I’m a daily Sawzall user, and I’m always happy when I get to use a new style or model to see how they compare. Typically I don’t have a lot of opportunities to use Ridgid tools unless they’re sent to me to test, so I’m really happy to get to try this one out!
First Impression
I’ve always loved the feel of Ridgid tool in my hands, since my early days of apprenticeship, back when everybody still had Ni-Cad batteries in their drills! The feel of Ridgid in your hands is distinct, I don’t know why that is. I think they put a lot of thought into the feel of the tool in your hand, and make it a point to have a certain bulkiness and texture to the touch so you remember how it feels above other tools. This has ALWAYS been a thought of mine when holding a Ridgid tool. If your name is Ridgid – your tools better walk the walk, and from the touch, they feel as if they do.
What I like about this specific saw is that it is small and compact. It’s designed to be a one-handed saw, rather than a full-sized reciprocating saw being so big and heavy that it requires two hands to use. This is very small, ergonomic, and easy to use. It’s really just a battery powered keyhole saw. This is a saw that I would bring up on top of a ladder with me and not worry about working above my head and dropping the tool – well not as much as I would with a full-sized sawzall.
All reciprocating saws come with a guard around the blade-carrier, to keep fingers and material away from the carrier. The wire-type guard on this saw is pretty standard, and similar to other brands. In fact all of the features on this saw are similar or up to par with other top pro tool brands like Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita.
This saw cuts with plenty of power, though being a light-weight version of a heavy duty saw, you do have to put more ass behind it if you’re cutting thick material. But really it’s meant for cutting smaller, lighter things, or anything that only requires one hand.
Info from HomeDepot.com
RIDGID introduces the 18-Volt OCTANE Cordless Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only). OCTANE Tools feature high performance brushless motors and advanced electronics, providing best-in-class power and intelligence. This tool, when paired with an OCTANE battery, delivers 3X the power and 30% less vibration in high demand applications compared to our previous corded unit. This tool features best-in-class in demolition cuts with the option to use orbital action for wood cuts and non-orbital action for metal cuts. With registration, this tool is backed by the Industry’s Only Lifetime Service Agreement. The One-Handed Reciprocating Saw includes a reciprocating saw blade and an operator’s manual. Battery and charger are sold separately.
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OCTANE Tools deliver maximum power and performance with 2.5X the power compared to the previous unit
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Brushless Motor Technology delivers over 50% more runtime, more power, and longer motor life
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On/off orbital action for faster wood cutting (orbital) or for metal cutting (non-orbital) applications
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Ergonomics built for user comfort and easy use in tight spaces
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30% less vibration for more control
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3X the power for ultimate demolition work
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Sight line blower directs debris away from the cut line for increased visibility
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Grip light engages LED light independently of the trigger to illuminate work space
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100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18-Volt Batteries and Chargers
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Backed by the Industry Leading Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
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Includes: (1) 18-Volt OCTANE Cordless Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw, reciprocating saw blade, and operator’s manual
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Battery and charger sold separately
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RIDGID: Powerful. Durable. Professional.
Summary
I really like this saw, if I was a full-time Ridgid user I would definitely use this as my primary saw. I don’t have enough Ridgid tools to justify keeping it on my truck so it won’t get used as much as it deserves. It is a quality built saw, powerful, and well thought out. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend anyone rigged up for Ridgid try this thing out if you’re tired of lugging around their full-sized recip saw.
For more detailed information on this Reciprocating Saw CLICK HERE .
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I acknowledge that The Home Depot is partnering with me to participate in the promotional program described above (the “Program”). As a part of the Program, I am receiving compensation in the form of products and services, for the purpose of promoting The Home Depot. All expressed opinions and experiences are my own words. My post complies with the Word Of Mouth Marketing Association (WOMMA) Ethics Code and applicable Federal Trade Commission guidelines.