Ryobi PEX Crimp Ring Press Tool

When I first got my hands on the Ryobi PEX Crimp Ring Press Tool, I was genuinely excited. As someone who often deals with plumbing projects, the promise of a battery-operated tool that could handle a large number of crimps per charge was appealing. The idea of a one-handed crimping operation with an LED light indicating crimp completion seemed like it could make the job significantly easier, especially in tight spaces.

The first thing I noticed was the build quality. The tool felt robust and well-constructed, weighing in at 4.5 lbs. It's not the lightest tool out there, but it felt sturdy and capable of handling the job. The ergonomic design allowed for a comfortable grip, which is essential for prolonged use.

One of the standout features is its compatibility with all PEX sizes from 3/8” to 1”. This versatility is a huge plus, especially for someone like me who often works with different pipe sizes. The inclusion of a Go/No Go Gauge for proper crimp verification is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that each crimp is done correctly.

However, my experience with the tool wasn't entirely smooth. Right out of the box, I encountered some calibration issues. The crimps on both 1/2” and 3/4” pipes weren't always consistent. This inconsistency was frustrating, especially when working on a project with tight deadlines. I found myself having to double-check each crimp, which defeated the purpose of having a tool designed for efficiency.

Another issue I faced was with the crimping shims. These are essential for allowing the tool to crimp different sizes, but they often got stuck on the pipe. This added an extra step to the process, as I had to manually remove the shims each time. It was a minor inconvenience, but over time, it became a significant annoyance.

The tool's performance in tight spaces was a mixed bag. On one hand, the one-handed operation and compact design made it easier to maneuver in confined areas. On the other hand, the tool needed to be held almost perfectly perpendicular to the pipe to make a good crimp. This was challenging in awkward positions, and the tool's weight added to the difficulty.

One of the more concerning issues was the durability of the tool. After a few uses, one of the alignment pins that hold the adapter pieces in place broke off. This could pose a safety hazard, as the broken pin shot across the room. It's clear that the design needs some improvements to ensure long-term durability and safe operation.

Despite these issues, the tool has its merits. It performed well in most cases, and the battery life was impressive. I was able to complete a significant portion of a plumbing project on a single charge, which is a testament to the tool's efficiency. The LED light indicating crimp completion was a helpful feature, providing visual confirmation that the job was done correctly.

Switching between different jaw sizes was relatively easy, thanks to the tool-free design. This made it convenient to move from one task to another without wasting time on adjustments. However, it would have been nice to have a built-in storage solution for the different jaw sizes to avoid misplacing them.

In terms of value for money, the Ryobi PEX Crimp Ring Press Tool is on the higher end of the price spectrum. While it offers several features that justify the cost, the inconsistency in performance and the durability issues make it hard to fully endorse. For professional plumbers who need a reliable tool for daily use, the current design may fall short of expectations.

For DIY enthusiasts or those who occasionally work on plumbing projects, this tool can be a valuable addition to the toolkit. It significantly reduces the physical effort required for manual crimping, especially in tight spaces. However, it's essential to be aware of its quirks and limitations.

In conclusion, the Ryobi PEX Crimp Ring Press Tool is a mixed bag. It offers several innovative features and can be a time-saver for plumbing projects. However, the inconsistency in crimp quality, issues with the crimping shims, and concerns about durability are significant drawbacks. If Ryobi addresses these issues in future iterations, this tool has the potential to be a game-changer in the world of PEX crimping.

Would I recommend this tool? It's a qualified yes. For occasional use and DIY projects, it can be a helpful tool that saves time and effort. However, for professional plumbers who need a dependable tool for daily use, I'd suggest looking at other options or waiting for a revised version that addresses the current shortcomings.