RIDGID 18V Brushless Cordless Jigsaw (R86344B)

RIDGID 18V Brushless Cordless Jigsaw (R86344B): Workshop Positioning & Cutting Capabilities

Designed from the ground up for vibration-damped handling, the RIDGID 18V Brushless Cordless Jigsaw (R86344B) is RIDGID’s high-precision answer for finish carpenters navigating complex scribe lines. The balanced Top Handle (D-Handle) chassis operates in lockstep with the 18V Brushless Lithium-Ion drivetrain, enabling the RIDGID R86344B to produce smooth, chip-resistant edge faces across challenging materials.

Heavy-duty 18V brushless jigsaw engineered for jobsite contractors with high-velocity 3,500 SPM, 4 orbital modes, and hex-grip micro texture.

Its verified cutting depths of 5-5/16 in. (135 mm) in hardwoods and softwoods, 3/8 in. (10 mm) in steel plate, and 3/4 in. (20 mm) in extruded aluminum ensure the RIDGID R86344B handles both delicate curved scrollwork and aggressive jobsite dimensional cuts without bogging down.

Verified Factory Specifications & Physical Dimensions

Below are the verified manufacturer specifications and physical parameters for the RIDGID 18V Brushless Cordless Jigsaw (R86344B):

• Power Platform: 18V Brushless Lithium-Ion
• Grip Configuration: Top Handle (D-Handle)
• No-Load Stroke Rate: 0 – 3,500 SPM
• Stroke Length: 1 in. (25.4 mm)
• Cutting Capacity in Wood: 5-5/16 in. (135 mm)
• Cutting Capacity in Steel: 3/8 in. (10 mm)
• Cutting Capacity in Aluminum: 3/4 in. (20 mm)
• Bare Tool Weight: 4.6 lbs. (bare tool)
• Bevel Range: Positive detents at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°
• Blade Shank Standard: Universal keyless T-shank clamp

Motor Architecture & Vibration Damping Dynamics

Built for rugged jobsite conditions, the RIDGID R86344B pairs an optimized motor with all-metal gearing to provide reliable stroke power up to 0 – 3,500 SPM. Heavy-gauge copper windings deliver consistent torque through hardwood plywood and framing lumber.

The contoured D-handle housing on the RIDGID R86344B gives the operator authoritative two-handed leverage when pushing through heavy structural timber. Micro-textured grip zones reduce hand slip in dusty conditions while dampening reciprocating pulses from the gearcase.

Shoe Base Engineering, Bevel Accuracy & Cut-Line Clarity

Engineered with a die-cast alloy foot, the RIDGID R86344B glides steadily across sheet goods without marring pre-finished veneers. Left-and-right bevel adjustments up to 45 degrees enable accurate chamfer cuts, complemented by effective forward debris ejection.

Keyless Blade Clamp & Orbital Action Settings

The RIDGID R86344B features an intuitive keyless blade clamp engineered for rapid changeovers. Inserting a T-shank blade engages positive mechanical locking with a reassuring tactile click, while the lever-action release ensures safe removal without burning your fingers.

To balance rapid lumber severance against splinter-free face cuts, the RIDGID R86344B provides selectable orbital pendulum levels:

• Setting 0: Vertical reciprocation without orbital swing. Essential for sheet metals, copper tubing, PVC, and chip-free cuts in double-sided melamine veneers.
• Setting 1: Subtle orbital oscillation. Recommended for dense hardwoods like white oak, hard maple, and birch plywood to balance edge smoothness with cut progress.
• Setting 2: Medium pendulum swing. The workhorse setting for general softwood framing (2x4, 2x6) and construction lumber.
• Setting 3: Maximum aggressive orbital thrust. Delivers blistering feed speed for rough dimensioning, timber framing, and demolition work where speed outweighs edge cosmetics.

Frequently Asked Questions About the RIDGID R86344B

Is the RIDGID R86344B sold as a bare tool or a kit?

Most retailers list the RIDGID R86344B as a Bare Tool (tool-only), which is ideal for tradespeople who already own RIDGID 18V Brushless Lithium-Ion batteries and chargers. If you are starting fresh on this platform, search for starter bundles that include a battery pack, charger, and carrying bag.

How long does a single charge last on the RIDGID R86344B?

Runtime varies with material density and feed rate, but a standard 4.0 Ah or 5.0 Ah pack typically delivers between 70 and 120 linear feet of cuts through 3/4-inch plywood or pine before requiring a recharge cycle.

Will old-style slotted blades fit the RIDGID R86344B?

The tool’s quick-release chuck requires universal T-shank accessories with lateral retaining tangs. Slotted U-shank blades lack the side tangs necessary for tool-free mechanical engagement and should not be used.