Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 3/8" Extended Reach Ratchet Kit

As a fan of Ryobi tools and an avid DIYer, I was eager to test out the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 3/8" Extended Reach Ratchet Kit (PBLRC25K1). This tool promises to tackle tight spots with its extended reach and slim head design, coupled with a range of features aimed at making mechanical work more efficient. After putting it through its paces, I have a lot to share about its performance, design, and overall utility.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the solid build of the ratchet. It feels durable and well-engineered, which is always a good indicator of longevity. The tool comes with a brushless motor, designed for increased efficiency, longer runtime, and extended motor life. With a torque rating of up to 55 ft-lbs and a variable speed metal paddle trigger, this ratchet packs a punch.

The extended reach and slim head design are standout features. The tool measures about 16 inches in length, allowing it to reach places that standard-sized ratchets can't. This was particularly useful when I was working on my car's engine bay, where space is often limited. The four-position rotating head is another thoughtful feature, enabling the user to adjust the angle of the head to avoid any battery interference and to fit into tight spots. You can rotate the head and lock it into one of four positions, which offers a lot of flexibility.

Performance

The brushless motor provides impressive power. I tested the ratchet on several projects, including removing and reinstalling the blade on my lawnmower, and even some work under the hood of my car. The ratchet performed admirably in all tasks, quickly removing bolts once they were initially loosened. However, it’s worth noting that the tool might struggle to loosen bolts that are tightly screwed on, requiring a bit of manual effort before unleashing the ratchet's full power.

The variable speed paddle trigger allows for precise control over the RPMs, ranging from 0 to 230. This is useful when you need to be gentle with more delicate fasteners or when you require full speed for quicker operations. The dual LED work lights on either side of the head are a game-changer, particularly in poorly lit areas. These lights illuminate the work area effectively, ensuring you can see exactly what you’re doing.

Practicality and Usability

One of the major selling points of this tool is its extended reach. I found it incredibly useful for getting into hard-to-reach places, especially in automotive applications. The rotating head design further enhances its usability by allowing me to adjust the tool’s orientation to avoid obstacles. This flexibility makes the Ryobi ratchet a versatile addition to any toolbox.

That said, the tool does have some limitations. While it boasts a decent torque rating, it may not be sufficient for very stubborn bolts. In such cases, you'll need to manually loosen the bolts first before using the ratchet to remove them completely. Additionally, the tool comes quite greased up from the factory, which can attract dirt and dust over time. This isn’t a deal-breaker but is something to be mindful of.

The weight of the tool is another consideration. At around 4-5 pounds, it’s not particularly light, which might be a factor if you're planning on using it for extended periods. However, the weight does add to the feeling of sturdiness and durability, making it a trade-off I’m willing to accept.

Battery Life

The ratchet comes with a 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery and an 18V charger. The battery life was adequate for the tasks I undertook, but for more extensive projects, you might want to have a spare battery on hand. The battery also adds some bulk to the tool, but this is mitigated somewhat by the rotating head feature, which allows you to maneuver the tool into different positions to avoid any interference from the battery.

Conclusion

Overall, I am impressed with the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 3/8" Extended Reach Ratchet Kit. Its combination of power, extended reach, and flexible head design makes it a valuable tool for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. The dual LED lights and variable speed control add layers of practicality that enhance the user experience.

However, it's not without its drawbacks. The tool's torque may not be sufficient for extremely tight bolts, and its weight could be a concern for prolonged use. Additionally, the grease from the factory might attract dirt and dust, potentially affecting long-term performance.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely, especially if you are already invested in the Ryobi 18V ecosystem. It’s a dependable, versatile, and well-designed tool that will make many tasks easier and more efficient. While it may not completely replace the need for manual ratcheting or more powerful impact tools, it certainly fills a niche that will make your toolbox more versatile and your projects more manageable.