May 212013
Rockwell RK5140K Sonicrafter Hyperlock with Universal Fit and Constant Speed Control Oscillating Tool Kit
- Powerful 3.0-Amp motor with constant speed control
- Hyperlock tool-free blade changes with up to 1-ton of clamping force to prevent blade slippage
- Universal fit system adapts to fit most other brands accessories
- Variable speed dial for precision control
- Use to cut, saw, scrape, sand, shape, polish, and remove grout
The Rockwell RK5140K Sonicrafter with Hyperlock is three systems in one-making it the most efficient oscillating tool on the market. Hyperlock makes tool-less blade changes simple and easy with less confusion. The Hyperlock Universal Fit system allows for (1) quick and easy tool-less blade changes, (2) securely tightens blades with up to one ton of clamping force, (3) and accepts other brand blades with its universal fit system. No more searching around or shopping for the proper brand blade. Th
List Price: $ 199.99
Price: $ 144.99
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The new and improved Sonicrafter,
The Rockwell Sonicrafter X2 Model RK5140K is a sweet tool that leaves little to complain about.
First impressions: Tool boxes rarely get enough attention. A lot of thought went into the Sonicrafter case. There are two well-sized compartments in the lid for attachments. Inside is a single well which provides ample space for the tool and its cord. Opening the box for the first time requires the removal of four plastic wire ties. A utility knife will work, but pair of diagonal pliers makes the job safer.
The tool itself is ruggedly built with rubberized areas for a slip-free grip. The switch is firm, well placed, and stays in the on position. The speed control is recessed and easily rotated with a slide of a thumb. The X2 has a generous 10 foot cord (type SJ) that promises to have a good long life if not abused. The Velcro tie won’t last long, but it is a nice touch. I appreciate the attention to detail. The X2′s body is free of obstructions and easy to hold in a variety of positions. The entire tool weighs 3.3 lbs. and comes with a 2 year warranty.
Setup and use: The magic of the oscillating tool is that the blade doesn’t move very much (only 3.2 degrees). In order for the tool to do its job, the blade must be allowed to move while the body of the tool and the work piece remain stationary. Clamping or otherwise securing the work piece is essential. The X2′s 3.0-Amp motor with constant speed control is among the beefiest on the market. This provides ample power to keep the tool at a constant speed under load, and the extra size and weight help to keep the tool body from vibrating with the blade.
I’ve quickly come to appreciate the Hyperlock Universal Fit tool-free accessory mounting system. Blade changes are a snap when using the Rockwell horseshoe-mount blades and there are no loose parts to misplace. The mounting screw drops out quickly and easily for mounting Rockwell older style blades and blades made for other brands (virtually any brand will self-center and mount securely). The long lever snugs down the assembly for a very solid mounting. The lever provides ample leverage to break something, so be careful not to over-tighten the screw.
Maintenance: The instruction booklet says that there are no user serviceable parts inside. However, the brushes are easily accessible through a cover on the barrel. Swapping them out does not appear to be difficult. Replacing the power cord would be more challenging.
Recommendation: The Sonicrafter RK5140K is the latest entry into a crowded market. A survey of just two websites, HD and Lowes (Lowes carries Rockwell), turned up ten brands, some with several model offerings. Most require an allen wrench and a removable screw to attach the blades, but tool-free options are becoming more common. So far as I can tell, the power shear attachment is unique to the Sonicrafter. It works well and will come in handy for such things as trimming plastic underlayment for laminated flooring. Rockwell has clearly taken user feedback seriously and made significant improvements over the earlier Rockwell models. The excellent blade mounting system, competitive pricing and attention to detail makes the X2 a solid offering that is worthy of your consideration.
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|The Sonicrafter, versatile and handy,
Title: Versatile and Powerful Oscillating Tool
I have a full wood/metal shop, and I’ve been working wood since the late 60s. I love this Rockwell Sonicrafter power tool. If you haven’t yet used an oscillating tool, you are in for a pleasant surprise.
I visited Lowes and Home Depot for a hands-on examination of oscillating tools and accessories available. After I got the Sonicrafter, I discovered it is easy to use. I can cut and sand in places other power tools can’t reach, and it is safer than many common power tools. In addition to sanding and sawing wood, plastic and metal, with the appropriate accessory you can scrape, rasp, or polish.
Sonicrafter has a 3.0 amp motor, so power is never an issue. I tried to stall it by imbedding a bit in wood stock, but it just kept oscillating the tool and my hands with it. It is a well built, sturdy machine. The ten-foot power cord sure beats those six or eight foot cords that some tools offer.
I’ve been using the Rockwell Sonicrafter in every possible way. It has features not possessed by even the most sophisticated of the name brands.
In my opinion, the number one feature is that it accepts virtually any brand accessory, such as Fien, Porter Cable, Dremel (see photo), or other, without an adapter. So, this means you can select from your favorite brands, although, I found all of the Rockwell cutters performed as expected. Rockwell calls this the Universal Fit(tm) System.
Additionally, this model Sonicrafter doesn’t require an easily misplaced tool to change accessories. The built-in quick-change accessory locking mechanism holds the bit securely. The saws can be positioned at 45 or 90-degree offset, right or left, to function in those difficult to reach areas. Flush cutting is an extremely useful capability. I’ve used all the included accessories. I especially like the perforated sanding pad and Sonicrafter’s Sonishear scissors (see photo).
Of course, this small triangular sanding pad won’t replace an orbital sander for large expanses of wood, but when sanding in confined spaces and corners where an orbital sander won’t fit, it works smoothly and effectively with all grits, even against an inside edge. Selecting the proper speed is easy. When I sanded soft pine, no ridge lines appeared.
The scissors cuts through cardstock, corrugated boxes, vinyl floor tile, even thin aluminum. Cutting arcs and circles is especially useful for patterns or for those who are into arts and crafts. Surprisingly, the cut edges of corrugated box material are sharp enough to make a paper cut. So take care. I used it at all speeds, and was pleased at its performance. I’m presently using it for what used to be a time consuming model railroad scenery project.
Located near the Sonicrafter power cord end is the recessed speed selector, so it can’t be inadvertently bumped and changed while using the tool. It requires two fingers or a really huge thumb to adjust the speed.
The hard case is designed with the tool bit/cutters fitting in two secure compartments built into the lid. (See photo.) The main body of the tool case holds the tool, with the 10-foot cord either coiled nicely and secured with the attached velcro type band, or, me being in a hurry usually, it’s roomy enough that I just bunch the cord and stuff it in. Attached circular cutters fit in the case. To store it with a straight cutter, loosen the clamp and swing the cutter under the body. I don’t recommend this, because the cutters are sharp. On both ends of the case, steel clamps secure the tool-holding lid.
Finally, I don’t think it’s louder than the other brands, but with any power tool I wear shooters’ earmuffs, and always wear safety glasses. All it takes is one flying chip and an eye is lost forever.
I fully recommend the Sonicrafter to novice or expert craftsmen. It fills the need for many projects, and allows for flush sanding and cutting in tight spaces. The more I use it, the more applications seem to surface.
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|Rockwell Sonicrafter is a great tool to have.,
The Rockwell sonicrafter is an excellent tool to have. I have used it for undercutting door jambs and it has performed flawlessly. I have also used the Fein product which is also a good tool to have but the Rockwell is quite a bit less money. I also like the ease of blade change with the new hyperlock system. No need for wrenches to change blades. The blades are a little pricey but they seem to hold up quite well if you don’t force the work and let the tool cut on it’s own.
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