Porter Cable currently has two oscillating multi-tools on the market – a corded multi-tool, which we reviewed a year ago, and a 12V model. The corded model has been quite popular with its tool-free blade change and affordable price point (it’s currently $100 via Amazon).
The 12V version, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to have been too popular. Cordless multi-tools usually suffer from lack of power and lack of endurance, but their versatility can sometimes make up for this.
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Well, Porter Cable got the message and designed a new 18V oscillating multi-tool, which they say offers double the runtime with a compact battery pack and triple the runtime with an extended capacity battery pack.
Makita also announced a new 18V cordless oscillating tool recently, and rated its runtime at up to 15-minutes. We doubt that the new Porter Cable model delivers substantially more runtime, and if it does it would be at the expense of power. This is probably why the runtime claims found in the press release (bolded above) are relative to the 12V model.
Specifications
- 2.8° oscillating angle
- 7,500-15,000 OPM
- 2.8 lbs with [compact] battery
The new 18V oscillating tool will be available in a $169 kit (PCCK510LA) that includes one lithium-ion battery, a multi-chemistry charger, 32 accessories, and a kit bag plus accessory box, and as a $90 bare tool (PCC510B) that also comes with 32 accessories.
Expect to see both the kit and bare-tool in stores June 2012.
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Steve R.
Stuart–I can see using this new version in specialized areas (tight corners and other tough spots), but with an approx. 15 minute runtime and a single battery, it would have limited appeal for me. Tearing out vinyl flooring or cutting through grout to remove ceramic tile (as shown above) would eat up the battery quickly. What is the charge time on the battery?
Stuart
I assume 30-minutes as with their newest drill/driver.
There’s a bit of a weight savings over Makita’s model, so the PC model *might* deliver longer runtime if equipped with a less beefy motor.
The tasks you mention are near-continuous load and would quickly drain batteries as you mentioned. To be honest, I only use cordless multi-tools when corded is absolutely not an option.
Monte
Bosch will release 2 new multi tools (14.4 + 18 Volt) with brushless motor and 4.0AH batteries….this might be what you are looking for…
Stuart
Yup, I spotted that as well. They look a bit awkward with large battery packs, but hopefully that gives them a good balance.
Monte
it seems they use the MX30 head which is kind of heavy so i think (hope :)) the battery act as a counterweight so the tool will have a good balance …maybe 🙂 …we´ll see in september …