Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Brush Cutter/String Trimmer

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Brush Cutter/String Trimmer (model PBLBC01B) is an ambitious attempt to replace traditional gas-powered trimmers with a more eco-friendly, battery-operated alternative. As someone who has used both gas and electric trimmers extensively, I was eager to see how this Ryobi model stacked up.

Assembly and Initial Impressions

First off, assembly was straightforward and took about 15 minutes with a Phillips screwdriver. The design is intuitive, and the bike handle provides a comfortable grip, making it easier to control the unit during extended use. The tool feels well-balanced, although it does lean on the heavier side at 10.2 lbs. However, the weight is manageable and doesn't cause significant fatigue during shorter trimming sessions.

Performance and Power

The brushless motor is a standout feature, offering more power than many other battery-operated trimmers I've used. It easily handles thick weeds and brush, which is impressive for an 18V system. The 2-in-1 design with a brush cutter blade and string trimmer head adds versatility, allowing you to switch between different types of trimming tasks without much hassle.

One thing I noticed is that the motor ramps up to full speed a bit slower than I expected, but once it gets going, it maintains a consistent performance. The variable speed trigger is a nice touch, giving you control over the power output depending on the task at hand.

Battery Life

Battery life is a mixed bag. With the included 4Ah battery, I got around 25-30 minutes of runtime, which is sufficient for small to medium-sized yards but might fall short for larger properties. The tool is compatible with all Ryobi ONE+ batteries, so having a couple of extra batteries on hand can extend your working time significantly. However, for those expecting to complete large tasks on a single charge, this might be a limitation.

Cutting Efficiency

The trimmer head uses .080-inch line, which is thicker than the .065-inch line found in many other trimmers. This thicker line is less prone to breaking, making it more efficient for edging and cutting through tougher vegetation. The REEL EASY+ bump-feed string trimmer head makes line reloading a breeze, saving you time and frustration.

The reversible 10-inch TRI-ARC brush cutter blade is another highlight. It cuts through thicker brush with ease and maintains its sharpness well. Switching between the trimmer head and the brush cutter blade is relatively straightforward, though it does require some tools and a bit of patience.

Comfort and Usability

The bike handle design is ergonomic, providing a comfortable and stable grip. This is particularly useful for extended use, as it reduces strain on your arms and back. The trimmer's center handle can be adjusted up and down the shaft to achieve the right balance point, which is a thoughtful feature for accommodating different users.

One downside is the vibration. Even at the lowest speed, there is noticeable vibration, which becomes more pronounced at higher speeds. This can be a bit uncomfortable during longer sessions and might put some users off.

Durability and Build Quality

Durability is where the Ryobi trimmer shows some inconsistencies. While the motor and primary components feel robust, there have been instances where the trimmer head detached or the motor overheated. These issues seem to be outliers, but they are worth noting. The 3-year limited warranty offers some peace of mind, but the lengthy repair times reported by some users can be frustrating.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Brush Cutter/String Trimmer is a solid tool with a lot to offer. It excels in power and versatility, making it suitable for a variety of trimming tasks. The brushless motor provides ample power, and the thicker .080-inch line is a significant improvement over thinner alternatives.

However, the battery life might be a limiting factor for those with larger properties, and the vibration can be uncomfortable during extended use. Durability concerns also cast a slight shadow over an otherwise impressive tool.

Would I recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Brush Cutter/String Trimmer? Yes, but with some caveats. If you have a smaller to medium-sized yard and are looking for a powerful, versatile trimmer that eliminates the need for gas, this Ryobi model is a great choice. However, if you have a larger property or require a tool for heavy-duty, continuous use, you might want to consider other options or invest in additional batteries to extend your runtime.