Ridgid Torch Light

Lighting up your workspace can make all the difference when it comes to efficiency and safety. As someone who frequently tackles various DIY projects and maintenance tasks, I’ve tried my fair share of work lights. Enter the Ridgid Torch Light (model R8694B), a tool that quickly became indispensable in my toolkit.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the first things that struck me about this light is its ergonomic design. The handle, featuring Ridgid's Hex Grip texture, is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip, even if your hands are sweaty or greasy. The handle’s design ensures that the light doesn’t slip out of your hands during use, which is a small but significant detail that enhances the overall user experience.

Another standout feature is the light's relatively compact size and lightweight construction. Weighing just under a pound, it’s easy to carry around, and its dimensions (11.10 inches in height and 3.31 inches in width) mean it fits comfortably in tight spaces. This is particularly useful when working in confined areas like under a sink or inside a vehicle engine bay.

Lighting Performance

The Ridgid Torch Light delivers a robust 340 lumens of brightness, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. Whether I’m working in a dimly lit garage or dealing with a power outage, this light ensures that I have ample illumination. It offers two brightness settings—high and low—controlled by a simple trigger switch. This flexibility allows me to conserve battery life when full brightness isn’t necessary.

The LED light provides a consistent, bright light without the need for bulb replacement, a feature that adds to its practicality. The lifetime LED light means you won’t have to worry about changing bulbs, adding to the tool’s longevity and reducing maintenance hassles.

Versatility and Adjustability

What truly sets this work light apart is its swivel head, which can be adjusted to almost any angle. The adjustable LED lamp head moves up and down and swivels, allowing me to direct light precisely where it’s needed. The head’s movement is controlled by a series of clicks, ensuring it stays firmly in place once positioned. This adjustability makes it incredibly versatile for a wide range of tasks, from illuminating a specific area in a workshop to providing overhead lighting in an attic.

The integrated hook is another thoughtful addition. It allows me to hang the light overhead, freeing up my hands for other tasks. This feature is particularly useful when working on machinery or conducting inspections in elevated areas. However, one improvement I’d love to see in future models is the addition of a magnetic base, which would offer even more mounting options.

Battery Compatibility and Performance

The light is compatible with all 18-Volt Ridgid batteries, which is a huge plus if you already own other Ridgid tools. This compatibility means I can easily swap batteries between tools, ensuring that I always have a charged battery ready to go. The heavy battery base adds stability, preventing the light from tipping over, which is especially useful when working on uneven surfaces.

Battery life is impressive, with the light running for hours on a single charge. The tool also features a low battery warning, where the light begins to blink, indicating that it’s time to replace the battery. This feature prevents the sudden inconvenience of the light dying in the middle of a task.

Durability and Build Quality

Ridgid is known for its robust build quality, and this work light is no exception. The Torch Light feels solid and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. The rubberized handle not only enhances grip but also adds a layer of protection against drops and impacts. It’s clear that this tool is built to last, which is further backed by Ridgid’s Lifetime Service Agreement, provided you register the tool.

Practical Applications

In my experience, the Ridgid Torch Light has proven useful in a variety of situations. During a recent power outage, it served as an excellent emergency light, bright enough to illuminate an entire room. When working on my car, the adjustable head allowed me to focus light precisely where needed, making the task much easier.

For professional use, such as for plumbers or maintenance technicians, this light is a game-changer. Its ability to stand on its own or hang provides much-needed flexibility in different working environments. The light’s versatility and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any professional’s toolkit.

Room for Improvement

While the Torch Light excels in many areas, there are a few minor drawbacks. As mentioned earlier, the addition of a magnetic base would greatly enhance its versatility. Also, while the light itself is excellent, the initial package does not include a battery and charger, which are sold separately. For those new to Ridgid tools, this means an additional investment is required to get started.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ridgid Torch Light (R8694B) is an outstanding tool that I highly recommend. Its ergonomic design, powerful and adjustable lighting, and robust build quality make it a top choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The tool’s compatibility with Ridgid’s 18-Volt batteries and the peace of mind offered by the Lifetime Service Agreement further add to its appeal.

While there are minor areas for improvement, these do not detract significantly from the tool’s overall performance. For anyone in need of a reliable, versatile, and powerful work light, the Ridgid Torch Light is an excellent investment. Its ability to adapt to various tasks and conditions makes it a valuable asset in any toolkit.