Full Review ⭐ DeWalt 18V XR 5Ah Li-Ion Cordless 3 Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit: DCS356P1-GB

Oscillating multi-tools are versatile power tools that have become popular additions to many toolkits. Also known as multi-function power tools or oscillating saws, they have a quick-change blade system that allows users to switch between blades for different materials and applications. From sanding and scraping to cutting and grinding, oscillating multi-tools can replace several single-function tools.

The DeWalt DCS356P1-GB reviewed here is an 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool kit. It comes with a 5Ah Lithium-Ion battery and charger. As a leading brand, DeWalt is known for making reliable, high-performance power tools. This oscillating multi-tool aims to provide power and runtime suitable for heavy-duty use. Key features include a brushless motor, 3-speed settings, and an LED light.

Design and Build Quality

The DeWalt DCS356P1 oscillating multi-tool features a durable and ergonomic design built to withstand regular use on the job site. The tool's body is constructed from hardened plastic and rubber overmold, providing a comfortable grip as well as shock absorption.

Despite its light weight at only 2.2kg, the multi-tool feels sturdy thanks to its metal gearing and reinforced inner components. The variable speed trigger provides excellent control, with a soft start function to prevent jerky motions at power up. An LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility.

Overall, the DeWalt oscillating multi-tool is thoughtfully designed for comfort, convenience, and durability. The premium construction ensures it can withstand accidental drops and rigorous professional use.

Another exceptional option is the DeWalt DCS355N 18V Oscillating Multi-Tool with 5.0Ah DCB184 Battery, offering similar build quality and power. This model features a brushless motor for enhanced efficiency and runtime, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks. It also comes with a comprehensive kit that includes a 5.0Ah battery, ensuring you have everything you need to tackle your projects. Its adaptability with various attachments makes it versatile for multiple applications.

Power and Performance

The DeWalt DCS356P1 oscillating multi-tool features a powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 20,000 oscillations per minute for fast cutting and sanding. The variable speed dial allows you to match the speed to the application, giving you optimal control.

For cutting, the oscillating action allows the blade to slice cleanly through wood, metal, plastic, and even masonry. I found it had no problem making straight or curved cuts in 2x4 lumber. For sanding, the high speed oscillations provide an ultra-smooth finish on wood and metal surfaces. The 3.2° oscillation angle also makes this multi-tool adept at flush sanding and scraping tight spaces.

With the included 5Ah battery, the DCS356P1 delivers excellent runtime. On a full charge, I was able to complete multiple cutting and sanding tasks without losing power. This cordless versatility makes it easy to use the multi-tool anywhere without having to worry about finding an outlet. The brushless motor is also efficient, further extending the runtime compared to brushed motors. For heavy daily use, the long runtime is a major plus.

In addition, the DeWalt DCS355P1 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit TSTAK™ 18V 1 x 5.0Ah Li-ion is another excellent choice for those looking for high performance. This model is also equipped with a brushless motor, enhancing efficiency and providing longer runtime, making it ideal for tackling various projects seamlessly. The TSTAK™ storage system adds convenience, allowing easy transport and organization of tools and accessories.

Features

The DeWalt DCS356P1-GB oscillating multi-tool comes equipped with some great features that make it a versatile and user-friendly choice.

• Variable Speed Settings: This multi-tool has 3 variable speed settings, allowing you to match the speed to the application. Speed 1 goes from 0-14,000 oscillations per minute (OPM), speed 2 from 14,000-22,000 OPM, and speed 3 from 22,000-32,000 OPM. This level of control is useful when dealing with different materials.

• Accessories Included: The kit includes a selection of accessories to get you started. It comes with a sanding pad, sanding sheets, scraper blade, grout removal blade, and an oscillating tool blade. Having these accessories right out of the box expands the functionality of the tool.

• LED Light: There is an LED light integrated into the foot of the multi-tool which illuminates the work area. This allows you to see more clearly when working in dimly lit spaces.

• Anti-Vibration System: DeWalt has equipped this model with an anti-vibration system to reduce vibration during operation. This decreases user fatigue and allows for more comfortable extended use. The vibration damping mechanism makes a big difference compared to tools without it.

Battery and Charger

The DCS356P1-GB comes with a powerful 18V 5Ah Lithium Ion battery that delivers long runtimes and short charge times. At 18 volts, the battery pack provides ample power for the oscillating multi-tool to handle tough cutting and sanding applications.

With a large 5 amp hour capacity, the battery enables extended use between charges. Heavy users can expect over 2 hours of cutting time on a single charge. More occasional users may go several days between charges.

Charging the battery is quick and convenient with the included rapid charger. It fully charges the 5Ah battery pack in about 60 minutes. The charger plugs into any standard wall outlet and features an LED indicator to monitor charge progress.

The combination of a high capacity 18V battery and rapid charger makes this an excellent cordless solution for pros who use their oscillating multi-tool frequently. There's no need to worry about running out of juice mid-job.

Accessories

The DeWalt DCS356P1 comes with a useful range of accessories that enhance its versatility for different applications. It includes a scraper blade, sanding pad, and detail finger attachment right out of the box.

The scraper blade is great for removing old paint, stickers, glue residue and more from a variety of surfaces. It allows you to scrape smoothly without gouging the material underneath.

The hook and loop sanding pad attaches quickly and provides an oscillating platform for sanding wood, metal, plastic and more. It takes standard hook and loop sanding sheets to adapt to any sanding job.

The detail finger attachment is perfect for confined spaces. It gives you more control when sanding or scraping in corners, crevices, or up against edges. The finger grooves make it easy to manage the multi-tool in tight spots.

In addition to the included accessories, DeWalt offers a wide assortment of blades and attachments that can be purchased separately. There are specialized blades for cutting wood, metal, plaster, grout, and more. The unique universal adapter system allows all attachments to fit the oscillating tool quickly and securely. With the range of available accessories, you can use this tool for an endless variety of applications.

Overall, the accessories make this oscillating multi-tool extremely versatile right out of the box. And DeWalt provides even more customization options with additional attachments you can add on for specialty jobs.

Ease of Use

The DeWalt DCS356P1 oscillating multi-tool is designed with convenience and ease of use in mind. It has a short learning curve, allowing even novice DIYers to get comfortable using it quickly. The variable speed dial gives you precise control over the oscillation rate, making it easy to match the speed to the application. The soft grip handle provides comfort during extended use.

Tool-free blade changes make swapping accessories fast and convenient. Simply flip the lever to open the quick release clamp and drop in the new blade or attachment. This takes just seconds and requires no tools. The blade clamp has a tight and secure hold to prevent any slipping or movement during operation.

Other thoughtful touches include an LED light to illuminate the work area and a hanging hook integrated into the body for convenient storage. Overall, the DeWalt oscillating multi-tool achieves an excellent balance of power and intuitive, user-friendly design. Both pros and DIY home users will find it comfortable and convenient for all their oscillating tool needs.

Pros

• Powerful 18V XR motor delivers up to 20,000 oscillations per minute for fast cutting in even the toughest materials.

• Quick-change accessory system allows for easy blade changes without any tools required.

• Variable speed dial provides user control, with speeds ranging from 0-3 for optimized performance in different materials.

• Brushless motor is efficient, durable, and provides constant speed under load for consistent performance.

• Compact and lightweight design maximizes maneuverability in tight spaces.

• LED light illuminates the work area for improved visibility.

• Includes 3 popular accessories - sanding pad, scraper blade, and segment saw blade.

• 5Ah battery provides long runtime between charges.

• 3 year limited warranty provides peace of mind.

Cons

• The variable speed dial can be a little tricky to adjust to the exact speed you want. It doesn't have defined speed settings, so you have to turn the dial and feel out the speed.

• It's a little on the heavy side. Weighing in at 1.45kg with the battery, extended use can start to make your hand and arm tired.

• Battery life could be better. On higher speed settings, the 5Ah battery lasts around 20-30 minutes. So you'll need multiple batteries for longer jobs.

• There's no worklight, which would be useful when working in dimly lit areas. You have to provide your own light source.

• No soft start feature, so the blade starts spinning immediately when you turn it on. This can cause it to jump a bit on startup before you have a firm grip.

• At the highest price end for an oscillating multi-tool. You can get similar performance for less from some other brands.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCS356P1-GB 18V XR Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit is an excellent choice for professionals and DIYers looking for a versatile and powerful oscillating tool. Its cordless design provides great maneuverability and ease of use while the XR battery delivers long runtimes even under heavy use.

The 3-speed settings allow you to match the oscillation rate to the application, giving you optimal control. At just 3.2lbs, the tool is lightweight yet still feels sturdy thanks to its durable metal gear housing. It's compact enough for working in tight spaces but packs a serious punch with its powerful 18V motor.

Additional features like the quick-change accessory system, variable speed trigger, and LED worklight enhance functionality. The kit includes a fast charger, 3.0Ah battery, and an accessory kit to get you started. While the price is on the higher side, you get DeWalt's usual excellent build quality and performance.

Overall, the DCS356P1-GB is an outstanding oscillating multi-tool that will tackle just about any cutting, sanding, scraping or grinding task. Its premium features and rugged construction make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and home DIYers alike.