Ridgid 18V Brushless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver

The Ridgid 18V Brushless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver, model number R86115B, is a tool that has quickly become a staple in my workshop. Having used it extensively over the past few months, I’ve had the opportunity to put it through a variety of tasks, ranging from simple wood drilling to more demanding concrete applications. Here's my detailed take on this versatile tool.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the first things you notice about this drill is its robust design. The all-metal 1/2 in. ratcheting chuck, coupled with a metal gearcase, gives it a solid feel, instilling confidence in its durability. Despite its sturdy build, the drill weighs in at just 2.8 lbs., making it relatively easy to handle for extended periods.

The grip is covered in a gray rubberized material, providing a comfortable and secure hold. This is particularly useful when working on projects that require precision and control. The drill’s compact size (7.5 in. depth, 7.8 in. height, and 3.25 in. width) also makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces, which is a significant advantage when working in confined areas or overhead.

Performance and Power

The brushless motor technology in this drill is a game-changer. It offers up to 800 in./lbs. of torque, making it powerful enough to handle a wide range of tasks. I’ve used it to drill through dense materials like metal and masonry, and it performed admirably every time. The 2-speed gearbox, with a maximum RPM of 2,100, provides the flexibility to switch between high-speed drilling and high-torque applications, depending on the task at hand.

One of the standout features is the anti-kickback technology. This feature automatically shuts off the drill if the bit becomes jammed, preventing potential wrist injuries. It’s a thoughtful addition that enhances both safety and user experience.

Battery Life

The drill is compatible with Ridgid’s 18V batteries, and I’ve primarily used it with a 4Ah battery. The battery life is impressive, allowing me to complete extensive projects without needing frequent recharges. The brushless motor also contributes to longer battery life by reducing energy consumption.

Additional Features

The integrated LED light is a small but significant feature, especially when working in low-light conditions. It illuminates the work area effectively, ensuring you can see what you're doing with clarity. The reversible belt hook and bit holder are practical additions that enhance convenience, allowing you to keep essential bits and the tool itself within easy reach.

Usability

While the drill is not classified as a sub-compact tool, it strikes a good balance between power and portability. The auxiliary handle, which can be attached to either side, provides extra leverage when drilling into hard materials. However, the handle’s attachment mechanism could be more user-friendly; it requires disassembly for installation and removal, increasing the risk of losing parts.

Versatility

This drill excels in versatility. Whether you’re drilling into wood, metal, or masonry, it handles each material with ease. The hammer drill mode is particularly effective for concrete applications, making the job significantly easier. I recently used it to install a motorcycle lock in concrete, and the drill performed flawlessly, making the task quick and straightforward.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas where the drill could be improved. The size of the auxiliary handle feels disproportionate to the drill’s compact form, and it could benefit from a more streamlined design. Additionally, the bit holder trim on the bottom of the handle doesn’t fit perfectly, which is a minor flaw but worth mentioning.

Another point of contention is the Lifetime Service Agreement. While it’s a fantastic offering, the registration process can be cumbersome, and accessing previous registrations isn’t as straightforward as it should be. This can be frustrating, especially when you need to claim the warranty.

Conclusion

The Ridgid 18V Brushless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver is a powerful, versatile, and reliable tool that has earned a permanent spot in my toolkit. Its robust design, impressive torque, and thoughtful features like the anti-kickback technology and LED light make it a joy to use. Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as the cumbersome auxiliary handle and the challenging warranty registration process, the drill’s overall performance is outstanding.

I wholeheartedly recommend this drill to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its combination of power, durability, and user-friendly features make it an excellent investment for anyone looking to tackle a wide range of drilling tasks. Whether you're working on home improvements, woodworking projects, or more demanding construction tasks, this drill is up to the challenge.