STUBBY IMPACT BATTLE - Milwaukee M12 vs M18 vs Ridgid Sub-Compact

Which small wonder will reign supreme? We line up the Milwaukee M12 FUEL Stubby against the M18 FUEL Compact Impact and the Ridgid Sub-Compact impact wrench.
Ridgid Sub-Compact $139: homedepot.sjv....
M12 Stubby + Batt $179: homedepot.sjv....
M18 Compact $199: homedepot.sjv....
Keep current with our great content:
Facebook: / shoptoolreviews
Twitter: / shoptoolreviews
Instagram: / shoptoolreviews
KZbin: / shoptoolreviews

[@thevikingbeard89]

The m12 line is just making it easier for a ton of technicians from all trades. It's lighter, smaller and more versatile. There will always be a need for a big 1/2" impact, drills, etc but for most jobs, the m12 is more convenient.

[@Paul-vn5mi]

Even more so when you get old and have to carry these tools 8-12 hours a day. Weight and balance is key.

[@ryannorris5713]

Thanks for pushing these tools to their limit, a lot of reviews will go up to their rated spec but not beyond. Thanks for showing what they can really do!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Our pleasure. We don't like to utterly destroy things, but we don't mind pushing the limits a bit. We know that's what you're going to do in your shop or garage. Thanks for watching.

[@sammares7554]

Xx

[@xXCigarXx]

@@Shoptoolreviews way to put out top notch reviews. I just picked up the m12 stubby expecting it arrive by the end of the week,I was impressed.

[@Mattmazz77]

M12 stubby is 1 of the best investments I have ever made. The fact that it is competing with the 18v guns is crazy. I'm a big Milwaukee fan I originally had the M18 fuel had financial issues and lost most of my tools. Ended buying the M12 stubby thinking that I would eventually have to go back to the M18 which I still want want eventually but I'm more than happy with the stubby it never stops amazing me.

[@redrocket5183]

almost like 350 cc yammies smokin 750 hondas in the 1970's

[@Paul-vn5mi]

Stubby is 12v where as the other two are larger 18v tools. IMO the stubby is the BIG winner here.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

There is no doubt, the Stubby holds its own, even being a 12V tool. Thanks for watching.

[@Bankallday]

Stubby has to do with the size, not the battery output

[@turboduckhead6179]

Would you go for a 3/8 or 1/2 stubby?

[@Paul-vn5mi]

@@turboduckhead6179 Personally I went with a 1/2” as it’s more suitable for my needs. I use the Milwaukee ratchet and right angle impact for 3/8 and under because usually when you go down to 3/8 you need clearance. IF funds are an issue or you have a particular set of impact sockets, go with whatever suits your needs. Most definitely pair whichever drive you’re going with, with a good set of impact sockets. Oh and a 6ah battery. That’s key!

[@Bankallday]

@@F-4Phantom2 I know, I have one

[@mfill5043]

I'm really curious if using a higher battery on the Ridgid would make a difference as opposed to the underpowered 1.5 .

[@andrews8722]

Absolutely would make a difference. A higher output battery will give more amperage to the tool. You can test this by listening to the tone difference in a drill with a 1.5ah battery vs a 4 or 5 ah battery.

[@Yukikazehalo]

The 3.0 Octane battery would have been a much better choice. They should have also thrown in that new Ryobi compact impact too just to see how the whole TTI product line performs.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

It will make a difference, but not as much as most think. We'll produce a video very soon showing the different batteries. Thanks for watching.

[@mfill5043]

@Sam S I don't agree, I've tried to make 1.5 inch holes with a spade, the fully charged 1.5 battery kept shutting down vs the 4.0 which just powered through it.

[@casemodder89]

The 1,5Ah might feature the same red sanyo 80A cells that dewalts 10,8V series used earlier. So i'd prefer a high amp cell battery with lower capacity then a one-row 3Ah. Not talking about a double or triple row battery with 2 - 3Ah each row.

[@warrioralumni08]

Hard to choose the m18 compact, or any 18v, over the m12 stubby.

[@GamingwithIinfected]

Only reason I have the m18 compact is that I also like the 1/2 M18. I have the m12 series as well for the cordless rachet. The m12 vs m18 stubby is kind of a wash but if you want other m18 tools as well the m18 stubby is just fine.

[@devilefan]

I'm more impressed with the fact that a 12 V is keeping pace and outperforming actually... The Ridgid 18 V.... it just proves what I've said many times before that Milwaukee put out the best power tools on the market....Their 12 V system is phenomenal....I have many of their 12 V tools myself and they are just awesome

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Milwaukee definitely continues to innovate and push the bar in the powertool industry. Thanks for watching.

[@carlwilson3299]

Yes on there 4.0 ah battery and Ridgid on a old 1.5 or 2.0 battery and the 18v had there high out put 5.0 yes great test

[@devilefan]

@@carlwilson3299.... and you're still comparing an 18 V to a 12 V so no matter what it is still impressive on Milwaukee's part

[@pauleugene8286]

I also wish you would have used an octane battery, or at least a 6ah battery for the Ridgid. I think it would have made a difference. When talking price, the M18 Milwaukee is listed at $219, while the Ridgid driver is $139. Ridgid's warranty is also pretty good.

[@honestdad8944]

Octane is dead. Try to LSA one. They only offer you 4.0 AH to replace a Octane 3.0 and 5.0 AH to replace a Octane 6.0. The blue tooth was a faulty gimmick and the 6.0’s suffered from over heating. I had 25 of them. Every single one shuts off and over heats with half capacity left. I used them all hard. Pure junk. The Octane wouldn’t have added anything to the stubby as it’s not an Octane tool. Shift red and forget the orange. LSA is a joke.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We'll release a new video soon with larger batteries in each. Thanks for watching.

[@firstlast5139]

@@honestdad8944 "Octane is dead" is that just an opinion or did Ridgid actually tell you that? If as you said Ridgid is in fact providing Non-Octane batteries as LSA replacements for Octane batteries then that is a real concern. Bluetooth if properly implemented is actually a great idea IMHO, especially if you have a lot of batteries. However the Ridgid Bluetooth app requiring you to signin to a user account for more functionality, seems to be an unnecessary requirement IMHO. None of the tool vendors seem to have good Bluetooth app designs yet IMHO, but perhaps in the future they will be more user friendly with better functionality. Perhaps most tool users just want a functional , reliable and long lasting tool; but all of that may be an elusive achievement in Brushless Tools considering the price most buyers are willing to pay for a tool.

[@wytale2004]

Have to admit, when I started buying power tools it was the Ridgid Octane brand. Now that it is gone, I am venturing over to the M12 platform and will possibly have some M18 tools as well. Was truly blown away by the M12 Fuel Stubby. Blown away. Just an awesome tool that I can add at some point.

[@btqy]

Watch the videos of the same type of Milwaukee 3/8 will beat a 1/2 inch anvil. Another set of videos from a different group did their own test and the 3/8 beat the 1/2 inch.

[@EAGLINWRX]

Exact same as me! Ridgid octane is what I had, once they stopped that I moved over to m12 lineup and might dip into some m18 later

[@NelsonRodriguez-kk8hg]

I'm a Dewalt fan boy but man am I impress with the m12 stubby. I might end up getting one. Great video.....

[@BDauto86]

It is a bad lil dude, prob my favorite gun.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, the M12 Stubby is an awesome little impact. Thanks for watching.

[@dvxAznxvb]

Yeah it’s the only m12 tool have so it works like a lighter impact driver too

[@mikeroberto2531]

Be careful. I was always a dewalt guy until I bought the m12 stubby. Theres a lot more red in my shop now.

[@mdinelle]

I was on the fence about getting the new M18 stubby or the M12, but the deal I got for the M12 was too good to pass up(bare tool + bonus 4.0 XC battery for 200 canadian loonies). My old store brand 20v impact wrench was only able to remove lugnuts after I had used my breaker bar to loosen them. With the M12, I don't need to do that. This little guy does not disappoint!

[@centurionhomeinspectionsin2253]

You need to get rid of the adapter. That steals torque. Need all 3/8” or all 1/2”

[@Shoptoolreviews]

It doesn't rob as much as you think. We'll prove this in a later video. Thanks for watching.

[@gmtech26358]

As a technician I can't tell you the times I've had to swap out an extension, adapter or universal joint to get the bolt/nut to break free.

[@engelberthumperdinck2235]

@@gmtech26358 absolutely

[@nickbrege6695]

@@Shoptoolreviews Where is this video? The adapter does steal torque despite what you think...

[@AlexTer221]

Check out "ClientGraphics" KZbin video from 7 months ago as of this moment. He tests that

[@millibarman]

IMO If you make a ‘stubby’ that is tall and has a giant battery pack on it ... it is no longer a ‘stubby.’

[@Shoptoolreviews]

This is a very good point.

[@dtm0524]

if you're talking about the M18, that's why they called it "compact" instead of "stubby"

[@shadowopsairman1583]

If I need something smaller than my Dewalt I would have a ratchet.

[@rooboii]

Put a cp3.0 HO battery on there and boom

[@handymanny3224]

I am a huge Milwaukee fan boy but I have to admit that the Rigid is still a pretty powerful little guy for the price point. I recently switched over from Ryobi to Milwaukee (Only had the 1/2 Impact wrench and Impact Driver) because of the compact size of the M12 tools, but Milwaukee sure is pricey. I see right now Home Depot has a pretty sweet sale for the Rigid 3/8 subcompact impact wrench for $159.99 which includes tool, battery, charger and bag. I think if I had originally been in the Rigid system instead of Ryobi it would have been a tougher call to switch from Rigid to Milwaukee. On that note, I am EXTREMELY happy with the M12 tools I own (3/8 Cordless Ratchet, 1/2 Stubby and Impact Driver) and have not had a need for any M18 as of now (as a diy/mobile mechanic). I hope my information helps some people looking to buy some tools during this Black Friday event :)

[@Shoptoolreviews]

That's some really good feedback, and I would have to agree with it all. You're right, Ridgid has some great tools, especially for some of the prices out there. You're also right, that Milwaukee can get pricey, but they are aiming for the Pro. It's hard to go wrong with the M12 ratchet and M12 stubby. These are two tools that get used in our shop all the time. Thanks for watching.

[@Davieed2727]

Hats off to Milwaukee nice power, but damn look at how compact that rigid is

[@Shoptoolreviews]

No doubt, the Ridgid definitely has a slim head on it. Thanks for watching.

[@ranchotools]

I did get the new mid torque 600 ft pounds of nut busting torque, its owesome

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, this new Mid-Torque is pretty awesome. Thanks for watching.

[@Quietvibes07]

The high output batteries on the m12 stubby really make that thing come alive.

[@lilpelusa]

I felt like it was personal when you said. Great job little stubby 😂

[@drewnashty]

If Milwaukee should have made the Compact angled slightly just like the Stubby, would get a little more use out of it especially around the steering and suspension components

[@scottelia8723]

that’s amazing for such small impacts. Milwaukee is so underrated!!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

They really are amazing for the size and power. The Ridgid is a great little impact too. Thanks for watching.

[@ionutbozga3633]

Overrated*

[@ionutbozga3633]

@@scottelia8723 i am also a dewalt fan i have a 18v impact driver since 2015 and it never let me down and it gets used every day.

[@shadowopsairman1583]

Erm overrated.

[@shadowopsairman1583]

@@scottelia8723 I bought a Dewalt Kit that came with the 1/4" apex chuck, with case, 2 batteries and charger in 2014. Got water in in, on it and still kept ticking, batteries are still perfect too.

[@ManCaverTools]

love that impact test man. this a good channel and Im glad I found it

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Glad you enjoy it! Thanks for watching.

[@dewaltman9377]

Did you subscribe

[@dewaltman9377]

👍

[@dewaltman9377]

😎

[@jordancornwell4548]

Put the 6.0 in the m12 and one of the 5.0's in the Ridgid and see what kind of difference it makes

[@njbazzkikr]

Ya I have the m12 stubby the 6.0 battery gives a big jump in power over my 4.0. He was only using a 3.0 so definitely did not use the stubby to its potential

[@jordancornwell4548]

@@njbazzkikr yeah after I got mine I got the 6.0 battery and it made a big difference. All those people saying that it doesn't make a difference need to be shown they are wrong.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We'll do another test real soon. ;)

[@juanc5149]

Keep in mind that the half inch anvil on the m12 is a huge advantage when using a half inch socket. So if anvils were equal, the Ridgid might of out of performed the m12 stubby.

[@brettwalkom948]

Doubt it

[@jascospeed]

Anvil for anvil the Milwaukee wins..

[@juanc5149]

@@brettwalkom948 What is there to doubt? Adapters kill torque.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Not as much difference as you're thinking. Yes, adapters and anvils make a difference, but not a lot. Yes, a u-joint or worn-out swivel-socket will make a big difference, but straight adapters don't rob a lot of power. We'll produce a video very soon showing these differences. Thanks for watching.

[@brettwalkom948]

@@juanc5149 like shop tools just said not as much as you think

[@ridemfast7625]

Your other video proved that for the Ridgid, battery size does matter and makes a significant difference in power. I believe the increase was over 30% with the 6ah.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

You are correct, we were very surprised at the increase from the Ridgid. It was definitely substantial. Thanks for watching.

[@jacksmith2315]

The reason they went so far over what was expected is because of the size of the socket. I doubt they were tested and rated with that big of a socket. The bigger the socket the more mass it has the more force its going to apply. I doubt you would see those numbers with a 10mm or 1/2 socket

[@josephthomas439]

Will either of these remove lug nuts and maybe suspension bolts? I'm thinking probably requires the mid torque models

[@dh3790]

Ridgid using a compact battery vs the XC batteries on the Milwaukees is a flaw in the test for sure...

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, we know. We're just flawed. Thanks for watching.

[@Highstranger951]

You would think it would still outperform the 12 volt tool...

[@4673962]

The ridgid really impressed me. The price, size and lsa. For the money to me it is the winner.

[@Zorion7777]

🤔

[@Shoptoolreviews]

The Ridgid is definitely a good deal and it's a great tool. Thanks for watching.

[@anoldocastro4792]

I have ridgid sub compact i love good power

[@batmanreviews934]

Great video! Love watching these! Id like to see the 6.0 in the m12 and m18 and see how much of a power increase there is in the ho batteries

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We will do some additional testing the with different batteries in an upcoming video. Thanks for watching.

[@batmanreviews934]

@@Shoptoolreviews awesome man keep up the great work

[@WeldingForJesus]

I havn't noticed much difference between 4 and 6 in power with mine (M12), more in runtime though.

[@batmanreviews934]

@@WeldingForJesus I expected as much from the m12 the m18 I've seen gains with the 6.0 8.0 and 12.0 batteries

[@WeldingForJesus]

@@batmanreviews934 Yeah, that sounds logical. In M18 I have the high torque, and I havn't really encountered anything that it won't rip out despite battery model. I tried 5, 9 & 12.

[@kswis]

I am fairly certain the same amp/hr batteries would even things up. I know when I use my 6ah battery in my m12 it turns into a bit more of a beast. The tools that have more power to use will in turn be more powerful. I feel bad for the stubby that perhaps it wasn't fairly compared. It would have been quite a bit more ahead of the rigid and much closer for the m18

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We shall see very soon. Thanks for watching.

[@troydennis8561]

Like to see if the new m18 would improve numbers in 1/2" drive WITHOUT the loss of the adapter

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We are trying to get the 1/2" anvil version in for testing as well, so we can see if there are any differences. Thanks for watching.

[@rolandm9750]

These are all impressive for their size. It's no surprise the M18 would run away with it but the Ridgid is incredibly impressive at the *price* . Got it for less than $70 *CAD* using a return trick/"hack"--around $50 USD!--cannot be beat for the money! The M12 stubby, even using a promo/return trick, seems about $138 CAD over here. So it's about 2x the price for pretty much the same performance and lesser warranty. I've also heard some people not getting nearly the shown performance out of the M12, but haven't really heard a bad word about the Ridgid except people that talk about the bulky battery (yes we all get it).

[@Shoptoolreviews]

That's a great deal that you got. You're right, all 3 of these impacts are great choices for a compact impact wrench. You should be happy with the Ridgid. Thanks for watching.

[@leonneon4751]

the reason the 12v performed so well coz the other two had additional converting heads on them, the hammering effect was reduced in half, the 18V would literally outperform the 12v easily!!!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Sure, sounds good, but that's not the case. Thanks for watching

[@rprokopow]

Have to agree adding attachments decreases the torque. I can zap lugs off my truck with my m12 stubby but if i add an adapter or extension it wont even take off the lugs. Unfare comparison. Idk about half the torque but it 100% reduces torque. Thats why discount tire uses torque sticks when zapping lugnuts on with an impact

[@InNerdimensional]

Dude, I just got the 3 piece Subcompact ridgid kit. The impact driver will tighten 13/16 lugs to 120 ft/lbs. And it will remove 100-110. So I know the wrench will surpass the 200 mark on tightening. At the same time my mid torque does it in speed 1

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Excellent. Thanks for watching.

[@BLKSG6]

Removing a bolt torqued to 250 ft-lbs doesn’t require 250 ft lbs. if the tools have a 250 ft-lb rating, they SHOULD be able to remove a bolt torqued to 300+

[@kevinlechner7722]

6.0 really makes that stubby come alive

[@AndyCrumbaker]

Did you ever do a video pitting the m12 stubby vs the rigid stubby and the rigid using newer max output batteries? 2ah or 4ah? I’m curious if the rigid was hurt, and if so by how much, in this test based on the battery pack used? Pretty much I’m trying to decide between the m12 stubby and rigid 18 stubby. Currently don’t own either platform so that’s a wash for me.

[@drewnashty]

Should note, especially to the n00bs that might not understand or know, that by using the 3/8 to 1/2 adapter you do slightly lose some torque output, any adapters and extensions are going to lose some from what the tool with the right battery is capable. Regardless I think these 3/8 impacts are pretty awesome life savers especially for those of us with abused and delipidated spines.

[@shanew7361]

Question, I don't have an impact wrench yet and I don't have a need for really high torque applications at the moment but maybe in the future. I'm currently in both M12 & M18 platforms. What size impact wrench would you get (3/8, 1/2)? Would you do M12 fuel stubby friction ring or the new gen 2 compact or mid torque M18 fuel in friction ring that just came out? I'd like to have the most versatility. Thanks!

[@cfwproductions]

M18 bigger battery.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Thanks for watching.

[@ad78]

Mostly used the 3/8 M12. I even used it on my Jeep Gladiator taking out the tires for some project. Also tons of extra batteries is way cheaper with Milwaukee vs Ridgid

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, the M12 Stubby is a great little impact. Thanks for watching.

[@smitty2jones]

I think the test was a little rigged against the Ridgid. It clearly performed the worst, but both of the other impacts had an advantage. The M12 is a 1/2" drive, so it didn't have the adapter to soak up torque. It was also a 3 ah battery. The M18 is 3/8" and has the adapter, but it has a 5.0 ah battery. I have the M18 mid torque and going from my 2.0 ah to my 6.0 ah battery is like night and day. I'll bet it doubles the output of the impact. But the Ridgid is 3/8" so it has the adapter, but it also has a tiny battery. I don't know if it would beat the M18, but I'll bet it if had an Octane battery it would do better than the M12. The adapter probably absorbed the 18 ft lb difference alone.

[@n00bstacle]

It maybe soaked up even more torque. I find that my m12 stubby is useless with an adapter

[@giovanysantiago5892]

The M12 Stubby had a 3AH battery but remember its only a 12v tool the Ridgid is 18v, so if anything I think the Ridgid had the advantage.

[@smitty2jones]

@@giovanysantiago5892 We really don't know without knowing the actual amperage of the batteries, but a 3ah 12v has more stored energy (36 Wh) than a 1.5ah 18v (27 Wh). In all reality, they're probably pretty even with these batteries if the Ridgid didn't have the adapter. If they supply roughly the same wattage to roughly the same size and design motor, you're going to get roughly the same results.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

First and foremost, we're not intending to put ANY manufacturer/color/logo on top or in the lead. We strive to publish the truth, that's all. We also try to keep the playing field level, to the best we can. Or/And, we typically pair tools with the batteries they may be kitted with. We could have paired the M12 Stubby with a 6.0 battery, but we didn't think that was typical. Also, it didn't seem appropriate to pair the Ridgid Sub-Compact with a huge Octane battery. We think you're off a bit on the torque drop due to the adapter. If it were a u-joint or worn-out swivel-socket, then you may see a torque drop of 18 ft-lbs. This straight adapter is not robbing this much power. We'll be releasing video very soon to show how adapters affect torque. We welcome this type of feedback, and we've definitely made our share of mistakes. We'll also be the first to admit when we're wrong. Please keep the comments coming and thanks for watching.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

@smitty2jones In fact, that 3.0 M12 battery is not a full 3.0. It's actually only 32Wh out.

[@kylevanwinkle2081]

Honestly the amount of torque lost in that adapter would've likely made the results a bit different. Prolly should've used all 3/8 with adapter or designed a test bench in which you could use a 3/8 socket

[@Shoptoolreviews]

I doubt there is that much torque lost in the adapter. We'll be creating a new video soon to show this. Thanks for watching.

[@kylevanwinkle2081]

@@Shoptoolreviews i think you might be surprised. Even holding the socket with your hand or using a weighted socket helps tremendously. And all that does is reduce socket bounce. Ideally you want all the force from the internal hammer hit to transmit to to nut. But every time it is transfered through loose tolerance you loose energy through heat and sound generation. Not to mention the added bounce back of higher tolerance means you waste more torque rotating the adapter just to get to the socket.

[@joeg4382]

Awesome video, great job, already have an m18 mid torque and had order the m12 Stubby, Milwaukee is rocking it.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Right on! Great choices on both of these impacts. Thanks for watching.

[@John_D2]

The only way to get away from that adapter would be to only test the 1/2" versions. Very impressive ! Thanks for the upload..I didn't realize my M12 stubby was that strong.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

You're exactly right. Thanks for watching

[@jake-mv5oi]

It's a beast for its size. Would probably do more with a 4.0/6.0AH battery

[@weduhpeople8504]

I have the 1/2” gen 2 mid torque, just got the Kobalt 3/8” right angle impact which you tested at 300 ft lbs of break away torque. Do you think I would need the gen 3 compact in 3/8” or 1/2” since the mid torque is 6” wide and the compact is 4.9” wide?

[@Shoptoolreviews]

You probably don't NEED it. If you WANT the M18 Compact, then I'd recommend getting it in 3/8". Thanks for watching.

[@toolhead147]

That's a great test, I would like to see the me test work higher ah batteries maybe 6's and 5' in the tools see what kind of power we gain.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, we will be producing another video using larger batteries. Thanks for watching.

[@henryhenry3832]

I am a mechanic by trade and have the 3/8 m12 stubby and love it, but I will say it’s not a fair test for either one of the tools unless you are using the same size battery, my m12 performs way better with a 6ah than it does with a 3ah, that being said I would be interested to see if the m18 performs better than the m12 if you have the same watt output battery on each gun, with the batteries you have in the video you have 90 watt output on the m12 and only 36 watt output on the m12, and only 27 watts on the rigid, just a thought.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We will be revisiting some of these using higher Ah batteries. Thanks for watching.

[@henryhenry3832]

@@Shoptoolreviews awesome I will be watching for them, thanks for the good content

[@FreeBladez]

Not a fair test at all. Either use all 3 amp batteries and same anvil size

[@Shoptoolreviews]

All 3Ah batteries would only make the two 18V tools equal. We were showing these tools in a way that someone would purchase these as a kit. We will have an upcoming video that will show these tools with larger batteries. Thanks for watching.

[@rogercoffman6472]

Putting a battery half the size of the gun kind of defeats the purpose of it being stubby

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We know what you mean. Thanks for watching.

[@SpankMyFace]

I know he's changed his testing methods, but those drive-square adapters eat away so much impacting power. Especially once you understand how these tools work, and knowing the loosie-goosie tolerances on those adapters. And if you live near a Direct Tool Outlet store, they frequently have brand new Ridgid wrenches on sale for around $80 with a battery/charger, or around $60 without. And if it matters to you , they qualify for the LSA. But I can tell you after dissecting the trigger-switch assembly on my Ridgid impact driver, they are definitely not as sturdy as Milwaukee or Dewalt tools.

[@jlousy1901]

Too bad the DeWalt Dcf901 wasn't included in this. The Rigid's biggest detractor is that big footprint that battery base brings. The small stubby head might be great but a lot of times in tight spaces, that base will make things difficult. Would be interesting if Rigid uses that short head and makes a right angle impact like Kobalt to accommodate the battery size

[@cutabove9046]

The major problem I see with Ridgid is they won't honor the warranty unless you buy the product from an official dealer. As an example if you buy from Amazon Ridgid won't honor the extended warranty. Frankly, it doesn't make sense to do this. Why does Ridgid sell to Amazon if they don't want them as a dealer?

[@glockhead4597]

The Ridgid in the test has the 2ah battery while the Milwaukee's have 3 and 4ah batteries. Kind of slants the results 🤔.

[@GhettoFabulous670]

M12 surprised me. Looks like ima let the m18 mid torque wait, and ill get the m12 soon!! Any issues you have with the m12 stubby or m18 mid torque? Awesome testing! And great video! A lil prep talk, other than that, straight to the actions! I sub!!! Keep it up man!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Both the Stubby and the Mid-torque are awesome impacts. If you get the M12 Stubby, I would make sure to get at least a 4.0Ah battery, and a 6.0, if possible. Thanks for watching.

[@malcrow97]

This sold me on the M12 stubby. I have the M18 mid torque and it's dope. Thanks for the vid.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Right on! I hope you're as happy with the stubby as you are the Mid-Torque. Let us know what you think. Thanks for watching.

[@whatfreedom7]

I’m getting the 2.0 mid torque for Christmas. I went ahead and picked up two 5.0 batteries to go with it. That stubby is a good little tool as well. My co worker has one and it does pretty good to be so tiny.

[@Mr_frost467]

I'm also interested in seeing these going against each other with the bigger batteries.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We will do this very soon. Thanks for watching.

[@user-bd2yw7yt1h]

Just got the m12 1/2 stubby with 6ah battery. It can't remove any nuts on my Luton sprinter van 2015 not even close. Wheels not been off for a while and overtightend no doubt. It's powerfull but had to crack them all by hand with telescopic strong bar first run so make sure that stays in the boot it your planning on relaying on it. Only tight as the stubby can go now so hopefully won't be a problem with overtightend nuts next time as they still will be over factory torque settings tight if the stubbys max torque is true. if your looking to remove wheels and dont mind cracking the odd bolt by hand it's a good tool and has enough power to put them back securely to.

[@thaitichi]

Loving these videos. I'm gonna go with the new M18.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Let us know what you think of it. Thanks for watching.

[@MrAnthony992]

The Ridgid has a 1/2 sub compact... why not just get that? There's probably different power output and you are using the lower power output.

[@WeTubule]

Great to see controlled side-by-side working torque comparisons in your vids. But if you want viewer confidence, take a cpl seconds to think about what you're doing before hitting RECORD. Enough of hammering the gun in the wrong direction, hammering with depleted battery, giving incorrect test results, etc.

[@elcolibri1971]

If the guns are 3/8, why not use a socket of that size, it is assumed that you are testing 3/8

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Because these impacts deliver more power than what the fasteners can hold. You can't find a 3/8" x 33mm socket. Smaller fasteners won't hold up. Thanks for watching.

[@HURTSWHENIPEE310]

Sub compact can go higher if u didn't use the adapter!!!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Not as much as you think, but we'll make a vidoe very soon showing these details. Thanks for watching.

[@TelstarElectronics]

You didn't mention the prices. The Ridgid might come in first when you factor that in...

[@davesmith3529]

Why is the 8th test bolt and nut tightening number is so low compared to the rest of the other test bolts,m12 is 119.9, rigid is 125.8 and m18 is 134.1, that's the lowest tightening torque are all the guns during the test, could the thread be messed up on that one?, it just seemed strange, all the numbers are pretty consistent besides the 8th nut and bolt test unit

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, we do see some anomalies from time to time. As long as it's an equal occurrence, we typically won't worry about it. We've also dropped the highest and lowest from each run in the past, but then you just don't get a large enough sample. Sure, we could run through the test 2 or 3 times, but then the video becomes 30+ minutes long. Also, behind the scenes, we have run through these tests many times, and the numbers are well within a +/- 3%. Great catch, by the way. Thanks for watching.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

...Also, we do have bolts fail from time to time. You can see that the first two bolts have been recently replaced. Typically, this is due to over-tightening and the threads get jacked-up.

[@herogreat2797]

The other video shows 450 ftlb but this only gets 350? I’m curious why your result with m12 stubby w/ 6Ah is not consistent. Torque channel has this for 230 torque but 330 for dewalt dcf921 stubby, both are about same size. Dcf921 got 450 torque in your channel if remembering correctly.

[@zorgzev96]

I accidentally wound up with an M12 stubby (I’m a team yellow guy) and uh well now I have a M12 Fuel ratchet and another M12 impact (TY Home Depot Black Friday sale). Just such handy little tools to have around. I still like my Dewalt stuff but damn the M12 line is super good.

[@mtg42c1]

You lose a decent amount of power on the rigid and M18when you use the adapter. Not sure what the power loss factor is, but it is more significant that one would think. I would be curious how much better they would perform with no adapter.

[@sauls8250]

I can't even get a 13mm bolt off from a Cummins engine alt. Bracket or pulley. I have the 12v 3/8 drive and I wouldn't buy it again.

[@moodry]

The 2554 is a must but not alone i got the 2767 for the big jobs the stubby is more for limited spaces

[@Shoptoolreviews]

These are great choices. Use the Stubby for the normal jobs, then grab the Beast when you need it. Thanks for watching.

[@jontoews7402]

Putting the adapter on the ridgid makes it work way harder but you should already know that if you're doing this test so it's not as accurate as the other 2 impacts

[@luisinhoens90]

I appreciate the comparison, however I think the Ridgid is at a disadvantage here as it's being tested with the low 2Ah battery. This is 36Wh. The M18 compact has a 4Ah or 6Ah battery, so it's got at least 72Wh to work with. And I guess the Stubby was tested with the 4Ah XC battery, hence that works out for 48Wh. So I'd say the most apples to apples comparison would be to get the 18V tested with 4Ah batteries and the M12 using a 6Ah battery. Just my 2c

[@sheerwillsurvival2064]

Love this channel just bought 5 Milwaukee m12 tools at Home Depot

[@kartboarder22g17]

So the M12 is 60% of the cells of 18 volt it is impressive what it can do. One thing to keep in mind is the cells are closer to the motor by being in the handle which means less resistance in wire leads. Just an impressive tool!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, the M12 Stubby is very impressive. Thanks for watching.

[@sawyercampion8822]

Why did you use the 1.5 amp hour on the ridgid you should of used a 3 amp hour or 6 amp hour because the 1.5 is super under powered and with a 3, or a 6 amp hour it would have way more power

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Many have mentioned this. We don't think it makes a huge difference. We'll be producing a video very soon that shows the difference between different batteries. Thanks for watching.

[@michaelc7283]

Great testing on all these tools. Thank you

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@roberterickson6331]

I have the m12 for the day to day stuff and the m18 mid range for anything else I need

[@nuelvimarbutay8311]

M12 could of done better if you used a 4.0 or 6.0.

[@sunnys14]

Pretty sure it would make somewhat of a difference.

[@roycesmart8019]

Rigid could have done better if it had a larger battery or an octane battery. The m18 had a 5ah the rigid had a 1.5ah not a fair comparison and the m12 had a 3ah

[@smitty2jones]

So would the Ridgid. But the M12 also wouldn't have done as well if it were 3/8" drive like the rest. Fun to see, but not really a good apples to apples comparison.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We will produce a video very soon showing how much of an effect larger batteries actually make. Thanks for watching.

[@kaosaepharn4326]

I’ve used both the m12 4.0 and 6.0 and the 6.0 definitely makes a difference.

[@moy9569]

Great video, but I would of used a 6.0 on the M12 stubby as it is going against 18 v tools. Especially if it’s going against the M18 compact with a 5.0 battery. Still great video!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Thanks for watching.

[@xrgutierrez]

Awesome video, thanks for taking the time to put out this video.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Our pleasure! Thanks for watching.

[@johnathonrambo]

Get a fatter battery on the ridgid and it’ll do work I’m sure

[@Shoptoolreviews]

It will help a little, but not a lot. We will make another video using larger batteries very soon. Thanks for watching.

[@darzo7527]

In all fairness the "OG" stubby has a 1/2 anvil and direct connection to the socket.......the other 2 drills are at a disadvantage. No doubt the OG stubby would still win if the test was fair

[@comk135]

You want to use same capacity batteries for an apple-to-apple test of the tools. A 4.0Ah battery on the Ridgid gives a good 25%-30% boost of power. I bet Ridgid SubCompact will see a comparable readout to the Milwaukee's with a 4.0Ah battery. Try it with Octane 3.0Ah battery that has 21700 cells, it allows for higher output current, and gives an even better performance. Can you redo the test on the Ridgid Subcompact with Octane 3.0Ah battery to get a better comparison readout?

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Yes, we're very aware of how batteries change the dynamics of tool performance. While we're somewhat interested in maxxing every bit of power from impact wrenches, that's not our center focus. During these shootouts, we try to compare tools like you could purchase them. The fact that a 12V impact wrench can even hang with 18V impact wrenches is very impressive in itself. I doubt we will revisit this exact scenario again. Thanks for watching.

[@JMosher58]

Should have included the new Makita 18V subcompact here as well!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We would love to, but we don't have the new sub-compact yet. We have the new Compact XWT14. The XWT14 is an awesome gun, but it actually fits between the Stubby/Compact and the Mid-Torque. We started to throw it in the fight, but it's quite a bit bigger than the 3 we tested. Great tool though. Thanks for watching.

[@BrewCityRider]

Wait a minute...so I can't loosen my lug nuts in peak mode with a torque wrench to see how tight the shop put them on? How is tightening torque different than the torque it takes to loosen?

[@nicholassherer8785]

That adapter really makes a difference on the torque. I was in field and was using a adapter, and couldn't break nut loose. Took adapter off and bam. Took em all off.

[@Guitarsolo8]

I was told the adapter gives it more rotational torque. Theory of the I.R. Honda Crank bolt special socket.

[@gaspardelbarrio4785]

No fair … the gen has a 3A battery as opposed to the 3rd gen 5A

[@rcrbrewster7840]

This video was brought to you by MILWAUKEE

[@zekaslowman7192]

Milwaukee has overkill with the batteries vs ridgid having a 2.0 Amp battery

[@widetiregarage]

Another great video Tim! I'm sold on the M18! Now to just save up and get it!!

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Thanks so much. Let us know what you think of it when you get it. Thanks again for watching.

[@mobettaspice]

@9:48 I was like “wait wrong but🔩” 😂

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Exactly right. At least I realized it before I hit the trigger. Thanks for watching and for noticing our mistakes. 😂

[@natekrabill7812]

Why did you change the battery on the m12 stubby at the start it was an xc3.0 later it was just an xc battery.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

Great eye. I hit the trigger a few times and it would start and stop. It was a connection on the battery. I grabbed another off the charger and I thought it was another 3.0, but it was just an XC. Both are still 32Wh out. Crazy thing is, we stuck in the stubby today, and it worked just fine. Good catch, and thanks for watching.

[@heeltoe6845]

@@Shoptoolreviews Just FWIW, the XC 3.0 has lower impedance than the CP 3.0 so performance will be just slightly better ;)

[@brandonbelone1826]

The ridgid is only 3/8 impact . The other two are 1/2 impact

[@Shoptoolreviews]

You are correct. It still performed very well. Thanks for watching.

[@BMWorks_NL]

Nice video but can you do it again with all the impacts having the same head so you don't need to use an adapter, it takes away torque

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We are planning on doing this very soon. Thanks for watching.

[@Zorion7777]

He literally explained why he used the adapter right when he switched to the rigid. Why don't you pay for a 3/8 33 mm socket to be shipped to him if you want the video done so bad?

[@BMWorks_NL]

@@Zorion7777 as its not a battle ;) if you make a comparison video everything should be the same :)

[@mcombsemail]

I want a Hytorc LION precision torque gun but can't really justify the $4000.

[@tisoy909]

So is it safe to say this M18 Compact is the best all around tool for the home garage mechanic? I mean anything under the hood of the typical sedan, occasionally rotating wheels on the Jeep and maybe swapping a motor for friends? It seems the Mid torque M18 is sort of unnecessary for my purpose. I don't believe the Honda Accord main pulley is even 300 lbs and this thing is taking out nuts over 400lbs.

[@Shoptoolreviews]

For the most part, what you mentioned, the Compact is a great choice. However, if using a lot for lug nuts, you will probably have instances when you may need something stronger. Thanks for watching.

[@16minimonster16]

Igor the M12 stubby because I know I wouldn’t use mine much but I wanted something that still worked and watching you demo this makes me still feel good about my purchase!

[@intheshopnyc849]

USE A OCTANE BATTERY ON THE RIDGID ULL SEE A VERY BIG DIFFERENCE

[@Shoptoolreviews]

We'll show this in a later video.

[@narlycharley]

@@Shoptoolreviews I hope so.

[@brianpate5034]

What kind of impact do you use to torque the nuts? That thing seems like a beast lol

[@Shoptoolreviews]

HYTORC Lion Gun. We reviewed them and the link is below. Thanks for watching. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3Kvd56Ar5WcidU

[@ProjectDaily]

Only issue is that loosing torque is much less than tightening torque . For example it may only take 180ft/lbs to loosen a 350ft/lbs tightened but

[@Shoptoolreviews]

If you listened to the video, I explained this. Your numbers are a bit skewed. If you tighten a bolt to 100 ft-lbs, it typically takes about 75-80 ft-lbs to loosen. Thanks for watching.

[@ProjectDaily]

I may have commented too early 😅 I really enjoyed your video! Keep them coming

[@cavelion3072]

opinion from someone who owns the milwuakee stubby, it isnt quite worth the money... unlessu have a charger and batteries, its not worth buying in a kit. spend the extra 150 and get the m18. the 12 struggles for lugg nuts

[@kennyb2497]

Thought that programmable Torque gun was pretty neat in till I looked up its MSRP and fell out of my chair

[@Mr_frost467]

How much?

[@Shoptoolreviews]

No doubt. These HYTORC LION torque guns are awesome, but they don't give them away. They're several thousand dollars each. However, they are very precise and used a lot in the Nuclear and Powerplant business to ensuring fasteners are properly tightened. Thanks for watching.

[@kennyb2497]

@@Shoptoolreviews Too cool, hopefully one day I'll get my hands on one to try! Great vid!

[@whatfreedom7]

That would be cool if someone made a cheaper consumer version in the future. I’d love to be able to torque stuff down without all the banging.it’s really and for your ears.