Scored a Ridgid 18V Hedge Trimmer for $40 - Too Good to Be True?

So I was at a garage sale this morning and this old guy was selling a bunch of tools. He had a Ridgid 18V hedge trimmer, looked barely used, and he only wanted $40! It's normally $150+. I couldn't pass it up. I don't own any Ridgid tools, but for that price, I could get into the system. Is it worth keeping or should I flip it? Also, does anyone know if the battery is compatible with newer Ridgid stuff?

Dude, $40 for a hedge trimmer that's $150 new? That's a steal, even if you have to buy a battery. The Ridgid 18V system is pretty solid, and they have a lifetime warranty on the batteries if you register them. I've got a few Ridgid tools myself. The hedge trimmer is decent - cuts through thick branches no problem. I'd keep it, especially if you have any shrubs or hedges. And if you find it's not your thing, you can always resell it for more.

I've been in the trades for 40 years, and Ridgid makes good stuff. That trimmer is a beast. But heads up, the older 18V batteries are NOT compatible with the newer 18V stuff. They changed the connector a few years back. You might have to get an adapter or stick with the older batteries. Still, for $40, you can't go wrong. I'd probably buy a new battery (the newer ones are better anyway) and enjoy it. Also, check the date code on the tool - if it's from before 2015, it might not have the lifetime warranty. But even then, it's a solid tool.

Thanks for the tips, guys! I checked the date code, and it's from 2018, so it's after the battery change. I guess I'll need to get the newer battery then. Also, I found out the guy included the charger and a battery (it was in the box, not pictured). So I'm already set! I think I'll keep it. My wife's been yelling at me about the bushes anyway. Gotta go try it out now!