Best Hand Reamer For Pipes This Year – Hand Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Hand Reamer For Pipes this year are:
BEST OVERALL
RIDGID 29983 Model 223S

- High-speed steel construction
- Ergonomic handle
- Adjustable size range
- Sharp blades
- Brand reputation
Introduction
Looking for the best hand reamer for pipes? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re a professional plumber or a DIY enthusiast, having the right tools can make all the difference. Hand reamers are essential for ensuring smooth and precise pipe fittings. In this article, we’ll explore the top products available on Amazon, helping you make an informed decision.
Hand reamers are designed to remove burrs and imperfections from the inside of pipes. This not only ensures a better fit but also prolongs the life of your plumbing system. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to the best hand reamers for pipes.

Reviews & Comparisons
1. RIDGID 29983 Model 223S
The RIDGID 29983 Model 223S is a durable and efficient hand reamer designed for professional use. It’s ideal for removing burrs from pipes and ensuring a smooth fit.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the RIDGID 29983 for its robust construction and reliable performance. It’s built to last and delivers excellent results, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
Features
- High-speed steel construction
- Ergonomic handle
- Adjustable size range
- Sharp blades
- Brand reputation
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Versatile
- Non-slip grip
- Reliable performance
Cons
- Higher price point
- Requires regular maintenance
- Not suitable for all pipe materials
- Heavy
- Limited availability
Our Verdict
The RIDGID 29983 Model 223S is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a durable and reliable hand reamer. While it comes at a higher price, its performance and longevity make it worth the investment.
2. General Tools 130
The General Tools 130 is a versatile hand reamer designed for both professional and DIY use. It offers adjustable sizing, making it suitable for various pipe dimensions.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
The General Tools 130 stands out for its versatility and ease of use. The adjustable feature allows for a wide range of applications, making it a handy tool for any plumber.
Features
- Adjustable size range
- Sturdy construction
- Ergonomic design
- Sharp blades
- Great value
Pros
- Versatile
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Requires regular sharpening
- Not as durable as high-end models
- Limited to smaller pipes
- Plastic handle
- Blades may dull quickly
Our Verdict
For those seeking an affordable yet versatile hand reamer, the General Tools 130 is a fantastic option. Its adjustable sizing and ease of use make it a practical choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
3. Milwaukee 48-22-4255
The Milwaukee 48-22-4255 is a high-quality hand reamer designed for heavy-duty use. Its robust build and sharp blades ensure efficient and precise reaming.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Milwaukee 48-22-4255 for its durability and exceptional performance. It’s built to withstand rigorous use, making it ideal for demanding plumbing tasks.
Features
- Heavy-duty construction
- Ergonomic handle
- Adjustable size
- Sharp blades
- Trusted brand
Pros
- Durable
- Reliable
- Easy to handle
- Versatile
- Efficient
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires maintenance
- Not suitable for all materials
- Limited availability
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable hand reamer for heavy-duty use, the Milwaukee 48-22-4255 is a top contender. Its robust build and sharp blades make it a valuable tool for professional plumbers.
4. Lenox Tools 21011TC1
The Lenox Tools 21011TC1 is a compact and efficient hand reamer designed for precise reaming tasks. Its small size makes it easy to handle and store.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Lenox Tools 21011TC1 for its compact design and ease of use. It’s perfect for quick and precise reaming tasks, making it a handy tool for any plumber.
Features
- Compact design
- Sharp blades
- Ergonomic handle
- Durable construction
- Easy to store
Pros
- Compact
- Precise
- Easy to handle
- Affordable
- Durable
Cons
- Limited size range
- Requires regular sharpening
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Plastic handle
- Blades may dull quickly
Our Verdict
The Lenox Tools 21011TC1 is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and efficient hand reamer. Its small size and ease of use make it perfect for quick reaming tasks.
5. RIDGID 29993 Model 223S
The RIDGID 29993 Model 223S is a high-quality hand reamer designed for precise and efficient reaming tasks. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the RIDGID 29993 for its precision and durability. It’s built to withstand rigorous use, making it a reliable tool for professional plumbers.
Features
- Durable construction
- Sharp blades
- Ergonomic handle
- Adjustable size
- Trusted brand
Pros
- Durable
- Precise
- Easy to handle
- Reliable
- Versatile
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires maintenance
- Not suitable for all materials
- Limited availability
Our Verdict
The RIDGID 29993 Model 223S is a top choice for those seeking a precise and durable hand reamer. Its robust build and sharp blades make it ideal for demanding plumbing tasks.
6. General Tools 160
The General Tools 160 is a versatile and affordable hand reamer designed for both professional and DIY use. Its adjustable sizing makes it suitable for various pipe dimensions.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
The General Tools 160 stands out for its affordability and versatility. It’s a practical tool for any plumber, offering adjustable sizing and ease of use.
Features
- Adjustable size range
- Sturdy construction
- Ergonomic design
- Sharp blades
- Great value
Pros
- Versatile
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Requires regular sharpening
- Not as durable as high-end models
- Limited to smaller pipes
- Plastic handle
- Blades may dull quickly
Our Verdict
For those seeking an affordable yet versatile hand reamer, the General Tools 160 is a fantastic option. Its adjustable sizing and ease of use make it a practical choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
7. Milwaukee 48-22-4256
The Milwaukee 48-22-4256 is a durable and efficient hand reamer designed for heavy-duty use. Its robust build and sharp blades ensure efficient and precise reaming.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Milwaukee 48-22-4256 for its durability and exceptional performance. It’s built to withstand rigorous use, making it ideal for demanding plumbing tasks.
Features
- Heavy-duty construction
- Ergonomic handle
- Adjustable size
- Sharp blades
- Trusted brand
Pros
- Durable
- Reliable
- Easy to handle
- Versatile
- Efficient
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires maintenance
- Not suitable for all materials
- Limited availability
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable hand reamer for heavy-duty use, the Milwaukee 48-22-4256 is a top contender. Its robust build and sharp blades make it a valuable tool for professional plumbers.
8. Ridgid 29973 Model 223S
The Ridgid 29973 Model 223S is a high-quality hand reamer designed for precise and efficient reaming tasks. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Ridgid 29973 for its precision and durability. It’s built to withstand rigorous use, making it a reliable tool for professional plumbers.
Features
- Durable construction
- Sharp blades
- Ergonomic handle
- Adjustable size
- Trusted brand
Pros
- Durable
- Precise
- Easy to handle
- Reliable
- Versatile
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires maintenance
- Not suitable for all materials
- Limited availability
Our Verdict
The Ridgid 29973 Model 223S is a top choice for those seeking a precise and durable hand reamer. Its robust build and sharp blades make it ideal for demanding plumbing tasks.
9. General Tools 170
The General Tools 170 is a versatile and affordable hand reamer designed for both professional and DIY use. Its adjustable sizing makes it suitable for various pipe dimensions.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
The General Tools 170 stands out for its affordability and versatility. It’s a practical tool for any plumber, offering adjustable sizing and ease of use.
Features
- Adjustable size range
- Sturdy construction
- Ergonomic design
- Sharp blades
- Great value
Pros
- Versatile
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Requires regular sharpening
- Not as durable as high-end models
- Limited to smaller pipes
- Plastic handle
- Blades may dull quickly
Our Verdict
For those seeking an affordable yet versatile hand reamer, the General Tools 170 is a fantastic option. Its adjustable sizing and ease of use make it a practical choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
10. Milwaukee 48-22-4257
The Milwaukee 48-22-4257 is a durable and efficient hand reamer designed for heavy-duty use. Its robust build and sharp blades ensure efficient and precise reaming.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Milwaukee 48-22-4257 for its durability and exceptional performance. It’s built to withstand rigorous use, making it ideal for demanding plumbing tasks.
Features
- Heavy-duty construction
- Ergonomic handle
- Adjustable size
- Sharp blades
- Trusted brand
Pros
- Durable
- Reliable
- Easy to handle
- Versatile
- Efficient
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires maintenance
- Not suitable for all materials
- Limited availability
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable hand reamer for heavy-duty use, the Milwaukee 48-22-4257 is a top contender. Its robust build and sharp blades make it a valuable tool for professional plumbers.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right hand reamer for pipes can be a daunting task. Here are some key points to consider:
- Material: High-quality materials such as high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide are essential for durability and performance. These materials can withstand high temperatures and resist wear and tear. Learn more about materials here.
- Size Range: Ensure the reamer covers the range of pipe sizes you work with. Some reamers are adjustable, while others are fixed-size. Adjustable options offer more flexibility.
- Handle Comfort: Ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue and provide better control. Look for handles with non-slip grips for added safety.
- Blade Sharpness: Sharp blades ensure clean and smooth cuts. Dull blades can damage pipes and reduce the efficiency of your work.
- Brand Reputation: Opt for reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Reading reviews and checking ratings can help you gauge the performance of the product. For more tips on choosing the right tools, visit Popular Mechanics.
FAQs
What is a hand reamer used for?
A hand reamer is used to remove burrs and imperfections from the inside of pipes. This ensures a smooth and precise fit, which is crucial for plumbing systems to function effectively.
How do I choose the right size hand reamer?
Choose a hand reamer that covers the range of pipe sizes you commonly work with. Some reamers are adjustable and can fit multiple sizes, while others are fixed-size and tailored to specific dimensions.
Can I use a hand reamer on all types of pipes?
Most hand reamers are designed to work with various materials including copper, steel, and plastic pipes. However, always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility with the pipe material you are working on.
How do I maintain my hand reamer?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the reamer after each use, sharpening the blades as needed, and storing it in a dry place to prevent rust. Proper maintenance extends the life of your tool and ensures optimal performance.
Are expensive hand reamers worth the investment?
Expensive hand reamers often offer better quality materials, precision, and durability. While they may have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run by providing reliable and efficient performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the best hand reamer for pipes can vastly improve your plumbing projects. Consider the material, size range, handle comfort, blade sharpness, and brand reputation when making your decision. With the right tool, you can ensure smooth and precise pipe fittings, making your work easier and more efficient.