Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-Mode 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench Kit

Grabbing hold of the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-Mode 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench Kit, I immediately felt the heft and the promise of power. This isn't a lightweight tool, and for a high-torque impact wrench, that’s often a good sign. With specifications boasting 1,170 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 700 ft-lbs of fastening torque, I knew I was dealing with a beast. But does it deliver on that promise? Let's dig in.

The kit includes everything you need to get started: the impact wrench itself, two 4Ah lithium batteries, a charger, a tool bag, and a compact brushless circular saw, with the added bonus of a free select tool of choice. Right out of the box, this setup feels comprehensive. The batteries are compatible with other Ryobi ONE+ tools, which is a great feature if you’re already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem.

One of the standout features of this impact wrench is its four-mode speed setting, which includes an auto mode designed to stop torquing when a nut is loosened or tightened. This feature proved incredibly useful, especially for automotive work where over-torquing can lead to issues. The tri-beam LED work lights are another thoughtful addition, providing ample illumination in darker environments or tight spaces.

On the first test, I used the tool to remove the lug nuts from my car. These lug nuts were torqued to about 320 ft-lbs, and this impact wrench made short work of them. The power mode settings—0-900/0-1,400/0-2,100 RPM and 0-2,800 IPM—allow for fine-tuning depending on the task. I found myself gravitating towards the auto mode as it provides a balanced approach to both power and control.

I also appreciated the 1/2" anvil with a friction ring, which made socket changes quick and hassle-free. However, the anvil's durability raised some concerns. After extensive use, the friction ring seemed to wear down, causing sockets to occasionally come loose. This is something to keep in mind if you're planning to use the tool heavily.

Switching gears, I took the impact wrench to a more challenging task: removing rusted bolts from a flatbed semi-truck. Here, the tool genuinely shined. The 1,170 ft-lbs of breakaway torque proved more than enough to tackle even the most stubborn bolts. It’s worth noting, though, that while the tool has immense power, it’s also quite heavy. Extended use can lead to fatigue, so be prepared for a bit of a workout if you’re handling numerous tough fasteners in one go.

One surprising aspect was how well the tool performed with just the regular 4Ah batteries. There was no need for the more expensive high-performance batteries. After removing multiple tough bolts, the battery still showed a healthy charge, which speaks volumes about the tool's efficiency.

For those concerned about the noise level, I found it to be on par with other high-torque impact wrenches. It's not whisper-quiet, but it’s also not excessively loud. Using it in a garage or workshop should be bearable without ear protection, though prolonged use might warrant it.

I did run into a hiccup when using the tool for an extended period. Specifically, I noticed that the tool could chew up regular sockets if not properly attached. This isn’t unique to this model but is something to be aware of. Using impact-rated sockets is crucial to avoid this issue. Once equipped with the right sockets, the tool performed flawlessly.

The accompanying compact brushless circular saw is a useful addition for those who need a versatile tool kit. The saw has an RPM of 4,900 and offers a depth of cut at 0° of 2-1/4" and at 45° of 1-9/16", making it handy for quick cuts and adjustments. The bevel cut capacity of 0 - 50° is sufficient for most common tasks. However, this review focuses mainly on the impact wrench, where the circular saw serves more as an added bonus in the overall package.

Durability-wise, the tool feels robust. The die-cast gear case seems to promise long-lasting use, though the true test will be its performance over several years. The 3-year limited warranty offers some peace of mind but considering the tool's price point, one would hope it stands the test of time.

I did face one major issue: battery reliability. Although the tool itself performed admirably, I experienced battery failures within a few months of use. Dealing with warranty claims was less than ideal, involving mailing the batteries to a service center without provided postage. This could be a deal-breaker for some, especially those relying on the tool for professional use.

In conclusion, would I recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-Mode 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench Kit? Yes, but with reservations. The tool delivers remarkable power and versatility, making it ideal for automotive and heavy-duty tasks. It’s a strong performer that can handle most jobs you throw at it. However, potential issues with the anvil’s durability and battery reliability need to be considered. If you’re already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem or need a high-torque impact wrench for occasional heavy-duty use, this tool is a solid choice. For professionals who require daily, heavy use, you might want to weigh these considerations carefully.