What Is a Rotary Tool?
A rotary tool is a compact, handheld power tool that uses an electric motor to spin a bit or accessory at a high speed for tasks like light-duty detailed cutting, carving, sanding and engraving. The right multipurpose rotary tool works for hobby and craft projects as well as some light DIY work, like removing rust from metal, making cuts in thin wood or metal and detail sanding.
Benefits of a Rotary Tool
The design of a rotary multi-tool makes it a valuable addition to your workshop:
- A single rotary tool lets you take on many different projects.
- The lightweight tool is easier to handle than a full-size power saw or sander.
- The compact design of a rotary tool fits in tight spaces.
- The small rotary tool bits and wheels are perfect for precision work.
Types of Rotary Tools
Rotary tools are available as battery-powered tools and corded tools. Each type has benefits and considerations.
Battery-Operated Rotary Tools
Choose a battery-operated rotary tool if you need high mobility:
- Most run on a built-in rechargeable battery, so no cord gets in your way.
- Some have a cord that connects to a mobile base and run on higher-voltage batteries that create more power and that can power other tools from the brand.
- Battery-powered models are typically more expensive than corded models.
Corded Rotary Tools
Choose a corded rotary tool if budget or runtime is a major factor:
- Corded rotary tools have the same versatility as battery-powered models, typically at a lower price.
- An electrical outlet gives you unlimited runtime and steady power.
- Depending on your work area, you might need the additional expense of an extension cord that fits tool manufacturer’s specifications.
Rotary Tool Project Types
- DIY rotary multi-tools let you do a variety of hobby, craft and light DIY work.
- Pen-style rotary tools are designed for specific tasks like engraving metal, glass, wood, stone and leather.
- Drywall cutout tools are specialized professional rotary tools for cutting gypsum wall board.
- Corded tools and models with high-power external batteries are better suited for large projects.
Features and Specifications for Rotary Tools
Understanding common features and specifications helps you compare models and find the best rotary tool for your projects.
RPM Ratings
RPM ratings tell you how fast the tool spins a bit or wheel when not cutting, grinding, etc. Different tasks, materials and bits need different speeds, but in general:
- Higher RPMs cut or grind more aggressively and create more heat.
- Lower RPMs are best for polishing, delicate materials and tasks that require more control or less heat.
Variable Speeds
Variable-speed rotary tools let you adapt the RPM to your bit and task. Wider RPM ranges give you more compatibility with bits and tasks.
Power
Higher voltage ratings and higher amp ratings tell you a tool has more power. While even higher-power rotary tools aren’t designed for tough projects, more power makes them more effective at the detail work they excel at. On a cordless model, a higher-capacity battery also lets you work longer.
Battery Included or Tool Only
Most battery-powered rotary tools include a built-in battery, but others might not include a battery. If you already have tools that use the same battery and charger type, a tool-only model can save you money.
Comfort
Comfort features are particularly helpful if you use the tool regularly or use it for long periods of time. A lightweight design, good balance and an ergonomic grip make the tool easier to hold.
Chuck Type
Models with a tool-less, universal chuck speed up bit changes and let you use a wider range of bits.
Included Accessories
Rotary tools often come with accessories, ranging from a few bits or wheels to get you started to an entire set of accessories and attachments suitable for dozens of light-duty DIY jobs and precision tasks.
Rotary Tool Accessories and Attachments
Rotary tool accessories give the tool its versatility, while rotary tool attachments make work easier and more accurate. Bits, wheels and attachments don’t necessarily fit all rotary tools, so make sure you purchase components that work with your tool.
Rotary Tool Accessories
Accessories are typically rotary tool bits and wheels suitable for light-duty tasks:
- Cutting wheels are available for wood, plastic, fiberglass, laminate, tile, screws, bolts, metal pipes and sheet metal.
- Grinding and sharpening wheels and bits grind welds, remove rust or sharpen chainsaw teeth.
- Sanding wheels and discs are available for smoothing wood, plastic, drywall and metal or for sanding contoured surfaces.
- Cleaning and polishing wheels and bits let you polish metals like copper, brass, pewter and stainless steel, as well as silverware, glass and ceramic.
- Routing bits let you shape or cut slots in wood workpieces.
- Engraving bits are available for carving and etching wood, glass, metal and stone.
- Accessory sets give you a variety of bit types along with a handy storage case.
Rotary Tool Attachments
Rotary tool attachments make using a rotary tool easier and improve control:
- A guide controls the depth the bit cuts into the workpiece.
- A shield directs sparks and debris away from you.
- A flexible shaft extends the reach of the bit and lets you work where the rotary tool won’t fit.
- A plunge router attachment works with a router bit to precisely cut mortises and create decorative edges.
- A right-angle head extends your reach and makes holding the rotary tool more comfortable for some tasks.
A rotary tool shares some applications with an oscillating tool, but there are differences between these tools. See our oscillating tool guide to learn what an oscillating tool is and the kind of work it can handle.
Rotary Tool Safety
When using any rotary tool, accessory or attachment, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and safety. In general:
- Wear eye protection and, depending on project, a respirator and hearing protection when using a rotary tool.
- Avoid loose-fitting clothing and jewelry and tie back long hair.
- Use only accessories and attachments designed for your tool, application and material.
- Set the tool to the correct speed for the bit or wheel and the application.
- Turn off the tool and, if possible, disconnect it from power before changing accessories and attachments and before adjusting or cleaning.
- Avoid letting the bit or wheel get pinched to reduce the risk of the tool kicking back at you.
- Let the workpiece, as well as the chuck and bit or wheel, cool before touching them with bare hands or allowing them to touch other surfaces.
Rotary Tool Key Points
Adding a rotary tool to your tool kit gives you the versatility to handle many hobby, craft and DIY projects. Here’s what you need to remember:
- With the right bit or wheel, a rotary tool can handle light-duty cutting, grinding, sharpening, polishing and more.
- Battery-powered rotary tools have the best mobility while corded rotary tools offer constant power.
- Variable speeds, high-power motors and universal chucks make a rotary tool more versatile.
- Corded rotary tools and tools with only a few accessories are typically less expensive.
- Follow the tool and accessory manufacturers’ safety instructions and wear eye protection when using a rotary tool.
Find a rotary tool and all the bits and wheels you need for precision work on Lowes.com. Or visit your local Lowe’s to see the available models. A Lowe’s Red Vest associate can help you find the rotary tool that suits your work, and all the accessories you need to make your work easy and efficient.
FAQ on Choosing a Rotary Tool
Get answers to some common questions to help you find the right rotary tool.
Should I Get a Corded or Cordless Rotary Tool?
Consider a corded rotary tool if you usually work indoors or in a shop or garage, if the work requires constant power for long periods of time, or if budget is a concern. Consider a cordless rotary tool if you need the flexibility to work just about anywhere and don’t want the restriction of a cord.
How Do I Choose a Speed to Use on a Rotary Tool?
In general, lower speeds are best for polishing and tasks that require precision, while higher speeds are good for aggressive cutting and material removal. However, different bits, wheels and materials require different speeds. Follow the tool and accessory manufacturer’s instructions for speed settings.
Can a Rotary Tool Cut Metal?
With the right cutting wheel, a rotary tool can cut thin metal pieces like sheet metal, metal pipe, bolts and screws. Make sure the cutting wheel is suitable for the material and use the speed setting the manufacturer specifies.
What Are the Most Useful Rotary Tool Accessories?
A set of bits and wheels that let you cut wood, metal, tile and plastic, as well as a variety of accessories that sand and polish, are the most useful accessories for a typical DIYer.
Should I Buy a Rotary Tool or an Oscillating Tool?
Buy a rotary tool if you do hobby and craft work and want to take on DIY projects that require light-duty cutting and sanding. Consider an oscillating tool if you primarily need a tool for detail cutting, sanding and scraping or larger tasks like cutting drywall for electrical boxes or undercutting door moulding for a flooring installation.