Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4-Tool Combo Kit

Ryobi's 18V ONE+ 4-Tool Combo Kit, model PCL1400K2, offers a well-rounded selection of tools for the DIY enthusiast. As someone who has spent a considerable amount of time working on home improvement projects, I found this kit to be a compelling option, especially for those looking to get into battery-operated tools. Let's break down each component and assess its performance and overall value.

Drill/Driver

The drill/driver is often the centerpiece of any combo kit, and this one does not disappoint. It provides up to 515 in-lbs of torque, which is sufficient for most household tasks. The 2-speed gearbox with ranges of 0-450 and 0-1,750 RPM offers good versatility. One of the standout features is the 24-position clutch, which allows for precise control when driving screws or drilling into various materials. The ½ inch keyless chuck is easy to use, and I found that it held drill bits securely without needing frequent adjustments.

Impact Driver

The impact driver is another strong performer in this set. It delivers up to 1,800 in-lbs of torque and can achieve speeds of up to 2,700 RPM with a maximum of 3,400 IPM. This makes it ideal for driving long screws or lag bolts, which can be particularly taxing on your wrists if done manually or with a less powerful tool. The variable speed trigger provides excellent control, and the onboard LED light is a nice touch for working in low-light conditions.

Circular Saw

The circular saw included in this kit is a 5 ½ inch model capable of making over 215 cuts per charge. It has a maximum depth of cut of 1-11/16 inches at 0° and 1-3/16 inches at 45°, making it suitable for cutting through 2-by material. One aspect that stands out is its lightweight design, which makes it easy to handle, especially during extended use. However, it lacks an instant stop brake, meaning the blade spins to a stop after the trigger is released. This is a minor inconvenience but something to be aware of. The saw comes with an 18T carbide blade and onboard storage for the hex key needed to change the blade, adding a layer of convenience.

LED Light

The LED light is a straightforward but useful addition to the kit. It offers 280 lumens of brightness and features a pivoting head that can adjust up to 130 degrees. While it doesn't have adjustable beam settings, the light output is quite bright and serves well in various scenarios, from under-sink repairs to working under the hood of a car. It's lightweight and easy to position, making it a handy tool for any workspace.

Batteries and Charger

The kit includes two batteries: a 1.5Ah and a 4Ah. Both are part of Ryobi's ONE+ system, meaning they are interchangeable with other tools in the line. The batteries come with an integrated fuel gauge, which is a useful feature for keeping track of remaining power. The 4Ah battery is particularly impressive, offering extended runtime for more demanding tasks. The included charger is efficient, getting your batteries back to full power in a reasonable amount of time.

Storage Bag

While the tools themselves are of high quality, the storage bag leaves something to be desired. It’s a simple, zippered nylon bag with no internal dividers or pockets. This means the tools can bump into each other during transport, potentially causing damage. For those who plan to move their tools frequently, investing in a more structured storage solution might be advisable.

Overall Performance

In terms of performance, I found the tools to be robust and reliable. The drill/driver and impact driver are both powerful enough for a wide range of applications, from basic home repairs to more complex projects like deck building. The circular saw, while not as feature-rich as some high-end models, is perfectly adequate for most cutting tasks and offers the convenience of cordless operation. The LED light, though not a showstopper, is a useful addition that rounds out the kit nicely.

Drawbacks

No product is without its flaws, and this combo kit is no exception. The lack of an instant stop brake on the circular saw and the basic nature of the storage bag are minor drawbacks. Additionally, while the tools are well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners, they may not meet the rigorous demands of professional contractors. The impact driver, for instance, is quite loud, and the drill’s speed range switch can be a bit stiff.

Recommendation

Despite these minor issues, I would highly recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4-Tool Combo Kit for anyone looking to build or expand their collection of cordless tools. The combination of power, versatility, and value is hard to beat. The inclusion of two batteries and a charger makes this kit particularly attractive, ensuring you have everything you need to get started right out of the box.

For homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, this kit offers an excellent balance of performance and convenience. It may not be the best choice for professional contractors who require the highest level of durability and performance, but for most users, it will more than suffice. All in all, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 4-Tool Combo Kit is a solid investment that should serve you well for many projects to come.