Small Ridgid Builds Keep Drill and Driver Light and Accurate
This year, it looks like Ridgid is paying special attention to the subcompact market with releases that focus on less weight, increased maneuverability, and providing access to tighter spaces. Case in point: the Ridgid 18V Sub-Compact Drill and Driver Combo Kit. This set boasts a 30% size and weight reduction from the standard Ridgid 18V brushless drill and impact driver.
10-Second Summary
- 30% lighter
- 30-35% more compact
- Brushless motor
- All metal gears
- 2-speed settings 0-1,750 RPM (drill)
- 1,800 in-lbs of torque (impact)
- Impact driver has quick-release hex collet ejection
- Lifetime Service Agreement
- Price: $199
How Much Smaller?
Ridgid emphasizes that their subcompact series features “lightweight design, heavyweight performance,” with the 18V sub-compact drill and impact driver combo kit being the flagship example of this mantra.
How does this work itself out practically with these tools? In the case of size reduction, the drill/driver 30% less than the 18V Ridgid R86009 brushless compact drill.
When compared to the 18V Ridgid R86039 impact driver, this subcompact version punches in at a 30% lighter weight and a 35% more compact frame.
Less weight and a more compact frame mean you can work longer. The smaller head gets you into tighter spaces more easily.
We did notice that, particularly with the impact driver, those smaller dimensions don’t affect the handle. You get the same comfortable hex grip as always. Proportionally, however, the battery feels pretty robust in relation to the tool itself. All this is to say that, while the business ends of these tools do look pretty tiny, the butt end of these tools look thick. If these tools were models, they’d be wildly popular on Instagram.
Heavyweight Performance
How does the Ridgid 18V Sub-Compact Drill and Impact Driver Kit perform? Both tools feature brushless motors and work with all Ridgid 18V batteries, including the Octane lineup.
The drill has the expected High and Low gear/speed settings to match power with the application you have at hand. It maxes out at 1,750 RPM in High. With its variable speed and 24-position clutch, you have precision at your fingertips. It also features all-metal gears so we expect decent durability when you bear down.
The impact driver cranks out up to 1,800 in-lbs of torque, and it features a quick-release hex collet for fast loading and unloading of bits.
Both tools in the Ridgid 18V Sub-Compact Combo Kit feature reversible belt clips, bit holders, and LED work lights.
Pricing
The Ridgid 18V Sub-Compact Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit retails for $199 at your local Home Depot or online. In addition to both tools, the kit includes two 18V 2.0Ah batteries, a charger, two belt hooks, a double-ended bit, a single-ended bit, and a bag.
Like all of the Ridgid lineup, the Ridgid R9780 comes with a Lifetime Service Agreement when you register it within 90 days of purchase.
Shop AmazonRidgid 18V Sub-Compact Drill and Impact Driver Combo Specs
- Kit Model: Ridgid R9780
- Motor: Brushless
- Dimensions: 6.17 x 7.83 in. (Drill/Driver); 4.67 x 7.48 in. (Impact Driver)
- Drill Speed: 0-1,750 rpm
- Max Driver Torque: 1,800
- Warranty: Lifetime Service Agreement
- Price: $199
I’ve read on some of the Home Depot reviews about a trigger delay, has anyone had issues with a delay after touching the trigger?
Hey all, wondering if you could post specifically what the impact driver weighs. Everywhere says 30% lighter, but I can’t find weight… Thanks!
Thanks for the great review! What are the chances rigid will ever sell the impact driver separately? Without the kit or batteries.