Tool Box Buzz

Ridgid JobMax Pneumatic Multi-tool Starter Kit

Ridgid has another power option to the JobMax lineup. This time it’s pneumatic. You people with dedicated shop air systems are going to love this thing. Rob first introduced this to us back at the start of summer and now I’ve got my hands on one. I’ve had it in my shop for a few weeks now and always have it hooked up and at the ready.

Features and Specifications

• Speed: 0-18,000 OPM @ 90 PSI
• (No load speed)
• Max Operating Pressure: 90 PSI
• Air Consumption @ 100% Duty Cycle: 18.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI
• Weight (base only): 1.5 lbs.
• Motor 0-18,000 OPM
• Lightweight – 1.5 lbs. (air base only)
• Variable Speed Control with forward and reverse modes
•  Hex Grip™
• Compact Head Profile
• 4 Directional Head Positions – Adjustable for better access in tight spaces
• Tool-Free Quick Connect Interface – Easily attach and detach the right head for the right application
• Swivel Quick Connect Air Fitting – For less hose tangles
• Universal Adapter – Compatible with most popular multi-tool accessories

Evaluation and Performance

Sanding a linen cabinet face frame

First off, the sound. It makes the trademark air drive sound that is so soothing to those of us who also enjoy grease under the nails from time to time. Out of the box I was expecting it to vibrate my hand off like most of the rest of the oscillating multi-tools. This one vibrated much less. It was pleasant to use and has a positive grip feel. Before purchasing a person should know that this thing takes a lot of air. It will run on smaller compressors but the duty cycle is shorter. When it does have a full complement of air it rips though. I used it to buzz off pvc conduit, cut a few slots in a woodworking jig, and sanded some face frames. It was always plugged in and ready to go. It’s comfortable in the hand and has decent balance. I like that there is now one more power option for the versatile JobMax system.

Improvements

My only beefs with this tool are with the oscillating head and not the pneumatic drive. I think this tool could benefit from a tool-less accessory change. Ridgid at least put a hefty bolt in place that doesn’t vibrate loose. Also maybe a few more accessory blades. A scraper blade would be useful. It comes with a universal adapter so I can at least use other brand blades.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t a tool that will be gracing every tool trailer in the country but it really shines in the shop environment. If you have a decent size compressor or a whole shop air system, you won’t be disappointed with this latest addition to the JobMax line. Leave it attached to your hose reel, you’ll reach for it more often than you think. And like most RIDGID tools, lifetime service agreement applies.

Where To Buy

You can pick up the Pneumatic JobMax at the Home Depot for a modest price of $99.

1 Comment

1. Jason D Pothoof

   September 2, 2016 at 1:14 pm

   Thanks for the article I just ordered the tool only from homedept. I have a the cordless and corded version of the jobmax and love them. I Just wanted to let you know that ridgid does have a head for tool-less accessory changes as well as a scraper blade as i have both of them.

   Reply

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