$100 vs. $1000 Tool
Today we’re diving into the world of press tools. Now these are tools that let you connect pipes without the mess of soldering or the risk of leaks. In a recent video, I put two different press tools to the test: the well-known Rigid RP 115 and a budget-friendly option from Ibosad. Let’s break down what these tools do, how they’re different, and what results you can expect.
Press tools are game changers in plumbing. Instead of soldering pipes, which involves an open flame and the risk of burning down your house (just kidding…kind of), press tools use pressure to crimp fittings onto pipes. This method is faster, safer, and doesn’t require a fire watch, which makes it especially popular in the industry. Plus, it’s great for those tight spots where soldering would be a real pain.
Now my battery powered tool is a Rigid RP 115: This is a top-of-the-line tool that’s compact, easy to use, and built for pros. It’s got a swivel head that’s perfect for getting into tight spaces and it’s quick—just line it up, squeeze the trigger, and you’re done. This tool is lightweight, reliable, and priced around $1,000, making it an investment for those who need a tool they can count on every day.
But for those of you who don’t have more than a grand to put down on one tool, we’ve got the Ibosad manual press tool, which costs about $100. It’s definitely heavier and requires more muscle to operate since it’s manual—you’ll be pumping away to get the job done. It’s not as convenient as the Rigid. But it gets the job done for a fraction of the price.
To test these tools, I assembled some pipes and fittings and used each tool to make the connections. The Rigid was fast and efficient, while the Ibosad took a bit more effort. But once both were done, I couldn’t tell them apart. Once the fittings were crimped, we headed over to the blast chamber to see how much pressure they could handle.
The results? The Rigid held up under a whopping 7,300 psi, while the Ibosad maxed out at around 6,600 psi. Now, you might think that’s a big difference, but considering your home’s water pressure is typically around 70-100 psi, both tools did more than enough to get the job done.
If you’re a pro running a big job site or you need a reliable tool that’s going to last, the Rigid RP 115 is definitely the way to go. It’s faster, easier to use, and worth the investment if you’re going to be pressing fittings regularly.
But if you’re a DIYer or a homeowner who just needs to make a few connections here and there, the Ibosad is a solid choice. It’s heavier and takes more effort, but it’s also a lot cheaper and still gets the job done.
In the end, both tools performed well, and the decision comes down to how often you’ll be using it and what your budget looks like. Either way, press fittings are a fantastic option for making secure connections without the hassle of soldering, and without much more effort than a push to connect. And you know how I feel about those.