Various surgical tools are provided with multi-axis articulation joints and with the ability to rotate distal to the joint. In one embodiment, a surgical tool is provided having an elongate shaft with an end effector disposed at a distal end of the elongate shaft. The end effector can have first and second jaws configured to grasp tissue and a sled or cutting element configured to advance through the jaws and cut tissue therein. A multi-axis articulation joint can be formed on the shaft or between the shaft and the end effector. The joint can allow articulation of the end effector in multiple directions. The end effector can be configured to rotate distal to the multi-axis articulation joint about a longitudinal axis of the elongate shaft. Methods for allowing rotation and articulation of the end effector are also provided.