RIDGID Fuego 12 V Drill/Light Combo

RIDGID^®Fuego 12 V Lithium-Ion 2-Speed Drill/Light Combo R92008 ~ Review

The folks at Ridgid recently sent me their RIDGID Fuego 12 V Drill/Light Combo to evaluate and review.  The RIDGID^®  Fuego 12V Lithium-Ion 2-Speed Drill/Light Combo features the highest torque in its class with 240 inches per pound.

The kit includes the R82008 Drill/Driver, R82920 LED light, two lithium-ion battery packs, charger, heavy-duty contractor bag and operator’s manual.

First Impression:

The RIDGID^® Fuego 12 V Lithium-Ion 2-Speed Drill/Light Combo  comes in a compact, rugged, nylon storage case.  I liked the compact size of this unit and power that it delivered.

For the past three weeks I have been using the RIDGID Fuego 12 V Drill/Light Combo on the job-site as well as in the shop.   The grip has a nice ergonomic feel and the tool is well balanced.   The LED light is well positioned and does not leave a terrible shadow like some other tools.  A  2-speed transmission and 18 speed clutch allows the user to adjust drilling or driving power to the task.

The battery charger can take a fully depleted battery and have it up and running again in 30 minutes – which is a plus.

The LED flash light twists on and off and features a longer continuous run time of 11 hours per charge. The long LED life lasts up to 10,000 work hours, and the power of the LED light provides maximum brightness.   I was not fond of the on / off switch to the LED flashlight.  to turn the light on you have to twist the neck of the light.  It was too easy for the light to be accidentally turned on.  I’d prefer to see a well placed pressure switch.

Drill/Driver:

1.  Volts:                    12 V
2.  Torque:                240 in./lbs.
3.  Clutch:                  18 position
4.  Chuck:                  3/8 in.
5.  No Load Speed:  0-320/0 – 1300RPM

Features:

1. 3/8 in. single sleeve chuck takes ¼ hex and conventional round bits.
2. Integrated chuck and clutch reduces overall length, making it the most compact in its class.
3. LED light illuminates areas where less light is available.
4. Ergonomic over-mold handle improves comfort and grip.

LED Light:

Wattage:               1W

Features:

1. Powerful 1 watt LED for maximum brightness.
2. Long life lasts up to 100,000 hours.

Charger:

1. Volts:                2V output, 120 V input
2. Batteries:         Two, 12 volt, Lithium-Ion.
3. Charge Time:  30 minutes

Features:            

1. Cartridge-style battery integrated into the handle for improved balance.
2. 30-minute charger ensures fully charged battery with no downtime.

Warranty:

RIDGID^® Lifetime Service Agreement. The industry’s only FREE Lifetime coverage.  Free parts.  Free service. Free batteries.

Overall Impression:

I loved the drill / driver.  It delivered ample power to tackle all of the tasks I put it through.  The battery lasted two weeks of use which impressed me.

I see this as an ideal tool for re-modelers, electricians, cabinet installers, HVAC, woodworkers, Maintenance personnel and many other professionals whose jobs rely on fastening and drilling applications but do not require the torque or the weight of an 18 volt tool.

One nice attribute to the Fuego  is it’s weight and compact size which translates into less user fatigue and more opportunities to fit it into smaller tight spots like under sinks, inside electrical boxes and a slew of other hard to access places.

Combining a drill / driver with a flashlight is a great idea.

SUGGESTED RETAIL:  

The Ridgid Fuego 12 V Lithium-Ion 2-Speed Drill/Light Combo sells for $149 and can be purchased here: BRidgid-R92008-12-Volt-Lithium-Ion-Drill-Driver
This review contains my opinion of a product. I take pride in providing my readers with an honest and objective information as well as a practical approach to using a product. I never accept payment in exchange for a positive review. Many of the tools and products are provided to for free by a manufacturer for review.