Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit, model PBLCK01K-PCL406B, has been a recent addition to my tool collection, and it has left an impression. This combo kit includes a 1/2" Drill/Driver and a 1/4" Impact Driver, along with two 18V ONE+ 2Ah Lithium batteries, a charger, and a tool bag. Additionally, it comes with a random orbit sander and a free select tool of choice, making it a comprehensive set for various tasks.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the first things I noticed about this kit is the ergonomic design of the tools. Ryobi seems to have made significant improvements in this area. Both the drill/driver and the impact driver are compact and lightweight, making them easy to handle for extended periods without causing fatigue. The grip is comfortable, and the tools balance well in hand, which is crucial for precision work.

The inclusion of a tool bag is a practical touch, allowing for easy transportation and storage. The bag is spacious enough to hold all the tools and accessories, yet compact enough to carry around without hassle.

Performance and Power

Drill/Driver

The 1/2" Drill/Driver is equipped with a 24-position clutch, which allows for precise torque adjustments. This feature is particularly useful when working with different materials, as it prevents overdriving screws and damaging the workpiece. The drill/driver offers two-speed settings (0 - 500 RPM and 0 - 2,100 RPM), providing versatility for various tasks.

With a maximum torque of up to 750 in-lbs., the drill/driver has ample power for most household and light industrial applications. The 1/2" ratcheting metal chuck adds to the tool's durability and ensures a secure grip on the drill bits.

Impact Driver

The 1/4" Impact Driver is a standout in this kit. It boasts a powerful 2,200 in-lbs. of torque, making it capable of handling demanding tasks such as driving large screws and bolts. The impact driver features a one-handed bit release, which simplifies bit changes and enhances efficiency.

The impact driver operates at speeds of up to 3,100 RPM and has an impact rate of up to 4,000 IPM, making it a robust tool for heavy-duty applications. The brushless motor contributes to the tool's longevity and efficiency, providing more power and runtime compared to brushed motors.

Random Orbit Sander

The inclusion of the random orbit sander is a pleasant surprise. It operates at 10,000 OPM and has a 3/32" orbit diameter, making it suitable for both rough and fine sanding tasks. The sander's dust collection port is compatible with 1-1/4" and 1-7/8" hoses, which helps keep the workspace clean and minimizes airborne dust.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit comes with two 18V ONE+ 2Ah Lithium batteries, which provide a decent runtime for most tasks. The batteries are interchangeable with other Ryobi ONE+ tools, adding to the convenience. The charger is compact and charges the batteries relatively quickly, ensuring minimal downtime during projects.

However, I did notice that the tool performs best with larger capacity batteries, such as 4Ah or 6Ah. The 2Ah batteries are sufficient for light to medium tasks, but for extended or heavy-duty use, upgrading to a higher capacity battery is advisable.

Durability and Build Quality

Ryobi has done a commendable job with the build quality of these tools. The drill/driver and impact driver feel robust and well-constructed. The die-cast gear case on the impact driver adds to its durability, making it suitable for harsh work environments.

The tools are backed by a 3-year limited warranty, which provides peace of mind and reflects Ryobi's confidence in their products' longevity.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Ergonomic Design: Comfortable grip and lightweight, reducing user fatigue.
• Powerful Performance: High torque and RPM, suitable for a wide range of applications.
• Versatility: Multiple tools in one kit, including a drill/driver, impact driver, and sander.
• Quick Bit Changes: One-handed bit release on the impact driver.
• Interchangeable Batteries: Compatibility with other Ryobi ONE+ tools.
• Durability: Robust build quality with a 3-year warranty.

Cons:

• Battery Capacity: The included 2Ah batteries may not be sufficient for extended or heavy-duty tasks.
• Noise Level: The impact driver can be quite loud during operation.
• Lacks Additional Features: Missing features like a belt clip or magnetic tray on the drill/driver.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 2-Tool Combo Kit is a solid choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The combination of ergonomic design, powerful performance, and versatility makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While the 2Ah batteries may limit its use for prolonged heavy-duty tasks, upgrading to higher capacity batteries can easily address this issue.

I would recommend this tool kit to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile set of tools for various applications. The value for money, backed by Ryobi's 3-year warranty, makes it a worthy investment for your projects.