigsaws chewing through wood like a kid with a sandwich can be messy. A multitool uses an oscillating action, this results in a smooth and steady op.

• Compact & Mobile – There have been times where Ive only need to take two tools on a quick small job, in the past that same job would have needed two tool bags and a box. A little exaggeration but you see my point. For something so useful and affordable a multitool is worth its weight in gold.

A multitool isn’t just handy—it’s the unsung hero of home improvements and a tradesman's best buddy. Amateur or professional, hobbyist or tradesman, having one of these in your armoury will make your life easier... and your work better.

Below Ive added what the DAB team have voted what has been the best multi-tool best value multitools available in the UK. Take a look and see what our pro's have to say.

Milwaukee M18FMT 18V FUEL. A powerful brushless motor and a long-lasting lithium battery. It cuts fast and has extreme durability. Surprisingly for Milwaukee, this tool comes at a competitive price. Extras such as variable speed and LED lighting make it a top choice for professionals. Another buy which got questioned, now everybody grabs for it first. Great value.

Makita DTM52Z 18V Brushless LXT This stands out from our other multi-tools due to its ergonomic design, sits comfortable in your hand allowing for more use before fatigue. This also has a brushless motor with great efficiency and a solid battery time. The unique tool changing mechanism makes it easy to flick from one use to another. Also offers variable speed and a descent extraction add on. When this one crocks it I'm certain I will be re-ordering this exact model.

DeWalt DCS355 18V XR Nobody knows how this multitool found its way into our workshop. Appeared one day and gradually became one our our favourite pieces of kit, earning its stripes through years of  abuse. Another brushless motor with a longer runtime than most other models. Its tool-free blade change system allows for quick swaps, and the variable speed dial offers precise control for different applications. When listing its benefits its hard not to mention its price. You can get this wizard delivered to your door for under a hundred quid. A steal (Did I mention ours was FREE) If you are going to use it sparingly or you are looking for a helping hand around your house, this model is the one for you.