Ryobi HP Brushless 20" Chainsaw Kit

As a dedicated user of various chainsaws over the years, the Ryobi HP Brushless 20" Chainsaw Kit has been an intriguing addition to my collection. At first glance, it promises the power and efficiency of a 50cc gas chainsaw but with the convenience of a battery-operated device. Let's dive into how this chainsaw performs and whether it stands up to its claims.

Build and Design

The Ryobi chainsaw's design is immediately impressive. It features a 20" bar and chain, capable of making cuts up to 36 inches, which is quite significant for most residential and light industrial applications. The chainsaw weighs in at 15.9 pounds, which isn’t exactly lightweight but is manageable, especially with the well-balanced construction. The soft grip handle also adds a level of comfort that's appreciated during extended usage.

One of the standout features is the automatic chain oiler, which ensures the chain remains lubricated during use. This is a critical component for smooth operation and longevity of the chain. However, my experience with the chain tensioning mechanism left much to be desired. The tensioning screw, which is essential for keeping the chain at the correct tightness, seems to be of poor quality. On more than one occasion, I found the chain becoming loose after just a few cuts. This required frequent adjustments, which can be a hassle, especially when you're in the middle of a job. The screw itself feels flimsy, and I have my doubts about its long-term durability.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Ryobi HP Brushless chainsaw has a lot to offer. The 40V battery system delivers impressive power, allowing the chainsaw to cut through thick hardwood effortlessly. During my tests, I was able to down a 30-inch pine tree with relative ease. The power delivery is consistent, and the chainsaw doesn’t bog down under heavy loads, which is a common issue with many battery-powered tools.

However, the battery life is a mixed bag. The unit comes with an 8Ah battery, which should theoretically provide ample run time. Yet, in practice, the battery drains quicker than expected, especially under heavy usage. On a full charge, I managed to get over 100 cuts, but the performance noticeably dropped once the battery indicator showed less than half charge. It's worth noting that having an additional battery on hand is almost a necessity if you plan on using this chainsaw for extended periods.

Safety Features

The Ryobi chainsaw includes several safety features that are worth highlighting. The mechanical chain brake is a crucial safety component that prevents kickbacks, a common hazard with chainsaws. It works effectively, and I felt a heightened sense of security while using the tool. Additionally, the chainsaw operates at a much quieter noise level compared to gas-powered models, which is a significant advantage for residential use.

Maintenance

Maintenance is a critical aspect of any chainsaw, and the Ryobi HP Brushless 20" Chainsaw is relatively low maintenance. The automatic oiler works efficiently, although I did encounter an issue with the lubricating compartment clogging up after a few uses. This required some effort to clean and reset, which was somewhat frustrating but manageable.

The chain itself did require frequent sharpening, especially after cutting through harder woods. This is somewhat expected but still worth noting, as it adds to the overall maintenance time. The plastic components, particularly around the tensioning assembly, also raise concerns about long-term durability. While I haven't encountered a complete failure yet, the build quality in these areas doesn’t inspire confidence.

Battery and Charging

The chainsaw uses a 40V battery system, and the kit includes an 8Ah battery along with a charger. The charger is a standard 120V, 60Hz, 80W unit, which takes a considerable amount of time to fully charge the battery. In practice, I found myself needing an extra battery to maintain continuous operation, as the downtime for charging was lengthy. The integrated LED fuel gauge is a handy feature, providing a clear indication of the remaining battery life.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi HP Brushless 20" Chainsaw Kit is a robust and powerful tool that offers a viable alternative to gas-powered chainsaws. It excels in power delivery and ease of use, making it a great option for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable chainsaw for moderate to heavy-duty tasks. The quieter operation and lack of emissions are significant advantages over traditional gas models.

However, the tool isn’t without its flaws. The chain tensioning mechanism and battery life are areas that could use improvement. The plastic components in critical areas may also raise concerns for long-term durability. For heavy-duty, professional use, these issues might be deal-breakers.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Ryobi HP Brushless 20" Chainsaw Kit? Yes, but with reservations. It's an excellent tool for those who need a powerful, battery-operated chainsaw for occasional use and moderate tasks. However, if you require a chainsaw for extended, heavy-duty work, you might find the need for frequent battery swaps and the potential durability issues to be limiting. In such cases, investing in additional batteries or considering a higher-end model might be a better choice.