Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Blower & Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Combo Kit

If you’ve been considering making the switch from gas-powered yard tools to electric, the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Blower & Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Combo Kit might be the solution you’re looking for. This combo kit offers a blend of power, convenience, and modern technology that caters to both casual users and serious lawn care enthusiasts.

First Impressions

Straight out of the box, the Ryobi 40V combo kit impresses with its build quality and thoughtful design. The carbon fiber shaft on the string trimmer is not only lightweight but also adds a level of durability and rigidity that's hard to find in comparable models. The blower feels robust and well-balanced, which is crucial for extended use.

Performance

Blower

The blower truly shines in its ability to handle a variety of tasks. With an air volume of 600 CFM and an air speed of 155 MPH, this tool can handle everything from dry leaves to heavier, wet debris. The power boost feature is particularly handy when you need that extra bit of oomph, although it can be a bit too powerful if you’re not careful. I found myself needing to be cautious around gravel driveways to avoid lifting and throwing small stones.

One standout feature is the noise level. At 55 dB, it's remarkably quiet compared to gas blowers. This makes it feasible to use early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbing the neighbors. Despite its power, the blower is not fatiguing to use, thanks to its balanced weight and ergonomic design. There’s also less vibration compared to gas models, which makes a world of difference during prolonged use.

String Trimmer

The string trimmer in this kit features an adjustable cutting width ranging from 13” to 15”, allowing you to tailor it to your specific needs. The trimmer’s performance is comparable to many gas models, thanks to the brushless motor technology. It powers through thick grass and even small brush with ease.

The carbon fiber shaft adds a level of maneuverability that’s particularly beneficial when tackling intricate edging or trimming around obstacles. The only downside is the lack of a secondary handhold, which can make extended use a bit tiring on the arms. Additionally, the trimmer does not come with a strap, which could have alleviated some of the fatigue.

Battery Life & Charging

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, but the Ryobi 40V combo kit performs admirably in this regard. The 4Ah battery included in the kit lasts long enough to tackle a moderately sized yard. However, if you’re working on a larger property or tackling particularly tough jobs, you might find yourself needing a second battery. The fast charging feature is a significant plus, with a full charge taking around an hour, allowing you to get back to work quickly.

Ease of Use

Both tools in the combo are user-friendly. The blower’s controls are intuitive, and the variable speed trigger allows for precise control over the air output. The trimmer benefits from a simple line loading mechanism, although it can be a bit tricky to get the hang of initially. One drawback is the absence of a trigger lock on the trimmer, which means your grip can get tired during extended use.

The compact design of the battery and its easy interchangeability between tools also adds to the overall user experience. Moving from blowing leaves to trimming the lawn is seamless, saving time and effort.

Durability

In terms of durability, both tools appear to be built to last. The carbon fiber shaft on the trimmer is a significant improvement over the typical aluminum or steel shafts and should hold up well to regular use. The blower’s construction also feels solid, with no noticeable weak points.

That said, there have been some issues with durability reported by others, particularly with the trimmer’s plastic shield and the blower’s turbo button. These components could be more robust to match the rest of the tool’s build quality.

Versatility

The Ryobi 40V combo kit is compatible with various attachments, which adds a layer of versatility that can’t be overlooked. Whether you need an edger, a pole saw, or a hedge trimmer, the ability to swap out attachments makes this kit a versatile addition to your tool collection.

Recommendations

Overall, I would highly recommend the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Blower & Carbon Fiber String Trimmer Combo Kit for several reasons. Firstly, the performance of both the blower and the trimmer is comparable to gas-powered tools without the associated noise, fumes, and maintenance hassles. Secondly, the battery life and fast charging capabilities are sufficiently robust for most residential needs. Lastly, the ease of use and ergonomic design make these tools suitable for users of all experience levels.

However, if you are someone who has a large property or requires the use of these tools for extended periods regularly, you might want to consider investing in additional batteries or perhaps looking at more heavy-duty options. The minor issues with durability and the absence of certain ergonomic features like a secondary handhold or a strap could be a concern for intensive users.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 40V combo kit strikes a remarkable balance between power, convenience, and modern technology, making it a worthwhile investment for maintaining your yard with minimal fuss.