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
The Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader rates 3.0 among hand-held pipe threading machines; the Steel Dragon 1215 Threading Machine rates 2.8 among machines ones. The Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader costs $943 less ($271.99 vs $1,214.99).
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 1215 Threading Machine
#8 in MachinesFull review
A budget 1-1/2 in machine built around RIDGID-pattern dies. It suits a shop that threads small pipe and wants low upfront cost.
Amazon $1,214.99$1,214.99
Scores side by side
These two sit in different type classes (hand-held and machines), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own type peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader | Steel Dragon 1215 Threading Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.0/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Value 30% | 77 $217.59 per inch of pipe ($271.99, up to 1-1/4 in) | 38 $809.99 per inch of pipe ($1,214.99, up to 1-1/2 in) |
| Capacity 20% | 8 threads pipe up to 1-1/4 in | 17 threads pipe up to 1-1/2 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 1-1/2 in |
| Weight 10% | 40 28 lb | 83 151 lb |
| Warranty 25% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 0 warranty not published, scored as none |
Specifications
| Steel Dragon 550 Handheld Threader | Steel Dragon 1215 Threading Machine | |
|---|---|---|
| Threading | ||
| Pipe range | 1/2 to 1-1/4 in | 1/2 to 1-1/2 in |
| Dies in the box | Up to 1-1/4 in | Up to 1-1/2 in |
| Speed | 25 rpm | - |
| Power | 1,800 W | Corded |
| In the box | ||
| Cutter | No | Yes |
| Reamer | No | Yes |
| Oil system | No | Yes |
| Stand or support arm | Yes | - |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 28 lb | 151 lb |