This Mastercraft Maximum Rotary Tool (Mastercraft’s version of RotoZip) was on sale for half price… $87.50, down from $175. Since I’ve had good success with Mastercraft Maximum in the past, I decided to give it a go… and so far I’m really impressed! With the included drywall bit, we’ve been able to make cutting out doorways, outlets, windows, lights, and vent openings MUCH easier. For outlets and vent openings, you simply insert the bit through the drywall in the center of the fixture, and then cut across until you hit the box or vent. You then pull the bit slowly out, and carefully cut just past the edge of the fixture. Finally, you push the bit back in and guide it around the outside of the box or vent.

For windows and doors, you just have to guide the bit along the edge of the 2×4 and hold the piece being cut out to keep it from falling and tearing the paper. To cut a circular light fixture opening, just screw on the circle cutting attachment, set it for the right radius, and cut away! Drywall bits have no cutting surface at the end of the bit, so it can travel easily along the edge of a metal box or 2×4 framing.

This tool came with a variety of attachments, including the plunge router base, snake attachment, circle cutter, angle grinder, and two different depth gauges, one with a handle and one without. All of the attachments snap on in seconds, making it easy to change cutting methods. The angle grinder uses a short flexible shaft to connect the rotary tool to the gears that run the angle grinder… I’ve already broken this shaft! After talking to the Canadian Tire guys, they recommend I call the number in the manual and order a replacement part for it… I will try that first thing on Monday.

Overall, I would HIGHLY recommend this tool if you plan to do a lot of drywall work. It cuts faster and smoother than a hand drywall saw, leaving a more professional finish. Add to that the fact that it can use any Dremel/Rotary tool bit with the included collets, and you should never need another rotary tool! Unfortunately, it was only on sale at one of the three stores here, and it’s no longer on sale… Keep an eye out for a good deal on it!

Categories: Photo Comment, Tools