Ryobi 40V Brushless Attachment Capable String Trimmer

The Ryobi 40V Brushless Attachment Capable String Trimmer, model RY40230A, has been a game-changer in my yard maintenance routine. As someone who has transitioned from gas-powered tools to battery-operated ones, I found this trimmer to be an impressive blend of power, convenience, and versatility.

Unboxing and Assembly

Straight out of the box, the trimmer comes with a few parts that require assembly, but the process is straightforward. The guard needs to be mounted to the trimmer head, the assist handle attached to the powerhead shaft, and the attachment connected. This took me only a few minutes, and I was ready to go. The instructions, however, could use some improvement. They were somewhat convoluted, causing a bit of frustration during the assembly of the cutting head/shroud. A clearer, more detailed manual would have made this step smoother.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

The trimmer boasts a carbon fiber shaft, which makes it significantly lighter than traditional gas trimmers. This lightweight construction is a blessing, especially when you have a lot of ground to cover. The tool feels well-balanced and sturdy, and the adjustable handle ensures that you can find a comfortable grip no matter your height. The overall craftsmanship is commendable, giving you confidence in its durability.

Power and Performance

One of the standout features of this trimmer is its power. The 40V battery delivers performance that rivals gas-powered models. I was skeptical at first, but after using it to tackle thick grass and stubborn weeds around my property, I can attest to its efficacy. The variable speed trigger and two-speed switch offer excellent control, allowing you to adjust the power based on the task at hand. On full throttle, the trimmer is a beast, effortlessly cutting through dense vegetation.

However, I did notice a slight delay in throttle response. When adjusting the trigger, there’s a noticeable lag before the brushless motor spins up or changes speed. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s something to be aware of if you frequently need to adjust the string speed based on the grass density or other factors. This delay is more pronounced compared to gas trimmers and even some brushed electric models.

Battery Life

The battery life is another strong point. Depending on the speed setting and the density of the vegetation, I was able to get anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes of runtime on a single charge. For most residential yards, this is more than sufficient. The battery charges relatively quickly, usually within two hours, which minimizes downtime. For larger properties, having an extra battery on hand would be beneficial to avoid interruptions.

Expand-It Compatibility

The trimmer’s compatibility with Ryobi’s EXPAND-IT attachments adds a layer of versatility that’s hard to beat. I tested it with a few attachments, including a brush cutter and an edger, and the transition between tools was seamless. This system allows you to expand your toolkit without the need for multiple dedicated tools, saving both space and money. The securing knob for switching attachments is user-friendly, requiring fewer rotations to engage the locking tab fully.

Noise and Vibration

Compared to gas trimmers, the Ryobi 40V model is noticeably quieter, which is a relief for both the user and the neighbors. However, it’s not whisper-quiet; there’s still a significant amount of noise, especially at higher speeds. I also noticed some vibration, which can be fatiguing over extended periods. Adjusting the handle and finding the right balance can mitigate this to some extent, but it’s something to consider if you have a lot of trimming to do.

Maintenance and Durability

One of the biggest advantages of switching to a battery-operated trimmer is the reduced maintenance. There’s no need to mix gas and oil, no pull-start mechanisms, and no exhaust fumes. This trimmer eliminates those hassles, making yard work more straightforward and cleaner. The carbon fiber shaft and overall build quality suggest that this tool is built to last, although only time will tell how it holds up under heavy use.

Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, the trimmer is not without its flaws. The assembly instructions, as mentioned earlier, could be clearer. The throttle response delay is another minor annoyance. Additionally, some users might find the trimmer a bit heavy, especially with a larger battery. While the weight is manageable, it’s something to keep in mind if you have a lot of trimming to do.

The trimmer head can also be tricky to restring. I encountered some issues with the line breaking off inside the spool, which required frequent stops to fix. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to get through a lot of trimming quickly.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ryobi 40V Brushless Attachment Capable String Trimmer is a powerful, versatile tool that offers many advantages over traditional gas-powered models. Its lightweight construction, impressive power, and compatibility with EXPAND-IT attachments make it a valuable addition to any homeowner’s toolkit.

Would I recommend this trimmer? Absolutely. It’s ideal for residential use, offering the convenience of battery power without sacrificing performance. The minor drawbacks, such as the throttle response delay and tricky string loading, are far outweighed by the benefits. If you’re looking to make the switch from gas to electric or simply need a reliable, powerful trimmer, the Ryobi 40V model is a fantastic choice.