A couple years ago RIDGID launched their all in one RE6 solution for electrical trades to cut, crimp and knockout all from one tool. RIDGID of course has been the name brand for professional plumber tools but less well known to electricians for professional electrical tools, who might associate the RIDGID name with the home owner focused tools at Home Depot (a confusing distinction of a separate division, made by a different company).
Looking past the slow start for the Ridgid RE6 Tool Lineup, from the feedback we have received from professional electricians now using this RE6 tool on a daily basis is that they love it. Simplifying these 3 jobs into 1 very portable package means the right tool is close at hand. Now they are updating the package and offering a pretty attractive promo through end of June 2016.
The RIDGID RE6 base hydraulic remains unchanged and is the direct sibling to the RIDGID Propress 200B ($1672) one of the most common press tool for copper pipe. What does get replaces and was the only complaint we had heard about the original package is the knockout head. Previously the RE6 Knockout head only worked in 1 position, completely perpendicular to the electrical box or material. For existing boxes this meant you needed almost 2’ of clearance where you wanted to make a hole, not always possible. The new RIDGID Swiv-L-Punch knockout head replaces the original head with a 360 degree swiveling head which can fit into a much more compact space.
As a complete package, with 3 Tool Heads, Swiv-L-Punch, Cutter and Dieless Crimper RE6 52093 ($3581) offers more than the original RE6 package and is more competitively priced. While still a very serious investment there is a little cost savings over buying 3 individual battery tools the RE6 is looking to compete with: Milwaukee M18 Knockout Kit 2677-21 ($999) or GreenLee Knockout Kit LS50L11 ($1593), for Cutters Milwaukee M18 Cutter 2672-21S ($1700) or for a solid 4 Point Dieless Crimper alone like the GreenLee EK06FTL11 ($3754) it could be equal or more than the RE6. Of course typically people are not looking to purchase all 3 at once and there are some limitations currently, such as if you wanted (or required) to use Dies for crimping, RE6 only has dieless.
To kick-off the new Swivel-L-Punch version RIDGID is offering up a Mail-In Rebate for a FREE knockout punch/die set ½”-2” 23487 ($400 value). See the Full MAIL-IN REBATE for all the dates and details. We expect the new RIDGID RE6 kits to start shipping in May. For additional question on RIDGID products give the pros at Ohio Power Tool 800-242-4424 a call and they will be happy to help you find the right tool for the job.