RIDGID® JobMax System Review
RIDGID® JobMax System
This year we continue to see more movement in the 12 volt cordless category and multi-tool arena. Rigid sent us their new JobMax System to test which combines a 12 volt lithium-ion battery with a tool that runs several tools including; right angle drill, right angle impact driver, multi-tool head for cutting, sanding and scraping, auto-hammer head and a ratchet head.
We tested the JobMax Multi-Tool Starter Kit along with the Right Angle Drill/Driver Head and the Right Angle Impact Driver Head.
JobMax Features
- 12V Base Unit powers interchangeable head.
- Drilling: 3/8” Right angle drill chuck – 550 RPM/120” lbs
- Driving: Right angle impact head– 650” lbs
- Fastening: Ratchet head – 300” lbs
- 12V 1.5 Ah pack for industry leading run-time
- Variable Speed Trigger
- LED Light for improved visibility in tight spaces
- 30 minute fast charging
- Warranty: RIDGID® Lifetime Service Agreement. The industry’s only FREE Lifetime coverage. Free parts. Free service. Free batteries.
The JobMax System utilizes a base tool and 12-volt Li-Ion battery pack. Interchangeable heads just snap into the top of the base unit allowing you to quickly and easily switch between tools.
Right Angle Drill/Driver
I’ve got all kinds of drill/drivers in the workshop so having a right angle drill/driver in the 12 volt platform is pretty cool. The drill/driver had no problem sinking long screws and drilling holes with regular drill bits and spade bits. While the right angle/drill driver is convenient I do have one issue with this and the impact driver below. The location of the trigger is really far from the head which makes the balance a bit strange. Most cordless right angle drill/drivers on the market have the trigger up closer to the head which makes one handed use much easier.
JobMax Right Angle Impact Driver
The JobMax System also offers a right angle impact driver as shown above. Again the idea of having a right angle impact driver in your tool box is pretty nice. We tested it driving 3 inch long screws and some 1/4 inch lag screws. The JobMax had no problem driver both sets of fasteners. Again the balance is a bit strange with the trigger so far from the head but it works just fine with two hands on the tool.
JobMax Multi-Tool
Everyone needs a multi-tool in their bag of tricks! The JobMax Multi-Tool is able to cut, scrape and sand with similar attachments to the other brands on the market. In fact, this multi-tool comes with a universal adapter that allows you to attach most other brands cutting and sanding accessories. We tested the Multi-Tool cutting some sheet metal, wood and small nails. We also testing the sanding pad which works really nice for getting into tight corners. I was very happy with the chuck on this tool, it held tight without loosening like some other multi-tools seem to have a problem with.
12 Volt Lithium-Ion Battery
The 12V Li-Ion battery performed very well. It charges in just 30 minutes and lasted longer than I anticipated during driving, cutting and sanding. The battery system on this tool seems to be one of it’s real strengths. I would like to see a second battery pack be standard with tools like this although the quick 30 minute charge time does help.
Overall Thoughts
We’ve been testing lots of 12 volt cordless kits this year and quite a few multi-tools. The Rigid JobMax System combines both of these trends into one versatile system which is able to perform quite an array of tasks around the shop and house. The JobMax has plenty of power, rugged construction and an assortment of accessories to choose from.
While I think the JobMax is a capable tool I think there will be some folks that find the tools balance a bit cumbersome. Honestly if you don’t own a multi-tool and you want a cordless version then this system offers a great amount of flexibility that others just don’t offer. This system is reasonably priced and able to do the tasks at hand.
If you’re interested in purchasing the JobMax System it’s available at The Home Depot. Check out the following links for more information and pricing.
About the author
Todd Fratzel
Todd Fratzel is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz, and the President of Front Steps Media, LLC, a web based media company focused on the Home Improvement and Construction Industry.He is also the Principal Engineer for United Construction Corp., located in Newport, NH. In his capacity at United he oversees the Residential and Commercial Building Division along with all Design-Build projects.He is also the editor of Home Construction & Improvement.
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