Ryobi HP Compact Brushless 1/4" High Speed Ratchet

Testing out Ryobi's HP Compact Brushless 1/4" High Speed Ratchet has been an enlightening experience. As someone who frequently tackles various DIY projects and minor automotive repairs, I found this tool to be a valuable addition to my toolkit.

From the moment I picked up the ratchet, I could feel its solid build quality. Weighing in at just over two pounds, it strikes a fine balance between being lightweight and sturdy. The compact design is particularly beneficial for accessing tight spaces, which is often a challenge with bulkier tools. The 4-position rotating head adds to this flexibility, allowing you to adjust the angle of the ratchet head to fit comfortably into those awkward spots.

One of the standout features of this ratchet is its brushless motor. Brushless motors are known for their efficiency and long lifespan, and this one did not disappoint. The tool delivers up to 40 ft-lbs of torque, making it powerful enough for most small to medium fasteners. The variable speed metal paddle trigger offers fine control over the ratchet's speed, which can go up to 460 RPM. This is particularly useful when you need to start a bolt gently before cranking up the speed.

The dual LED worklights are another thoughtful addition. They provide ample illumination in dimly lit areas, which is a common scenario when working under the hood of a car or in a poorly lit garage. The lights stay on for a few seconds after releasing the trigger, giving you just enough time to assess your work without having to keep the trigger pressed.

One of the things I appreciated the most about this ratchet is its ease of use. The large paddle switch is easy to depress, even when wearing thick gloves. This is a small but significant feature that makes a big difference during long work sessions. The lockout lever above the paddle switch ensures that the tool won't accidentally activate while being transported in a toolbox, which is a nice safety feature.

However, the tool is not without its drawbacks. The most noticeable downside is its noise level. While it's not excessively loud, it does produce a distinct clicking sound when the socket turns. This is something to keep in mind if you're working in a noise-sensitive environment.

The ratchet's reliance on Ryobi's 18V One+ battery platform is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it's convenient if you already own other Ryobi tools, as you can use the same batteries across different tools. On the other hand, the battery does add some bulk to the tool, making it a bit cumbersome in extremely tight spaces. A slimmer battery design, akin to those used in Milwaukee's 12V tools, would have made the tool even more versatile.

Despite these minor issues, the ratchet performed admirably in various tests. Whether it was assembling furniture, working on a riding mower, or tackling bolts in an engine bay, the tool handled each task with ease. The rotating head, combined with the variable speed trigger, made it particularly effective in scenarios where precision and control are paramount.

The tool's durability is another aspect worth mentioning. The ratcheting mechanism is secured by a snap ring, which means it can be easily serviced or replaced if needed. The brushless motor, with its minimal friction parts, is likely to outlast the ratcheting mechanism by a significant margin. This makes the tool a long-term investment rather than a short-term solution.

In terms of ergonomics, the rubber over-molding on the handle provides a comfortable grip and prevents slipping, even in sweaty or greasy conditions. The tool stands nicely on the battery, which is a small but convenient feature when you need to set it down temporarily.

To summarize, the Ryobi HP Compact Brushless 1/4" High Speed Ratchet is a well-rounded tool that excels in both performance and versatility. Its compact design, powerful motor, and user-friendly features make it a valuable asset for any DIY enthusiast or professional mechanic. While it could benefit from a slimmer battery design and a quieter operation, these are relatively minor drawbacks in an otherwise excellent tool.

I would highly recommend this ratchet to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient tool for small to medium fasteners. Its combination of power, precision, and ease of use makes it a standout choice in the crowded market of cordless ratchets. Whether you're tackling an automotive repair, assembling furniture, or working on a DIY project, this tool is likely to save you time and effort, making your tasks more enjoyable and less tedious.