Ryobi Twisted 0.080 Auto Feed Line Spool

I've spent a fair amount of time using the Ryobi Twisted 0.080 Auto Feed Line Spool, and I have mixed feelings about it. The spool is designed to fit various Ryobi cordless trimmers, and it boasts several appealing features like the twisted line for added durability and the convenience of pre-wound spools. However, my experience has been a bit of a rollercoaster.

First off, the twisted 0.080 line itself is quite robust. It's thick enough to handle tougher weeds and thick grass without snapping easily. I noticed a significant improvement in cutting performance compared to thinner lines I've used in the past. The twisted design does seem to add some durability, making it less prone to breaking on the first encounter with denser patches of vegetation.

One of the main selling points of this product is the auto-feed feature, which theoretically eliminates the need for bumping the trimmer to advance the line. When it works, it’s a true time-saver and allows for a smoother trimming experience. Unfortunately, this feature was hit or miss for me. On several occasions, the line would get stuck or "cold weld," a term used to describe situations where the line fuses together due to heat and friction. This issue forced me to stop my work, remove the battery for safety, and manually pull the line out. In the worst cases, I had to disassemble the spool to free up the line, which was incredibly frustrating and time-consuming.

The pre-wound spools are intended to make life easier by allowing for quick spool changes. However, this convenience is somewhat undermined by the packaging. The tinted plastic cover makes it difficult to confirm that you've picked the right color and type of line. This minor inconvenience can lead to wasted trips back to the store, which is something nobody wants.

Another issue I encountered was the inconsistency in the quality of the winding. Some spools were wound so poorly that the line would continually lock up, requiring frequent stops to untangle the mess. In contrast, other spools worked perfectly well, making me wonder why there was such a disparity in quality control. When the line was properly wound, it performed exceptionally well, cutting through thick grass and weeds with ease and lasting much longer than I expected.

I also tried using these spools in different weather conditions, and I found that they held up well in both hot and cold environments. However, the auto-feed mechanism seemed more prone to issues in hotter conditions, likely due to the increased likelihood of the line fusing together.

One of the most significant downsides is the price. At nearly $30 for a five-pack, it’s not the most economical option, especially if you find yourself going through spools quickly due to the aforementioned issues. For those who use their trimmers frequently, this can become a costly affair.

On the brighter side, the spools are lightweight and easy to install, which is a plus for anyone who values convenience and has limited time for yard work. The line cuts well, and when everything works as it should, the trimmer performs admirably.

Despite these positive aspects, the frequent need to stop and fix the line significantly detracts from the overall experience. The auto-feed feature, which is supposed to be a major advantage, often ends up being a source of frustration. This inconsistency makes it difficult to rely on the product for uninterrupted yard work.

In conclusion, the Ryobi Twisted 0.080 Auto Feed Line Spool has its strengths, particularly in terms of cutting performance and ease of installation. However, the inconsistency in quality and frequent issues with the auto-feed mechanism make it hard to wholeheartedly recommend. If you’re someone who doesn’t mind stopping frequently to adjust the line or if you’re willing to take the risk for the occasional perfect spool, you might find it worth the investment. For those who prioritize reliability and seamless operation, you might be better off looking for alternative solutions or sticking with manually wound spools.

Overall, I wouldn't recommend this product as a go-to option due to the inconsistency and frequent interruptions it causes. While it has potential, the drawbacks make it less than ideal for anyone looking for a hassle-free trimming experience.