The Chicago Pnuematic (CP) CP7830Q 3/8" Inch Air Ratchet is called the
"Quiet One". But, can the quiet kid in class get the
attention over the students raising raising hand and going "Pick Me! Pick Me!"? I think CP has done it with this tool.
On paper, the CP7830Q has a maximum ultimate torque of 90 ft/lbs that is generated by .5hp air motor. CP claims
that it is the most powerful ratchet in its class. The rest of the specs
like free speed and air consumption are even with the competition from IR and Snap-on. But,
it is how CP packages these attributes while throwing in some unique
features that sets it apart.
The reason why they call this the "Quiet One" is a noise control system
that silences the exhaust. The adjustable noise control is changed by
rotating a sleeve around the body of the ratchet. The noise reduction
is noticeable and it also points the exhaust in any desired direction.
CP claims that there is no reduction in power, and I did not noticed
any loss of power with the it fully muffled. CP claims that it can be
as quiet as 79 dBA. Why is noise control important? It has be proven
that constant exposure can damage your hearing, but it also causes
stress.
The rubberized handle survived the aerosol brake clean solvent test
after the ratchet was used to remove a greasy cylinder head.
I liked the handle, it has a nice feel and I felt I could use
more force on it. Also, the oval shape of the
handle felt comfortable at any angle. The CP7830Q was dropped it several times from 6 ft. and it
did not break.
On cold days the rubber surface felt a lot better to hold than cold
cast aluminum.
The trigger works well and had good feel with controllability. It may
take a while to adjust if you have used a lever trigger for a long
time. Also, it is a nice touch CP includes the protective head
boot with the tool instead of trying to sell it to you later on.
Overall, I would recommend the CP7830Q ratchet is you are looking for a
3/8" air ratchet. This is a quality tool that is well worth the
purchase price. It speaks softly, while letting you carry a big stick.
