Here’s a quick look at the specs, features, pros, and cons of the Ridgid R8611501 hammer drill/driver. This information was excerpted from a tool test in the Spring 2015 issue of Tools of the Trade. The main story contains an overview plus runtime and power test data for all tools tested.
Ridgid R8611501
Battery: 18 volts; 4.0 Ah
Battery gauge: 4 bars; on battery
Weight (pounds): 5.21; with handle 5.76
Rpm: 0-450; 0-1,600
Hammer Bpm: 0-7,200; 0-25,600
Other Features: LED headlight with secondary switch; 8 3/8-inch side handle, onboard bit holder
Price: In R9200 combo kit $270
Includes: Tool as tested comes in combo kit along with impact driver; 2 batteries; charger; fabric duffel bag. (Tool also available in kit with compact 2.0 Ah batteries).
Country of origin: Tool and battery, China
Notes: Model R8611503 with 20% more torque will be added later this year.
Performance: Rated fair under heavy duty uses; better suited for moderate service. Performed in the bottom three overall. Tied for sixth in runtime. (See comparison tables in Main Story)
Comments: This tool couldn’t keep up with the competition, but its biggest foe at times was its own unpredictable performance quirk. Like many other Ridgid 18-volt cordless tools tested, this model’s battery overload circuit is too sensitive and shuts the unit off suddenly with no drop in rpm or other outward sign to warn the user to ease up.
Pro: LED headlight on base can be turned on without pulling trigger. Side handle attaches to tool without having to slide over bit and chuck.
Con: No belt hook, and no mounts for one. Long delay whenever the tool stalls is frustrating, especially when you need to back a stuck bit out.
