Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" Chainsaw Kit

Trying out the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" Chainsaw was a unique experience that left me with mixed feelings. As a frequent user of various chainsaws, both gas and electric, I was eager to see how this compact, battery-powered model would perform for light-duty tasks around the yard.

First impressions were positive. The chainsaw arrived fully assembled, which is always a plus, especially for those who might not be mechanically inclined. All I had to do was add bar and chain oil, insert the battery, and I was ready to go. This simplicity in setup is a big advantage for homeowners looking for a straightforward tool that doesn’t require much initial effort.

The chainsaw is incredibly lightweight, weighing in at just 6.8 lbs. This makes it easy to handle, especially for older users or those who might struggle with the heavier, gas-powered models. Even with the battery attached, it feels more like a robust hand tool than a traditional chainsaw. This is particularly useful for tasks like pruning and limbing, where maneuverability is key. I found that the chainsaw’s light weight allowed me to work longer without fatigue, which is a significant benefit for extended yard work sessions.

In terms of performance, the chainsaw was a bit of a mixed bag. For light-duty tasks such as pruning small branches and cutting saplings up to 3-4 inches in diameter, it performed admirably. The cuts were smooth and the tool was easy to control, with very little kickback. This makes it a great option for those who might be new to using chainsaws or are looking for a safer alternative to their gas-powered counterparts.

However, the chainsaw struggled when faced with anything more substantial. Cutting through logs closer to the 8-inch diameter limit was noticeably slower and required more effort. This isn’t entirely surprising given the 18V battery and 10-inch bar, but it’s something to keep in mind if you have larger trees or thicker branches to manage. The tool-less chain tensioning system is a convenient feature, though, making it easy to adjust on the fly without needing additional tools.

The battery life was another area where the chainsaw showed some limitations. The included 1.5Ah battery is sufficient for light tasks, but it doesn’t hold up well under more demanding use. I found that the battery could make around 20-25 cuts on a full charge, rather than the 32 cuts advertised. This discrepancy can be a bit frustrating, especially if you’re in the middle of a task and need to stop to recharge. For more extended use, I’d recommend investing in additional batteries or a higher capacity option, such as a 4Ah battery, to avoid frequent interruptions.

One of the most significant issues I encountered was the oil leakage. The chainsaw tends to leak bar and chain oil when not in use, which can create a mess. This is a common complaint among users and something that Ryobi should address in future models. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it does mean you’ll need to be mindful of where you store the chainsaw and possibly empty the oil reservoir after each use to prevent spills.

Durability is another concern. While the chainsaw’s plastic construction helps keep the weight down, it also makes the tool feel less robust compared to more traditionally built models. This isn’t necessarily a problem for occasional use, but for those who plan to use the chainsaw frequently or in tougher conditions, it might not hold up as well over time.

Despite these drawbacks, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" Chainsaw has several redeeming qualities. It’s incredibly user-friendly, with an intuitive design that’s easy to operate even for beginners. The automatic oiler and tool-less chain tensioning are convenient features that simplify maintenance. Additionally, the chainsaw’s quiet operation is a welcome change from the loud roar of gas-powered models, making it more pleasant to use in residential areas.

Given its lightweight design, ease of use, and compatibility with the extensive Ryobi ONE+ battery system, this chainsaw is a solid choice for homeowners looking to tackle light yard work without the hassle of gas engines. However, it’s essential to recognize its limitations. It’s not built for heavy-duty tasks or extended use without additional batteries, and the oil leakage issue can be a nuisance.

Would I recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 10" Chainsaw? Yes, but with reservations. For those needing a reliable, easy-to-handle tool for occasional light-duty tasks, it’s a great option. Its lightweight design and user-friendly features make it accessible to a wide range of users, including seniors and those new to chainsaws. However, if you require a chainsaw for more demanding work or frequent use, you might want to consider a more robust model or even Ryobi’s higher voltage options. Overall, it’s a handy tool to have in your arsenal for the right applications.