Ryobi 18V ONE+ 350 CFM Blower Kit

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 350 CFM Blower Kit (PCLLB01K) is an intriguing addition to Ryobi's extensive lineup of battery-powered tools. As someone who has spent a fair amount of time maintaining a yard and outdoor spaces, I was eager to see how this blower would perform in real-world scenarios.

First Impressions and Setup

Straight out of the box, the blower impresses with its simple assembly process. Attaching the tube to the main unit is straightforward and clicks securely into place. The package includes a 4Ah battery and a charger, which is a nice touch since it provides everything you need to get started immediately. The battery features light bars to indicate the charge level, which is always helpful.

Design and Build Quality

The blower is relatively lightweight at 6.9 pounds, making it easy to handle during extended use. However, I did notice that the weight balance is slightly off. The blower tends to tilt forward, which can put some strain on the wrist, especially during prolonged use. The handle is ergonomically designed, but the forward placement of the trigger exacerbates the balance issue.

The build quality seems robust, with a durable plastic construction that feels like it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The large intake grill, however, has a tendency to catch on clothing, which can be a minor annoyance.

Performance and Usability

Once powered up, the blower delivers a respectable 350 CFM air volume and 100 MPH air speed. This is more than adequate for light to medium tasks such as clearing dry leaves, dust, and small debris from hard surfaces like patios, decks, and driveways. The variable speed trigger is a standout feature, allowing for precise control over the airflow. This is particularly useful when dealing with delicate areas or when you need to adjust the power on the fly.

On the downside, the blower does not perform well with wet leaves or heavier debris. It lacks the power to tackle more demanding tasks, which might make it less suitable for those with larger yards or more challenging cleanup jobs.

Battery Life and Charging

The included 4Ah battery provides a decent runtime, typically around 20 minutes on a full charge. This should be sufficient for most small to medium-sized tasks. The rapid charger works efficiently, bringing the battery back to full charge relatively quickly. However, for larger areas or more intensive tasks, having an extra battery on hand would be advisable.

Noise Level

One of the more noticeable aspects of this blower is its noise level. While not overly loud, it does emit a high-pitched whine when starting and stopping, which can be mildly irritating. Ear protection is recommended if you plan to use it for extended periods.

Storage and Portability

The blower's compact design makes it easy to store. It features a keyhole for hanging, which is a convenient option for those with limited storage space. Its lightweight nature also makes it easy to carry around, even for extended periods.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Variable speed trigger for precise control
- Decent battery life with quick charging
- Compact and easy to store
- Good for light to medium tasks

Cons:
- Poor weight balance
- Limited power for heavy-duty tasks
- High-pitched noise during operation
- Large intake grill can catch on clothing

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ 350 CFM Blower Kit is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight, battery-powered blower for light to medium tasks. It excels in smaller, more confined spaces like patios, decks, and driveways, and the variable speed trigger adds a level of control that is quite useful. However, its limited power and balance issues make it less suitable for more demanding tasks or larger areas.

Would I recommend this blower? Yes, but with reservations. If you have a small to medium-sized yard and need a blower for light cleanup tasks, this tool will serve you well. Its ease of use, lightweight design, and decent battery life make it a convenient option for regular maintenance. However, if you require a more powerful blower for heavy-duty tasks or have a larger area to maintain, you might want to consider a more robust model, possibly even a gas-powered option.

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 350 CFM Blower Kit offers good value for specific, lighter tasks but falls short when it comes to more demanding applications.