Ryobi 18V ONE+ 6" Pruning Chainsaw

Ryobi's 18V ONE+ 6" Pruning Chainsaw, model PCLCW01B, has quickly become one of the most useful tools in my yard maintenance arsenal. As someone who regularly deals with an array of trimming tasks, from overgrown shrubs to fallen branches, I was excited to see how this compact, battery-powered chainsaw would perform in real-world conditions. After putting it through its paces, I can confidently say it has both strengths and areas for improvement.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this pruning chainsaw was its lightweight and ergonomic design. Weighing in at just 3.9 lbs., it's incredibly easy to handle, even for extended periods. The compact form factor allows it to access tight spaces that would be challenging for a larger chainsaw. The tool-less chain tensioning feature is a thoughtful addition, making adjustments straightforward without the need for additional tools. The lack of an automatic oiling system, while initially a concern, turned out to be manageable. I kept a small bottle of chain oil handy and manually lubricated the chain as needed.

Performance

Performance-wise, the 18V ONE+ Pruning Chainsaw delivered more than I expected. The 6" bar and chain efficiently cut through branches up to 4 inches in diameter, and I found myself consistently getting over 50 cuts per charge with a 2Ah battery. This is fairly impressive for a battery-powered tool and highlights Ryobi's efficient use of power in their ONE+ battery system.

The variable speed trigger provides maximum control, allowing for precise cutting, which is essential when dealing with delicate pruning tasks. However, I did notice that the chain tends to become loose after a few cuts, requiring frequent adjustments. This is a minor inconvenience but something to be aware of if you're planning to use the chainsaw for extended periods.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this chainsaw is its ease of use. From the moment I unboxed it, setup was a breeze. The tool comes fully assembled, and the inclusion of a rugged cover to protect the bar and chain is a nice touch. The safety features, such as the chain guard, add an extra layer of confidence while operating the tool.

As someone who already owns several Ryobi 18V tools, the ability to use existing batteries and chargers was a significant advantage. This compatibility across products is one of the reasons I continue to invest in the Ryobi ecosystem.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, the 18V ONE+ Pruning Chainsaw excelled in various yard maintenance tasks. It made short work of overgrown berry stalks, unwanted tree starts, and even thick ivy vines. For larger branches, up to 6-8 inches in diameter, the chainsaw performed surprisingly well, although it did require multiple battery swaps to complete the job. The tool's compact size allowed me to maneuver easily in awkward locations, making it ideal for trimming hedges and small trees.

One area where the chainsaw proved invaluable was during cleanup after a windstorm. With several large branches broken and scattered around the yard, the chainsaw's efficiency and ease of use made the cleanup process much quicker than it would have been with a traditional hand saw or even a larger chainsaw.

Areas for Improvement

While the 18V ONE+ Pruning Chainsaw has many strengths, there are a few areas that could be improved. The most significant issue I encountered was the chain coming off the drive sprocket. This happened a few times, and I had to make a homemade washer to take up the clearance between the drive sprocket and the retaining washer. Additionally, I experienced a trigger switch failure, where the only way to stop the saw was to remove the battery. These issues were relatively minor but highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and careful handling.

Another point of critique is the chainsaw's tendency to hack and shred branches rather than making clean cuts. For delicate pruning tasks where aesthetics matter, this could be a drawback. The brushless version of this tool, with a smaller chain, might offer better results for those specific needs.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Ryobi's 18V ONE+ 6" Pruning Chainsaw is a highly effective tool for light to medium-duty yard maintenance tasks. Its lightweight, compact design, ease of use, and compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ battery system make it a convenient addition to any tool collection. The performance exceeded my expectations, particularly in terms of battery life and cutting efficiency.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely, especially if you already own other Ryobi 18V tools and batteries. The convenience and performance make it a valuable asset for anyone looking to maintain their yard without the hassle of a gas-powered chainsaw. However, be prepared for some minor maintenance issues, and consider keeping a small bottle of chain oil handy to ensure smooth operation. For those who need a tool that can handle a variety of trimming and pruning tasks with ease, the 18V ONE+ Pruning Chainsaw is a solid choice.