Tool Box Buzz

RIDGID recently introduced their new 18V sub-compact brushless 2 piece combo kit and sent a kit our way to test and evaluated on the job site. The sub-compact tools are 30% lighter, helping to reduce fatigue.  The compact design decreases the tool size by up to 35% allowing users to work in tight spaces.

All the new RIDGID Subcompact tools are 100% compatible with all RIDGID 18V batteries and tools. This combo kit comes with R8701 Drill/Driver, R8723 Impact Driver, (2) 2Ah Batteries, Charger, (2) Belt Clips,(2) Bit Clips, and Bag.

RIDGID 18v Sub-Compact Brushless Drill/Driver – Model R8701

The RIDGID 18v Sub-Compact brushless drill driver did not disappoint when throwing a heavy task at it. We all know that drills can make holes. What we care about are the size they make and the total amount holes we can get per battery charge. We ran two tests on the drill/driver.

Testing the drill/driver included drilling holes with a 1″ auger bit through two pieces 2″x4″ wood. The test proved that these subcompact tools still pack a heavy punch. We were able to drill 28 holes with the auger bit on a fully charged 2.o Ah battery.

After ample rest time for the drill to cool down we switched to another fully charged 2.0 Ah battery and tested the drill/driver with a 1-1/8″ spade bit using the same size lumber. We were able to get 25 holes cut before dying out on the 26th cut. The drill was considerably warm after both of these tests.

RIDGID Drill/Driver Manufacture Specs

• 30% More Compact
• 30% Lighter Weight
• All Metal Gears
• 24 Position Clutch Ring
• Chuck Capacity: 1/2 in.
• No-Load Speed: 0-450 / 0-1,750 RPM
• Max Torque: 400 in.-lbs
• Brushless Motor Technology
• Interchangeable Belt Hook and Bit Holder
• LED Light

RIDGID 18v Sub-Compact Impact Driver – Model R8723

The one tool you will always find us using on the job site is an impact driver. They are so versatile when it comes to the job site. While the majority of the time we are using them for fastening there are also other uses for them. We also use them for drilling holes. During our testing we used the impact to see how many holes we could drill out with the same 1-1/8″ spade bit that we used on the drill/driver test. We were able to get 19 holes through the doubled up 2×4.

We also used the sub-compact impact driver to install cabinets in one of our kitchen remodels. The small compact size and it’s reduced weight really made the installation of the smaller upper cabinets less cumbersome. Working over head with a heavy impact is tiresome even for the seasoned pros on our crew.

RIDGID Impact Driver Manufacture Specs

• • 35% More Compact
  • 30% Lighter Weight
  • Quick-Release Hex Collet
  • High Torque Output
  • Collet: 1/4 in.
  • No-Load Speed: 0-2,900 RPM
  • Max Torque: 0-1,800 in.-lbs.
  • Brushless Motor Technology
  • Interchangeable Belt Hook and Bit Holder
  • LED Light
  • Impacts Per Minute: 0-4,200 IPM

Overall Impression

We all know reducing size and weight of cordless power tools is important for to us. It lessens fatigue and makes our jobs easier when faced with small areas we often find ourselves working in. If you are on the RIDGID platform this kit is an absolute no brainer. We have said time and time again that RIDGID power tools are the hidden gem in the construction industry. Their prices are extremely reasonable, their tools are rugged enough to handle some of the toughest challenges we’ve thrown at them, and their Lifetime Service Agreement is second to none. This kit will definitely has a place in our cordless tool arsenal.