The biggest problem with multi-tools today is that hardly any of the oscillating accessories are interchangeable with one another. This can be a real problem because while we would love to believe all purchases can be made online, often when you get to that weekend project and realize your blades are so dull they couldn’t cut butter it’s off to the depot store. In many cases that means very limited selection on oscillating tool blades and sanding accessories and most likely ones that are not going to work with your tool.
Bosch is now establishing the universal system of Oscillating Interface System (OIS) which features 12 points of contact, the most of any system. The Bosch guys are hoping this will become as universal as the “SDS” system which they made popular and is now the standard. It is very positive to see Milwaukee adopt the OIS system for their new Milwaukee M12 Multi-Tool coming later this year. We never would have guessed Bosch and Milwaukee would be working together on anything. If other professional brands that still don’t have oscillating tools were to follow suit it is likely this will be the case. We will see where DeWalt, Makita, Metabo and others all fall when they inevitable come out with their own multi-tools.
Ohio Power Tool stocks every Bosch and Dremel Multi-Max Accessories currently available including all the Bosch Multi-X accessories recently announced (see post). With the new adaptor, coming soon, all these and almost every other would work with the Bosch Multi-X. The obvious question remains when will Bosch come out with a corded Multi-Tool that could rival the strength of the Fein Multi-Master. That question still remains unanswered but we are still hoping to see something soon as they currently do have a corded model in Europe.
From the OIS Bosch Press Release: Mount Prospect, Ill. – Oscillating multi-tools are rapidly becoming a toolbox staple for remodelers, finish carpenters, electricians, plumbers and even DIYers. Why? These users are discovering that the wide range of accessories gives these tools the functionality of multiple tools, and even helps them tackle a few tasks they couldn’t accomplish before. To help oscillating multi-tool users get the most out of their tools, Bosch Accessories this week introduced the Oscillating Interface System (OIS™), becoming the first company to develop a standard accessory interface in a rapidly growing and segmented market.
Just as Bosch did previously with its well-known T-Shank jigsaw blade standard and SDS hammer steel interface, the company is taking the lead in identifying and developing the best possible interface system to deliver the best possible performance in any competitive tool.
“OIS is a unique 12-pin system from Bosch that provides a secure, reliable connection between the tool and the accessory. That’s important, especially with today’s high-torque oscillating tools,” says Ken Osberg, Bosch Group Product Manager. “It also enables users to position accessories in 12 different angles to deliver great maneuverability and access to work spaces.”
The Bosch OIS adapter ensures that OIS accessories work on all oscillating multi- tools on the market, regardless of interface, and is designed to provide the best fit for all tools. Other adapters utilize a pressure fit solution instead of an actual interface fit for the multiple interfaces available, sacrificing performance.
In addition, tool manufacturers have begun designing tools specifically around the OIS standard. Oscillating multi-tools from Bosch, Skil and Milwaukee Electric Tool are already OIS direct fit tools, with more on the way.
