Ridgid has announced new powerful yet compact cordless 18V power tools known as their NUKE subcompact brushless lineup. They say it’s the next evolution in subcompact tools. Let’s check them out below.
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Ridgid 18V NUKE SubCompact Brushless Power Tools
Over the years, we’ve seen cordless power tools continue to get more powerful while they kept shrinking. And we’ve even seen the birth of the subcompact segment within 18 volt tools that feature the compact size you’d expect in a 12 volt tool. However with the 12 volt size came performance similar to high performance 12 volt tools. Ridgid changes this with their new NUKE line of subcompact tools. Subcompact size with full size performance! Let’s check out each individual model below.
We can expect this line to launch July 2026.
Ridgid 18V NUKE Subcompact Brushless 1/2″ Drill / Driver
As we can see above, here is the new 18V NUKE subcompact brushless 1/2″ drill. Although Ridgid didn’t mention it’s dimensions, we can see that it truly looks like a true subcompact 18V drill. Now we’ve seen plenty of subcompact 18V tools before so here is where Ridgid “wows” us – this bad boy has 750 in-lbs of torque! To keep this in perspective, most 18V subcompact drills are within the range of 350-400 in-lbs of torque and the most powerful have been up to 500 in-lbs. Yet this gives you high torque drill power.
This drill is also lightweight coming in at 2.4 lbs, however Ridgid didn’t mention if that was baretool or with the battery installed. Other features include a two speed transmission with 2,000 max RPM and variable speed trigger, a 16 position clutch, LED light on the base, and belt hook. They didn’t mention what kind of chuck it is but it appears to be a metal chuck. No mention if it ratchets or not. No grip light button, but that’s been gone ages ago.
Models:
- RNKSDD01K1 (Kit with 18V 2Ah MAX Output Battery) $139
- RNKSCK201 (Combo Kit with RNKSID01 Impact Driver) $219
Specs:
- NUKE SubCompact – Most Compact. Lightest Weight. More Power.
- Power through tough material with 750 in-lbs. of torque
- Optimized for all-day use at only 2.4 lbs.
- Work in tight spaces with a 20% more compact size and shorter length
- Match torque to the application with the 16-position clutch
- Control power and speed with the 2-speed gearbox providing 0 – 600 / 0 – 2,000 RPM
- LED light for improved visibility in low-light situations
- The reversible belt hook allow users to apply on either side for additional customization
- Included 18V MAX Output battery delivers maximum power
- 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries, Tools, and Chargers
- Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
- Includes: 1/2″ Drill/Driver, 2.0Ah MAX Output Battery, Charger, Belt Hook with Screw, and Tool Bag
- RIDGID: Build for a Lifetime.
- This tool will be available in a tool-only configuration exclusively at The Home Depot and HomeDepot.com.
Ridgid 18V NUKE Subcompact Brushless 1/2″ Hammer Drill
Part of the NUKE lineup are your usual drill and hammer drill siblings. Here’s their Hammer Drill NUKE model. It shares much of the same of the original NUKE 1/2″ subcompact brushless drill but adds the hammer drill function to drill holes in concrete. A hammer drill is often a little longer and heavier than it’s more basic sibling and the same is true here. This is because of the added hammer drill mechanism inside. Yet it’s not much longer and heavier at 2.6 lbs. Though no mention if that’s as a baretool or with a battery. Again no length measurement is given. Most likely because it’s not the most compact of the subcompacts.
Performance is exactly as impressive as the drill/driver model – at 750 in-lbs of torque! To keep this in perspective, most 18V subcompact drills are within the range of 350-400 in-lbs of torque and the most powerful have been up to 500 in-lbs. Yet this features high torque drill power.
Other features include a two speed transmission with 2,000 max RPM and variable speed trigger, a 16 position clutch, LED light on base, and belt hook. They didn’t mention what kind of chuck it is but it appears to be a metal chuck. No mention if it ratchets or not. No grip light button, but that’s been gone ages ago.
It appears that this hammer drill isn’t sold by itself and only comes bundled in the 2 tool combo kit with RNKSID02 NUKE 4 mode Impact Driver.
Models:
- RNKSHM01 (not sold separately at time of writing)
- (Available in RNKSCK202 Combo Kit with RNKSID02 4 mode Impact Driver) $269
Specs:
- NUKE SubCompact – Most Compact. Lightest Weight. More Power.
- Power through tough material with 750 in-lbs. of torque
- Drill through brick and concrete with the integrated hammer drill mode
- Optimized for all-day use at only 2.6 lbs.
- Work in tight spaces with a 30% more compact size and shorter length
- Match torque to the application with the 16-position clutch
- Control power and speed with the 2-speed gearbox providing 0 – 600 / 0 – 2,000 RPM
- LED light for improved visibility in low-light situations
- Reversible belt hook allows users to apply on either side for additional customization
- Included 18V MAX Output battery delivers maximum power
- 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries, Tools, and Chargers
- Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
- RNKSHM01K1 Includes: 1/2″ Hammer Drill, 2.0Ah MAX Output Battery, Charger, Belt Hook with Screw, and Tool Bag
- RIDGID: Build for a Lifetime
- This tool will be available in a tool-only configuration exclusively at The Home Depot and HomeDepot.com.
Ridgid 18V NUKE Subcompact Brushless 1/4″ Impact Driver
You can’t have a new power tool lineup without an impact driver model and here’s the NUKE impact. It follows the them of the NUKE line with a very compact head while also putting out high torque numbers of 2,000 in-lbs. Just like the NUKE drills, Ridgid didn’t publish length details and this time around they also didn’t mention weight.
Features include a powerful brushless motor with up to 3,800 RPM and 5,000 IPM. Also an LED light at the base, quick release collet, variable speed trigger, and belt hook.
Models:
- RNKSID01K1 (Kit with 18V 2Ah MAX Output Battery) $139
- RNKSCK201 (Combo Kit with RNKSID01 Nuke Drill) $219
Specs:
- NUKE SubCompact – Most Compact. Lightest Weight. More Power.
- Drive large fasteners with 2,000 in-lbs. of torque
- Increased productivity with up to 30% faster speed
- Work in tight spaces with a 30% more compact size and shorter length
- Optimized for all-day use with a lightweight design
- Fast driving performance with up to 3,800 RPM and 5,000 IPM
- Quick and secure bit changes with the 1/4″ quick-connect collet
- LED light for improved visibility in low-light situations
- Reversible belt hook allow users to apply on either side for additional customization
- Included 18V MAX Output battery delivers higher power
- 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries, Tools, and Chargers
- Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
- RNKSID01K1 Includes: 1/4″ Impact Driver, 2.0Ah MAX Output Battery, Charger, Belt Hook with Screw, and Tool Bag
- RIDGID: Build for a Lifetime
- This tool will be available in various kit configurations exclusively at The Home Depot and HomeDepot.com.
Ridgid 18V NUKE Subcompact Brushless 4 Mode 1/4″ Impact Driver
As part of the NUKE line, they also added a more premium version of the impact driver with this 4 mode impact driver option. It has everything that makes the NUKE impact driver great like the compact size and 2,000 in-lbs of torque and adds 4 selectable modes. These modes are 3 selectable speeds and a self-tapping mode to make installing self-tapping screws easier. The modes are selected via buttons on the rear base of the tool at the battery holder.
Just like the NUKE drills, Ridgid didn’t publish length details and this time around they also didn’t mention weight.
Features include a powerful brushless motor with up to 3,800 RPM and 5,000 IPM. Also an LED light at the base, quick release collet, variable speed trigger, and belt hook.
It appears that this 4 mode impact driver isn’t sold by itself and only comes bundled in the 2 tool combo kit with RNKSHM01 hammer drill.
Models:
- RNKSID02 (not sold separately at time of writing)
- (Available in RNKSCK202 Combo Kit with RNKSHM01 Hammer Drill) $269
Specs:
- NUKE SubCompact – Most Compact. Lightest Weight. More Power.
- Drive large fasteners with 2,000 in-lbs. of torque
- Increased productivity with up to 30% faster speed
- Work in tight spaces with a 30% more compact size and shorter length
- Three speeds and a self-tapping mode to deliver precise control over speed and power output based on job needs
- Low Speed (1): 0-700 RPM
- Medium Speed (2): 0-1,800 RPM
- High Speed (3): 0-2,300 RPM
- Self-Tapping Mode (4): 0-1,900 RM
- Optimized for all-day use with a lightweight design
- Fast driving performance with up to 3,800 RPM and 5,000 IPM
- Quick and secure bit changes with the 1/4″ quick-connect collet
- LED light for improved visibility in low-light situations
- Reversible belt hook allow users to apply on either side for additional customization
- Included 18V MAX Output battery delivers higher power
- 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries, Tools, and Chargers
- Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
- RNKSID01K1 Includes: 1/4″ Impact Driver, 2.0Ah MAX Output Battery, Charger, Belt Hook with Screw, and Tool Bag
- RIDGID: Build for a Lifetime
- This tool will be available in various kit configurations exclusively at The Home Depot and HomeDepot.com.
Ridgid 18V NUKE Subcompact Brushless Stealth Force Oil Pulse Driver
Last year we learned about the Ridgid 18V Subcompact brushless Stealth Force Oil Pulse driver. You can check out my original write up here. So now it’s interesting to find out that this model has been rebranded as part of the NUKE lineup. It appears to be the same model, now with the NUKE branding and black rubber overmolding instead of dark gray.
For those new to the Ridgid Stealth Force, this is a quiet impact driver. Impact drivers are loud, very loud, and since then – quiet models have been introduced. They use oil pulse driver tech that reduces noise and Ridgid’s first model named the Stealth Force came out in the mid 2010’s. Now it’s back with a new redesign and it’s a subcompact model and now part of the new Ridgid NUKE lineup.
Ridgid claims this model delivers higher drive speed while being 73% quieter and offers 2x faster installations. Though they don’t mention if that’s compared to the original Stealth Force or a regular impact driver model. The original Stealth Force was not only very quiet, but it was also a beast. It was far faster than the best impact drivers at the time. It actually took years before other impact drivers caught up to its performance and beat it. So I wonder how powerful this new NUKE subcompact model will be in terms of performance compared to the original.
Just like the other two NUKE impact drivers, Ridgid also doesn’t provide length or weight specs. Other features include a tri-beam LED light system at the head of the tool for better visibility and less shadows. It also offers 4 selectable modes. These modes are 3 selectable speeds and a self-tapping mode to make installing self-tapping screws easier. The modes are selected via buttons on the rear base of the tool at the battery holder. Also features a quick release collet, variable speed trigger, and belt hook.
Model:
- RNKSID03B (TOOL-ONLY) $169
Specs:
- NUKE SubCompact – Most Compact. Lightest Weight. More Power.
- STEALTH FORCE oil pulse driving technology increases productivity on the job with up to 2X faster driving and is 73% quieter compared to standard impact drivers – giving you the ability to work anywhere and protect your hearing
- Extended torque intervals provide steady power output by sustaining consistent force
- Three speeds and a self‑tapping mode deliver precise control, letting you match speed and power to the job
- Low Speed (1): 0-700 RPM
- Medium Speed (2): 0-1,800 RPM,
- High Speed (3): 0-2,300 RPM
- Self-Tapping Mode (4): 0-1,900 RPM
- Self-tapping mode prevents overdriving, breaking, or stripping fasteners by stopping the tool once screws are fully seated
- Quick release 1/4″ hex collet to switch out impact rated bits fast and efficiently
- Tri-Beam LED enhances visibility and provides even distribution of light
- Reversible belt hook allow users to install on either side for additional customization
- 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries, Tools, and Chargers
- Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
- RNKSID03B Includes: Oil Pulse Impact Driver, and Belt Hook with Screw
- RIDGID: Build for a Lifetime.
- This tool will be available in a tool-only configuration exclusively at The Home Depot and HomeDepot.com.
Ridgid 18V NUKE Subcompact Brushless 4-1/2″ Circular Saw
As part of the NUKE subcompact brushless lineup is a new tiny 4-1/2″ circular saw. Like the rest of the subcompact tools, the focus is on keeping thing as compact as possible while still retaining strong performance. Ridgid claims it can easily rip through 2×4 lumber thanks to it’s powerful brushless motor that delivers up to 5,300 no load RPM.
It uses a 4-1/2″ blade to keep everything compact yet it can still cut a 2×4 in one pass thanks to its 1-9/16″ cut depth at 90 degrees. It’s compact size makes it easy to wield one handed and for less fatigue when carrying. And it takes up less space when stored too.
Features include an electric brake, durable metal guard, LED light, 0-45 bevel capacity, and vac port. Runtime is said to be up to 475 linear feet per charge although no mention as to what size battery to use to get this claim.
Model:
- RNKSCS01B (TOOL-ONLY) $149
Specs:
- NUKE SubCompact – Most Compact. Lightest Weight. More Power.
- Pair with MAX Output batteries for maximum power
- Ideal for quick cuts in 2×4 dimensional lumber with a 1-9/16″ depth of cut for common applications
- Superior runtime with 475 linear feet per charge
- Optimized for all-day use with 50% lighter weight
- Fast and efficient cutting with up to 5,300 RPM
- Increased comfort and control with the ergonomic pommel handle
- Create angled cuts with a 0–45° bevel capacity
- Lightweight and durable metal guard stands up to the toughest jobsites
- Quick and precise depth changes using the depth adjustment lever
- Enhanced safety and control with an electronic blade brake, stopping the blade in seconds
- On board dust port keeps the cut line clear
- LED light for improved visibility in low-light situations
- 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries, Tools, and Chargers
- Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
- RNKSCS01B Includes: 4-1/2″ Circular Saw, 4-1/2″ Circular Saw Blade, Vacuum Attachment, and Hex Key
- RIDGID: Build for a Lifetime.
- This tool will be available in a tool-only configuration exclusively at The Home Depot and HomeDepot.com.
Ridgid 18V NUKE Subcompact Brushless High Speed Blower
Last on the list is a new NUKE subcompact brushless high speed blower. It’s definitely not for outdoor uses such as blowing leaves. Instead, this compact handheld blower the size and shape of an impact driver is perfectly suited for clearing dusty workbenches. And good for dusting things when a shot of concentrated air is needed. This would also be perfect for my yearly desktop PC maintenance where I remove all the accumulated internal dust by blasting it with air.
This NUKE blower delivers 350 MPH and 40 CFM for fast concentrated debris clearance. It’s also small and light to reduce arm fatigue. Besides being a blower, it comes with additional nozzles so you can use it for inflating high volume inflatables like air mattresses quickly.
Other features include an LED light on the base of the tool.
Model:
- RNKSWB01 (TOOL-ONLY) $79
Specs:
- NUKE SubCompact – Most Compact. Lightest Weight. More Power.
- Powerful cleanup of any workspace with 350 MPH and 40 CFM
- Ultimate control with the variable speed trigger
- Reduce user fatigue by engaging the trigger lock-on mode
- Multi-functional use as a blower or high-volume inflator with the included speed, inflation, and pinch valve nozzles
- LED light enhances the visibility of the task at hand
- Removable rear cap allows for quick filter cleaning on the jobsite
- Belt hook compatible for convenient portability
- 100% Compatible: Works with all RIDGID 18V Batteries, Tools, and Chargers
- Lifetime Service Agreement with registration within 90 days of purchase
- Includes: High-Speed Blower, Speed Nozzle, Inflation Nozzle, Pinch Valve Nozzle, and Operator’s Manual
- Battery and charger sold separately
- RIDGID: Build for a Lifetime.
- This tool will be available in a tool-only configuration exclusively at The Home Depot and HomeDepot.com.
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