Ryobi 2 Cycle 14" Chainsaw

The Ryobi 2 Cycle 14" Chainsaw, model RY3714VNM, is an interesting entry in the realm of budget-friendly chainsaws. Equipped with a 37cc engine, this chainsaw aims to cater to homeowners and those needing a reliable tool for light to moderate yard work. At first glance, it offers an appealing combination of features, including an anti-vibration handle, an adjustable automatic oiler, and an inertia-activated chain brake for enhanced safety. However, my hands-on experience with this tool revealed a mixed bag of performance and reliability.

First Impressions and Setup

Straight out of the box, the Ryobi chainsaw feels lightweight, which is a plus for extended use. Weighing in at just 10 pounds, it's easy to maneuver and doesn't cause excessive fatigue. The setup was relatively straightforward. The chainsaw comes with a detailed manual, and adding the 50:1 gas-oil mix and bar and chain oil was simple enough. I appreciated the ergonomic design of the pull-start handle, which made the starting process a bit more comfortable.

However, my initial enthusiasm was tempered by a few hiccups during the first startup. The chainsaw required a bit of tweaking to get it running smoothly. The carburetor needed adjustments to optimize engine performance, which is not uncommon for gas-powered tools but can be a hassle for those unfamiliar with small engine maintenance.

Performance

Once up and running, the Ryobi chainsaw performed adequately for its intended purpose. For light yard work, such as trimming branches and cutting small to medium-sized logs, the chainsaw did its job. The 14-inch bar and chain are well-suited for these tasks, and the anti-vibration handle genuinely reduces user fatigue during extended use.

However, the tool's performance was inconsistent. On several occasions, the engine stalled when the saw was turned sideways, making horizontal cuts more challenging than they should be. Additionally, the chainsaw tended to get quite hot after prolonged use, which led to more frequent stalling and the need for cooling breaks.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality of the Ryobi chainsaw leaves much to be desired. While the lightweight design is a benefit, it also means that some components feel flimsy. The plastic housing and some internal parts don't inspire confidence in the tool's longevity. Over time, I noticed the oil/chain dispenser was less effective, causing the chain to dry out more quickly and wear down faster. This issue required constant monitoring and adjustments, which detracted from the overall user experience.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this chainsaw is its ease of use. The anti-vibration handle is effective, and the tool-less air filter cover simplifies maintenance. However, the chainsaw's starting procedure can be frustrating. It often required multiple pulls to get it going, especially after sitting idle for a while. This inconsistent starting behavior is a significant drawback, particularly for users who need a reliable tool that starts on the first or second pull.

Safety Features

The Ryobi chainsaw includes several safety features that are worth mentioning. The inertia-activated chain brake is a crucial safety component, and the safety tip reduces the risk of kickback. These features provide peace of mind, especially for less experienced users. However, the chain brake mechanism can be overly sensitive, activating more frequently than necessary and interrupting the cutting process.

Maintenance

Maintenance for the Ryobi chainsaw is relatively straightforward but requires regular attention to keep the tool running optimally. The adjustable automatic oiler is a nice feature, but it needs frequent adjustments to ensure the chain is adequately lubricated. The side access chain tensioner makes it easy to adjust the chain, but the chain itself tends to loosen quickly during use, necessitating frequent readjustments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ryobi 2 Cycle 14" Chainsaw is a mixed bag. It offers some appealing features, such as its lightweight design, anti-vibration handle, and safety mechanisms. For light to moderate yard work, it can be an adequate tool, provided you are willing to deal with its quirks and perform regular maintenance.

However, its inconsistent performance, challenging starting process, and durability issues make it hard to recommend wholeheartedly. If you are a homeowner looking for a budget-friendly chainsaw for occasional use, this Ryobi model might suffice. But for those who need a more reliable and robust tool, especially for more demanding tasks, it would be wise to invest in a higher-quality brand like Echo, Stihl, or Husqvarna.

The Ryobi 2 Cycle 14" Chainsaw may be a good starting point for light, infrequent tasks, but it falls short in terms of reliability and build quality. Therefore, I would only recommend this tool for light-duty, occasional use, and for users who are comfortable performing regular maintenance and adjustments. For more demanding tasks or frequent use, consider spending a bit more for a tool that will offer better performance and longevity.