RIDGID R86344B 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only)
Category: Jig Saws
The RIDGID R86344B 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only) suits DIY woodworkers best. It delivers 3,450 SPM and one-inch stroke for fast, smooth cutting. Jig Saws like this R86344B balance portability, battery power, and orbital control for accuracy.
Why the RIDGID R86344B 18V Brushless Jig Saw Excels
The RIDGID R86344B 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only) excels in cordless cutting with brushless torque. This RIDGID Jig Saw joins top-tier Jig Saws with 3,450 SPM and a one-inch stroke for fast removal. It reduces vibration roughly 20 percent compared to R8832B, improving control during plunge cuts. The saw’s tool-free bevel and orbital settings increase versatility across hardwood, plywood, and laminates.
- Voltage: 18V (compatible with all RIDGID 18V batteries)
- Max speed: 3,450 SPM
- Stroke length: 1 inch
- Vibration reduction: 20 vs R8832B
- Blade: T-shank with one-touch insert/eject
How does brushless motor efficiency affect cutting performance?
The brushless motor improves power delivery, yielding faster cuts and longer battery runtime. This R86344B delivers up to 150 linear feet of cutting with an 18V 4.0 Ah battery. The tool ships without battery or charger; users must buy RIDGID 18V packs. Reduced brush friction also lowers maintenance, extending motor life and improving long-term cutting consistency.
Key features and performance of this jig saw for DIY
The RIDGID R86344B 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only) packs orbital modes, LED light, and dust port. A four-mode speed selector plus variable trigger lets users match speed to material and blade. One-touch T-shank blade insertion and tool-free bevel to 45 degrees reduce setup time on repeats. At roughly $112.48, this R86344B gives cordless convenience at a competitive price for hobbyist shops.
- Orbital settings: 4 orbital settings
- Speed control: 4-mode selector; variable-speed trigger
- Dust management: dust blowing, vacuum-attachment compatible, includes dust port attachment
- LED light: onboard illumination for cutline visibility
What blade types and tooth patterns best cut hardwood and plywood?
Bi-metal T-shank blades cut hardwood with minimal chipping when selecting the right tooth count. Use 10-14 TPI (teeth per inch) for hardwood crosscuts and 14-20 TPI for plywood and veneers. Aggressive 6-8 TPI ripping blades speed material removal but increase tear-out on laminates. Blade selection must match orbital setting; higher orbit improves speed, lower orbit preserves edge quality.
Maintenance, blade options and value of RIDGID R86344B
The RIDGID R86344B 18V Brushless Cordless Jig Saw (Tool Only) requires basic care but offers strong value. Clean saw dust from the shoe and use the dust port with a shop vac after heavy cuts. Lubricate the blade clamp occasionally and inspect the LED, as there is no listed warranty in product data. For storage, remove battery, keep blades separate in a case, and store saw in a dry workshop.
How should I maintain and store the saw to extend lifespan?
Routine cleaning removes abrasive dust and extends motor life. Disconnect RIDGID batteries before maintenance and store the 18V packs in moderate temperatures. Replace worn blades after 50-100 linear feet of cutting in hardwood to maintain clean cuts. Use a small screwdriver to clear the one-touch eject mechanism if debris prevents blade removal.
Can it cut 2x pine quickly? Yes, 3,450 SPM and one-inch stroke speed up ripping. What battery life should I expect? Around 150 linear feet with an 18V 4.0 Ah pack on the RIDGID R86344B. How does it compare to corded saws? Corded jigsaws keep constant power; the R86344B trades torque for portability.