Ridgid 18-Volt OCTANE Cordless Brushless 3-Speed 1/4 Sheet Sander

Power tools have always been a cornerstone of any workshop, and the Ridgid 18-Volt OCTANE Cordless Brushless 3-Speed 1/4 Sheet Sander (model R86064B) is no exception. As someone who frequently tackles woodworking projects, I was eager to see how this sander performed, particularly given its impressive array of features and the promise of cordless convenience.

Initial Impressions and Build Quality

Upon unboxing the Ridgid sander, the first thing that struck me was its solid build. The tool feels robust and well-engineered, which is reassuring for anyone who plans to use it extensively. It comes with a sandpaper assortment, a dust bag, and a hose adapter, which are nice touches that add to its versatility right out of the box. The front grip guard is a thoughtful addition, providing a secure and comfortable grip, which is crucial for control during extended use.

Performance and Usability

The Ridgid sander operates on an 18V battery, making it compatible with other tools in the Ridgid lineup. I found this particularly convenient since I already own several Ridgid tools and have multiple batteries on hand. The sander features three-speed settings—high, medium, and low—allowing for a good degree of control depending on the task at hand.

During my testing, I used the sander on various materials, including hardwoods and softwoods. The high-speed setting was excellent for aggressive material removal, while the low-speed setting proved invaluable for more delicate tasks like evening out wood filler or knocking off sharp corners. The variable speed control is a standout feature, offering flexibility that many single-speed sanders lack.

Dust Collection

One of the most impressive aspects of this sander is its dust collection capability. Ridgid claims up to 90% dust collection, and in my experience, it lived up to this promise. The compact dust bag efficiently captured a significant amount of dust, keeping my workspace cleaner and reducing the need for frequent clean-ups. Additionally, the sander is compatible with common vacuum hose sizes, which is a boon for larger jobs. Attaching it to a shop vac made a noticeable difference in maintaining a dust-free environment, which is not only cleaner but also healthier.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Comfort during use is another area where the Ridgid sander shines. The tool is well-balanced and designed to minimize vibration, which can be a common issue with power sanders. I was able to use it for extended periods without experiencing the usual hand and wrist fatigue. This is particularly important for anyone who spends a lot of time sanding, as it can significantly impact productivity and comfort.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, and the Ridgid sander is no exception. Using a 2.0Ah battery, I found that the run time was somewhat limited, lasting around 15 minutes of continuous use. However, switching to a 4.0Ah battery extended the run time considerably, making it more practical for longer tasks. It's worth noting that having multiple batteries on hand can mitigate this issue, allowing for uninterrupted work by swapping out batteries as needed.

Areas for Improvement

While the Ridgid sander has many strengths, it is not without its flaws. Some users have reported issues with the tool shutting off unexpectedly during use, which can be frustrating. In my experience, this seemed to occur when the sander was under heavy load or when used with a vacuum attachment. Ensuring the battery is fully charged and avoiding excessive pressure during sanding can help mitigate this issue, but it is something to be aware of.

Another minor gripe is the sandpaper clamping system. While it generally holds the paper securely, I did notice that it can occasionally slip, particularly during more aggressive sanding. Ensuring the paper is properly aligned and securely fastened can help, but it is an area where Ridgid could improve the design.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ridgid 18-Volt OCTANE Cordless Brushless 3-Speed 1/4 Sheet Sander is a solid addition to any workshop. Its cordless convenience, variable speed control, and excellent dust collection make it a versatile and practical tool for a variety of sanding tasks. The ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended use, and the compatibility with existing Ridgid batteries adds to its appeal.

However, the occasional issues with unexpected shut-offs and the sandpaper clamping system are worth noting. These are not deal-breakers but are aspects that potential buyers should be aware of. Despite these minor drawbacks, the sander's performance and features make it a worthwhile investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Ridgid 18-Volt OCTANE Cordless Brushless 3-Speed 1/4 Sheet Sander? Yes, particularly for those who already own other Ridgid tools and have compatible batteries. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and the convenience of cordless operation combined with its performance capabilities make it a valuable tool for any woodworking project. Just be prepared to manage the occasional hiccup, and you'll find this sander to be a reliable and efficient addition to your toolkit.