Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Blower Combo Kit

The Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Blower Combo Kit (model P2036) caught my eye as a convenient solution for maintaining my modestly-sized yard. The appeal of cordless tools with interchangeable batteries was too strong to resist, so I decided to give this combo kit a try. Here’s my detailed experience with this set, covering its strengths and weaknesses.

Initial Impressions and Assembly

Upon unboxing the kit, I found the assembly relatively straightforward. The string trimmer required about ten minutes to piece together, while the blower was ready to go in under a minute. The instruction manual was clear, although I did encounter a minor inconvenience with the location of a screw for the grass guard, which was packed separately rather than pre-installed. Despite this small hiccup, the initial setup was smooth.

String Trimmer/Edger

Performance and Usability

The string trimmer/edger is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver around the yard. At 4 lbs, it's comfortable to handle, especially for short durations. However, the absence of an adjustable shaft length meant I had to slightly bend while trimming, leading to some back discomfort after extended use.

The trimmer performed admirably for light-duty tasks like trimming around fences, trees, and garden beds. However, it struggled with thicker grass and tougher weeds, indicating its limitations for more demanding tasks. The auto line feed system worked, but not without some issues. The line would occasionally break inside the head, necessitating frequent stops to re-feed the line. I found that loosely winding the line on the spool improved feed efficiency, although the process was still not seamless.

Edging Capability

Switching to edger mode was straightforward, but the performance was less than stellar. The tool managed light edging but was quickly overwhelmed by longer distances and tougher soil conditions. The lack of a front guard also meant I had to be extra cautious to avoid damaging ornamental plants.

Blower

Performance and Usability

The blower, weighing 4.5 lbs, was a breeze to assemble and use. It’s well-balanced and easy to operate with one hand. However, its power output left much to be desired. The blower is adequate for clearing light debris, such as grass clippings and dry leaves, from hard surfaces like driveways and patios. But it struggled significantly with wet leaves and heavier debris, requiring me to get very close to the target to achieve any noticeable effect.

The blower’s single-speed setting and modest air volume (200 CFM) and speed (90 MPH) further limited its utility for more demanding tasks. For light, occasional cleanups, it’s serviceable but not a powerhouse by any means.

Battery and Charger

The kit includes an 18V 2Ah battery and a compact charger. The battery life was a significant limitation, powering the trimmer for about 25-30 minutes and the blower for around 15 minutes. This short runtime meant I couldn’t complete my yard work in one go, and the 7-8 hour charge time was quite inconvenient. Investing in additional batteries or a higher capacity battery would be necessary for uninterrupted use, particularly for larger yards.

Ergonomics and Ease of Use

Both tools are lightweight and easy to handle, which is a major plus for users who prefer not to deal with the heft of gas-powered equipment. The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and comfortable grips. The compact charger is also a nice touch, taking up minimal space and being easy to store.

Durability and Build Quality

While the tools are lightweight and easy to use, they do feel somewhat flimsy. The plastic components, particularly on the trimmer, don’t inspire confidence in their long-term durability. Frequent issues with the line feed system and the blower’s limited power output suggest that these tools are best suited for light, occasional use rather than heavy-duty yard maintenance.

Overall Value

The Ryobi combo kit provides a convenient, cordless solution for small to medium-sized yards. Its lightweight design and ease of use are significant advantages, especially for those who prefer not to deal with the hassle of gas-powered tools. However, its performance limitations, short battery life, and lengthy recharge time detract from its overall value.

Final Recommendation

In conclusion, the Ryobi String Trimmer/Edger & Blower Combo Kit is a solid choice for homeowners with small yards who require light-duty tools for occasional use. Its portability and ease of use make it a user-friendly option, but be prepared to deal with some performance and durability limitations. If you have a larger yard or require more robust tools, you might want to consider more powerful alternatives or invest in additional batteries to extend the runtime.

For those with modest yard maintenance needs, this kit offers a convenient and affordable entry into the Ryobi 18V ONE+ ecosystem. However, if you need more power and endurance, you may want to explore other options within the Ryobi lineup or from competing brands.