Ryobi Brushless Reciprocating Saw

As someone who frequently tackles a variety of DIY projects, I always keep an eye out for tools that can make my work more efficient and enjoyable. Recently, I had the opportunity to use the Ryobi Brushless Reciprocating Saw, model P517, and I must say, it has left a lasting impression on me.

The first thing that struck me about the Ryobi saw was its impressive power. Equipped with a brushless motor, this saw delivers a remarkable amount of runtime and power, making it suitable for cutting through a wide range of materials. Whether I was working with wood, metal, or plastic, the saw performed consistently well. This versatility is a major plus for anyone who, like me, needs a tool that can handle various tasks without missing a beat.

One of the standout features of this reciprocating saw is the stay-open blade clamp. This design allows for quick and easy one-handed blade changes, a feature that I found incredibly convenient. It eliminates the need for additional tools and makes the process of switching blades much faster, which is particularly useful when you're in the middle of a project and need to change blades on the fly.

Another feature worth mentioning is the ANTI-VIBE™ handle. This handle is designed to reduce user fatigue during use, which I found to be quite effective. Even during extended periods of cutting, the vibration was minimal, and my hands felt comfortable throughout. The GRIPZONE™ overmold further enhances comfort by providing a secure and ergonomic grip. These features combined make the saw not only powerful but also user-friendly.

The orbital action is another aspect that deserves praise. It allows for faster cutting, which I noticed particularly when working with wood. The saw effortlessly powered through tree branches and lumber, making quick work of what could have been a time-consuming task. The variable speed trigger also proved to be a valuable feature, giving me better control over the cutting speed and allowing for more precise cuts.

In terms of specifications, the saw boasts a no-load speed of 0-3,200 SPM and a blade stroke of 1-1/8 inches. It runs on an 18V battery, which I found to be more than sufficient for most tasks. The onboard wrench storage is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that you always have the necessary tools on hand.

However, it's not all perfect. While the saw excels in many areas, there are a few design flaws that I encountered. The shoe extension, for instance, is somewhat limited. It extends only about 1-2 cm, which isn't always enough to manage blade usage effectively. A more adjustable shoe would have been a welcome improvement.

Durability is another area where the Ryobi saw could use some enhancement. While it performed admirably during my projects, I did notice that the blade occasionally had some up and down movement even when clamped properly. This can lead to wear and tear on the LED light and the surrounding plastic. Additionally, the blade sometimes popped out when it caught on a nail, which was frustrating.

There were also instances where the saw seemed to overheat and required a cooldown period after cutting through a few 2x4s. This could be a potential issue for those who need a tool for continuous heavy-duty use. In one instance, the saw even started smoking and spitting out plastic shards, which was concerning.

Despite these drawbacks, the Ryobi reciprocating saw has many redeeming qualities. Its power, ease of use, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any DIYer's toolkit. The convenience of a battery-powered tool cannot be overstated, especially for those who work in areas without easy access to power outlets.

The saw's ability to handle various materials with ease is another significant advantage. From trimming trees to cutting through metal fencing, the Ryobi saw proved to be up to the task. The quick and easy blade changes, combined with the comfortable grip and reduced vibration, make it a pleasure to use.

For those considering this tool, it's worth noting that Ryobi offers a two-year extension on the warranty if you register online. This added peace of mind is a nice touch and speaks to the company's confidence in their product.

In conclusion, the Ryobi Brushless Reciprocating Saw, model P517, is a powerful and versatile tool that offers excellent value for money. While it does have a few design flaws and durability concerns, its overall performance, ease of use, and convenience make it a worthy investment for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners alike. I would recommend this saw to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient tool for a variety of cutting tasks. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.