Ridgid Launches 18V Battery-Powered String Trimmer Just In Time For Spring
While Ridgid is definitely not a new name in the world of power tools, you might be surprised to hear they’ve made the jump to OPE. This first run of battery-powered yard equipment includes a blower, a 12-inch chainsaw, and today’s star of the show—the Ridgid 18V 14-Inch String Trimmer.
Ridgid 18V String Trimmer Performance
- No-Load Speed: 0-5200/6200 RPM
- Line Size: 0.095 in.
- Max Cutting Swath: 14 in.
- Feed Type: Bump
Ridgid utilizes a rear-mounted brushless motor and a universal direct drive connection rather than having a power cord run through the shaft to the head. The biggest advantages here are that this trimmer easily breaks down into two pieces for easy storage, however, it’s not designed as an attachment system.
Much like other trimmers, Ridgid features two cutting modes with no-load speeds of 5200 RPM and 6200 RPM that let you choose between maximum power or longer runtime. These are pretty competitive speeds for a residential model and the 0.095-inch line helps make quick work of this overgrowth.
This trimmer performed well trimming the St. Augustine and Baihaia grass around our shop. However, we did notice a drop in RPMs when we encountered more fibrous types of grass and weeds. In these instances, we just made a couple of extra passes before moving on.
Editor’s Note: We initially reported that this trimmer is attachment capable. That is incorrect. The trimmer breaks down for easy storage and transportation but is not designed to use with attachments.
Ridgid 18V String Trimmer Design
- Model: Ridgid R01201
- Power Source: Ridgid 18V battery
- Overall Length: 71-1/2 in.
- Shaft Type: Straight
- Weight: 7.9 lbs. (bare), 9.5 lbs. (with 4.0Ah battery)
Personally, I’m a big fan of Ridgid’s grip ergonomics. This string trimmer features a textured rubber overmold that really feels incredibly secure in my medium-sized hands. The three-finger trigger houses a spring-loaded safety that prevents accidental activation during transport.
All in all, this trimmer weighs just under 10 pounds with the kitted 4.0Ah battery in place. With the bulk of the weight towards the back, the trimmer head is very easy to maneuver while trimming around landscaping fixtures.
Line changes are incredibly simple with Ridgid’s speed load head. Just feed the line through the trimmer head and use either the included tool or your hand to wind the spool clockwise. This eliminates the need to fully disassemble the trimmer head simply to replace the line.
If, at some point, you do need to disassemble the trimmer head, twist the head to the “unlock” position and pull it apart. This lets you access the internal spool for maintenance purposes or to clear a tangled line.
Additional Features
- Adjustable line cutter
- Compatible with all Ridgid 18V batteries
Ridgid 18V String Trimmer Price
Ridgid set the retail price for this kit at $229 from The Home Depot. The kit includes the trimmer, an 18V 4.0Ah battery, and a single-port charger. If you already have batteries, the tool-only package is $189. As with all Ridgid cordless tools, this trimmer comes with a Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase.
The Bottom Line
Looking at the overall design and performance specs of this first-generation string trimmer, there are definitely some noteworthy features. We love that they came right out of the gate with the strength to run 0.095-inch line as well as a quick-load trimmer head. While this kit is a little on the pricey side compared to others in its class, it packs a lot of value into a pretty no-nonsense package.
Click here to register your Ridgid 18V tools!
