Following is a sneak peek video review of Craftsman’s 2nd generation cordless Nextec oscillating multi-tool. It features tool-free blade change, variable speed control, and an LED work light.
The tool-free blade change design is not quite as quick as the one on the Porter Cable oscillating multi-tool that we reviewed a few months ago, but it requires less effort to operate. Once I got the hang of it (and removed my work gloves), blade changes were quick and easy.
Advertisement
In the multi-tool’s operator’s manual, it is advised that users wear protective gloves when inserting or removing blades and attachments. As you can probably tell from the video, wearing gloves does slow down the blade-change process slightly. If you choose to swap attachments without wearing gloves, just make sure that the tool is cool to the touch and that you take care not to scratch or cut yourself with the blades or attachments.
Overall, our first impressions are quite positive. The tool feels substantial and well-built, and it’s fairly comfortable to operate. The LED worklight is usable and may come in handy in a pinch, but as with most cordless tool LED lights, it’s not anything special. Craftsman bundles the tool with their new QuickBoost charger, which helps minimize downtime with its 30-minute recharge time.
Craftsman G2 Nextec Multi-Tool Features & Specs
- 7500-1500 OPM
- 2.8° oscillating angle
- Quick-release tool-less accessory changes
- QuickBoost charger and one 12V battery
- 8-position accessory attachment angles
- 6 accessories
Included Attachments
- Scraper blade
- Flush-cut saw blade for cutting wood, drywall, plastic, and other materials
- Carbide triangular rasp for coarse grinding and removal of adhesives, thinset, and masonry
- Carbide circular rasp or grout removal and cutting plaster or porous masonry,
- Circular saw blade for cutting wood, plastic, drywall, and other materials
- 9pc hook & loop sanding kit
The new G2 multi-tool kit is out now, and you can find more info or purchase one via Sears.
jeff_williams
I have the first gen of this one and the only thing that I dislike is that the blade retention bolt always wiggles loose. Definite improvement with this version.
Stuart
I tried the first generation tool back a few months ago, and when it came time to change blades, nobody could find the darn hex key!
fred
The socket head bolt and hex key – were not only features of the first Fein model – but there was nothing but clamping pressure and friction to keep the blades from wiggling around
Pete
Not sure what generation tool I have (modle 320.17438) but I experenced the blade coming looses also. So I put a little more effort in tightening the bolt which solved that problem, now I cant get the bolt loose to replace the blade. Also the allen key is rounded off. One time use worked great, but now what?
Jeff_williams
@pete – Get another Allen key or use a dremel with a cut-off wheel and cut a slot in the bolt so you can use a standard screw driver or manual impact wrench (the kind you strike).
Stuart
Fred, that’s a great bit of trivia, thanks!
Pete, I’m going to have to agree with Jeff – remove the bolt any way you can, and then order a replacement bolt from Craftsman. If you find that it keeps coming loose again and again, maybe try some blue (temporary) Locktite. This doesn’t seem to be a common problem, and I’m not sure what else to suggest.
Roger
I went to Sears today to ask if others have had the same issue with the blade coming loose and the sales person said he hasn’t heard of a problem, but I see now that it is a common problem with this tools. One would think that Sears would have better tools but sad to say this tool is worthless without the cutting blade staying tighten.
K.A. Morgan
I have the same problem with the bolt. Now, mine is stuck as well.