Ryobi Wood-Metal Door Lock Installation Kit

Installing door locks can be a daunting task, especially if you're working with both wood and metal doors. That's why I decided to give the Ryobi Wood-Metal Door Lock Installation Kit (model A99CAN2) a try. As someone who frequently tackles DIY home improvement projects, I was eager to see if this kit could simplify the process and deliver professional results. Spoiler alert: it has its strengths and weaknesses, but ultimately, it gets the job done.

Design and Features

The first thing I noticed about this kit is its thoughtful design. The automatic strike locator is a standout feature, ensuring precise alignment without the need for tedious measurements. This alone can save a lot of time and frustration. The kit includes all the necessary tools for installation, such as hole saws and drill bits, making it a comprehensive package for both wood and metal doors.

The frame of the jig is made of plastic, which initially raised some concerns about durability. However, the plastic is fairly thick and sturdy, providing enough rigidity to maintain alignment during drilling. The kit also comes with a detailed instruction manual, although I found it lacking in certain areas, which I'll get into later.

Performance

Wood Doors

When it comes to wood doors, this kit performs admirably. The hole saws are sharp and cut through wood effortlessly. The jig holds the door securely, and the automatic strike locator ensures that everything lines up perfectly. One thing to note is that the plastic frame can be a bit slippery, so make sure to secure it tightly to avoid any movement during drilling.

Metal Doors

Metal doors are a different story. The kit claims to be suitable for both wood and metal doors, but I found that it struggles a bit with metal. The hole saws can cut through metal, but they tend to wander and take longer to seat properly. Additionally, the plastic frame flexes slightly, which can cause the hole to be slightly off-center. If you're working with a metal door, I recommend taking breaks to let the saw cool down and using a lubricant to ease the cutting process.

Ease of Use

One of the biggest selling points of this kit is its ease of use. Even if you're not a seasoned DIYer, you can achieve good results with a bit of patience. The automatic strike locator eliminates the guesswork, and the included tools are straightforward to use. However, there are a few caveats:

1. Instruction Manual: The manual fails to mention a crucial step when using the hole saw. You should start drilling at an angle to avoid breaking the pilot bit. This is a common technique in drilling, but it's not mentioned in the instructions, which could trip up beginners.

2. Switching Hole Saws: The process of switching from the larger hole saw to the smaller one can be cumbersome. The arbor tends to get stuck, requiring additional tools like vice grips or an impact driver to loosen it. This can be frustrating, especially if you're in the middle of a project.

3. Clamping the Jig: The plastic frame lacks a decent clamping surface, making it challenging to hold it securely in place. I found that using additional clamps or even Command Strips can help stabilize the jig.

Durability

The plastic construction of the jig is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's lightweight and easy to handle. On the other hand, it raises questions about long-term durability. For occasional home use, it should hold up just fine. However, if you're a professional who needs to install locks frequently, you might want to invest in a more robust, metal jig.

Value for Money

At $29.47, the Ryobi Wood-Metal Door Lock Installation Kit offers good value for money. It's cheaper than many professional-grade tools but still provides a decent level of performance. The kit includes everything you need to get started, and the automatic strike locator is a feature that you'd typically find in more expensive kits.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Ryobi Wood-Metal Door Lock Installation Kit? Yes, but with some reservations. If you're a DIY enthusiast looking to install a few locks around your home, this kit will serve you well. It's easy to use, reasonably priced, and comes with all the necessary tools. Just be prepared for some minor frustrations, especially when working with metal doors.

For professionals or those who need to install locks frequently, you might want to look for a more durable, metal jig. The plastic construction and occasional issues with the arbor can be limiting factors for heavy-duty use.

In summary, the Ryobi Wood-Metal Door Lock Installation Kit is a solid choice for occasional home use. It simplifies the lock installation process and delivers good results, making it a worthwhile addition to your toolbox. Just remember to take your time, follow the (sometimes incomplete) instructions carefully, and be prepared for a bit of trial and error.