Ridgid Stealth Force Returns, a New Stud and Joist Drill, and a Milwaukee Nibbler: New Power Tool Releases Worth Watching

Introduction

Ridgid and Milwaukee have both rolled out new cordless tools, and the lineup covers a surprisingly wide range of jobsites: a quieter pulse driver, a heavy-duty right-angle drill, and a metal-cutting nibbler. Here is what each one offers and who it makes sense for.

Ridgid R87234B 18V Sub-Compact Brushless Stealth Force Pulse Driver

The Stealth Force name is back. Ridgid’s original Stealth Force drills and impacts built a strong reputation for raw power before quietly disappearing from the lineup, and this new 18V sub-compact brushless pulse driver revives the concept. The headline claim is a 73% reduction in job site noise, which is where the “stealth” branding comes from, paired with a “two times faster” driving speed.

It is a compact tool, not a full-size driver, so it is aimed at getting into tighter spaces where a standard impact driver struggles. You get three adjustable speeds plus a self-tapping mode that stops driving once it reaches maximum torque, helping prevent overdriving, braking, or stripping screws. Speeds run up to 700 RPM on low, 1,800 on medium, 2,300 on high, and 1,900 in self-tapping mode. A quick-release 1/4 inch hex chuck allows fast bit changes, and a tri-beam light illuminates the work area.

The claimed MSRP is $159 for the tool only, model number R87234B. Pair it with Ridgid’s Max Output EXP batteries, which use larger 21700 cells that charge faster and push more power into the tool. A belt hook is included, and the battery and charger are sold separately. Register within 90 days and the Lifetime Service Agreement covers free parts and free service for life.

Ridgid 18V Brushless 2-Speed 1/2” Stud and Joist Drill

This right-angle drill is built for the people who spend their days drilling through framing: plumbers, HVAC installers, and electricians pulling wire through studs. It is a two-speed, 1/2 inch brushless tool, and low speed delivers more torque for punching through knots and dense wood.

The capacity numbers are the selling point. It drills through multiple studs with up to a 1/2 inch auger bit, up to 4-5/8 inches with a self-feed bit, and up to 4 inches with a hole saw in wood. Kickback protection is built in, and a rafter hook lets you hang the tool securely between holes. An onboard chuck key holder and LED light round out the jobsite-focused details.

It is priced at $299 tool only, and like the pulse driver it pairs best with the 8Ah Max Output EXP batteries for maximum runtime and power, with Ridgid claiming up to 135 2-9/16 inch holes per charge on high speed. The 90-day registration window unlocks the same Lifetime Service Agreement.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 10 Gauge Nibbler 3476-20

Milwaukee is expanding its thin metal cutting category with the M18 Fuel 10 gauge nibbler, aimed at fabrication, body work, metal work, and HVAC. It cuts fast and clean through 10 gauge mild steel and 12 gauge stainless steel, with up to 96 feet of clean cuts per charge.

Two details stand out. First, the adjustable die head rotates a full 360 degrees tool-free, which makes tight turns and repositioning far easier mid-cut. Second, it is claimed to be the lightest in its class, which matters when you are holding a tool overhead or cutting panels for long stretches with less fatigue. It can make precise 2-inch radius cuts for tight-radius work.

Specs include a height of 7.8 inches, a weight of 7.6 lbs, a variable speed selector, integrated work lights, and ONE-KEY compatibility for tracking and customizing through the app. It is $700 tool only, model 3476-20, and carries a 5-year warranty.

Which One Makes Sense for You?

If you are already invested in the Ridgid 18V platform, the Stealth Force pulse driver is the easiest yes, especially if you value a quieter tool for occupied homes or indoor work and want the lifetime service coverage. The stud and joist drill is a more specialized buy, but for plumbing and HVAC work that means drilling stud after stud, the capacity claims and kickback protection are hard to ignore.

The Milwaukee nibbler is the most niche of the three. If your work regularly involves cutting 10 gauge mild steel or 12 gauge stainless, the 360-degree rotating die head and lightest-in-class weight claim make it a compelling upgrade over bulkier metal cutting options.

Across the board, pairing these tools with the right batteries matters: Ridgid’s Max Output EXP packs bring the larger 21700 cells and better performance out of both new Ridgid tools.

Conclusion

This is a strong set of announcements for tradespeople. Ridgid brings back a fan-favorite pulse driver with pro-focused specs at its usual price positioning, adds a capable right-angle drill for framers of wires and pipes, and Milwaukee fills a gap in thin metal cutting. Matching the tool to your actual daily work is the best way to decide which of these deserves a spot on the truck.