If you’ve ever bought a fresh pack of multi-tool blades only to get back to the jobsite and discover they don’t fit your machine, you aren’t alone.
Multi-tool blade fitment is one of the most confusing parts of owning an oscillating saw in the UK. With competing standards like Universal OIS, Starlock, StarlockPlus, and StarlockMax, choosing the right accessory requires knowing exactly what your machine’s arbor will accept.
In this guide, we break down the difference between Starlock and Universal OIS blades, explain backwards compatibility, and reveal whether Starlock blades will fit your DeWalt, Makita, or budget multi-tool.
Looking for a new multi-tool? If you are still deciding on a machine, check out our core buying guide to the 5 Best Oscillating Multi-Tools UK to see which models feature native Starlock vs OIS interfaces.
The Two Main Blade Fitment Systems
Modern oscillating multi-tool arbors fall into two main design camps:
Universal OIS
- Flat 12-pin flange / horseshoe
- Held by screw/cap or quick-lever
- Budget-friendly, widely available
Starlock System
- 3D recessed star profile
- Snap-on 3-second quick release
- Maximum torque & zero slip
Let’s have a closer more detailed look because this is an important decision for you to make.
1. Universal OIS (Oscillating Interface System)
Originally created by Bosch as an open standard, OIS features a flat arbor with a 12-pin circular pattern or an open-back horseshoe shape.
- How it mounts: The blade lays flat on the tool head and is clamped down using a bolt/flange or a spring-loaded tension lever.
- Popular Tool Brands: DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Erbauer, Ryobi, Parkside.
- Best For: High-volume daily cutting on a budget. Replacement blades from brand like Saxton, SMART, and Erbauer are cheap and widely stocked at Screwfix and Toolstation.
2. The Starlock System (Starlock, Plus & Max)
Jointly developed by Fein and Bosch, Starlock replaced the older flat OIS design with a rigid 3D star-shaped recessed profile.
- How it mounts: Instead of laying flat, the 3D star cup snaps directly onto the tool’s mechanism in under 3 seconds without you ever having to touch a burning hot blade.
- The Benefit: Zero flex or torque loss between the motor and the blade edge, resulting in faster cutting speeds and reduced handle vibration.
- Popular Tool Brands: Fein, Bosch Professional (GOP series).
Quick Compatibility Matrix
Not all Starlock blades are identical. Starlock is broken down into three distinct performance tiers to stop users putting heavy-duty industrial blades onto underpowered DIY tools:
| Blade Fitment Type | Fits Standard OIS Tools? (Makita/Parkside) | Fits DeWalt? | Fits Starlock Tools? (Bosch/Fein) | Max Blade Length / Application |
| Standard Starlock | Yes (Backwards compatible) | Yes (With adapter ring) | Yes | Standard timber, plasterboard & metal |
| StarlockPlus | ❌ No | ❌ No | Yes (Requires StarlockPlus rated tool) | Deep plunge cuts & heavy-duty timber |
| StarlockMax | ❌ No | ❌ No | Yes (StarlockMax tools only like Fein SuperCut) | Extreme masonry, sealant & heavy metal demolition |
| Universal OIS | Yes | Yes | ❌ No (Will not fit new Starlock-only tools) | All standard cutting, scraping & sanding |
Will Starlock Blades Fit DeWalt Multi-Tools?
This is the single most common question UK tradespeople ask: Yes, but only standard Starlock blades, and you must use an adapter ring.
DeWalt multi-tools (like the popular DCS356N and DCS355) use a quick-release clamping lever designed for slotted/horseshoe blades.
- Standard Starlock: Fits DeWalt if you use the small silver adapter flange washer that comes included in the box with your DeWalt multi-tool.
- StarlockPlus & StarlockMax: Will NEVER fit a DeWalt multi-tool. The deep 3D center ridge prevents the DeWalt clamp from closing securely.
Starlock vs Universal: Which Should You Buy?
Buy Universal OIS Blades If:
- You want the lowest cost per blade when doing rough demolition work.
- You use cordless multi-tools from DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, or Parkside.
- You prefer buying bulk multi-packs from third-party brands like Saxton or SMART.
Buy Starlock Blades If:
- You own a Bosch Professional or Fein Multimaster machine.
- You carry out continuous flush cuts or delicate detail work where low vibration is critical.
- You want 3-second, tool-free blade changes without handling hot metal blades after heavy cuts.
Summary Checklist Before You Buy Blades
Before hitting “Buy Now” on Amazon or Screwfix:
- Check your tool arbor: If it has a raised 3D star pattern, it’s Starlock. If it has flat pins or a central bolt, it’s Universal OIS.
- Check the blade packaging: Look for the Starlock logo. Avoid StarlockPlus or StarlockMax unless your machine specifically supports them.
- Don’t lose your DeWalt adapter: If you own a DeWalt, keep the small circular adapter ring in your kit bag so you can accept standard Starlock blades on site!