Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Threader
#5 in Hand-heldFull review
A very light cordless threader for 1/4 to 1-1/4 in pipe, for electricians threading conduit and plumbers on ladders.
Amazon $2,299$2,299
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Threader is the better pipe threading machine overall, rated 3.5 to 3.0. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Threader leads on weight. The Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader wins on value. The Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader costs $2,027.01 less ($271.99 vs $2,299).
Prices were last checked November 4, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader
#13 in Hand-heldFull review
A budget hand-held drive for small pipe, from a brand that also sells RIDGID-pattern parts. A sensible low-cost option for 1/2 to 1-1/4 in.
Amazon $271.99$271.99
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Threader for weight (10.6 lb vs 28 lb).
- Choose the Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader for value ($217.59 per inch of pipe ($271.99, up to 1-1/4 in) vs $1,839.20 per inch of pipe ($2,299, up to 1-1/4 in)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every hand-held pipe threading machine; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Threader | Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.5/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 14 $1,839.20 per inch of pipe ($2,299, up to 1-1/4 in) | 77 $217.59 per inch of pipe ($271.99, up to 1-1/4 in) |
| Capacity 20% | 8 threads pipe up to 1-1/4 in | 8 threads pipe up to 1-1/4 in |
| Dies 15% | 100 dies in the box cover the full range, up to 1-1/4 in | 100 dies in the box cover the full range, up to 1-1/4 in |
| Weight 10% | 98 10.6 lb | 40 28 lb |
| Warranty 25% | 100 5-year warranty | 0 warranty not published, scored as none |
Specifications
| Milwaukee M18 FUEL Compact Threader | Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader | |
|---|---|---|
| Threading | ||
| Pipe range | 1/2 to 1-1/4 in | 1/2 to 1-1/4 in |
| Dies in the box | Up to 1-1/4 in | Up to 1-1/4 in |
| Speed | - | 25 rpm |
| Power | 18 V battery | 1,800 W |
| In the box | ||
| Cutter | No | No |
| Reamer | No | No |
| Oil system | No | No |
| Stand or support arm | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 10.6 lb | 28 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | - |