If you'd like to help me make better videos and you enjoy absurdly comfortable T-shirts:) check this out-> www.etsy.com/ca/shop/TheFunnyCarpenter?ref=search_shop_redirect Thanks for watching!
Just picked up the old version of this M12 on Amazon in "used" condition bare tool for $54 shipped overnight. It looked brand new, thank you for the awesome review.
Just got the new tool. Huge improvement. Better speed, comfort and almost no vibration compared to the older model. Since I'm an electrician, I don't have to worry as much about finishing cuts but I'll definity try to buy a cuved blade if it becomes a problem. Thanks for the video. Appreciate it
I watched this video when you first published it. Only recently was I needing/wanting a multitool, so I took your advice and picked up a refurbished M12 non-fuel for only $60. This will work great for the projects that I have in mind!
I just bought the old tool yesterday, and saw they have a new one today… I’m not going to use it that often, so I think I’ll be fine with the old one. Thanks for the videos
I use a OMT on almost every job and the more power when you're remodeling and cutting old timbers. I can see the point on finish cuts, but an outlet box always uses a plate. Good video! just bought a fuel m12 OMT because your reviews clarified many questions for me. Thanks
I just picked up the old style m12 oscillating tool it was buy one m12 tool and get a second free. I bought the m12 fuel one-handed Sawzall and for the free tool I got the m12 oscillating tool... so far both work very well..
Interesting. You can also increase your precision greatly by getting a blade with shorter plunge. At half the plunge, you would have half the left to right excursion of the blade during oscillation.
Good advice right now in 1st quarter in 22 they have the regular m12 for 100 bucks with 4.0 battery and 2.0. After watching this video I'm gonna order the old model I won't use it much so for me it's a great deal.
Bought a compact M12 drill and impact driver kit and the old M12 Multi-tool was a choice as a free add on... never had or used one of these so said what the heck. Now I really am not sure how i lived without one.. took it out of the box and already found some things I needed to use it for.. lol
I just bought the old style based on your video. My skills are low so I thought the cleaner cutting tool would be an advantage for me. Because it will be an occasional use tool the blade changes are less important. Bought brand new, delivered on eBay, $50.00 bucks.
Very good review. I appreciate your honesty when going into whether it's worth it to buy the newer version. I have a corded Oscillating but was looking at the convienience of cordless. The old one is almost half the price so I think I'll be getting the older version as I don't use this tool a ton. Thanks for the review!!
If you don’t use these tools often, the old one is fine. If you’re doing larger projects and use them often then the new fuel one is the way to go. It is a MUCH better, faster, higher quality tool. Just look for sales online. I got the 5 piece 12 volt fuel combo kit for $300 with 2 batteries, so I basically got this fuel oscillating tool for around $45. It’s well worth triple that.
What about PVC and copper piping? I'm a DIYer but I've done a few light plumbing things and one of these would've come in handy back then. I just got a lightly used M12 with a battery anf charger for $60 and can't be happier
The longer stroke makes a huge difference. You can reduce that blow out by starting the cut with the tool edge parallel to the work. Ease in ever so slightly just inside the waste side of the line, once you actually see the cut path start, ease it over to the line, advance along the cut line an 1/8 or so, start increasing your angle of attack and off you go. The more parallel the blade edge is to the surface, the cleaner the entry. Takes a hell of a lot longer to explain it than to do it. Haha! Some people like to start at low speed, I think it's smoother at full speed. What blades are you using?
I've alway used the 1-1/4" wood metal blades by fein or Milwaukee. Someone suggested the curved wood bladed that Bosch makes and I have tried them. Way way better. Cut out a couple plug boxes today on a finished cabinet gable, and they worked perfectly with no chatter.
@@timheuser955 Yeah, different materials, different speeds, different angles, different results. Regardless, I find it wise to take a few test plunges in the waste area to figure out the best way to attack. When in doubt, make test cuts. On stuff like melamine, scoring with a marking or utility knife makes for the cleanest look. Even if the cut itself isn't perfect, that defined knife line makes it look perfect.
Paring a voice with the knowledge makes a review exceptional. I am not passing the barrier to talk by myself yet in the hope somebody will listen for my experience, but I am glad I find your experiences talked out loud . When you are working on price, precision is the best way, not waiting time to change the blades so you can have a perfect cut , so I used Bosch blades, because they are curved and help me to plunge easily. If the jobs allow me I used semi circle blade and not matter how big is the movement I don't have scratch around the cut.
Just recently grabbed some of the curved Bosch blades, very nice! Lol my wife always opens up the garage door and makes fun of me when I’m talking to myself:)
This is a good video, didn’t realize that I cut into plaster and lathe all the time so I need the precision, I have the new tool still in the box so I may just be selling it!
Yeah I got used to that learning on crappy OMT. Only thing that works for me is letting it skip on the off-fall side and walk over to the finished cut increasing pressure
So glad you made this video. I am considering the older tool because of price but wanted an honest comparison to see if I'd be missing something compared to the newer version. Still not sure yet which one but at least I'm armed with a bit more knowledge.
Thanks for doing this video. This is exactly what I needed at the right time. There is a special deal on the old model with a 2 and 4Ah battery with charger. Precision is what I’m looking for. So this HD deal is an actual deal for me. Ordering it now
I finally caved and upgraded. As far as plunge cuts go, in my limited testing...on the old one you can ease in on an angle like you are doing but the new one chatters a bit before digging in. What I've found on the new one and I tested on about a dozen plunge cuts is you need to be almost straight on with the blade. It does not chatter but in real like this isn't always possible and you might need to be at an angle The vibration, noise and cut speed is a night and day improvement on the Fuel model!
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I bought a 100 pack of blades from China for 20 bucks. They've lasted a year and a half so far and I have probably 25-30 left so I'm using whT I've got until I'm out !
Quick update. My first M12 Fuel unit died in less then a year. Had to warranty it. They gave me a new one. Also gave me a warrantied unit for my old one as well due to the battery popping out issue.
Or maybe use a diamond tile blade for surgical cuts? I use it for precise laminate cutting on my angle grinder, seems to work fine, but makes a ton of dust. Might just work the same way on this multi tool.
Uncanny...this is the exact tool review vid I was looking for, given the newest holiday tool deals over on that Ohio-related site that sells power tools. As a DIY-er and hobby carpenter, precision's definitely more of the priority over that extra bit of cut speed. Thanks for saving me some heartburn (and a little $$$!).
Ty for the info. I picked up the old model brand new for $65 @ AMAZON....just what I needed; as much as I like the looks of the new bling it is bigger and I'll need the smaller old one so infrequently that I could not justify the cost..
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I've had an old Craftsman Oscillator for years, mediocre but it worked...now it is set up with a green scrubber to clean the stove...look forward to the Milwaukee, arriving today, so I have good one for cutting etc...
I literally bought a DeWalt multi tool for making precision cuts because you control the speed with a trigger. My old model Ryobi also has a trigger but it's not as powerful as the DeWalt. I'm also getting an M18 fuel multi tool because the vibration control is supposedly the best along with the power.
I just bought the new Fuel version. After 5 minutes of use, a C clip that holds the quick change base spit out in a twisted mess. Junk. After seeing this video, I’m sending it back and getting the older model. Thanks for the report.
Have the old and was contemplating getting the new but now I’ll definitely be delaying that. Besides I don’t use it that often enough to justify spending money just to have a newer version that doesn’t do a whole lot more anyway. Thank you. 😊
I still have the old M12 model, but noticed a huge increase in precision with it compared to my old 20v Dewalt. I wonder if one of these brands will ever copy Festool’s blade guide magnets for precision.
I'm just a DIYer but have a few skills and have personally re-modeled two bathrooms and two kitchens (no electrical/no plumbing) and done pretty good size landscape/deck jobs and once 40 plus years ago swung a hammer for a summer. I just invested in M12 with some of the good deals over the holidays. I am pretty much dedicating them to my travel trailer tools as those are a mish mash at present. I went with the old brushed tools as they are smaller (in general and for specific tools) and it's not like they are trash...just first gen in effect...AND sometimes improved brushless is not always the best, for certain jobs. My "big" tools are DeWalt and I do have the multi-tool. I sometimes get a bit frustrated with the brushless "cult" that are like you just need to throw your brushed tools out and spit on them as you do it. There are numerous examples across lines where professionials "prefer" the old brushed versions. In DeWalt, the old 885 impact driver is one example. There are numerous vids and reviews noting the new "brushless" 887's just don't do it for them... AND, the older brushed tools were once the top of the line AND you can certainly save some bucks buying them... In M12, you point out advantages to the old brushed ones. So, I don't discount them and research. In some cases the newer brushless are clearly superior, but as you note...sometimes not...necessarily.
Excellent comment! Having used the new brushless M12 now for a few months the extra power is pretty nice. Lol I used it to cut up my Christmas tree- I’ve found I use it for a lot more now.
I wore out my original Milwaukee model 2426-20 Multi-Tool. Replaced it with another one with the same model number. These days I do not use it very often but it does seen to come in very handy when nothing else will work. I am thinking that that extra 2mm stroke might make it more difficult for cutting some metals (i.e. converting a long steel bolt to a short steel bolt).
Interesting. I'd like to see someone do a video on the use of multi tools in fine woodworking or in my case, semi-fine woodworking. I really hate chopping mortises and I'm always looking for shortcuts. What about roughing out half-blind dovetails? Anyway, sounds like first generation is the way to go for that and I know that bosch has a long skinny plunge cutter.
Problem is, the new... It's HARD to find IN stores. When you need a newer tool now, they don't have it unless you spend $79 and they'll get it that day or wait 4-5 days for shipping. Such a pain /edit Old one is now $79.99 for just the tool. You just talked me into.. And i was going to return it until my new one came in. Thanks for this honest review. Just saved me $100
What are the numbers for the old to new... I'm seeing 2426-20 and 2526-20 is there just two M12s or multi Gen 1-2-3-4 ??? Thanks I'm looking to get the Smooth M12 and Kick Butt M18 for my Autobody shop
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I'm pretty sure you'll figure it out though. But to be honest, if you were cutting off an end piece of trim or other stock, you'd be using a proper saw for a straight cut, and a plug will have a plate to cover any imperfections around the hole. I'm sure you were just using that for demonstration purposes though. But again, if this is all you had in a pinch, you'll make it work.
Jeremiah Mckenna ya for the most part it doesn’t matter...but every once in a while I used the old tool to make surgical like cuts in difficult situations- like notching out a finished casing to fit a counter top in. I’ll miss that ability from time to time. Lol maybe I’ll just throw the old one under my backseat incase of emergency.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter Oh no, I'm not saying to relegate the tool to the dust bin of forgotten tools. I mean, they all have their purposes and defined uses. I believe that you said it correct in the video, in that they both have their places, and the new one does not outshine the old one in a complete manner. Heck, I have more than one pair of slip joint plyers.
With the newer one, does the "Hand-unscrewable" blade head become easier to loosen, because I just needed a screwdriver for my first time. Thanks for your video.
The new one is definitely superior in all ways except one. Let's say you're installing a cabinet with a straight crown riser and you need to cut out an existing crown moulding at the ceiling without any damage to the wall and make an ultra precise cut. The old saw is your pony.
Finally! Somebody uses m12 multi tools for the purpose they're intended for. lf you're about speed alone use m18 multi tool! So fed up with those guys cutting huge piece of lumber with m12 and saying it is garbage.... However I wonder, since it's "twice as fast", can you lower the speed to prevent this chipping ? Or is it going to be even more ?
Lol I know I sometimes wonder what people are using these multitools for! If you lower the speed it doesn’t really help, I’m going to try a few different blades and possibly make another video if I find something.
Hey bro I have both of them and use every day in mill-working. The only difference is more vibration in the old one to my hand. That’s the reason I prefer the new one. The accurate cuts are on my skills not in the tool. Great video!! Following you.
That new machine is pretty nice, I find myself using it a lot more because it can cut considerably faster than old one. So no in some spots where I used to reach for the jigsaw ill use the multi tool if its handy.
Great video and good point about not always needing to upgrade. Do you test new power tools on scrap material before taking them on a job? I'm curious how you incorporate new tools, as I'm not a professional. I'd imagine you could ruin a lot of valuable material on the job if you're not careful. It seems like Milwaukee and DeWalt (I guess really every brand) are in a power war these days. I guess that sells and is valuable for some cases, but sometimes you just want the one that has a nice balance of power and control.
Nice. I have the old M12 from I think like 2012, right? I want to get the new M18 fuel version. I want something more powerful, less vibration, and something that last a little longer.
Do these blades travel on an arc or in a straight line? Well if they move in an arc wouldn't a longer blade travel farther? I don't know but if more travel is better why not give it an extra 1/4" of travel?
It seems like you moving your hand a bit after it touches the surface, I could be wrong but it just seems like you stop for a split second before continuing to cut
Hey, does that thing is good for polishing/sanding? I've jumped into M12 from wired tools. People often say that those multitools are jack of all trades and the master of none. I'm DIYer and sometimes I need to cut something small, polish or simply grind of something a little bit. So I'm googling right now to understand if I really need that took or stick with traditional/hand tools for now.
Blade selection for the new one makes a huge difference. I finish cut to size in aluminium for mortice locks. Curved blades are the way to go. I own both the old and new and haven't touched the old one since getting the fuel version.
You know why the new tool chatters more? Because they free floated the locking mechanism so now the blade can flex back and forth. They seen it as a trade off for lower vibration but I'm not sure that was a great decision by Milwaukee, they should have atleast left the M12 mounting fixed for more precision & maybe the M18 freefloating because demo work doesn't need to be precise and that's more the M18's target trade.
Nice review but i’d take Fein the Original Multi tool all day,any day. Purchased the first Fein about 14 years ago had to special order it from Germany payed aroubd 400 Euroes at the time which was aroubd $600 . I was praying to all the gods in the workd for this tool to finally die so i coukd get my self new version with star lock system so finally after 14 years and on daily basis usage original tool have died. Went abd purchased bew one but this time they’re available in US.
Not having a variable speed motor is a deal breaker for me. You really should check out the Festool Vecturo. It has all the ground breaking attachments that you would expect from Festool, all tool-less . The best tool-less blade change in the industry. You have to use their proprietary blades, but why the hell wouldn't you, they are better. It's an on off switch, but there is a variable speed control that ranges from 10,000-19,500. The plunge cutting base it the best thing that ever happened to a oscillating cutter. And of course, the dust collection. It has no peer.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter Yeah...that is kinda annoying. I wish the bits and cutters were more available. I understand them wanting to sell their tools at a real tool store. But the consumables like bits/blades/vac bags would be awesome to just run to HD for.
Great review I just bought the older version and I'm glad I won't have buyers remorse. Do you know if old ncid 12 v tools accept the 12 volt lithium batteries?
What is the model number of the old tool? Is it still available anywhere? Would it be easier for a beginner to use the old one? The new one sounds scarier for a woman to use.
Couldn’t that chattering also be because of the blade itself. I do cabinet installation and had the old m12 and got that same chattering but changed the blade and it was much better.
Couldn't you just use a fine-tooth blade or a shorter blade on the new one? To be fair they should have probably called it the Super oscillating tool when it has the big swing arc and the standard oscillating tool for the short swing arc, just like they do for stroke length on the Super Sawzall. At least you would know what you're getting without having to go through all the specs.
I hate when a tool doesn't have a place holder for a hex key. I bought the older one with the m12 Jigsaw and got a deal but I am not impressed with this osculating tool at all. I am more impressed with the Ryobi Osculating tool. I want to take it back but since it came as a package, I am reluctant.
I own both the M18 and the M12 non-FUEL oscillating tools and I also own both of the new models of M12 an M18 Fuel versions. My least favorite is hands-down the old style M 12 that's shown in this video. From the start it was awful. It was loud and it lacked power. Less than six months after I purchased the old style M 12 the battery started vibrating out and it began you randomly jumping up and down speeds, even when I put a rubber band around the speed dial hold it steady. Eventually I had to put a rubber band around the speed dial full time because it would constantly vibrate up-and-down or I would accidentally hit it with my finger which is a common problem with this one in the non-fuel version of the M18. The new M12 FUEL model is an engineering masterpiece. It's almost as powerful as my M 18 fuel and there's very little vibration. Ironically when he described the old model as a surgeons tool that's exactly what I hear from everyone after the use the new model. The old M 18 oscillating tool is also unimpressive and heavy but at least it's more powerful than the old M12 model but not nearly as powerful imprecise and beautiful and ergonomically is a new M12 model. Milwaukee sent me a replacement for my old M12 model after it literally became unusable and just six months. The replacement for the old model M12 had all the same issues as the first one so I ended up not even using it after about nine months. I don't really have a choice anyway because the threading that receives the boat that tightens the blade became stripped. Call video I'm not trying to be that guy but being a professional trade master my oscillating tool comes in second only to my M18 Surge impact driver. Like many other tradesmen these are my two most important tools and even after using makita vibration free 18 V oscillating tool which is also a masterpiece, the new M 12 FUEL model is the best oscillating tool I've ever used. Of course there are 18 V versions from other brands that are more powerful but not by much. At least not enough to justify the extra weight and bulk of the 18 V versions.
Well that settles it. I’ll be repurchasing the original and getting the new Fuel one also. Question: Are the ergonomics and ease of handling similar between the two. (I too am a finish guy and the little M12 original kinda has me spoiled there.) Even my “Orange” corded frequently take a back seat to it.
If you'd like to help me make better videos and you enjoy absurdly comfortable T-shirts:) check this out-> www.etsy.com/ca/shop/TheFunnyCarpenter?ref=search_shop_redirect
Thanks for watching!
Just picked up the old version of this M12 on Amazon in "used" condition bare tool for $54 shipped overnight. It looked brand new, thank you for the awesome review.
Just got the new tool. Huge improvement. Better speed, comfort and almost no vibration compared to the older model. Since I'm an electrician, I don't have to worry as much about finishing cuts but I'll definity try to buy a cuved blade if it becomes a problem. Thanks for the video. Appreciate it
It's funny I never realized just how bad the other Multitools vibrated until I started using the New M12.
I watched this video when you first published it. Only recently was I needing/wanting a multitool, so I took your advice and picked up a refurbished M12 non-fuel for only $60. This will work great for the projects that I have in mind!
I just bought the old tool yesterday, and saw they have a new one today… I’m not going to use it that often, so I think I’ll be fine with the old one. Thanks for the videos
I use a OMT on almost every job and the more power when you're remodeling and cutting old timbers. I can see the point on finish cuts, but an outlet box always uses a plate. Good video! just bought a fuel m12 OMT because your reviews clarified many questions for me. Thanks
I just picked up the old style m12 oscillating tool it was buy one m12 tool and get a second free. I bought the m12 fuel one-handed Sawzall and for the free tool I got the m12 oscillating tool... so far both work very well..
Interesting. You can also increase your precision greatly by getting a blade with shorter plunge. At half the plunge, you would have half the left to right excursion of the blade during oscillation.
I have the old Milwaukee 12 V multi tool and it works out good
It’s a top notch tool
Good advice right now in 1st quarter in 22 they have the regular m12 for 100 bucks with 4.0 battery and 2.0. After watching this video I'm gonna order the old model I won't use it much so for me it's a great deal.
Bought a compact M12 drill and impact driver kit and the old M12 Multi-tool was a choice as a free add on... never had or used one of these so said what the heck. Now I really am not sure how i lived without one.. took it out of the box and already found some things I needed to use it for.. lol
I just bought the old style based on your video.
My skills are low so I thought the cleaner cutting tool would be an advantage for me. Because it will be an occasional use tool the blade changes are less important.
Bought brand new, delivered on eBay, $50.00 bucks.
Thanks for your honesty
I still have the original m12 multi tool...never used it. Never had to. Gonna go find it and try it out.
Lol
Fantastic video. These are the types of videos people need, real comparisons.
Use curved blades instead of a straight one for plunge precision cuts, that's what they are made for.
I was thinking that would be the solution.
This. Use the right blade and it'll be just as precise.
Very good review. I appreciate your honesty when going into whether it's worth it to buy the newer version. I have a corded Oscillating but was looking at the convienience of cordless. The old one is almost half the price so I think I'll be getting the older version as I don't use this tool a ton. Thanks for the review!!
Thank you.. this video made me feel proud owning the old Milwaukee multi tool.
Lol same
If you don’t use these tools often, the old one is fine. If you’re doing larger projects and use them often then the new fuel one is the way to go. It is a MUCH better, faster, higher quality tool. Just look for sales online. I got the 5 piece 12 volt fuel combo kit for $300 with 2 batteries, so I basically got this fuel oscillating tool for around $45. It’s well worth triple that.
@@cliffordmontana4562
Thanks for the info & suggestion
Really appreciate this
I'm a plumber I dont know why i end here waching this video but I love tools btw 👍
I used to be a plumber as well. I can see this cutting toilet bolts, toilet drain stubs, and lavatory stubs.
What about PVC and copper piping? I'm a DIYer but I've done a few light plumbing things and one of these would've come in handy back then. I just got a lightly used M12 with a battery anf charger for $60 and can't be happier
@@engineer_alv I wouldn’t use it to cut copper or pvc pipe. Buy auto cutters for copper and a hackzall for pvc
@@dumdiversaspapalbull1452 also drywall, making existing holes a bit bigger, and cabinets.
The longer stroke makes a huge difference. You can reduce that blow out by starting the cut with the tool edge parallel to the work. Ease in ever so slightly just inside the waste side of the line, once you actually see the cut path start, ease it over to the line, advance along the cut line an 1/8 or so, start increasing your angle of attack and off you go. The more parallel the blade edge is to the surface, the cleaner the entry. Takes a hell of a lot longer to explain it than to do it. Haha! Some people like to start at low speed, I think it's smoother at full speed.
What blades are you using?
I've alway used the 1-1/4" wood metal blades by fein or Milwaukee. Someone suggested the curved wood bladed that Bosch makes and I have tried them. Way way better. Cut out a couple plug boxes today on a finished cabinet gable, and they worked perfectly with no chatter.
Agreed, seems like coming in more parallel would not make that chip-out.
@@timheuser955 Yeah, different materials, different speeds, different angles, different results. Regardless, I find it wise to take a few test plunges in the waste area to figure out the best way to attack. When in doubt, make test cuts. On stuff like melamine, scoring with a marking or utility knife makes for the cleanest look. Even if the cut itself isn't perfect, that defined knife line makes it look perfect.
I just picked up the fuel unit, thanks for your objective review
Paring a voice with the knowledge makes a review exceptional.
I am not passing the barrier to talk by myself yet in the hope somebody will listen for my experience, but I am glad I find your experiences talked out loud .
When you are working on price, precision is the best way, not waiting time to change the blades so you can have a perfect cut , so I used Bosch blades, because they are curved and help me to plunge easily.
If the jobs allow me I used semi circle blade and not matter how big is the movement I don't have scratch around the cut.
Just recently grabbed some of the curved Bosch blades, very nice! Lol my wife always opens up the garage door and makes fun of me when I’m talking to myself:)
@@TheFunnyCarpenter First time when I heart myself talking one recording I believe my girlfriend has an after you a very upset guy.
This is a good video, didn’t realize that I cut into plaster and lathe all the time so I need the precision, I have the new tool still in the box so I may just be selling it!
The curved blades that Bosch make work nicely on the new unit.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I have not seen them, but I will check them out.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I just checked them out and that’s all you need then if you haven’t upgraded, Bosch always has great ideas.
Yeah I got used to that learning on crappy OMT.
Only thing that works for me is letting it skip on the off-fall side and walk over to the finished cut increasing pressure
That’s a great idea, definitely going to give it a go. Thank you.
So glad you made this video. I am considering the older tool because of price but wanted an honest comparison to see if I'd be missing something compared to the newer version. Still not sure yet which one but at least I'm armed with a bit more knowledge.
You are right, switching blades works well too
Thanks for doing this video. This is exactly what I needed at the right time. There is a special deal on the old model with a 2 and 4Ah battery with charger. Precision is what I’m looking for. So this HD deal is an actual deal for me. Ordering it now
Excellent review. This helps me to decide to go with 2426. Thanks.
I finally caved and upgraded.
As far as plunge cuts go, in my limited testing...on the old one you can ease in on an angle like you are doing but the new one chatters a bit before digging in.
What I've found on the new one and I tested on about a dozen plunge cuts is you need to be almost straight on with the blade. It does not chatter but in real like this isn't always possible and you might need to be at an angle
The vibration, noise and cut speed is a night and day improvement on the Fuel model!
The curved blades help a lot on the new unit.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I bought a 100 pack of blades from China for 20 bucks. They've lasted a year and a half so far and I have probably 25-30 left so I'm using whT I've got until I'm out !
Quick update. My first M12 Fuel unit died in less then a year. Had to warranty it. They gave me a new one.
Also gave me a warrantied unit for my old one as well due to the battery popping out issue.
i love the rounded diablo plunge blades.
Or maybe use a diamond tile blade for surgical cuts? I use it for precise laminate cutting on my angle grinder, seems to work fine, but makes a ton of dust. Might just work the same way on this multi tool.
Uncanny...this is the exact tool review vid I was looking for, given the newest holiday tool deals over on that Ohio-related site that sells power tools.
As a DIY-er and hobby carpenter, precision's definitely more of the priority over that extra bit of cut speed. Thanks for saving me some heartburn (and a little $$$!).
Thank you very much for this video! You totally helped make my mind up I’m going precision and half the price.
Ty for the info. I picked up the old model brand new for $65 @ AMAZON....just what I needed; as much as I like the looks of the new bling it is bigger and I'll need the smaller old one so infrequently that I could not justify the cost..
Heck of a deal! I’m sure you’ll get a lot of good use.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I've had an old Craftsman Oscillator for years, mediocre but it worked...now it is set up with a green scrubber to clean the stove...look forward to the Milwaukee, arriving today, so I have good one for cutting etc...
I just bought the old one for $10 Australian from a second hand store and its in decent condition too. Thats about $7.50 us
I literally bought a DeWalt multi tool for making precision cuts because you control the speed with a trigger. My old model Ryobi also has a trigger but it's not as powerful as the DeWalt. I'm also getting an M18 fuel multi tool because the vibration control is supposedly the best along with the power.
I just bought the new Fuel version. After 5 minutes of use, a C clip that holds the quick change base spit out in a twisted mess. Junk. After seeing this video, I’m sending it back and getting the older model. Thanks for the report.
Have the old and was contemplating getting the new but now I’ll definitely be delaying that. Besides I don’t use it that often enough to justify spending money just to have a newer version that doesn’t do a whole lot more anyway. Thank you. 😊
Ya, if not for doing a review I probably would not have grabbed the new one. I always enjoyed the old version. The extra power is pretty nice though.
Don’t hesitate. This review is brutal. The new one is way better by far.
I still have the old M12 model, but noticed a huge increase in precision with it compared to my old 20v Dewalt. I wonder if one of these brands will ever copy Festool’s blade guide magnets for precision.
That Festool system looks pretty neat! The price does not:(
I'm just a DIYer but have a few skills and have personally re-modeled two bathrooms and two kitchens (no electrical/no plumbing) and done pretty good size landscape/deck jobs and once 40 plus years ago swung a hammer for a summer.
I just invested in M12 with some of the good deals over the holidays. I am pretty much dedicating them to my travel trailer tools as those are a mish mash at present. I went with the old brushed tools as they are smaller (in general and for specific tools) and it's not like they are trash...just first gen in effect...AND sometimes improved brushless is not always the best, for certain jobs.
My "big" tools are DeWalt and I do have the multi-tool. I sometimes get a bit frustrated with the brushless "cult" that are like you just need to throw your brushed tools out and spit on them as you do it. There are numerous examples across lines where professionials "prefer" the old brushed versions. In DeWalt, the old 885 impact driver is one example. There are numerous vids and reviews noting the new "brushless" 887's just don't do it for them... AND, the older brushed tools were once the top of the line AND you can certainly save some bucks buying them... In M12, you point out advantages to the old brushed ones. So, I don't discount them and research. In some cases the newer brushless are clearly superior, but as you note...sometimes not...necessarily.
Excellent comment! Having used the new brushless M12 now for a few months the extra power is pretty nice. Lol I used it to cut up my Christmas tree- I’ve found I use it for a lot more now.
I wore out my original Milwaukee model 2426-20 Multi-Tool. Replaced it with another one with the same model number. These days I do not use it very often but it does seen to come in very handy when nothing else will work. I am thinking that that extra 2mm stroke might make it more difficult for cutting some metals (i.e. converting a long steel bolt to a short steel bolt).
i have plenty of M12 batteries and 2 chargers. ordered the old "tool only" off of Ebay for $50 new. thanks
Interesting. I'd like to see someone do a video on the use of multi tools in fine woodworking or in my case, semi-fine woodworking. I really hate chopping mortises and I'm always looking for shortcuts. What about roughing out half-blind dovetails? Anyway, sounds like first generation is the way to go for that and I know that bosch has a long skinny plunge cutter.
Problem is, the new... It's HARD to find IN stores. When you need a newer tool now, they don't have it unless you spend $79 and they'll get it that day or wait 4-5 days for shipping. Such a pain
/edit
Old one is now $79.99 for just the tool. You just talked me into.. And i was going to return it until my new one came in. Thanks for this honest review. Just saved me $100
What are the numbers for the old to new... I'm seeing 2426-20 and 2526-20 is there just two M12s or multi Gen 1-2-3-4 ??? Thanks I'm looking to get the Smooth M12 and Kick Butt M18 for my Autobody shop
Doesn't the new tool have a variable speed switch? I mean, if it does, simply slow it down and make the first plunge cut, then turn up the speed.
It doesn’t really help and it would be difficult to turn up the speed mid cut. Not a bad idea though, I tried it out when I first got the tool.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I'm pretty sure you'll figure it out though. But to be honest, if you were cutting off an end piece of trim or other stock, you'd be using a proper saw for a straight cut, and a plug will have a plate to cover any imperfections around the hole. I'm sure you were just using that for demonstration purposes though. But again, if this is all you had in a pinch, you'll make it work.
Jeremiah Mckenna ya for the most part it doesn’t matter...but every once in a while I used the old tool to make surgical like cuts in difficult situations- like notching out a finished casing to fit a counter top in. I’ll miss that ability from time to time. Lol maybe I’ll just throw the old one under my backseat incase of emergency.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter Oh no, I'm not saying to relegate the tool to the dust bin of forgotten tools. I mean, they all have their purposes and defined uses. I believe that you said it correct in the video, in that they both have their places, and the new one does not outshine the old one in a complete manner. Heck, I have more than one pair of slip joint plyers.
Jeremiah Mckenna e
With the newer one, does the "Hand-unscrewable" blade head become easier to loosen, because I just needed a screwdriver for my first time. Thanks for your video.
Brutal review. The new one is hands down and by far way better
The new one is definitely superior in all ways except one. Let's say you're installing a cabinet with a straight crown riser and you need to cut out an existing crown moulding at the ceiling without any damage to the wall and make an ultra precise cut. The old saw is your pony.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter maybe you got one that’s slipping mine works way better than the old one, even for precise cuts.
If you can help me make one work, I’d love to hear. I have two on a shelf. Lasted a month each. I did love them when they work
Finally! Somebody uses m12 multi tools for the purpose they're intended for. lf you're about speed alone use m18 multi tool! So fed up with those guys cutting huge piece of lumber with m12 and saying it is garbage.... However I wonder, since it's "twice as fast", can you lower the speed to prevent this chipping ? Or is it going to be even more ?
Lol I know I sometimes wonder what people are using these multitools for! If you lower the speed it doesn’t really help, I’m going to try a few different blades and possibly make another video if I find something.
great demo i have them both i myself like the older 1
I’m finding once I get used to the faster cutting speed it’s difficult to go back to the old one:).
excellent video ! thanks !
Can you tell me model number of old version MILWAUKEE M12 OSCILLATING MULTI TOOL? Thanks
Did you try turning down the speed so they are operating at about the same speed then test the precision?
Ya I did. Trying some curved blades made a big difference. A lot better for plunge cutting
Hey bro I have both of them and use every day in mill-working. The only difference is more vibration in the old one to my hand. That’s the reason I prefer the new one. The accurate cuts are on my skills not in the tool. Great video!! Following you.
That new machine is pretty nice, I find myself using it a lot more because it can cut considerably faster than old one. So no in some spots where I used to reach for the jigsaw ill use the multi tool if its handy.
Great video and good point about not always needing to upgrade. Do you test new power tools on scrap material before taking them on a job? I'm curious how you incorporate new tools, as I'm not a professional. I'd imagine you could ruin a lot of valuable material on the job if you're not careful.
It seems like Milwaukee and DeWalt (I guess really every brand) are in a power war these days. I guess that sells and is valuable for some cases, but sometimes you just want the one that has a nice balance of power and control.
Hi, which one vibrates less in your hand? In your other videos you said that new milwauke has very good antivib system, thank you.
The new Fuel M12 vibrates significantly less in your hand. After using it for a while now it's difficult to go back to the old one.
Love this video thanks for that info
Old tool is currently $80 while the new one is $150. Thanks for the review and opinion.
Nice. I have the old M12 from I think like 2012, right? I want to get the new M18 fuel version. I want something more powerful, less vibration, and something that last a little longer.
How about the M18 non-fuel?
Great review, thanks
Nice video. Have you tried a Diablo oscillator blade? If not, you should try it out. It has a slightly curve tooth.
Will try, thank you!
not sure if this question was asked but can taping the plunge cut prevent the blowout ?
Might be a good idea to try.
Would a blade with less aggressive teeth help mititage the issue?
Yes there are some other options out there, curved blades etc. Will need to do some exploring:) thanks for checking out the channel.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter oh yeah I forgot how much I love the Bosch curved one for wood cutting
Austin Galloway boom ordering one tonight! I’ll give you a shout if there’s a future video with curved blades.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter right on
Good advice concise.
what is the model number of the older model? thanks, cheers from British Columbia
What is the oscillation range in degrees for the old vs new?
Works as designed
woah I need this tool, looks like it can remove a windshield in record speed.
Do these blades travel on an arc or in a straight line? Well if they move in an arc wouldn't a longer blade travel farther? I don't know but if more travel is better why not give it an extra 1/4" of travel?
The "new" multi-tool, is it the fuel version you are referring too?
Can you compare the Milwaukee M18 and the Milwaukee Fuel M12 please... I don’t know which one to get for my father.
I live in an apartment. Why am I deciding between two tools I don’t need?
😂😂😂
It seems like you moving your hand a bit after it touches the surface, I could be wrong but it just seems like you stop for a split second before continuing to cut
Good observation, they key is to be more decisive. I've gotten better since using the new model.
Good review Bos Man. 👍🏻👍🏻 What's the weight difference between the two tools? What about the balance when you use the tools?
Great question-The new tool is about 150ish grams heavier but balances just as nice as the old one!
I wish they improved the blade change still looks slow like the old m18 version. I'm still sticking to simple dewalt for that reason
Stay tuned I’ve got a video coming out looking at the dewalt and M12 blade change situation.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter cant wait for the comparison!
What about its settings?
Hey, does that thing is good for polishing/sanding? I've jumped into M12 from wired tools. People often say that those multitools are jack of all trades and the master of none. I'm DIYer and sometimes I need to cut something small, polish or simply grind of something a little bit. So I'm googling right now to understand if I really need that took or stick with traditional/hand tools for now.
I prefer to start the cut with low speed, to get the right position, then I can go with higher speed
I usually just keeper dialled to 12 and hope for the best:)
Blade selection for the new one makes a huge difference. I finish cut to size in aluminium for mortice locks. Curved blades are the way to go. I own both the old and new and haven't touched the old one since getting the fuel version.
This amazing content! Thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
You know why the new tool chatters more?
Because they free floated the locking mechanism so now the blade can flex back and forth.
They seen it as a trade off for lower vibration but I'm not sure that was a great decision by Milwaukee, they should have atleast left the M12 mounting fixed for more precision & maybe the M18 freefloating because demo work doesn't need to be precise and that's more the M18's target trade.
do you find that slowing down the blade speed on the Fuel version will prevent that skipping on the plunge?
ok - I see that question was asked several times. Seems what really needs to be adjustable is the degree of the blade sweep.
I purchased some of those curved Bosch blades and they work considerably better.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter I could see that - since the edge moves along the curve, you don't get that bouncing off the wood surface action.
Nice review but i’d take Fein the Original Multi tool all day,any day. Purchased the first Fein about 14 years ago had to special order it from Germany payed aroubd 400 Euroes at the time which was aroubd $600 . I was praying to all the gods in the workd for this tool to finally die so i coukd get my self new version with star lock system so finally after 14 years and on daily basis usage original tool have died. Went abd purchased bew one but this time they’re available in US.
Nice, I got my first Fein maybe slightly before that, it's still working great gave it to my dad when I went cordless.
Not having a variable speed motor is a deal breaker for me. You really should check out the Festool Vecturo. It has all the ground breaking attachments that you would expect from Festool, all tool-less . The best tool-less blade change in the industry. You have to use their proprietary blades, but why the hell wouldn't you, they are better. It's an on off switch, but there is a variable speed control that ranges from 10,000-19,500. The plunge cutting base it the best thing that ever happened to a oscillating cutter. And of course, the dust collection. It has no peer.
These units have variable speed… Dam proprietary Festool! It always chaps me when I loose my special Centrotec bits for my CXS.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter Yeah...that is kinda annoying. I wish the bits and cutters were more available. I understand them wanting to sell their tools at a real tool store. But the consumables like bits/blades/vac bags would be awesome to just run to HD for.
I owned the old version but prefer the new one instead.
with the new one you either need to start at lower speed or to use curved shaped blades
Great review I just bought the older version and I'm glad I won't have buyers remorse.
Do you know if old ncid 12 v tools accept the 12 volt lithium batteries?
I'm sure the old version will serve you well! I'm not sure about the batteries though.
@@TheFunnyCarpenter
Thank you.
Put the blade on sideways for best cutting
What is the model number of the old tool? Is it still available anywhere? Would it be easier for a beginner to use the old one? The new one sounds scarier for a woman to use.
Milwaukee M12 (2426-20) Oscillating
On my way to get the M12 Fuel.
It’s a beauty
The old one started smoking and spitting chunks out the side. Hopefully the new Fuel one i got lasts longer
Couldn’t that chattering also be because of the blade itself. I do cabinet installation and had the old m12 and got that same chattering but changed the blade and it was much better.
Couldn't you just use a fine-tooth blade or a shorter blade on the new one?
To be fair they should have probably called it the Super oscillating tool when it has the big swing arc and the standard oscillating tool for the short swing arc, just like they do for stroke length on the Super Sawzall. At least you would know what you're getting without having to go through all the specs.
The Bosch curved blades work a lot better on the m12 for plunge cutting.
I hate when a tool doesn't have a place holder for a hex key. I bought the older one with the m12 Jigsaw and got a deal but I am not impressed with this osculating tool at all. I am more impressed with the Ryobi Osculating tool. I want to take it back but since it came as a package, I am reluctant.
My old style shuts off constantly while in use I have to take toe battery out and put it back in.
I see you like to plunge at an angle. What if you go dead straight in? Asking as a 100% noob who has only used the oscillating tool 4-5 times
I own both the M18 and the M12 non-FUEL oscillating tools and I also own both of the new models of M12 an M18 Fuel versions. My least favorite is hands-down the old style M 12 that's shown in this video. From the start it was awful. It was loud and it lacked power. Less than six months after I purchased the old style M 12 the battery started vibrating out and it began you randomly jumping up and down speeds, even when I put a rubber band around the speed dial hold it steady. Eventually I had to put a rubber band around the speed dial full time because it would constantly vibrate up-and-down or I would accidentally hit it with my finger which is a common problem with this one in the non-fuel version of the M18.
The new M12 FUEL model is an engineering masterpiece. It's almost as powerful as my M 18 fuel and there's very little vibration. Ironically when he described the old model as a surgeons tool that's exactly what I hear from everyone after the use the new model.
The old M 18 oscillating tool is also unimpressive and heavy but at least it's more powerful than the old M12 model but not nearly as powerful imprecise and beautiful and ergonomically is a new M12 model.
Milwaukee sent me a replacement for my old M12 model after it literally became unusable and just six months. The replacement for the old model M12 had all the same issues as the first one so I ended up not even using it after about nine months. I don't really have a choice anyway because the threading that receives the boat that tightens the blade became stripped.
Call video I'm not trying to be that guy but being a professional trade master my oscillating tool comes in second only to my M18 Surge impact driver. Like many other tradesmen these are my two most important tools and even after using makita vibration free 18 V oscillating tool which is also a masterpiece, the new M 12 FUEL model is the best oscillating tool I've ever used. Of course there are 18 V versions from other brands that are more powerful but not by much. At least not enough to justify the extra weight and bulk of the 18 V versions.
Well that settles it. I’ll be repurchasing the original and getting the new Fuel one also.
Question: Are the ergonomics and ease of handling similar between the two. (I too am a finish guy and the little M12 original kinda has me spoiled there.) Even my “Orange” corded frequently take a back seat to it.
The new m12 fuel handles very much the same, it’s a little bigger but still great ergonomics.