Dremel Cordless Multi-Max (8300-01)

There are several models of variable speed oscillating multi-tools on the market. No wonder, they're one of the most versatile tools around for just about any small cutting, sanding or grinding job.

The Dremel Cordless Multi-Max (8300-01) is a battery powered counterpart to its very popular corded Multi-Max (6300-01), similar in many respects, save that the 8300 is powered by a 12V lithium-ion battery. Like the 6300, the 8300 is not a contractor grade tool; it's best suited for the avid DIYer, craft maker, or hobbyist woodworker. That's not to say you won't find these tools tucked away in contractor's tool kits or in professional cabinetry and furniture shops. They're so darned handy for doing the small stuff that a conventional sander, jig saw or angle grinder is just too big and awkward to handle. That's where they excel - cutting, scraping, sanding, grinding fixed materials that are otherwise difficult to access.

12V lithium battery snaps into base of tool

On-board battery fuel gauge

Right off the cuff, the big advantage to the 8300 is that it's cordless. This is especially convenient if you're using the tool on a job site, where you might be constantly moving around the site, with limited access to power outlets. It's also nice not having a power cord dangling in your face when you need to work overhead.

The 8300 comes with two 12V 1.3 amp hour lithium-ion batteries. For light duty applications you won't be replacing batteries too often. I did find that when using the tool aggressively and extensively, I was switching the batteries after about 40 minutes. Nice to have two batteries, and of course, the one hour charger.

On/off switch

Separate sliding speed lever

I notice that the body of the 8300 begins to heat up if operated for more than fifteen or twenty minutes at a time, requiring a repositioning of the hands. A bit inconvenient, as the further back you place your grip on the tool the less control you have and the more off-balance the tool feels.

The on/off and sliding speed switch are located separately; not a bad layout, as you won't inadvertently turn it off while changing speed settings. Right above the speed switch is an on-board battery fuel gauge. I really like these, as you can tell at a glance roughly how much tool use you have before you need to switch batteries.

Quick fit shoe makes accessory changeover quick

Accessories have matching hole patterns enabling 360° rotation

The 8300 uses a 'Quick fit shoe', which I find works very well. A clamping screw holds the accessories in place very securely, and you can rotate them 360°. A very nice feature, particularly when working in tight spaces. Accessory change over is quick. My only minor complaint is that there is no on-board storage for the hex key.

You get a small assortment of accessories with the 8300: MM440 3/4" HCS flush cut wood blade, MM450 3" flat saw blade, MM11 sanding base plate, MM70W sanding pads (60, 120, 240 grits). There are a range of other accessories available from Dremel; unfortunately, except for the hook and loop sandpaper you can only use Dremel accessories with the 8300 (to be fair, all the manufacturers use proprietary shoe systems so you're stuck with using their accessories.) Finally, Dremel supplies a hard shell storage case that I much prefer to a soft vinyl bag.

The 8300 comes with a small assortment of accessories

You won't find many tools more versatile than the 8300

After using the 8300 around the shop and house for a couple of weeks I'm quite taken with this little dynamo. It has a lot of power, is light and easy to manipulate, and has quick accessory changeover. As with most high speed tools it is quite loud - you'll want to put hearing protectors on if you use it for more than a few minutes at a time. While carpenters, cabinetmakers and other tradespeople might get some use out of it when they need to cut or sand small stock in awkward locations, I think that avid DIYers, craft makers, and hobbyist woodworkers will get the most use from the tool.

Reviewed September 2010