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Ridgid R842301 18 Volt Lithium-Ion Impact Driver Review
July 23, 2011 06:33– by Thomas Gaige

Ridgid R842301 18 Volt Lithium-Ion Impact Driver
Product: 18 Volt Lithium-Ion Impact Driver
Manufacturer: Ridgid
Value Rating: 7
Performance Rating: 7
Buy It Now!

Pros: Lithium-Ion Batteries, light weight

Cons: Difficult torque control, only available in combo kits

Features & Specs
  • Voltage/Amps: 18V
  • Charge Time: 20-45 minutes
  • No-Load Speed: 2,400 rpm
  • Impacts per min: 3,100 ipm
  • Torque: 1450 in.-lbs
  • Variable Speed: Yes
  • Tool Weight: 4 lbs 1oz (w/ battery)
  • Noise Level:
  • Warranty: Limited 3 Year with Lifetime Service Agreement
 

What is able to drive 3” deck screws into pressure treated lumber without twisting your arm off or stripping the heads off your fasteners? An impact driver of course! Trust us, you need one of these. The Ridgid R842301 18-Volt Lithium-Ion impact Driver packs quite a punch for its size. With 1450 in-lbs of torque (quite good among the competition) and 3,100 impacts per minute, this driver can get the toughest jobs done.

Build Quality

The Ridgid R842301 impact driver features a die-cast metal gear box for durability. The remainder of the body is made up of tough orange plastic. The grips are made of over-molded grey rubber that provides a sure grip. Bit changes are a snap with the 1/4 in. Hex Quick Coupler and the rear of the handle has space to snap a single bit into a metal storage gripper.

Ridgid 18V impact driver

Ergonomics and Use

The Ridgid R842301 Impact Driver has good balance and feel.  Light-weight 18-volt lithium-ion batteries are what come with the driver. The over-molded rubber on the back of the handle and on the trigger face helps ensure this tool stays in your hand and under your control. The variable speed trigger pull is comfortable easy to control. The maximum torque developed with the driver is a stated 1450 in-lb with 3,100 impacts per minute. Currently the Ridgid R842301 Impact Driver is only available with combo kits. We would like to see this available as a separate item to allow customers the greatest flexibility in the tools they purchase.

Conclusion

The R842301 Impact Driver is a great addition in the combo kits that includes it. We are sorry to see that it is not currently sold separately. Given the size and power, this impact driver should be able to drive almost anything.


For more information please visit http://www.ridgid.com/