Ryobi 3 PC. 6" Buffing and Polishing Wheel Set

If you're in the market for a buffing and polishing wheel set, the Ryobi 3 PC. 6" Buffing and Polishing Wheel Set might catch your eye. This set, featuring three distinct wheels--a sisal wheel, a denim spiral wheel, and a cushion sewn wheel--promises versatility for various polishing tasks on metals and plastics. I recently had the opportunity to test this set, integrating it with my bench grinder, and here’s a detailed breakdown of my experience.

First, let's talk about the configuration and fit. The set is designed to work with bench grinders that have arbor shafts measuring between 3/8" to 1/2". I used it on my 1/2-inch shank grinder, and the wheels mounted securely without any issues. This compatibility is a significant plus, as it ensures a broad range of bench grinders can accommodate these wheels without the need for additional adapters.

Next, I turned my attention to the actual buffing and polishing performance. The sisal wheel, intended for fast cut buffing and blending, was my first test subject. I used it to clean up some rusted steel tools and found it quite effective in removing the surface corrosion quickly. The wheel's coarser nature made it a suitable choice for initial buffing stages, particularly when dealing with heavily tarnished or corroded surfaces.

Switching to the denim spiral wheel, which is designed for both cutting and polishing, I attempted to give a shine to a piece of brass hardware. Here, the results were mixed. Initially, the denim wheel seemed to perform adequately, but I noticed that it started to deteriorate more quickly than I expected. The material began to fray, and stitches broke within the first 15 minutes of moderate use. This was disappointing because it undermined the wheel's longevity and indirectly affected the quality of the polishing job.

The cushion sewn wheel, which is intended for buffing and shining intricate shapes, was next. I used this on a pair of aluminum motorcycle wheels, aiming for a high-gloss finish. The cushion sewn wheel performed well initially, providing a smooth and shiny surface. However, similar to the denim spiral wheel, it showed signs of wear rather quickly. After about 30 minutes of use, the wheel's effectiveness diminished as it started to shed threads.

A persistent issue with this set is durability. Both the denim and cushion sewn wheels showed significant wear after limited use. The construction quality seemed subpar, with large stitches that didn't hold up under pressure. This lack of durability was particularly glaring compared to my previous experience with a long-lasting, high-quality Craftsman wheel. The Ryobi wheels just didn’t measure up.

Despite these drawbacks, the set isn’t without its merits. The variety of wheels offers a range of buffing and polishing options, making it a versatile addition to any workshop. The initial performance, especially the sisal wheel, is commendable. If you need a quick, short-term solution for light polishing tasks, this set can still serve a purpose. However, for more demanding or prolonged use, you might find yourself frequently replacing these wheels.

The user experience is another aspect worth mentioning. The wheels are relatively easy to change, and the set includes instructions that are straightforward to follow. The convenience of having three different wheels in one package is also a bonus, potentially saving you from having to buy separate wheels for different tasks.

In terms of value for money, this set falls short. While the price point might seem attractive initially, the lack of durability means you could end up spending more in the long run due to frequent replacements. For professionals or hobbyists who require reliable and long-lasting tools, investing in a higher-quality set might be a more economical choice over time.

Would I recommend the Ryobi 3 PC. 6" Buffing and Polishing Wheel Set? It depends on your specific needs. For light-duty, occasional use, and quick fixes, this set can be a convenient and budget-friendly option. However, for anyone looking for a durable and long-term solution, I would advise considering other brands that offer more robust construction and longevity. The Ryobi set simply doesn't hold up under more intensive use, and frequent users will likely find themselves frustrated with the rapid wear and tear of the wheels.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 3 PC. 6" Buffing and Polishing Wheel Set offers a mixed bag of initial performance and convenience, marred by significant durability issues. It might be worth a try for light, infrequent tasks, but for serious or prolonged use, you’re better off looking elsewhere.