Professional Tool Reviews for Pros

Thanks to the size and performance of the Ridgid 18V SubCompact Right Angle Drill, it’s a tool that fits more than just cabinetry and custom built-ins. Our testing proved it can confidently handle larger bits and fasteners with ease. This opens it up for HVAC, VDV, plumbing, electrical, and other trades that regularly work in close quarters. Because it’s pretty easy on your budget, it’s a great value for folks who work alone or who want to outfit a crew that’s already on the Ridgid 18V platform.

Ridgid’s original JobMax tool system featured some pretty interesting attachments making it a handy all-in-one solution for homeowners. While the multi-tool design was certainly a unique idea, there were a few drawbacks and it left some room for improvement. The Ridgid SubCompact right angle drill is taking the place of its JobMax predecessor as a stand-alone tool in their 18V cordless lineup.

To get a first-hand understanding of this right angle drill’s capabilities we put it through a few basic tests here in our shop. Using an array of grips and hand positions, we quickly sank several screws ranging from 1-inch to 3-inch into pine 2×4 studs using the drill’s 1900 RPM top speed.

Challenging the high-speed torque, we chucked up a 1-inch spade bit and a 3/4-inch self-feed auger bit and made a series of holes in the same stud. To our delight, the drill maintained RPMs and left behind acceptably clean boring with both bits.

If you run into drilling or driving that requires more muscle, Ridgid packs 375 in-lbs of torque and 500 RPM into the low gear. Those are really solid numbers for a right angle drill of this size.

This right angle drill stands 11 inches tall without a battery and the compact head and chuck measure 3.5 inches front to back. As a bare tool, it weighs right at 2 pounds and jumps to 3 pounds with the addition of a 2.0Ah MAX Output battery.

One of the most valuable standout features is its ability to accept a 2-inch long standard 1/4″ hex drive bit deep into the chuck so that only the tip of the bit sticks out. This is a big deal when space is limited and you need to make the most of the drill’s compact head length.

The Ridgid 18V subcompact right angle drill retails for $139 as a bare tool and $189 kitted with a 2.0Ah Max Output battery and charger. Ridgid backs this drill with a Lifetime Service Agreement as long as it’s registered within 90 days of purchase.

Thanks to the size and performance of the Ridgid 18V SubCompact Right Angle Drill, it’s a tool that fits more than just cabinetry and custom built-ins. Our testing proved it can confidently handle larger bits and fasteners with ease. This opens it up for HVAC, VDV, plumbing, electrical, and other trades that regularly work in close quarters. Because it’s pretty easy on your budget, it’s a great value for folks who work alone or who want to outfit a crew that’s already on the Ridgid 18V platform.

To check out the full Ridgid 18V cordless lineup, click here.

Having worked in the automotive and metalworking trades, Josh has even found himself core drilling commercial properties for purposes of surveying. His knowledge and love of tools are exceeded only by a greater love for his wife and family.

A fan of all things that can stretch him mentally, Josh quickly dives into new products, tools, and product testing with ample amounts of both enthusiasm and precision. We look forward to many years of growth alongside Josh as he settles into his role at Pro Tool Reviews.

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Professional Tool Reviews for Pros