Ryobi 20 Pc Drilling/Impact Driving Kit

The Ryobi 20 Pc Drilling/Impact Driving Kit (model A98201TR) has been a recent addition to my toolbox, and I’ve had the opportunity to put it through its paces on a variety of projects. Priced at $10.47, this kit is aimed at the DIY enthusiast and casual user rather than the professional tradesperson.

One of the first things I noticed about this set is its compact and well-organized storage case. The case is sturdy, easy to open, and keeps all the bits securely in place. This is particularly useful when you’re on the move or need to grab the kit quickly for a job. The bits are easy to remove and replace, which is a small but important detail that enhances the overall user experience.

The kit includes seven drill bits ranging from 1/16" to 3/16", which covers most of the common sizes needed for household tasks. Additionally, there are twelve driver bits, including Phillips, slotted, and Torx heads, along with a magnetic bit holder. The magnetic bit holder is quite strong and holds the bits securely, which is a plus when working in tight spaces.

In terms of performance, the drill bits work well on softer materials like wood, drywall, and aluminum. I used them to install some privacy blinds on my deck, and they performed admirably without any signs of wear after the job. However, when I tested the drill bits on harder materials like cold-rolled steel, they wore out quickly. This is somewhat expected given the black oxide coating, which is more suited for light to moderate tasks rather than heavy-duty applications.

The driver bits are a mixed bag. The Phillips and flathead bits performed well under moderate torque, and I didn’t experience any snapping or breakage. However, I did notice some wear on the Phillips head after driving about 50 hardened fasteners. While the set includes Torx and square head bits, which are less common for DIYers, I found myself wishing for more Phillips bits since they tend to wear out faster and are more frequently used.

One notable omission from this kit is the lack of a #1 Phillips head bit for impact drivers. This would have been a useful addition, especially for homeowners who are more likely to encounter Phillips screws. The absence of a hex base on the drill bits also means they can’t be used with an impact driver, which limits their versatility.

Durability is another area where the kit shows its limitations. The black oxide coating is not the toughest, and the bits are likely to rust if stored in a high-humidity environment. I noticed some surface rust on a couple of pieces after a few months of use, which raises questions about the quality of the metal used.

Despite these shortcomings, the Ryobi kit does have its strengths. It’s a great starter set for someone just getting into DIY projects or for those who need a compact, portable set for occasional use. The bits are sharp and effective for light tasks, and the magnetic bit holder is a convenient feature that enhances usability.

For those who need a more robust set for frequent or heavy-duty use, investing in higher-quality bits might be a better option. Brands like Milwaukee offer more durable bits that can handle tougher materials and last longer, albeit at a higher price point.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 20 Pc Drilling/Impact Driving Kit is a decent option for the casual user or DIY enthusiast who needs a versatile, compact set for light to moderate tasks. Its affordability and ease of use make it a good value for money, but its durability and performance on tougher materials are limited. If you’re looking for a starter set or a backup kit to keep in your car or toolbox, this Ryobi kit is worth considering. However, for more demanding projects, you might want to look at more durable and higher-quality options.