Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver Pushes Performance Forward
The Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver is part of the new generation of brushless tools showing up at The Home Depot. The updated Ridgid brushless high-torque hammer drill made some significant improvements over Octane. However, the Ridgid R862312 is the second step in the new generation. Should you replace your current Ridgid impact driver? We’ll help you decide.
Pros
- Smaller tool profile
- Improved speed and torque specs
- New self-tapping assist mode
- Improved LED visibility
Cons
- No significant drawbacks
Check out how this model did head-to-head against Kobalt’s XTR!
Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver Performance
Side by side, the Ridgid R862311 and R862312 share a few similarities but under the hood, there are some definite improvements. Both feature brushless motors but this latest model is a bit faster and more powerful. It has a top speed of 3,400 RPMs and an impact rate of 4,300 IPM. Additionally, it generates 2,400 in-lbs of torque for demanding applications.
Similar to the previous model, this impact driver has three standard speed modes and now includes an additional Self-Tapping assist mode.
| Speed Mode | No-Load Speed |
|---|---|
| Low | 800 RPM |
| Medium | 2,000 RPM |
| High | 3,400 RPM |
| Self-Tapping Mode | 2,000 RPM |
For a real-world comparison, we ran our GRK Fastener RSS speed test. We find out the average time it takes an impact driver to fully drive an 8-inch RSS screw flush into stacked OSB subfloor.
The Ridgid R862311 averaged 11 seconds while the updated R862312 needed just 10 seconds. At face value, this isn’t a huge difference but over the course of time, seconds add up.
Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver Design Notes
Size and Weight
As I mentioned earlier, these tools are very similar in design but there are some subtle improvements. The R862312 is 5.1 inches from end to end—about 1/4-inch shorter. The big deal here is that the shorter head length allows for better light coverage from the LED work light located on the foot. Previously, this was a pain point for us but this minor adjustment has made a noticeable improvement.
From a pure ergonomic standpoint, Ridgid kept the same Hex Grip rubber overmold and there is no change in the tool’s total weight from the previous model.
Additional Features
- One-hand bit insertion and spring bit ejection
- Reversible belt hook
- Compatible with all Ridgid 18V batteries
Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver Quick Comparison
| 18V Brushless R862312 | 18V Brushless R862311 | |
|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | 3400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Max Torque | 2400 in-lbs | 2300 in-lbs |
| Impact Rate | 4300 IPM | 4200 IPM |
| Length | 5.1 inches | 5.4 inches |
| Bare Weight | 2.5 lbs | 2.5 lbs |
Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver Price
The Ridgid R862312 kit is on the shelves of your local Home Depot for $169. The kit includes a 2.0Ah Max Output battery, a single port charger, and a hardshell plastic case. Ridgid backs this impact driver with a 3-year limited warranty and their standard Lifetime Service Agreement.
The Bottom Line
After handling these tools side by side, it’s pretty clear that while the changes to the new model aren’t monumental, they are certainly meaningful. Reducing the total length and the addition of the self-tapping mode really went a long way towards fine-tuning an already capable tool. Not to mention, the bump in overall power is sure to help speed things up during your next project.
Ridgid 18V Brushless Impact Driver Specifications
- Model: Ridgid R862312
- Power Source: Ridgid 18V battery (Max Output recommended)
- No-Load Speeds: 0-800/2000/3400/2000
- Max Torque: 2400 in-lbs
- Impact Rate: 4300 IPM
- Length: 5.1 in.
- Weight: 2.5 lbs (bare), 3.4 lbs (with 2.0Ah battery)
- Warranty: 3 years, Lifetime Service Agreement with Registration
- Kit Price: $169
