Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP 6" Compact Brushless Pruning Chainsaw

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP 6" Compact Brushless Pruning Chainsaw has quickly become one of my favorite tools for light pruning and limbing tasks around the yard. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces where larger chainsaws would be cumbersome. At just 3.65 lbs., it’s a breeze to handle, even for extended periods.

One of the standout features of this pruning chainsaw is its 40% faster cutting performance. I found that it easily slices through small branches up to 4 inches in diameter with minimal effort. The 6-inch bar and chain are perfectly sized for pruning tasks, making quick work of dead branches and overgrown shrubs. The tool-less chain tensioning system is a real game-changer, allowing for quick and easy adjustments without the need for additional tools. This feature alone saves so much time and hassle, especially when you’re in the middle of a project.

The chainsaw is powered by an 18V ONE+ battery, which is compatible with any other Ryobi ONE+ tools. This compatibility is a huge plus for anyone already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem. The included 2.0 Ah battery lasts surprisingly long; after about an hour of intermittent use, I still had half a charge left. Charging is straightforward with the 120V, 60Hz, 60W charger, and I was up and running again in no time.

One minor drawback is the lack of an automatic oiling system. Instead, the chainsaw requires manual lubrication of the chain and bar. While this might seem inconvenient, I actually appreciate that it eliminates the mess and potential leaks associated with automatic oilers. I keep a small bottle of bar and chain oil handy and apply a few drops every 5-10 minutes of use. It’s a small price to pay for the convenience and cleanliness it offers.

The design of the Ryobi pruning chainsaw includes several thoughtful features that enhance its usability and safety. The grips are comfortable and non-slip, making it easy to operate with one hand if needed. The front chain guard is a fantastic addition, not only providing an extra layer of safety but also helping to keep sawdust from flying back into my face. The floating cover over the top of the chain is another safety feature I hadn’t seen before, and it works well to protect the user while cutting.

In terms of build quality, the chainsaw feels sturdy and well-made. It’s clear that Ryobi put a lot of thought into the design and construction of this tool. The LED status lights on the newer style battery are a nice touch, providing a quick and easy way to check the battery level at a glance.

However, there are a couple of areas where the tool could be improved. First, the scabbard that comes with the chainsaw only slides on one way, which can be a bit annoying. It’s a minor issue, but it’s worth noting. Second, finding replacement chains has been a challenge. The specific size of the chain used by this model doesn’t seem to be widely available, which is frustrating. I hope Ryobi addresses this soon by making replacement chains more readily accessible.

Despite these minor issues, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP 6" Compact Brushless Pruning Chainsaw excels in its primary function. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and powerful enough for most pruning tasks. It’s also versatile – I’ve used it not only for trimming trees and bushes but also for cutting up small branches for firewood and even breaking down cardboard boxes for recycling. The chainsaw’s compact size makes it easy to pack for camping trips, where it’s perfect for cutting branches for campfires.

One of the most significant advantages of this chainsaw is its suitability for users of all ages and strengths. For instance, older users or those with less upper body strength will find it manageable and effective. It’s also an excellent tool for anyone who may find larger chainsaws intimidating or unwieldy.

Overall, I highly recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP 6" Compact Brushless Pruning Chainsaw. It’s a well-designed, high-performing tool that’s perfect for a variety of pruning and light cutting tasks. Its compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ battery system adds to its convenience, making it a valuable addition to any tool collection. The minor inconveniences, such as the manual oiling and the difficulty in finding replacement chains, are far outweighed by the tool’s performance and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a casual DIYer, this chainsaw is sure to become a go-to tool for your yard maintenance needs.