Ryobi 27 PC. Sanding & Grinding Kit

When I first got my hands on the Ryobi 27-Piece Sanding & Grinding Kit, I was eager to see how it would enhance my rotary tool collection. As someone who frequently engages in woodworking, metalworking, and various DIY projects, having a comprehensive accessory kit is crucial. This set promised versatility, ease of storage, and compatibility with multiple materials, which piqued my interest right away.

One of the standout features of this kit is its range of applications. It's designed to handle sanding and grinding tasks on wood, metal, plastic, glass, and stone. This versatility makes it an all-in-one solution for various projects, whether you’re refining the details of a wooden sculpture or grinding down metal edges. The kit includes an assortment of sanding bands in multiple grits (60, 120, and 240), which cater to different levels of material removal and surface smoothing. I found the 1/2" sanding drum mandrel particularly useful for larger, more aggressive sanding tasks. The sanding bands fit securely onto the mandrel, although I did notice that storing the drum sander with a sanding band installed can be a bit cumbersome.

The grinding stones included in the kit are another highlight. There are five assorted grinding stones, each with a specific shape and size to address different grinding needs. I often used the pointed cone-shaped stone for detailed grinding tasks, and it performed excellently. The high quality of these stones ensures they wear down slowly and maintain their effectiveness over time. This is especially important for those who frequently work with harder materials like metal and stone.

Storage and organization are often overlooked aspects of tool kits, but Ryobi has nailed it with this set. The included case is compact yet spacious enough to hold all 27 pieces neatly. The case itself is sturdy and features a built-in stand, making it easy to set up on a workbench for quick access. The bit bars are interchangeable and compatible with Ryobi’s LINK Storage System, which means you can customize your storage setup to fit your specific needs. I particularly appreciated the labeled bit bars for the sanding bands, which made it easy to find the grit I needed without rummaging through the case.

Using the kit with my rotary tool was seamless. The 1/8" collet size is standard and fits most rotary tools, including older models. I tested the accessories with both a Ryobi battery-powered rotary tool and an older Craftsman model, and they worked flawlessly with both. The rubber adapter for the sanding drums is well-designed, ensuring the sanding bands stay in place during use. This feature is crucial for maintaining control and precision, especially when working on intricate projects like holiday ornaments or detailed carvings.

One minor issue I encountered was the inability to store the drum sander mandrel with a sanding band installed within the case. However, this is a small inconvenience considering the overall functionality and convenience of the kit. The included wrench is a thoughtful addition, making it easy to change out accessories without having to search for additional tools.

In terms of value, this kit is hard to beat. For under $25, you get a comprehensive set of sanding and grinding accessories that are organized and ready to use. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, this kit offers everything you need to tackle a wide range of projects. The quality of the accessories is impressive, and the convenience of the storage case adds significant value.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Ryobi 27-Piece Sanding & Grinding Kit. It’s a versatile, high-quality set that enhances any rotary tool collection. The range of accessories, combined with the thoughtful design of the storage case, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to expand their toolkit. Whether you're working on wood, metal, plastic, glass, or stone, this kit has you covered. The minor inconvenience of not being able to store the drum sander mandrel with a sanding band installed is far outweighed by the kit’s many benefits. If you’re in the market for a comprehensive sanding and grinding solution, this Ryobi kit is definitely worth considering.