Ryobi Compact Brushless 3/8" High Speed Ratchet

The Ryobi Compact Brushless 3/8" High Speed Ratchet is a tool that has quickly found its way into my regular rotation of must-have power tools. As someone who frequently works on various DIY and automotive projects, I appreciate tools that offer a combination of power, convenience, and versatility. This ratchet certainly fits the bill.

Design and Build Quality

First and foremost, the design of this ratchet is incredibly thoughtful. The compact ratchet head is perfect for those tight spaces where a traditional ratchet would struggle. The head can rotate to four different positions, which makes it even easier to navigate around obstacles. This is achieved by pulling up on a collar and rotating the anvil, allowing me to lock it into the most convenient angle for the task at hand.

The tool feels solid and well-balanced in my hand. It's not particularly heavy, even with the battery attached, which is a huge plus for extended use. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the large paddle switch is easy to operate, making it straightforward to control the speed and torque. This variable speed paddle trigger is a feature I’ve come to rely on, as it offers excellent control when working on delicate tasks.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the brushless motor really shines. The ratchet delivers up to 460 RPM, which is plenty fast for most applications I’ve encountered. It also offers up to 40 ft-lbs of torque, which is sufficient for a wide range of tasks, from automotive repairs to assembling furniture. For particularly stubborn or rusty bolts, I do find myself needing to break them free manually before switching to the ratchet, but once that’s done, the tool makes quick work of the rest.

I’ve used this ratchet extensively on my riding lawn mower, particularly for removing and reinstalling the blades for sharpening. The dual LED lights on either side of the ratchet head are incredibly useful in these situations, providing ample illumination even in poorly lit areas. This feature is something I didn’t realize I needed until I had it, and now I can’t imagine working without it.

Battery and Compatibility

One of the standout features of Ryobi tools is their ONE+ battery system, and this ratchet is no exception. It’s compatible with all Ryobi 18V ONE+ batteries, which means I can interchange batteries between my various Ryobi tools. This level of convenience cannot be overstated. I already had several 18V batteries and chargers, so I didn’t need to invest in additional ones for this tool.

The battery life is impressive. Even with extended use, I rarely find myself needing to swap out batteries. When I do, the process is quick and painless. The ratchet also stands upright on the battery, which is a small but appreciated detail that makes it easier to store and grab when needed.

Usability and Features

Ease of use is a major selling point for this ratchet. The paddle switch is large and easy to depress, making it simple to control the tool even when working in awkward positions. The lockout lever above the paddle switch is another thoughtful addition, preventing accidental activation when the tool is stored in my toolbox.

The ratchet head’s ability to rotate in 90-degree increments is a game-changer for accessing tight spots. Whether I’m working on an engine or assembling a piece of furniture, this feature allows me to get the perfect angle without having to contort my body into uncomfortable positions. The LEDs provide excellent visibility, and the delay before they turn off after releasing the trigger is a nice touch, ensuring I have enough light to inspect my work.

Durability and Reliability

In terms of durability, the Ryobi ratchet feels robust and well-made. I’ve put it through its paces on various projects, and it has held up admirably. There was one instance where I noticed some smoke coming from the brushless motor vents during a particularly demanding task, but it continued to perform without any issues after that. This did give me a moment of concern, but so far, it hasn’t affected the tool’s functionality.

The three-year limited warranty is reassuring, providing peace of mind that Ryobi stands behind their product. Given the build quality and my experience so far, I’m confident this ratchet will continue to serve me well for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ryobi Compact Brushless 3/8" High Speed Ratchet is a fantastic addition to any tool collection. Its combination of power, versatility, and thoughtful design makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. The rotating head and LED lights are particularly useful features that enhance its usability in tight and poorly lit spaces.

I would highly recommend this tool to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s a reliable, well-built ratchet that offers excellent performance and convenience. Whether you’re working on automotive repairs, home improvement projects, or anything in between, this ratchet will undoubtedly make your tasks easier and more efficient.

For anyone invested in the Ryobi ONE+ system, this ratchet is a no-brainer. The compatibility with existing batteries and chargers adds an extra layer of convenience, making it a valuable addition to your tool arsenal. Even if you’re new to Ryobi tools, this ratchet is a great entry point, offering a glimpse into the quality and innovation that Ryobi consistently delivers.