Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-1/2" Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool Kit

Exploring the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-1/2" Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool Kit was quite an enlightening experience. As someone who’s spent a fair amount of time working with a variety of tools, I found this particular model to be a mix of impressive innovations and a few notable drawbacks.

From the outset, the tool’s brushless motor stands out. Ryobi claims it delivers performance comparable to a corded model, and I found this to be largely accurate. The motor spins up to 9,000 RPM, which is robust for a cordless angle grinder. The brushless design also promises longer motor life and better efficiency, which are always welcome features.

One of the immediate benefits I noticed was the convenience of a cordless design. Not being tethered to an air hose or power cord significantly increases mobility and makes the tool adaptable to various work environments. This freedom is particularly useful in tight spaces or when working on projects that require moving around frequently. The 18V battery system is consistent with other Ryobi tools, so if you’re already invested in their ecosystem, this grinder fits right in.

The tool-free guard adjustment is another thoughtful feature. It allows for quick and easy guard changes without needing additional tools, which can be a real time-saver. Additionally, the three-position side handle provides flexibility in handling, making it more comfortable to use in different positions.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing with this grinder. A significant issue is the power draw under load. When using the compact battery packs, there’s a noticeable drop in RPMs, leading to frequent stalling. This can be frustrating, especially during demanding tasks. To mitigate this, I had to switch to the larger battery packs, which somewhat defeats the purpose of a compact tool. The larger batteries make the tool heavier and less balanced, impacting overall usability.

Moreover, the tool’s inability to take full advantage of Ryobi’s high output batteries is puzzling. These batteries are designed to provide bursts of higher amps under load, which would solve the stalling issue. However, this model doesn’t recognize the high output batteries, leaving a lot of potential on the table.

Despite these drawbacks, the tool excels in several areas. The variable speed settings are a standout feature, allowing precise control over the RPMs. This is particularly useful when working with different materials or performing tasks that require a delicate touch. The slow start feature also adds to the control, preventing any sudden jerks that could potentially damage the workpiece or the tool itself.

The integrated LED work light is a small but significant addition. It illuminates the work area effectively, which is particularly useful in dimly lit environments. This feature, combined with the ergonomic design, makes the tool user-friendly and practical for extended use.

In terms of versatility, this grinder shines. It’s suitable for a wide range of applications, from cutting and grinding to sanding and polishing. I found it particularly effective for metalwork, where its precision and power were put to good use. The ability to use different attachments, such as Reloc discs and tungsten carbide burrs, expands its functionality further.

However, there are some limitations to consider. Ryobi recommends not using any attachment greater than 2 inches in diameter, which restricts the tool’s versatility somewhat. For those needing to use larger attachments, this could be a deal-breaker. Additionally, the lack of a removable guard, which is common in air die grinders, is a notable omission.

The tool’s weight is another point of consideration. At 3.83 lbs without the battery, it’s relatively lightweight for a cordless grinder. However, once you add a larger battery pack, the weight increases significantly, which can be tiresome during prolonged use.

Durability-wise, the tool seems robust. The build quality is solid, and the brushless motor should contribute to a longer lifespan. Ryobi’s three-year limited warranty is also reassuring, providing some peace of mind regarding the tool’s longevity.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool Kit is a mixed bag. It offers impressive performance, versatility, and the convenience of a cordless design. However, the power issues under load and the tool’s inability to fully utilize high output batteries are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends on your specific needs. If you’re already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem and need a versatile, cordless grinder for light to medium tasks, this tool could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. However, for more demanding applications, the power limitations and battery issues might be too significant to overlook. In such cases, you might be better off considering other options that offer more consistent performance under load.

Ultimately, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Angle Grinder/Cut-Off Tool Kit is a capable tool with some room for improvement. It’s a solid choice for certain tasks but may fall short in more demanding scenarios.