Whether you’re an electrician, industrial pipe fitter or a garage DIY master, a good pipe threader is worth its weight in gold. It’ll turn a damn near impossible task that would need to be outsourced into a 2 minute job you can do at home. With both manual and automatic options to fit any budget, there are a ton of choices. We’ve done our best to narrow the playing field and select only pipe threaders we’d stake our jobs on.
If you’re looking for a manual pipe threader, the Ridgid 363450 Exposed Ratchet Threader Set is the one to get. It’s cost effective, versatile and super easy to use. If instead you want to upgrade to an automatic pipe threading machine your best bet is the RIDGID 41935 Model 700 Hand-Held Power Drive. This thing can seriously get the job done quick. If you’ve got a ton of pipe or conduit to thread, grab this and enjoy.
Best Manual Pipe Threader – RIDGID 36345 00-R Exposed Ratchet Threader Set
- This item is 36345 THREADER, 00R 1/2-1 NPT
- This product is used for two-piece-threading-dies
If you want a pipe threader that just works, doesn’t require air or electricity and is easy to use, the Ridgid 36345 Exposed Ratchet Threader set is the right tool for the job. With three included dies from ½” to 1” it comes ready-to-use. Plus, with no automatic parts it requires much less maintenance and is very unlikely to fail mid-job. When you throw in the fact that this product is 100% made in the U.S.A., that’s enough to get us on board and rank it #1. This pipe threader is just that, a no-nonsense option that’ll get the job done. If you’ve got a few small pipes that need to be threaded, this is a perfect choice.
Best Automatic Pipe Threader – RIDGID 41935 Model 700 Hand-Held Power Drive, 26-30 RPM Pipe Threading Machine
- Country of Origin:United States
- Package length:18.0"
With the ability to thread pipe up to 2” in diameter, the RIDGID 41935 Model 700 Hand-Held Power Drive is perfect for light industrial use. It’s got the added benefit of being portable as well. Many of the more powerful threading machines require the pipe to be brought to the machine. With this guy, you can just walk over to the pipe and call it a day. While it doesn’t come with dies and it is more expensive than a manual option, it’s great if you have a ton of pipe to thread. Plus, you’ll get to avoid sore arms the next day. Good luck threading 200 pipes a day with a manual pipe threader! Even more, it’s got the Ridgid name which, in the industry, is extremely well known for their incredibly robust products.
Pipe Threader Buyers Guide
If you’ve gotten tired of paying extra to have your pipes threaded or just want to have your own in house tools, buying a pipe threader makes a lot of sense. However, there are a ton of decisions to make, especially since these are rather costly pieces of equipment. You’ll have to know what sized pipe you plan to thread, your preferred (or existing) die types and your budget. This section aims to tackle those issues and more to help you make an informed buying decision.
What pipe sizes are typically threaded?
Most threaded pipes are typically less than 2” in diameter. Above this size, you’ll commonly see flanged or butt weld connections. Threaded pipes of small diameters are great in that they don’t leak and can handle high pressures. Typically up to 1440 psig. Another benefit of smaller sized threaded pipe is they can easily be connected without welding. Typical pipes in the USA are threaded using the NPT system, also known as national pipe thread.
Is a manual or automatic pipe threader best?
If you’re planning to thread only a few 1” pipes or less, a manual pipe threader will work fine. However if you are planning to thread larger 1-¼” pipe and up or want to thread hundreds of pipes a day, an automatic threader is far superior. Not only will it save your arm from getting sore, 2” pipe is seriously a pain to thread by hand.
What threading dies do I need?
Threading dies comes in a variety of standards. You’ll need to match your dies with the specific tool you choose to purchase. Our top choice uses the 00-R standard. Automatic options will use 12-R Die Heads as well as others such as 00-R, 00-RB or 11-R. However, nearly any die head can be used if you’ve got the correct adapter. If you can get the pipe threader and die set as one kit, that’ll be your best bet
Do RPM’s matter?
When it comes to pipe threaders, RPM’s do not matter that much. In fact, the slower they rotate, the more control you’ll have. If the threading machine was spinning at 200 RPM’s you’d over thread your pipe before you knew it. Anywhere from 20 to 40 RPMs is a good. This will give you the speed to really pump out some threading. However it’ll allow you to retain control and produce excellent results.
How many pipes can I thread in a day?
If your using a manual pipe threader and threading a couple inches off the end, it’ll take you about 1 minute (assuming your all set up), As such, if your working all day 200 to 300 pipes can easily be done, but you’ll be a little sore after such a workout, even with a ratcheting pipe threader. Automatic pipe threaders on the other hand can handle about twice the quantity with ease. Most plumbers or DIY folks will never approach these upper limits, so really it’s just a number in the end.
Best Pipe Threader Detailed Reviews
Now that we’ve covered the basics on what to look for in a pipe threader, let’s take a look at some of the best on the market. We’ve selected the below items based on user reviews, first hand accounts and brand name recognition. In the industry, some are simply better than others. We’ve also added in a ton of options at different price points. This allows everyone to have something that’ll fit their needs and wallet.
#1 RIDGID 36345 00-R Exposed Ratchet Threader Set – Best Manual Pipe Threader
- This item is 36345 THREADER, 00R 1/2-1 NPT
- This product is used for two-piece-threading-dies
Running threaded steel lines for an air compressor or copper tubing for a plumbing job is never fun. However, with a high quality pipe threader, you can certainly get it done much faster and not have to rely on rental tools or standard sized threaded nipples. The RIDGID 36345 00-R Exposed Ratchet Threader Set is a simple, cost effective solution for threading pipe and is perfect for professionals and novices alike.
This manual pipe threader uses a standard 00-R set of threading dies and is good for pipe sizes ranging from ½” to 1” and everything in between. As it is a manual unit, you’ll want to use a lot of lubricant to keep things silky smooth. However if things do get a bit hairy and the tool breaks, Ridgid’s lifetime warranty means no extra money out of your pocket.
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You’ll find the included 22” ratchet handle provides you with a ton of leverage. This is great for harder materials and makes threading pipe easier on your muscles. Folks have commented on how even after 6 months and hundreds of feet of threads, the dies and ratchet worked just like new.
I own a couple of older homes with iron pipe that I’ve needed to replace with PEX lines and this tool has saved me several times its cost in rental equipment by letting me tap into those metal lines.
Something that is also often brought up is whether or not this manual pipe threader is good for professional or industrial use. It is absolutely up to the task. Unlike off brands, Ridgid tools are known for their build quality and reliability. As such, you can easily use this on job after job without worrying about it breaking down.
We were also pleased to note that the RIDGID 36345 00-R Exposed Ratchet Threader is good for black, galvanized, stainless steel, brass pipe and more. You will however need to make sure the cutting die is appropriate for the material. A die for threading copper pipe might not quite work on hardened steel piping.
Overall, this manual pipe threader is one of the best on the market. It’s cost effective, extremely reliable and can work with a number of different sizes and materials. If you want a tool to toss in your toolbox that’ll be ready to go at a moment’s notice, this will work perfectly. If you instead have some serious threading to get done and need a bit more power, take a look at our next choice.
#2 RIDGID 41935 Model 700 Hand-Held Power Drive, 26-30 RPM Pipe Threading Machine – Best Automatic Pipe Threading Machine
- Country of Origin:United States
- Package length:18.0"
The RIDGID 41935 Model 700 Hand-Held Power Drive is an ultra heavy duty power drive for threading pipes, bolts and more. With the ability to power a ton of Ridgid equipment, use various dies and work with a vast array of attachments, it is a stunning addition to your toolbox. It’s able to thread pipes ranging from ⅛” to 2” in diameter for an all inclusive machine
Even better, it uses extremely durable materials and has a lifetime warranty. If you want the best hand held automatic pipe threader in the industry, nothing beats the Ridgid model 41935. You’ll also find that it is significantly faster, more powerful and easy to use than a manual alternative.
The first thing we want to point out about this specific automatic pipe threading machine is it does not come with any dies. You’ll need to either buy a new set or utilize some from your existing stock. While not a huge downside, it is something to be aware of.
The RIDGID 41935 brings heavy duty to the next level. Made from durable solid steel components with robust gears, connections and beefy body panels, it’s built to last. You’ll find that at 27 pounds it can be a bit heavy, but the speed at which it works more than makes up for the additional weight. If fact, this could have been much heavier had the Gear case, motor housing, and handle not been made from cast aluminum. This greatly reduces the weight but still retains superior strength.
Because this is an electronic pipe threader it can just as easily rotate one direction as another. As such it can cut both left and right hand threads with ease. In addition it has a double-throw reversible switch. This means that when you’re done threading a length of pipe, simply release the switch and the machine will automatically back off.
The ½ HP motor is rated for 26-30 RPM’s giving you more than enough power to get the job done right. From ⅛” tubing to 2” pipe this unit can seriously pump out the threads. If you want to go bigger, the Ridgid Model 700 hand-held power drive can also power a separate gear threader for larger pipe up to 6” in diameter. If you tend to cut the pipe as well, consider grabbing the 258 pipe cutter attachment as well.
Related Link: Grab the 258 Pipe Cutter attachment to cut pipe with zero effort
If you are planning to work primarily with 1-½” pipe and above, you’ll want to also purchase the 775 support arm. The arm clamps to the pipe and uses the body of the Model 700 power drive as a support base. This keeps the machine from using your arm as additional leverage and makes the whole process way easier.
Works great used it many times already with no problems
User Review
For standard pipe work you’ll need 12-R die heads. These will be good up to 2”. If instead you’re planning to thread bolt stock form ¼” to 1” you’ll want to use 00-RB dies instead. If you’ve already got a set of 00-R, 00-RB, 0-R, 11-R or 111-R you’ll just need to purchase and adapter to use with the power drive.
Just like a manual pipe threader machine, you’ll want to keep your workpiece nice and lubricated. A manual oiling system is available to flood the work during routing threading sessions. This system uses an oil catch pan and a manual hand pump for continuous operation.
Related Link: Grab the pipe threading oiler to keep your pipe lubricated and easy to work with.
Being a Ridgid product you can be sure it is extra well design. Even the internal spur gear reduction and spindle gears are made from hardened steel and extremely resistant to wear. If you happen to put some abuse on your tool on a regular basis, you’ll need something like the Ridgid 700 power drive that’ll last for job after job.
Overall, this portable automatic pipe threader is the best out there. It’s easy to carry with you, requires next to no setup time, is super simple to use and will most likely outlast your career. That folks, is pretty much everything you could ever ask for in a tool. While it is certainly expensive, we can assure you, it is worth every penny.
#3 RIDGID 36475 Exposed 6 Ratchet Threader Set
- This item is 36475 THREADER, 12R 1/2-2 NPT
- This product is used for two-piece-threading-dies
Top quality, heavy duty and extremely reliable are the best words to describe the Ridgid 36475 Exposed 6 Ratchet Threader Set. Folks from nearly every industry stand by the rugged build quality that Ridgid puts out time and time again. This pipe threader is no exception. Looking at reviews from hundreds of users it’s easy to see that nearly 100% of them find this to be an excellent tool to get the job done right.
This set is also extremely cost effective. Not only does it include the ratchet pipe threader, it also includes 6 ductile cast iron dies to go along with it. For you, that means it’ll be ready to rock and roll straight out of the box, no assembly and no fuss. If you want the best manual pipe threader set in the industry, look no further.
When it comes to manual pipe threaders, the Ridgid 36475 pretty much covers all your bases. Unlike most bare bones options this set also includes 6 two piece threading dies. These ductile cast iron dies are extremely well built and made with precision engineering. You’ll also want to note that they are the 12-R series. So if you’ve got any of them laying around (or the correct adapter) you can use any die with this threading ratchet.
We were also very pleased with the included carrying case. The snaps were super easy to open and close, yet remained tight during transport. Users also like how each of the individual die positions were labeled for easy reference. This prevents you from accidentally grabbing the wrong dies and having to take it back off the ratchet again. Another big plus to the case is just how lightweight, yet impact resistant it is. It’ll have no issues being thrown in the back of the truck day after day.
Fantastic Quality, I absolutely LOVE this threader… Very high quality and I use it in industrial applications! Thank You!
User Review
The included ratchet head and handle are also very well made. Cast from solid metal they are extremely durable and won’t break, crack or bend with even the use of excessive force. One of the great things about this kit is that it can work on both pipe and conduit with ease. If you’re planning to thread bolt stock however, you’ll want to look at a powered option. It’s just a bit too difficult to thread them with a manual threader.
Overall, the RIDGID 36475 Exposed 6 Ratchet Threader Set is a great kit for any trade. It’s got the strength, built quality and a lifetime warranty that’ll eliminate any doubts in your mind. If you want the best and don’t intend to buy replacement tools year after year, this is the set to get. Plus, it is way cheaper than a powered pipe threading machine and requires significantly less maintenance.
#4 Klutch Heavy-Duty Portable Electric Pipe Threader – Best Budget Electric Pipe Threader
- 120V AC motor
- Threads 1/2in., 3/4in., 1in., 1 1/4in., 1 1/2in. and 2in.
If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper than a Ridgid product, but one that still performs incredibly well, the Klutch Heavy-Duty Portable Electric Pipe Threader is our top choice. With a budget price tag, tons of included extras and the power to easily thread 2” pipes it would be a perfect addition to any tool box.
Even more, because it’s so cost effective you can buy extra dies or additional attachments to make it a significantly more versatile tool. After all, what can be better than saving money and having great performance? If you don’t mind a tool made in China, we have no issues making this an amazing recommendation.
The Klutch Heavy-Duty Portable Electric Pipe Threader is the perfect combination of cost effective engineering and functional design. It features a heavy-duty mechanical paddle switch that automatically shuts off when released. This keeps your hands and arms safe during extended use. Plus, if your grip ever slips from the machine it’ll turn off instead of spinning on the ground.
This pipe threader set includes 6 durable alloy steel dies for added convenience. The dies are made from 9Cr2 material which is extremely resilient and rust resistant. For reference it has a die hardness of HRC58-62 which is perfect for steel pipes. Because it is a bit harder than standard steel it won’t wear out easily during operation.
This set also comes with a handy carrying case to lug everything around. Weighing in at 48.8 pounds with everything included, it can get a bit heavy at times. The impact resistant case is also perfect for protecting your power threader and dies from harm.
I’m a electrical contractor that does alot of threading on rigid pipe. It’s Very Powerful, leverage is great. Dies are nice. The fwd/rev switch is clunky but beings that it’s a mechanical switch it’ll last. For the money it’s a 5 star rating.
Inside the set you’ll also find an oil gun to keep your pipe nice and lubricated during the threading process. Extra lubrication keeps your dies from dulling faster and makes the threading process much easier. This is a nice extra to have and something that is very rarely included in a set.
You’ll also find this set includes a support arm. This add-on is commonly used when you are threading 1” pipe and larger. The forces of the machine makes it nearly impossible to use without assistance. This arm provides additional leverage so the pipe or tool doesn’t spin out of your grasp. During operation the Klutch Heavy-Duty Portable Electric Pipe Threader spins at 18-28 RPMs while threading and 61 RPMs in reverse. This means it can quickly spin out of control if not supported.
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The power drive itself is made with an aluminum gear housing and a reinforced plastic body and handle. This makes it cost effective, yet still reliable. While it won’t quite have the same longevity as a Ridgid product, it’ll be more than good enough for everyday use.
Overall, the Klutch Heavy-Duty Portable Electric Pipe Threader is an amazing low cost option for industrial or DIY use. It won’t break the bank yet is still extremely powerful and has a ton of extras included free of charge. If you want an electric pipe threader but don’t want to break the bank, this is the best choice by far.
#5 Rothenberger 63005 50R Portable Compact Threader Machine – Best High End Pipe Threading Machine
- Country Of Origin: China
- Model Number: 63005
If you need an absolute beast of a pipe threader machine and don’t want to rely on a handheld electronic version or a manual option, the Rothenberger 63005 50R Portable Compact Threader Machine should be your #1 pick. With a hefty 1 HP motor, integrated oil pump and precision engineered components, it’s an incredible unit to behold. However, it’s also got a price tag to match, so do keep that in mind.
Feature wise, it is superior to any other product on our list. It’s got chip collection trays, closed bearing spindles, oil feeds and more. If you’re planning to make a career out of threading pipe or do so on a daily basis, this machine will power through even 2” pipe with ease. While it’s not quite as portable as the lighter weight options, it more than makes up for it in power, speed and efficiency.
The reason the Rothenberger 63005 50R Portable Compact Threader Machine is one of the best on the market it mainly due to all the incredible integrated technology. The robust 1HP motor for example is double insulated for safer operation and high torque. The constant power allows it to quickly and easily thread even the largest of pipes.
Even more it’s got an incredibly smooth and easy to operate pipe chuck. The chuck allows the machine to grip the pipe and prevent it from slipping during the threading process. Other competitors’ designs use a different system that is much harder to operate and takes longer to clamp onto the pipe itself. This unit also includes an offset spindle making it very easy to oil and maintain. The spindle is made with closed bearings and low-wear components so you won’t need to replace it anytime soon.
Another big plus is the compact oil pump. This pump provides excellent oil flow and has fully adjustable flow characteristics for perfect pipe lubrication. Not only that, it’s got an integrated filter system to ensure no particles mix with the oil and has a built-in oil feed to keep the oil pumping with zero effort on your part. Hand held pipe threader typically require you to use a second hand to squeeze an oil gun trigger. This is safer and far more effective.
One thing we do want to point out is the stand pictured in the main image is NOT included. That is a separate purchase, but one we highly recommend. It’ll make any work much easier on your back and setup times will be cut in half compared to a traditional sawhorse table.
Related Link: Grab the matching foldable, wheeled workbench for an ergonomic table solution.
The Rothenberger 63005 50R Portable Compact Threader Machine is simply filled with great design decisions. Take the angle of the machine for example. It’s slightly angled downward to ensure the oil fully coats the pipe and doesn’t run off in random directions. This will increase the machine lifespan and reduce unnecessary cleanup.
You’ll also find all of the machined components are made from tempered steel and are built to survive any wear and tear on the jobsite. Whether you’re threading, cutting, deburring or grooving, this tank-like threading machine is more than up to the task.
This unit takes standard 50R die heads which are very common and easy to source. Replacing the individual heads is extremely easy due to the ball-detent feature. And quick and simple process that will save a ton of time if you constantly need to change die for different pipe sizes.
To really put the cherry on top, this electric pipe threader has an ultra-convenient chip collection tray. As your threading pipe, bit of metal need to be removed. Typically these just fall on the floor creating a big mess. Remember, these are also coated in oil to make cleanup a pain. The chip collection tray prevents this mess from ever happening and cleaning up is a simple as dumping the contents into a trash can.
Overall, the Rothenberger 63005 50R Portable Compact Threader Machine is the most powerful and most feature packed choice on our list. It is also the most expensive. If you plan to constantly thread pipes for plumbing or conduit jobs, getting one of these will make your life a lot easier. Plus, you won’t need to hold up a 40 pound machine day in and day out. Just get this guy all set up and enjoy the day!
Summary
Pipe threaders come in all shapes, sizes and power ratings. If you just need to thread a few small pipes every now and again, grab the Ridgid 363450 Exposed Ratchet Threader Set. It’s cost effective, easy to carry around and will get the job done right. If instead, you plan to put a bit more emphasis on pipe threading and you desire more power and added ease of use, consider grabbing the RIDGID 41935 Model 700 Hand-Held Power Drive. It’ll make threading pipe easy as pie and is well worth the money. Even if you decide to choose another model on this list, you can buy with the certainty that it’ll last for job after job.
After a long week at work threading pipe, nothing says the weekend like a large meal with friends and family. To make it a truly special occasion, consider grabbing a spit roaster for a spectacular event. You might also consider buying an outdoor icemaker for ice cold margaritas and frozen drinks during the summer months.
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