Ryobi 18V ONE+ Airstrike 23GA Pin Nailer

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ Airstrike 23GA Pin Nailer, model P318, is a tool that promises convenience and efficiency for fine woodworking and trim work, and I recently had the opportunity to put it through its paces. As someone who often juggles various woodworking projects, the appeal of a cordless pin nailer without the hassle of compressors or gas cartridges was too compelling to pass up. Here's my detailed review of this tool.

Design and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the Ryobi pin nailer feels solid and well-constructed. Weighing in at 3.85 lbs, it's lightweight enough for extended use without causing fatigue. The Gripzone overmold enhances comfort, making it easy to handle even during long sessions. One of the standout features is the double-action trigger design, which ensures sequential driving, adding an extra layer of safety. However, I found this dual-trigger system to be somewhat cumbersome initially, but it became second nature after a bit of use.

The tool also includes two non-marring pads to protect work surfaces, which is a thoughtful addition for those working on delicate projects. The inclusion of an edge guide for consistent nail placement is another practical feature, although I noticed some units might not come with this guide, so it's worth double-checking if this is essential for your work.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Ryobi pin nailer is quite impressive. It can drive pin nails ranging from 1/2 inch to 1-3/8 inch, and I found it highly efficient in delivering up to 3,500 nails per charge. The nails are fired easily and are almost invisible, which is perfect for fine woodworking and trim work. I was particularly pleased with the dry-fire lockout feature, which prevents the tool from firing when the magazine is empty, thereby extending the tool's life.

One of the most significant advantages of this pin nailer is its cordless nature. Not having to deal with air hoses or compressors is a game-changer. The LED light is another excellent addition, providing improved visibility in dimly lit workspaces. I tested the tool on various materials, including pine, oak, and engineered hardwood, and it performed admirably across the board. The nails were driven flush in both hard and softwoods, with minimal adjustments needed.

Battery Life

The nailer runs on Ryobi's 18V ONE+ battery system, which is known for its reliability. I used a 2.0Ah battery and found that it lasted quite long, even with continuous use. For larger projects, a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery would be ideal to ensure you can work uninterrupted. The battery life is more than adequate for most DIY projects, and the convenience of cordless operation cannot be overstated.

Ease of Use

Loading the nails is straightforward, and the magazine holds the pin strips securely. However, I did notice that switching nail lengths sometimes left a few pins in the chamber, which could be a minor inconvenience. Firing a few shots into scrap material when changing pins solves this issue effectively.

The tool's balance is excellent, and it fits comfortably in hand, making it easy to maneuver even in tight spaces. The sequential firing mechanism is smooth, and I experienced no jams during my testing period. However, if a jam does occur, the Allen wrench for removing the front cap is conveniently stored on the tool, although a quick-release tab would have been faster.

Areas for Improvement

While the Ryobi pin nailer has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could improve. The lack of a depth adjustment feature is a notable omission. Although the nails were generally driven flush, having the ability to adjust the depth would provide more control, especially for varied materials and project requirements.

Another point of contention is the double-action trigger. While it adds a layer of safety, it can be somewhat annoying to use compared to single-trigger designs. This might be a matter of personal preference, but it's worth noting.

Reliability and Longevity

My experience with the Ryobi pin nailer has been largely positive, but I have come across reports of units failing after a few weeks of use. This seems to be a quality control issue, and it's something potential buyers should be aware of. However, Ryobi offers a 3-year limited warranty, which provides some peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Airstrike 23GA Pin Nailer is a robust and reliable tool that excels in fine woodworking and trim work. Its cordless convenience, combined with solid performance and thoughtful features like the LED light and dry-fire lockout, make it a valuable addition to any workshop. The minor issues, such as the lack of depth adjustment and the occasionally cumbersome double-action trigger, are outweighed by the tool's many advantages.

I would recommend this pin nailer to anyone looking for a versatile, easy-to-use tool for detailed woodworking projects. Its performance, ease of use, and the convenience of being cordless make it a worthwhile investment. Just be sure to check for the edge guide if that's a feature you need and take advantage of the warranty in case you encounter any issues.