Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" Snow Shovel

Winter can be both beautiful and challenging, especially when it comes time to clear snow from your property. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" Snow Shovel (model P2706BTL), and I must say, it’s an interesting tool with a mix of strengths and weaknesses.

Design and Build

The Ryobi snow shovel features a 10-inch clearing width and a 6-inch clearing depth, making it quite suitable for smaller areas like decks, patios, and sidewalks. Weighing in at 12.3 lbs, it’s lightweight enough for most people to handle without too much strain. The tool operates on the 18V ONE+ battery system, which is compatible with other Ryobi tools, a definite plus if you already own equipment from this line.

Performance

In terms of performance, the snow shovel did a decent job with light, powdery snow. It can throw snow up to 20 feet, which is quite impressive for its size. However, when confronted with wetter, heavier snow, its capabilities are somewhat limited. I found that it managed to throw wet snow only about 3-7 feet, which is much less than its stated capacity.

One of the standout aspects of this tool is its ability to save your back from the repetitive strain of shoveling. Given my lower back issues, I appreciated not having to scoop and lift snow constantly. The shovel essentially vacuums up the snow and throws it forward, which reduces the physical effort required significantly.

Limitations

While the Ryobi snow shovel is handy, it does come with a few notable limitations. The most significant drawback is the lack of directional control for where the snow is thrown. It only shoots snow straight ahead, which can be problematic in tighter spaces or when you’re trying to avoid piling snow onto previously cleared areas. This limitation means you’ll often end up having to clear the same spot multiple times, especially on sidewalks or narrow pathways.

Another issue is the runtime. With a fully charged 18V ONE+ 4Ah battery, the tool ran for about 20 minutes. This is sufficient for smaller jobs but might require multiple battery swaps for larger areas. If you're planning to use it for extended periods, investing in a higher-capacity battery or having spare batteries on hand is advisable.

Ease of Use

Setup was straightforward and quick, and the tool's lightweight design made it easy to maneuver, at least initially. Over extended use, however, the weight started to become more noticeable, especially when dealing with deeper snow. The handle height was another concern; it’s a bit short, which required me to bend over more than I would have liked, making it less ergonomic than it could be.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality is generally robust, with a plastic auger that handled light to moderately icy conditions without any issues. However, I do have some concerns about its long-term durability, particularly the auger mechanism. Some users have reported the auger seizing up after a short period, and while I didn’t experience this myself, it’s something to keep an eye on.

Real-World Applications

For those with decks, patios, and smaller driveways, this tool can be a real lifesaver. It excels in scenarios where traditional shoveling would be too labor-intensive but where a full-size snowblower would be overkill. I used it on my back deck and found that it was able to clear a path efficiently, even with about 8 inches of wet snow. However, it struggled with deeper snow and ice layers, requiring multiple passes to get the job done.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Compatible with the 18V ONE+ battery system
- Reduces physical strain compared to manual shoveling
- Decent snow-throwing distance for lighter snow

Cons:
- No directional control for snow throwing
- Limited runtime with standard battery
- Handle height could be more ergonomic
- Struggles with wet, heavy snow
- Potential durability concerns with the auger

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" Snow Shovel is a handy tool for those looking to reduce the physical effort of snow removal in smaller areas. It’s particularly useful for people with back issues or those who find traditional shoveling too strenuous. Its compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ battery system is a significant advantage if you’re already invested in this ecosystem.

However, its limitations—such as the lack of directional control and limited effectiveness with wet, heavy snow—mean it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. For larger areas or more demanding conditions, you might find yourself needing a more robust tool.

Would I recommend this snow shovel? If you’re looking for a supplemental tool to handle light to moderate snowfall on decks, patios, and smaller driveways, then yes, it’s worth considering. But if you need a primary tool for heavy-duty snow removal, you might want to explore other options.