Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series 17" Carbon Fiber Shaft String Trimmer

When I first laid hands on the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series 17" Carbon Fiber Shaft String Trimmer (let's call it the Ryobi 40V Trimmer for simplicity), I was immediately intrigued by its promise of power and quiet operation. As someone who has used a variety of string trimmers over the years, both gas and electric, I was eager to see how this one would perform.

The Ryobi 40V Trimmer boasts a carbon fiber shaft and a brushless motor, which are features more commonly found in higher-end models. The trimmer is powered by a 40V battery and claims to deliver more power than some 30cc gas string trimmers. The adjustable cutting width of 15" to 17" and the use of heavy-duty .105" line are also notable features that caught my eye.

Assembly and First Impressions

Assembly of the Ryobi 40V Trimmer was straightforward but not without its challenges. The operator's manual was clear, but aligning certain parts, like the grass deflector and the handle, took a bit of patience and finesse. The included allen key was helpful, but I had to dig into my toolbox for a few additional tools to complete the assembly. The carbon fiber shaft felt sturdy yet surprisingly lightweight, which I appreciated.

One of the first things I noticed was the weight distribution. The motor is located at the head of the trimmer, making it somewhat front-heavy. This design choice is likely due to the need to balance the weight of the 6Ah battery at the back. While the carbon fiber shaft does help reduce the overall weight, the front-heavy nature of the trimmer became more apparent during extended use.

Performance in the Yard

When it comes to raw power, the Ryobi 40V Trimmer does not disappoint. The brushless motor provides ample torque, easily handling thick grass and stubborn weeds. The variable speed trigger allows for precise control, although it takes some getting used to. The trimmer has both low and high-speed settings, which are controlled via a switch near the trigger. I found myself using the low setting for most tasks, as the high setting was almost too powerful for delicate trimming around plants and fences.

One of the standout features of this trimmer is its quiet operation. Ryobi claims it is 72% quieter than gas-powered models, and while I didn't measure the exact decibel levels, it is noticeably quieter. This is a significant advantage for those who live in noise-sensitive areas or simply prefer a quieter yard work experience.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Here’s where the Ryobi 40V Trimmer has both hits and misses. On one hand, the carbon fiber shaft is a great addition that helps reduce the overall weight. On the other hand, the front-heavy design can make the trimmer feel cumbersome during prolonged use. I found my arms getting fatigued after about 20 minutes of continuous trimming, which is something to consider if you have a large yard.

The handle is adjustable, but I found it challenging to find a position that was entirely comfortable. The motor’s placement near the head contributes to a vibration that can leave your hands tingling after extended use. A shoulder strap would have been a welcome addition to help distribute the weight more evenly.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is another strong point for the Ryobi 40V Trimmer. With the 6Ah battery, I was able to get about 67 minutes of runtime on a full charge, which is impressive. The rapid charger included with the trimmer is efficient, bringing the battery from empty to full in about an hour. This allows for minimal downtime, which is crucial for those with larger properties.

Maintenance and Durability

The Ryobi 40V Trimmer comes with the REEL EASY+ 3-in-1 bump-feed head for convenient line reloading. This feature is a game-changer, making it easy to reload the line without disassembling the head. The heavy-duty .105" line is durable and can handle tough cutting jobs, but I did encounter some issues with the bump head getting stuck occasionally. The trimmer also includes an option to switch to a flat-bladed grass trimmer, which adds versatility.

Durability is a mixed bag. While the carbon fiber shaft is robust, some of the plastic components, like the guard and bump head, feel less sturdy. I had to be cautious to avoid damaging these parts, especially when working near fences and hard surfaces.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series 17" Carbon Fiber Shaft String Trimmer is a powerful and quiet tool that excels in many areas but has some drawbacks. Its front-heavy design and vibration can make it uncomfortable for extended use, but its impressive power and battery life make it a strong contender for those looking to move away from gas-powered models.

Would I recommend the Ryobi 40V Trimmer? Yes, but with some reservations. If you have a smaller yard or do not mind taking breaks during your trimming sessions, this trimmer will serve you well. Its power, quiet operation, and battery life are significant advantages. However, if you have a large property or require a trimmer for extended periods, the weight and ergonomics might be a concern.

Overall, the Ryobi 40V Trimmer is a solid choice for those seeking the convenience of electric power without sacrificing performance. Just be prepared for a bit of arm fatigue and some minor maintenance along the way.