Ryobi 18V ONE+ Lithium High Performance Starter Kit with Free 18V HP Brushless Reciprocating Saw

As an avid DIY enthusiast and professional, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a myriad of tools over the years. Recently, I got my hands on Ryobi’s 18V ONE+ Lithium High Performance Starter Kit with the free 18V HP Brushless Reciprocating Saw (model PBLRS01K3SB), and it’s been quite an interesting journey. Here’s my comprehensive take on this versatile tool kit.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

The starter kit comes with a well-rounded package including two 18V 4Ah Lithium batteries, one 18V 2Ah Lithium battery, an 18V charger, and the 18V HP brushless reciprocating saw. Right off the bat, I appreciated the inclusion of multiple batteries, which is a blessing for extended projects that require continuous power. The batteries are sleek, and the charger is compact enough to fit into any standard toolbox.

On inspecting the reciprocating saw, it’s evident that Ryobi has invested in a robust and ergonomic design. The saw is well-balanced and the rubber over-molded grip feels comfortable, even when holding it for extended periods. Despite the power it promises, the saw isn’t overly heavy, which is crucial when performing overhead cuts or working in constrained spaces.

Performance and Usability

I decided to put the Ryobi reciprocating saw to the test with a variety of materials including lumber, tree branches, and some T-111 siding. The first thing that stands out is its power. The brushless motor delivers impressive torque and speed, and the 1-1/4" stroke length ensures that it uses more of the blade for faster and more efficient cuts. Cutting through 4-inch diameter tree branches was a breeze, and it handled pressure-treated lumber with minimal effort.

One of the significant advantages of this model is its cordless nature. Not having to deal with cords makes it incredibly versatile, whether you’re pruning trees in the yard or working on a renovation project in a remote location. The batteries lasted longer than I expected, with the 4Ah batteries providing ample runtime for my tasks. Battery life is always a critical factor for cordless tools, and Ryobi seems to have nailed it with this starter kit.

Durability and Reliability

While the overall build quality of the saw is commendable, I did encounter a couple of hiccups. During one of the sessions, the saw started to emit a slight smoke and became unusually hot to the touch. It was a concerning moment, but I allowed it to cool down and it seemed to work fine afterward. However, it’s something to be mindful of, especially if you’re pushing the tool to its limits.

Additionally, I noticed that the blade removal lever occasionally got stuck, making it a bit challenging to switch blades quickly. A little bit of silicone lubricant seemed to fix this issue, but it’s worth mentioning as it could be a potential point of frustration for users who need to change blades frequently.

Versatility and Applications

The reciprocating saw’s versatility is one of its strongest suits. It’s not just limited to cutting wood; it performed well with metal pipes and even some drywall. This makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit, whether you’re a professional contractor or a weekend warrior tackling home improvement projects.

I found it particularly effective for tree pruning. Using specialized coarse blades designed for pruning, the saw made quick work of trimming tree branches and even removing tree roots. It’s a safer alternative to a small chainsaw for those who prefer a bit more control and precision.

Customer Service and Warranty

Ryobi offers a 3-year limited warranty on this kit, which provides some peace of mind. Although I haven’t had to use it extensively, it’s reassuring to know that there’s a support system in place should any issues arise. From my experiences and interactions with other users, Ryobi’s customer service is generally responsive and willing to address any concerns.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Lithium High Performance Starter Kit with the 18V HP Brushless Reciprocating Saw is a solid investment for anyone needing a reliable, versatile, and powerful cutting tool. It combines the convenience of cordless technology with the power of a brushless motor, making it suitable for a broad range of applications.

While there are minor issues such as the overheating and the blade lever sticking, these do not significantly detract from the tool’s overall performance and utility. The multiple batteries included in the kit ensure that you have enough power to last through extended projects, and the saw’s cutting efficiency is hard to beat in this price range.

Recommendation: I would recommend this tool kit to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a versatile, powerful, and reliable reciprocating saw. Its minor drawbacks are outweighed by its impressive performance, long battery life, and the convenience of cordless operation. Ryobi has indeed stepped up their game with this brushless line, and this starter kit is a testament to their commitment to providing quality tools at a reasonable price.