As you know, there are a lot of choices out there when it comes to professional power tools. Ridgid has always been one of the brands that I call a sleeper brand. It’s like that car you pull up next to at a light. You notice it but nothing stands out. Then the light turns green and the car takes off. That when you realize there was something special about that car, it was fast, sounded awesome and performed like a race car. Well, that is how I perceive Ridgid Power Tools and especially the Ridgid Reciprocating Saw.
Over the years we have done plenty of tools fights. Each and every time, Ridgid is one of the top performers. Then there are the contractors. When we talk to them, the guys who are using Ridgid, rave about them. They love the power, the price, the performance, and the warranty.
So why do I call it the sleeper brand? Primary because it’s not a mainstream brand. You don’t see it advertised everywhere. It’s not always the forefront tool, but those who use it, love them and swear by them. Which brings me to the Ridgid Reciprocating Saw.
Even me, who deals with power tools, Ridgid still surprises me. When I first saw this saw, I thought it looked cool, but after I used it, I fell in love with it for a variety of reasons.
Ridgid Reciprocating Saw Information
- Name – Ridgid 18-Volt OCTANE Cordless Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw
- Model – R86448B
- Price – $129
- Where to Buy – The Home Depot
- Reviews – Ridgid Power Tool Reviews
Ridgid Reciprocating Saw Features
This saw is designed around a brushless motor and is part of the Ridgid Octane series. The brushless motor provides a 3,000 SPM with a .75″ stroke length and all with only weighing 4.6 lbs.
The saw can be powered by any of the Ridgid 18V Batteries.
The saw is only 15.98″ long by 7.32″ tall.
If you are familiar with the Ridgid grip, they use the same Hex Grip which has become very popular.
The saw features an option for orbital or non-orbital action.
The blade locks in by twisting the chuck and inserting the blade. Once it’s in, the blade stays in place.
The saw uses a fixed shoe that does not pivot or adjust in length.
Below the main grip, there is a protective bar.
Ridgid designed this for true one-handed operation. On the main handle, you have the variable speed trigger, the lock out switch and the LED control light.
Ridgid Reciprocating Saw Impressions
Over the years we have seen one-handed reciprocating saws. While the other saws are good, I have to admit, this one is my favorite so far. Besides power, I love the ease of operation. The tool is well balanced, not heavy and truly easy to operate with one hand. For this reason, it’s easy for those tight spaces or overhead work.
One of my favorite features is the blade lock system. Other brands use this and it’s very reliable and you don’t have to worry about the blade coming loose or coming out.
Another feature I like is the bar that protects your hand. Yes, in tight spots it might be a hinder but the bar is nice not only to protect your digits but for those hard to reach places you can always slip your other hand in to hold onto the tool.
Ridgid Reciprocating Saw Wrap Up
The bottom line, this is another sleeper from Ridgid. The tool is strong, powerful and easy to use, not to mention the warranty that blows everyone else out of the water., If you need a one-handed reciprocating saw, the Ridgid is a must-have.
*This is part of the THDPRoSpective program
