Ryobi 18V ONE+ ONE-HANDED PRUNING RECIPROCATING SAW KIT

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ One-Handed Pruning Reciprocating Saw Kit presents itself as an innovative solution for pruning tasks, combining portability and efficiency in a single package. As someone who frequently undertakes yard maintenance and pruning, I had the opportunity to test this tool extensively and formed some strong opinions about its performance and practicality.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the first things I noticed about this pruning saw is its ergonomic design. The tool is lightweight, weighing in at 3.6 lbs., which is a significant advantage when you're holding it for extended periods. The one-handed operation is a game-changer, especially when you're up on a ladder or in an awkward position. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the overall balance of the tool makes it easy to maneuver around branches.

The saw also features a removable branch hook designed to provide better control and reduce vibration. While the concept is excellent, I found the execution somewhat lacking. The hook is made of plastic, and its grip on branches was less firm than I had hoped. On several occasions, the hook would bounce off the branch, causing the saw to vibrate excessively. This made it challenging to maintain a steady cut, especially on smaller branches.

Performance and Cutting Capability

The saw operates at a variable speed of 0-2,600 strokes per minute, which allows for some flexibility depending on the material you're cutting. The stroke length is 0.78 inches, making it suitable for branches up to 3 inches in diameter. In practice, the tool performed admirably on branches up to 2 inches thick. It cut through them smoothly and with minimal effort. However, as the branch diameter approached the 3-inch mark, the saw struggled a bit, requiring more force and time to complete the cut.

One feature I particularly appreciated was the easy-release blade lever. Changing blades was quick and hassle-free, allowing me to switch between different tasks without losing momentum. The included 6-inch blade was adequate for most pruning tasks, but I found that using a more aggressive pruning blade from my collection yielded better results.

Battery Life and Power

The kit comes with a 2.0 Ah battery and a charger, both of which are compatible with the Ryobi ONE+ system. This interchangeability is a huge plus, especially if you already own other Ryobi tools. The battery life was impressive; I was able to use the saw for about 45 minutes on a single charge, which was sufficient for most of my pruning sessions. The battery also has a built-in charge level indicator, so you always know how much juice you have left.

However, I did encounter some issues with the saw's power delivery. Occasionally, the saw would bog down or speed up randomly, even with the trigger fully depressed. This inconsistency was frustrating, especially when trying to make precise cuts. It seemed as though the adaptive trigger was being throttled, which affected the overall performance.

Durability and Build Quality

While the saw's lightweight design is a benefit, it does raise some concerns about durability. The plastic components, particularly the branch hook, felt flimsy and prone to wear over time. I would have preferred a more robust construction, especially for a tool designed to handle the rigors of outdoor use.

The saw comes with a three-year warranty, which provides some peace of mind, but I remain skeptical about its long-term durability. If you're planning to use this tool frequently, you might find yourself needing to replace parts or even the entire saw sooner than expected.

Safety Features

Safety is always a priority, and Ryobi has included several features to ensure safe operation. The saw has a safety switch that prevents accidental start-ups, which is particularly useful when you're climbing ladders or working in tight spaces. The removable branch hook also serves as an additional safety measure by stabilizing the saw during cuts, albeit not as effectively as I would like.

Practical Applications

This pruning saw excels in certain scenarios but falls short in others. It’s fantastic for quick, light pruning tasks and excels at cutting through medium-sized branches up to 2 inches in diameter. For smaller twigs or very thick branches, manual pruners or a chainsaw might still be your best bet. The saw’s portability and ease of use make it ideal for homeowners with a moderate amount of yard work, but it may not be suitable for more extensive or heavy-duty tasks.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ One-Handed Pruning Reciprocating Saw Kit is a mixed bag. It offers some compelling features like one-handed operation, easy blade changes, and compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ system. However, it’s marred by issues like inconsistent power delivery, a less-than-effective branch hook, and concerns about long-term durability.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re a homeowner looking for a convenient and lightweight solution for occasional pruning tasks, this saw could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. However, if you require a more robust and reliable tool for frequent or heavy-duty use, you might want to consider other options or be prepared to supplement this saw with additional tools.

Overall, the Ryobi pruning saw is a good tool with room for improvement. It’s not perfect, but it can make your yard maintenance tasks easier and more efficient when used within its limitations.