Skil OS5920B-10 PWR CORE 20 Brushless 20V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit: problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-10

Summary

The most consistent complaint in 2026 tests is the crank-style blade change: one test called the mechanism “fragile” and “horrible”, another called it clunky next to Starlock [4][2]. Running costs are sandpapers and HCS blades; no prices for them were found in the sources, and there are no subscriptions. At $99.00-$109.99 the kit is the value pick for occasional work; a daily pro may prefer Milwaukee, Bosch or Fein for vibration control [4][2].

Common problems and fixes

Starlock blades do not fit — the tool uses Skil’s 12-pin OIS interface, so Bosch and Fein Starlock accessories are incompatible [5][2]. Fix: buy OIS accessories; not a defect.
No dust collection — none is included or sold by Skil for this model [5]. Fix: vacuum the dust by hand; not a defect.
Clamp lever stiff with gloved hands — happens when the head is dusty or hot [5]. Fix: clean the head and let it cool; not a defect.

Parts and consumables

HCS segment blade — included; same as above [6][2].

Yearly running cost

Not enough data. The consumables are sandpapers and HCS blades; no prices for them were found in the sources, and there are no subscriptions. The included 2.0Ah pack handled a day’s mix of short tasks — three door jambs, four drywall openings and shim cuts — with room to spare, so most owners will not buy batteries often [5].

When it is a good buy

Kit prices seen 2026-10: $99.00 at Acme Tools, $109.99 at Skil direct and at Ace Hardware, $109.00 at Global Industrial (marked down from $119.95); Concord Carpenter lists a $79 baseline [6][1][7][8][4].

At $99.00-$109.99 the kit is strong value for a homeowner doing occasional remodeling, repairs and punch-list work: brushless motor, 2.0Ah battery, charger, nine sandpapers and two blades in the box with a 5-year warranty [6][2].
Above $149 the older OS5937 is the better pick if vibration control matters: it sits at $149.99 on Skil’s site (sold out), claims 90% less vibration, and carries two LEDs, but is heavier at 2.3 lbs bare / 3.4 lbs with battery [1][3].
The Metabo HPT CV18DAQ4M at $89 was the best-value pick in Concord Carpenter’s 15-tool test if you want to spend less [4].
A professional who reaches for an oscillating tool every day should look at Milwaukee, Bosch, DeWalt DCS359 or Fein for vibration refinement [2][4].
Not the pick if you already own Starlock accessories — the OIS interface rules them out [5].