Ridgid JobMax 12V Multi-Tool Kit

When the time came to replace my original multi-tool, one of my options was the Ridgid JobMax 12V Multi-Tool Kit. It’s part of a modular system that includes a choice of power bases—pneumatic, corded, 12-volt lithium ion, or 18-volt lithium ion—and each base can attach to several interchangeable heads: a multi-tool head (included), a reciprocating saw, a jigsaw, a right-angle drill/driver, a right-angle impact driver, an auto-hammer, a ratchet, and a rotary head.

Tool-free accessory change. In the old days, when you wanted to change an accessory, you had to use a hex key to remove the threaded bolt holding it to the head. I’ve got a drawer full of hex keys, but I can’t ever seem to find the one that fits. (Thanks, Ikea.) With the JobMax, a simple sliding lever built into the head releases the accessory and clamps in the new one. Plus, you can remove or rotate the head into one of four positions around the power base simply by depressing two spring latches on the power base. On top of that, the accessories can be mounted in any one of 12 positions.

The power base has a two-finger variable speed trigger and, just below it, a forward/reverse toggle for use with the drill/driver heads. Other notable features include a bright LED light that illuminates the workspace, an onboard fuel gauge, and an adapter for other brands’ accessories, which I used during my review.

This is an excerpt. Read the full review at ProToolReviews.com.