Ryobi 18 V One+ Brushless 12" Chainsaw With 4 Ah Battery & Charger

As a long-time user of various Ryobi tools, I was eager to put the 18V One+ Brushless 12" Chainsaw to the test. Given my extensive collection of Ryobi One+ tools and batteries, adding this chainsaw seemed like a natural extension of my toolkit. My primary goal was to assess its performance on typical suburban yard tasks, including pruning and cutting small to medium-sized branches and limbs.

The first thing that struck me about this chainsaw was its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 8.5 lbs, it’s easy to handle, even during extended use. The balance is excellent, thanks to the centrally located battery, which makes it feel stable and reduces fatigue. This chainsaw is also part of Ryobi’s One+ system, meaning the batteries are interchangeable with other One+ tools. This feature not only saves money but also adds convenience for those already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem.

Setup was straightforward. The chainsaw comes fully assembled, and all I needed to do was charge the 6.0 Ah battery, fill the chain oil reservoir, and check the chain tension. The oil reservoir is easy to fill and has a large sight glass for monitoring oil levels. However, it's important to note that the chainsaw does not come with chain oil, so be sure to pick some up separately.

In terms of performance, I was pleasantly surprised by the power and efficiency of this compact chainsaw. The brushless motor delivers impressive torque, making quick work of branches up to 10 inches in diameter. I tested it on a fallen silver birch tree with a base diameter of 13.5 inches. Although I had to cut the trunk in two passes, the chainsaw handled it with ease. The responsive trigger allows for precise control, and the low kickback chain adds an extra layer of safety.

One of the standout features is the tool-less chain tensioning system. Adjusting the chain tension is a breeze, thanks to the easily accessible adjusters. This is a crucial feature for maintaining optimal cutting performance and ensuring safety. The automatic chain oiler also works well, keeping the chain lubricated without the need for manual intervention.

Battery life is another area where this chainsaw excels. The 6.0 Ah battery provided ample runtime for my tasks. I was able to cut for about two hours on a single charge, tackling various branches and limbs. The battery indicator is a helpful addition, allowing me to monitor the remaining charge easily. For more demanding tasks, having an extra battery on hand is advisable, but for typical yard work, one battery is usually sufficient.

Noise levels are significantly lower compared to gas-powered chainsaws. While it’s not whisper-quiet, it’s certainly much quieter, making it less disruptive to neighbors. The reduced noise, combined with the lack of emissions, makes for a more pleasant user experience.

However, the chainsaw is not without its drawbacks. One issue I encountered was the tendency for the chip exhaust port to clog, especially when cutting greener wood. This required occasional clearing to maintain optimal performance. Additionally, the chain is a 1/4" pitch, which might be harder to find for replacements. This could be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Another point of concern is the oil leak issue reported by some users. While I did not experience this problem, it’s worth mentioning. Ensuring proper maintenance and storage can help mitigate this risk, but it’s something to be aware of.

Despite these minor issues, the Ryobi 18V One+ Brushless 12" Chainsaw offers a compelling blend of power, convenience, and ease of use. It’s particularly well-suited for homeowners with moderate yard maintenance needs. The ability to pop in a battery and start cutting without the hassle of mixing gas and oil or dealing with pull cords is a significant advantage.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Ryobi 18V One+ Brushless 12" Chainsaw for homeowners looking for a reliable, easy-to-use tool for yard maintenance. Its lightweight design, powerful brushless motor, and excellent battery life make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. While it may not replace a gas-powered chainsaw for heavy-duty tasks, it’s more than capable of handling the majority of suburban yard work with ease.