July 25, 2025, 12:48 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
From the hospital to the workshop: An invention by the company Fein contributed to its success story. myHOMEBOOK author Stephan Lamprecht takes a closer look at the company and its successful product.
In 1967, the company Fein from Schwäbisch Gmünd developed an oscillating saw for doctors. This saw could cut through plaster casts without injuring the patient’s skin. The device laid the foundation for one of the company’s most successful products: the “Multimaster.”
Founded in the 19th Century
The history of Fein dates back to the 19th century. In 1867, brothers Wilhelm Emil and Carl Fein founded a “Mechanical Workshop” in Stuttgart. There, they developed induction devices, fire alarms, and hand drills.
The “Multimaster”–A Success Story Begins in the Hospital
The innovative oscillating saw didn’t stay in the hospital for long. By 1970, Fein had developed it into a body saw for the automotive industry. From there, the path to the “Multimaster” was short. As the company writes on its website, this first multi-tool became a real bestseller. Over five million units are now in use worldwide.
Anyone who thinks that such a product can’t be further optimized is mistaken. The newer models feature an anti-vibration system. The decoupling of the motor from the housing makes the work less tiring.
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Where Does Fein Produce?
Fein’s headquarters is located in Schwäbisch Gmünd-Bargau. More than half of all employees work there. According to our research, the company also maintains production sites in Asia and North America. However, it was not possible to determine which devices are produced at which location. Unfortunately, our press inquiry regarding details about the manufacturing went unanswered.
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Diverse Product Range for Professionals
Fein doesn’t limit itself to oscillating tools. The product portfolio today includes various categories: drilling and screwing, grinding and polishing, cutting and sawing, as well as multi-tools. In the distinctive orange-black housing, the company also offers these devices:
- Cordless drill drivers and impact drivers
- Angle grinders
- Jigsaws and band saws
- Core drilling machines for metal
- Wet and dry vacuums
Together with the company Bosch, a compatible tool holder for multi-tools was developed, called “Starlock.” For battery-operated devices, Fein relies on the “Ampshare” system, initiated by Bosch Professional.
Where Can You Find Fein Tools?
Fein sells exclusively through specialist retailers. The tools are now available in 45 countries worldwide. A pillar of the sales strategy is the brick-and-mortar trade with selected specialist retail companies. The products are also available in many online shops.