Ryobi 18V ONE+ AirStrike 23GA Pin Nailer

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ AirStrike 23GA Pin Nailer (model PCL310B) has undoubtedly made its mark as a versatile and efficient tool for fine woodworking and trim work. Its cordless design eliminates the need for cumbersome compressors or gas cartridges, which significantly enhances mobility and ease of use. Let me walk you through my hands-on experience with this innovative tool to give you a comprehensive overview.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the Ryobi pin nailer feels solid and well-constructed. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle, even during extended periods of use. The non-marring pad is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that your work surfaces remain unblemished. The inclusion of an LED light is a nice touch as well, providing ample visibility in low-light conditions—a feature that came in handy more often than I anticipated.

Performance and Usability

One of the standout features of this pin nailer is its capability to drive up to 4,000 nails per charge when using an 18V 6Ah Lithium battery. Even with the included 18V 2Ah Lithium battery, I found it could drive over 1,000 nails per charge, which is more than sufficient for most of my projects. The tool is designed to handle pin nails ranging from 1/2" to 1-3/8", offering flexibility for various applications.

The dual safety trigger system initially felt a bit cumbersome but became second nature with a little practice. It ensures a high level of safety, reducing the risk of accidental firing. The low nail indicator is another practical feature, alerting me when it's time to reload, thus avoiding those annoying empty shots.

Pinning Precision

In terms of nail setting, the Ryobi pin nailer excels. The pins it fires are virtually invisible, requiring no depth adjustment in most cases. This was particularly beneficial when working on fine woodworking projects where aesthetics are paramount. The tool's ability to drive nails with minimal surface impact means less time spent on filling and sanding, which is a significant time saver.

However, I did encounter a minor issue with the tightness of the magazine. When switching nail lengths, a few pins would sometimes remain in the chamber, necessitating extra shots into scrap material to clear them out. While this isn't a deal-breaker, it does add a slight inconvenience to the workflow.

Reliability and Durability

On the reliability front, the Ryobi pin nailer performed admirably in most scenarios. It rarely misfired, and I experienced no jams during my testing. The tool's robust build and reliable performance are particularly noteworthy, especially when compared to other pin nailers in its price range.

That said, I did come across a few user reports indicating issues with long-term durability. Some users experienced failures within a few weeks of use, with the tool ceasing to fire nails altogether. While these instances seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, they are worth noting for potential buyers.

Battery Life and Convenience

The convenience of a cordless tool cannot be overstated. Without the need for an air compressor or hose, setup and breakdown times are significantly reduced. The battery life is quite impressive; even with the smaller 2Ah battery, I never found myself running out of juice in the middle of a project. The tool's battery indicator is also a helpful feature, letting me know when it's time to recharge.

Areas for Improvement

While the Ryobi pin nailer is a fantastic tool overall, it isn't without its flaws. The absence of a depth adjustment mechanism is a notable drawback. Although it sets nails flush in most cases, having the option to fine-tune the depth would add another layer of precision. Additionally, the double trigger system, while safe, can be somewhat annoying to use, particularly for those accustomed to single-trigger models.

Another area for improvement is the lack of an edge guide, which would be beneficial for repeated nailing with accuracy. This is a minor gripe but could make a significant difference for those working on intricate trim work.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ AirStrike 23GA Pin Nailer is a robust, reliable tool that offers excellent value for money. Its cordless design, coupled with features like the LED light, low nail indicator, and non-marring pad, make it a versatile addition to any woodworker's toolkit. The minor inconveniences, such as the tight magazine and lack of depth adjustment, are outweighed by the tool's overall performance and ease of use.

Would I recommend the Ryobi pin nailer? Absolutely. For those involved in fine woodworking, trim work, or any project requiring precision pinning, this tool is a game-changer. Its combination of portability, power, and reliability makes it a must-have for both DIY enthusiasts and professional craftsmen alike. While there are a few areas for improvement, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a worthwhile investment.