Features
- String trimmer with adjustable 10" to 12" cut swath
- Variable speed trigger on both tools for improved control
- Blower delivers 450 CFM and 120 MPH for effective leaf and debris clearing
- Includes a 40V 4Ah lithium battery and charger
Specifications
| Cutting Width | Adjustable 10–12 inches |
| Line Size | .080 inch |
| Weight (String Trimmer) | 8 lbs |
| Air Volume (Blower) | 450 CFM |
| Air Speed (Blower) | 120 MPH |
| Weight (Blower) | 6.5 lbs |
| Battery Voltage | 40V |
| Battery Capacity | 4Ah |
| Charger Input | 120V, 60Hz, 60W |
This kit includes a 12-inch string trimmer and a 450 CFM blower. The string trimmer has an adjustable cutting width and a variable speed trigger for better control. The blower is designed for light applications and can achieve significant air volume and speed.
Model Number: RY40970
Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit Review
Navigating the world of outdoor power tools often leads to a crossroads where we must choose between the traditional gas-powered options and the increasingly popular battery-operated alternatives. One such battery-powered option is the Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit (model RY40970), which includes a 12-inch string trimmer and a 450 CFM blower. Having spent some time with this combo kit in my own yard, I have gathered a well-rounded perspective on its capabilities and limitations.
Upon unboxing the Ryobi 40V combo kit, the first thing that struck me was the compact and lightweight design of both tools. The string trimmer, weighing in at 8 pounds, and the blower at 6.5 pounds, are both manageable for extended use without causing fatigue. The inclusion of a 40V 4Ah lithium battery and charger is a nice touch, making it a complete package right out of the box.
Starting with the string trimmer, it features an adjustable cutting width ranging from 10 to 12 inches, which offers some flexibility depending on the task at hand. The variable speed trigger is a standout feature, allowing for better control over the trimming process. However, as someone who stands at 5'8", I found the ergonomics of the handle and the angle of the trimmer to be less than ideal. It felt a bit awkward and required some adjustment to get comfortable. Taller users might find it more fitting to their stature.
The trimmer's performance is adequate for light to moderate yard work. It handles typical grass and weeds well, but struggles with thicker, more stubborn vegetation. The auto string feed function is a mixed bag; while it can be convenient, it also seems to consume a lot of string quickly. This could lead to frequent replacements, which is something to keep in mind.
Transitioning to the blower, it's clear that Ryobi designed it for light applications. With an air volume of 450 CFM and a maximum air speed of 120 MPH, the blower is effective for clearing leaves and debris from driveways, decks, and patios. However, it doesn't quite stack up against more powerful gas-powered blowers, especially for larger yards or heavier debris. One minor annoyance I encountered was the side intake, which tended to suck in my clothing if I wasn't careful. This could be a simple adjustment in usage technique, but it’s something to be aware of.
Battery life is a critical aspect of any cordless tool, and the 40V 4Ah battery included in this kit offers a reasonable performance. During my use, the battery lasted long enough to complete both trimming and blowing tasks for my medium-sized yard. However, if you have a larger area to cover, you might find yourself needing a second battery or a break to recharge. The convenience of swapping the battery between tools is a definite plus, making the transition from trimming to blowing seamless.
One of the standout aspects of this combo kit is the ease of use. Both the trimmer and blower are user-friendly, even for those who might not be particularly experienced with power tools. The lightweight design and simple controls make it accessible for a wide range of users. Additionally, the absence of gas and oil means less maintenance and no fumes, which is a significant advantage for those looking for a more environmentally friendly option.
Yet, not everything is rosy with the Ryobi 40V combo kit. The power, while sufficient for light tasks, falls short for more demanding jobs. If you're used to the robust performance of gas-powered tools, you might find this kit lacking. Additionally, the battery life, though decent, might not meet the expectations of those with larger properties.
In conclusion, the Ryobi 40V 2-Tool Combo Kit offers a convenient and user-friendly solution for light to moderate yard work. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and environmentally friendly operation make it an attractive option for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. However, if you require more power or have a larger area to maintain, you might find this kit somewhat underwhelming.
Would I recommend the Ryobi 40V combo kit? Yes, with some reservations. For those seeking a hassle-free, lightweight, and environmentally conscious option for regular yard maintenance, this kit is a solid choice. However, if you need more power or have extensive tasks to tackle, you might want to consider more robust alternatives. The Ryobi 40V combo kit excels in convenience and ease of use, but it does have its limitations in power and battery longevity.
Project Ideas
Business
Lawn Care Services
Start a lawn care business by offering trimming and blowing services. Use the string trimmer to maintain lawns and the blower to clear away leaves and debris. Market your services to homeowners looking for regular maintenance.
Event Setup and Cleanup
Offer services for setting up and cleaning outdoor event spaces. Use the blower to clear areas of leaves and debris before events, and the string trimmer to ensure grass and garden areas are well-kept. Provide cleanup services after events to restore the area to its original state.
Real Estate Property Maintenance
Partner with real estate agents to maintain the properties they are selling. Use the string trimmer to keep lawns and gardens tidy and the blower to ensure driveways and pathways are clean, enhancing curb appeal and helping properties sell faster.
Seasonal Yard Preparation
Create a seasonal yard preparation business where you help clients get their yards ready for spring and fall. Use the blower to clear leaves and debris, and the string trimmer to manage overgrown grass and bushes, ensuring their yards look their best for the changing seasons.
Outdoor Spaces Design and Maintenance
Offer a service that combines design and maintenance of outdoor spaces. Use your tools to maintain gardens and lawns while providing design suggestions and implementation for improving the aesthetic appeal of outdoor areas.
Creative
Garden Art Installation
Use the string trimmer to create intricate patterns and designs in overgrown grass or garden areas. The adjustable cutting width allows for precision trimming, enabling you to craft artistic shapes and motifs that can transform a simple garden into a visually striking art piece.
Outdoor Movie Night Setup
Clear an area of your backyard using the blower to remove leaves and debris, then use the string trimmer to tidy up the grass. Set up a projector and screen for a cozy outdoor movie night. You can even create a pathway using the trimmer for a professional look.
DIY Outdoor Furniture Restoration
Clean and prepare your outdoor furniture for a fresh coat of paint or stain. Use the blower to remove dust and debris from the furniture and surrounding area, ensuring a clean workspace. The string trimmer can be used to tidy up any surrounding grass or vegetation to make your outdoor space look polished.
Seasonal Yard Decorations
Prepare your yard for seasonal decorations by using the blower to clear leaves and the string trimmer to shape hedges and bushes. This ensures a clean and presentable space for your Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas decorations.
Outdoor Play Area Maintenance
Maintain a safe and clean play area for children by using the blower to clear away debris and the string trimmer to keep the grass at a manageable length. This helps in creating a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor activities.