Choosing the right RIDGID threading machine can mean the difference between winning profitable contracts and struggling with outdated equipment. With four major models in RIDGID's professional lineup, each engineered for specific applications and work volumes, making the wrong choice costs you time, money, and competitive advantage.

You'll discover how the RIDGID 300, 535 and 700 compare across critical factors like threading capacity, portability, speed, and return on investment. More importantly, you'll learn exactly which model matches your specific business needs, work environment, and growth plans.

RIDGID Threading Machine Lineup Overview

RIDGID has earned its reputation as the gold standard in pipe threading equipment through decades of engineering innovation and unwavering commitment to contractor needs. Their current professional threading machine lineup represents the culmination of this expertise, with each model purpose-built for specific applications and work environments.

The 1960s started with the launch of the RIDGID 300 Power Drive, a compact and reliable machine capable of threading up to 2" pipe. In 1969 came Model 700, the first RIDGID Hand Held Power Drive. The 535 evolved from the Model 500, which has been an industry standard for over forty years.

The critical differences between models come down to four factors: threading capacity (what pipe sizes they handle), portability (job site versus shop use), oiling system (manual versus automatic), and motor power (intermittent versus continuous duty).

1. RIDGID 300 Power Drive: The Job Site Standard

The RIDGID 300 is RIDGID's most popular and affordable threading machine. Introduced in 1960s, the 300 remains a compact and reliable machine that contractors depend on for portable professional threading.

1.1 Features of the RIDGID 300 Power Drive

The RIDGID 300 Power Drive handles 1/4" - 2" pipe threading capacity with a 1/2 HP universal 115V reversible motor. It comes in two speed variants: 38 RPM (standard) or 57 RPM (faster threading). Both versions thread, cut, and ream pipe using standard 115-volt household current.

The system centers, chucks, and rotates pipe, conduit, and rod for quick and efficient cutting, threading, and reaming. The complete package includes power drive, stand with tool tray, carriage with lever, reamer, cutter, universal die head, dies, and oiler.

Manual Oiling

Unlike other threading machines, the 300 needs to be operated with a manual oiler, which could become a challenge for the operator during extended use.

1.2 Where the RIDGID 300 works best

The 300 works best for sporadic use at a shop or continuous threading at the jobsite where portability matters more than maximum production speed. Threading 30 to 50 pipes daily works comfortably. Beyond 75 pipes daily, the manual oiling and duty cycle suggest considering the 535.

The 300 shines in residential plumbing, HVAC conduit work, light commercial applications, and service calls. Any situation where you need professional threading capability on site rather than transporting pipe back to a central shop.

Contractors running multiple trucks often equip each with a 300, giving every crew independent threading capability. The relatively compact size and standard electrical requirements mean it fits in full-size work vans without special accommodations.

2. “The Shop Workhorse” - RIDGID 535 

The RIDGID 535 Threading Machine 93287 is a versatile tool designed specifically for pipe threading applications. The 535 handles 1/8"-2" pipe capacity with a 1/2 HP single-phase 115V motor at 54 RPM standard (36 RPM model also available). The critical difference from the 300 is the automatic oiling system.

2.1 Features of the RIDGID 535

The 535 features a large 1.75 gallon oil tray, large chip tray, and self-priming gerotor oil pump for automatic oiling. This continuous automatic lubrication eliminates manual oil application, speeds threading, and extends die life by ensuring consistent cutting fluid delivery.

2.2 Where the RIDGID 535 works best

The RIDGID 535 Threading Machine is ideal for heavy-duty applications and fabrication, often used to thread large volumes of round solid and pipe nipples. Shops threading 75 to 200 pipes daily find the 535's automatic oiling and continuous-duty motor essential for maintaining productivity.

The RIDGID 535 suits established contractors with dedicated shop space who fabricate pipe assemblies for installation by field crews. This centralized fabrication approach lets threading specialists focus on production while field teams concentrate on installation.

Commercial contractors bidding projects with substantial pipe quantities need the 535's production capacity to maintain competitive pricing and aggressive schedules. The automatic oiling means operators don't slow down during long production runs.

3. RIDGID 700 Power Drive: The Handheld Solution

The Model 700, launched in 1969, was the first RIDGID Hand Held Power Drive. This compact threading solution handles applications where bringing pipe to a machine proves impractical or impossible.

3.1 Features of the RIDGID 700

The RIDGID 700 Power Drive threads 1/2" - 2" pipe using a compact 1/2 HP motor in a handheld package weighing approximately 40 pounds. The unit operates on standard 115V power and achieves similar threading speeds to the 300 despite its compact form factor.

Like the RIDGID 300, the 700 Model requires manual oiling during operation. The handheld design necessitates this approach since automatic oiling systems add weight and complexity unsuitable for portable handheld use.

The handheld design limits daily volume capacity. Operators report 15 to 30 pipes daily as comfortable, with fatigue from supporting the 40-pound unit becoming the limiting factor. The 700 suits service work and small installation projects, not high-volume production.

3.2 Where the RIDGID 700 Power Drive works best

Tight mechanical rooms, crawl spaces under buildings, and confined areas where larger machines won't physically fit become accessible with the RIDGID 700. Commercial buildings often feature mechanical spaces barely large enough for equipment, leaving no room for even portable threaders like the RIDGID 300 Power Drive.

Elevated work on scaffolding, lifts, or rooftops becomes practical with handheld threading. While the 300 can be hoisted with proper rigging, the handheld solution's 40-pound weight makes it simple to carry up ladders or transport in lift baskets.

Service and emergency repair technicians keep the RIDGID 700 in service vehicles for unpredictable field conditions. When threading must happen immediately at problem locations, the grab-and-go design saves setup time.

Ready to choose your RIDGID Threader?

The right threading machine transforms your capabilities and productivity. Whether you need the 300's proven versatility, the 535's production power, the 700's handheld convenience, RIDGID engineers designed each model to excel at specific applications.

Visit Tool Mart RIDGID to see these machines in person at our Houston or San Antonio locations. Our team can demonstrate each model and help you evaluate which best fits your specific needs.

Contact Tool Mart Today

Houston: 📍13721 S. Gessner #200, Missouri City, TX 77489📞(713-222-8665)

San Antonio: 📍10568 Sentinel St. San Antonio, TX 78217 📞 (210-655-6116)

Online: 🌐 www.toolmarthou.com | info@toolmarthou.com