Specifications

In search of the ultimate tools for
the locksmith’s tool box, sometimes
we find tools only we should use,
other times we borrow from the other
trades. In some cases, we find a tool
which could almost be designed
exclusively for locksmiths, but isn’t,
but it’s too good to throw away.
The SpirAcut is one such tool. It is
used heavily in the construction
trades. Simply, it’s designed to cut
rough openings in drywall, ceiling tile,
ceramic tile, wood, and a number of
other materials found around new
construction. What it doesn’t really cut
is metal.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
SpirAcut by Roto Zip Tool
Corporation, Cross Plains, WI., is a
rotary tool designed for the tradesman
to provide an alternative to the saber
saw. Cabinet makers might use it to
cut a circular hole into a counter-top to
fit a sink bowl. Plumbers might use it
to cut a hole in the wall or ceramic tile
to fit pipes through a wall. Electricians
or locksmiths might use the tool to cut
a passageway through a ceiling, wall,
or tile to run wire or install a gang
box.
The tool looks like a big brother to
the hobby rotary tool which many
locksmiths use from Dremel. This tool
could almost be considered a cross
between a hobby tool and a router.
OPERATION: The machine operates
with 120VAC at a no load speed of
30,000 RPM. Roto Zip also makes an
assortment of specialty bits to cut
through plywood, paneling, chipcore,
waferboard, plastic, fiberglass,
cultured marble, vinyl and aluminum
siding, cement board, ceramic tile,
and plaster. The most common
diameter of bit is 1/8” but bits which
are rated for this machine can be
used up to 1/4” by switching the
collet. Model SCS01Type1 has a
handle for easy
two handed
operation, the
RTM02Type2 is virtually
the same machine without
the handle. The handle
not only gives additional
grip, but also serves as a
storage place for the
wrench, bits, and extra collet.
One way to make a hole is to trace
the design of the hole, choose and
install the proper bit, adjust the depth
guide so that the bit is about 1/8”
longer than the material to be cut,
turn on the machine, drill a hole with
the bit on the inside of the larger hole
to be cut, and trace with the cutter the
design of the hole in a clockwise
direction. Attempt to start and finish
your hole at the top so that the
“discard” piece will not fall into the
rotating bit and shoot out upon
completion. With a little practice, your
completed holes should be as good as
your freehand drawings.
The tool is designed to be used
with its own or compatible bits, which
to date, does not seem to include a bit
for aluminum as found in storefront
doors, or steel as found on steel
clad doors. Bit
diameters
are to be exactly
.125” or .250”, not under-
sized. Many bits, nominally
1/8”, are actually .118” and may
prove a slipping hazard, and are not to
be used in this machine. Also, any bit
used in this machine must be rated to
the machine’s capacity of 30,000 rpm.
COMMENTS: This tool will make life
a little easier for the locksmith while
executing a number of his or her daily
tasks. It’s excellent for rough
openings and proves to be a time
saver. The holes are easy to cut,
whether cutting ceramic tile or
drywall.
SUGGESTIONS AND CONCLUSION:
I don’t believe that the locksmith trade
was actually considered in the
designing of this tool, but that’s okay.
With a few minor design modifications
and/or options, this tool would be an
indispensable locksmith tool. Right
now the tool is obviously a virtual
necessity for carpenters, drywall
specialists, and electricians. While
locksmiths could benefit from this tool
as is, the addition of adjustable
templates, similar to the depth guide,
which could help us make a
“measured” straight line for strike
plate installation, and bits to cut metal
to aid in the installation of electric
strikes, locks in aluminum doors, or to
tweak a miscut deadbolt cross bore
hole in a steel clad door, would be a
godsend.
Suggested retail list price for the
Roto Zip SpirAcut is: $99.00. For more
information contact Roto Zip at: 1-800-
521-1817.
Taking Industry
Products for a Spin
Around the Block
ROTO ZIP SPIRACUT
134 • The National Locksmith
DESCRIPTION:
Heavy duty rotary
cutting tool.
PRICE:
$99.00
TEST DRIVE RESULTS:
Does a fine job rough
cutting most construction
materials. It's excellent for
rough openings whether
cutting ceramic tile or
drywall.
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