Cut-out Tools
Cut-out tools are another one of those versatile power tools that can be used for all sorts of tasks and after seeing one in action you may wonder how you ever did without it. The tool borrows qualities from a lot of other power tools and that could be how it came about – someone thought that if only they had a smaller router, grinder, or even saw – a particular job might be much easier. Cut-out tools have features from all of those tools and much more – they can be used for projects as diverse as:
- Cutting out outlets and light switches in sheetrock
- Grinding a variety of materials
- Sharpening blades on tools and knifes
- Stripping paint from small areas
- Polishing tile or marble
- Etching surfaces
- Cutting ceramic tile
- Removing grout from between tile or marble
- Cutting small pipes
- Cutting wood
- Cutting marble
Most cut-out tools are shaped like small routers or a miniature angle grinder without the angle. They simply have a case that serves as the handle and covers the motor and a chuck that can hold a variety of bits or sanding and polishing attachments. The small power tools are very light and easy to use.
Types of Cut-out Tools
Many power tool manufacturers offer cut-off tools and they’re all so inexpensive that’s it’s difficult to justify why there shouldn’t be at least one in your workbench. Most cut-off tools have electric motors that are capable of up to 30,000 rpms and some companies even offer battery powered models that can be very convenient for working in a shower to remove grout or constantly moving around a room doing cut-outs for sheetrock.
DeWalt offers a handy kit that features a cut-out tool, ¼ and 1/8 inch collets to use a wider variety of attachments, a side handle accessory for better control over precise work, and a circle cutting guide for achieving perfect circles every time.
As versatile as cut-out tools can be, they’re not always a good substitute for a larger power tool better suited to a big project. Cut-out tools have very small motors that operate at high speeds and it’s possible to overtax them with tough jobs where a router, angle grinder, or jigsaw might be a better choice.
Cut-off Tool Safety
One of the problems often encountered with small user friendly power tools is that DIYers often forget that they’re professional tools capable of causing injuries – perhaps not as serious as a table saw or jointer, but injuries just the same. You should always wear eye protection when using cut-off tools as small particles can be thrown off the work surface and into your face. Keeping your fingers away from a moving bit or attachment is also important and make sure the tool is unplugged from a power source before attempting any adjustments or changing any bits.
Perhaps the biggest safety issue with cut-off tools is that due to their small size they can often appear to be play-friendly to children. Many cut-off tools come with a carrying case and that’s where your tool should be when it’s not in use and packed away inside your workbench can be even better.