Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-Mode 1/2" Impact Wrench

As a long-time DIY enthusiast and a user of various power tools, I recently had the opportunity to test out the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-Mode 1/2" Impact Wrench, model P262. Ryobi has been a reliable brand in my toolkit for years, so I was eager to see how this new addition would perform, especially given its impressive specifications and features.

First off, the build quality of the P262 is robust. The die-cast gear case adds a layer of durability that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. The ergonomics are well thought out, with a pistol-style handle that has rubber insets for a comfortable grip. This is particularly useful during extended use, reducing hand fatigue. Weighing in at around five pounds with a 1.5 Ah battery, the tool feels balanced and manageable, although it is a bit heavy for prolonged overhead tasks.

The standout feature of this impact wrench is its brushless motor, which delivers up to 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 450 ft-lbs of fastening torque. These figures are impressive and translate well into real-world applications. I tested the tool on a variety of tasks, from removing lug nuts on my truck to loosening rusted bolts on an old car. In all cases, the P262 performed admirably, breaking loose nuts and bolts with ease.

One of the most useful features is the 4-mode speed control. The three fixed speeds (low, medium, and high) allow for precise control depending on the task at hand. The Auto mode is particularly noteworthy; it stops the tool once the bolt is loose to prevent over-torquing, which is a fantastic feature for those who might be new to using impact wrenches. I found this mode to be highly effective when working on delicate tasks where over-tightening could cause damage.

The Tri-Beam LED worklights are another excellent addition. These lights provide ample illumination around the socket, making it easier to work in low-light conditions. This was particularly useful when I was working under my car, where visibility is often a challenge.

One aspect where the P262 shines is its compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ battery system. I have several other Ryobi tools, and the interchangeability of batteries is a significant advantage. I used both my older non-HP 4 Ah batteries and the newer HP batteries, and the performance was consistent across the board. The tool's efficiency is also commendable; after a series of demanding tasks, my 3 Ah battery still showed four LEDs, indicating a long battery life.

However, the tool is not without its drawbacks. Its size is a bit on the larger side for a mid-torque impact wrench, which can make it cumbersome to use in tight spaces. For instance, it was too bulky to fit comfortably into the wheel well of my Civic when I was working on the brakes. Additionally, while the tool is powerful, there are other brands on the market that offer more torque in a more compact design.

Another minor issue is the friction ring anvil. While it does allow for quick socket changes, it lacks a spring-loaded ball to hold the socket in place securely. This means you might need to keep some spare O-rings handy, as they can wear out over time with frequent use.

In terms of noise, the P262 is relatively loud, as expected from a powerful impact wrench, but it's not excessively so. It’s something to be mindful of if you’re working in a confined space or for extended periods.

One significant concern is the warranty policy. Ryobi offers a 3-year limited warranty, but it requires a receipt for any claims. This could be problematic if you receive the tool as a gift or misplace the receipt. It's a point worth considering before making a purchase.

Despite these minor issues, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 4-Mode 1/2" Impact Wrench is a formidable tool. It offers a blend of power, versatility, and value that is hard to beat, especially for DIY enthusiasts and semi-professionals. The combination of high torque, multiple speed settings, and useful features like Auto mode and LED worklights make it a versatile addition to any toolkit.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. For the price, it provides excellent performance and durability. It’s particularly well-suited for those who already own other Ryobi ONE+ tools, as the battery compatibility adds significant value. While it may not be the most compact or the most powerful impact wrench on the market, its overall performance and features make it a worthy investment for a wide range of applications. Whether you're working on automotive repairs, home projects, or any task that requires a reliable impact wrench, the Ryobi P262 is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.