Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-1/2" Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool Kit

Having recently used the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-1/2" Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool, I can confidently say that it is a sturdy, versatile tool with some notable strengths and a few areas where it might not meet every expectation. As someone who values efficiency and ease of use in my power tools, I found this grinder to be a competent addition to my toolkit, albeit with some limitations.

Design and Build

The first thing I noticed about the Ryobi grinder is its solid build quality. The tool feels robust and well-balanced in the hand, which is essential for any angle grinder. Weighing in at 6.2 lbs with the battery, it's neither too heavy nor too light, striking a good balance between portability and control. The three-position side handle is a notable feature, allowing for flexible handling and ensuring that I could maintain a firm grip regardless of the angle at which I was working.

The paddle switch on this tool is another highlight. It’s large and easy to operate, even with gloves on. The safety mechanism is intuitive, preventing accidental startups without being cumbersome. This switch design adds a layer of confidence, especially when working on tasks that require frequent stopping and starting.

Performance

Powered by a brushless motor, this angle grinder promises up to 9,200 RPM, which certainly delivers in terms of speed. I used it on various tasks, from cutting through metal pipes to grinding down rough edges, and it performed admirably across the board. The tool-free accessory wheel removal and guard adjustment are excellent features, making the switch between tasks quick and hassle-free. This is particularly useful when you're juggling multiple jobs and need to swap out wheels frequently.

One of the standout aspects of the performance is the tool's compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ battery system. The 4Ah battery that comes with the kit offers decent runtime, but I noticed a significant improvement when I used a 6Ah battery. The tool handled continuous use without overheating or shutting down, although it consumed battery life more quickly than expected during more intensive tasks.

Battery Life

Battery life is a mixed bag with this grinder. While the tool performs well with the 4Ah battery under moderate use, heavy-duty tasks drain the battery much faster. For instance, during a project where I had to sand down an entire front fender to bare metal, I found myself swapping out batteries more often than I would have liked. The integrated fuel gauge with LEDs is helpful, but having multiple high-capacity batteries on hand is crucial for extended use.

Safety and Convenience

The grinder comes equipped with wheels and guards for different applications, which is a nice touch. However, the fast-locking mechanism for the disks, while convenient, felt a bit oversized and prone to breaking if not handled carefully. This was a slight drawback, especially when working in tight spaces where the lock handle might get in the way.

A noteworthy safety feature is the automatic shutdown when the tool is left unattended. This can be a bit inconvenient at times, but it's a great safety measure that prevents the grinder from spinning freely if left on accidentally. The ergonomic shape of the handle and the rubberized grip add to the overall comfort, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Angle Grinder does have its limitations. For one, it struggles with tasks requiring deeper cuts. The maximum cutting depth of 3/4" falls short compared to some older models that can handle up to an inch. This limitation means that for certain heavy-duty applications, this grinder might not be the best choice.

Furthermore, there have been instances of the tool shutting down unexpectedly under load, even with a fully charged battery. This seems to be a common issue, possibly related to the protective circuitry that reacts to excessive power draw. While this feature is intended to prevent damage to the tool, it can be frustrating when it interrupts your workflow.

Overall Impression

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-1/2" Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool is a solid performer with a range of features that make it a valuable addition to any DIYer's toolkit. Its brushless motor ensures efficient operation, and the tool-free adjustments add a layer of convenience that can't be understated. The compatibility with the ONE+ battery system is a significant advantage, provided you have high-capacity batteries on hand.

Recommendation

I would recommend this tool for anyone who needs a reliable, versatile angle grinder for moderate to heavy DIY tasks. It’s particularly well-suited for those already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem. However, for professionals or tasks requiring extended, intensive use, a corded grinder might still be a better option due to the limitations in battery life and cutting depth.

In summary, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Angle Grinder is a robust tool that excels in convenience and performance for most DIY applications, with a few caveats that potential users should be aware of.