I've been fully committed to the Ryobi and Ridgid 18V lines of battery tools for varying periods of time, and am very happy with the performance of all but a couple.
The first Ridgid 18V tools arrived 10 years ago during a basement remodel, when I realized using sub 10V B and D drill/driver to put together aluminum studs was not going to cut it. The Drill/Driver and impact driver set and the multi tool I bought are still going strong with the original batteries and were joined by another set of drill drivers and a kick ass reciprocating saw and similarly kick ass impact wrench with incredible torque - which is tough as nails. I have a total of 6.Ridgid batteries ranging from a 10 yr old.1.5 Amp set to a large 9 amp battery. All perform flawlessly.
During Covid remodeling I dove into the Ryobi line hard, hitting several promotions to pick up a bunch of very useful tools including:
- promotional impact/hammer drill, which I dont recommend due to its large size and poor ergonomics;
- two sanders (panel sander and detail sander - both light and easy to use);
- small detail router, which is light, quick, and easy for small jobs and a much better tool than I had any reason to expect;
- Jig saw (the higher Ryobi model) which is very serviceable for home use, but not in the same league for smoothness of operation or cut as the high end Ridgid model or other commercial brands;
- circular saw, I do not recommend as it is underpowered, though I still find it's convenience prevents me from reaching for the corded model, as I'd rather use the table or mitre saw if I need more power;
- 2 absolutely fantastic nail/Brad trim drivers (18 and 23 PIN) are probably the best tool purchases I ever made. Thousands of nails through them with no jams. I replaced all the baseboard and door window casements in the house, 25% with compressor driven guns, and 75% with the two Ryobi battery guns, which made me forget I owned a compressor;
- the higher end angle grinder/cutter is VERY powerful and works like a champ.
I have a boatload of Ryobi batteries and have had great luck with all of them for the past 3 years. While, I would not choose the Ryobi tools if I was a tradesman, I would recommend the line, with a few exceptions to any home owner.
After my positive experience with the Ryobi line of tools I bought a leaf blower which uses the 18v batteries and the 40 V weed whacker/edger. The weed Wacker/edger is a great tool. The battery charge lasts forever and the tools work very well. I had a professional still model weed whacker - I don't miss it. The Ryobi is light and powerful enough to do the job. The blower is great for blowing grass off the driveway or moving a few leaves, but does not stack up to my Echo backpack gas blower.
I've got 10 battery power tools with batteries on my garage work bench right now as I do some work on the deck boards and
railings. Being able to just grab each when it's needed without plugging in different tools or tripping over extension cords is great. When finished I blow the dust out of the garage with the battery operated blower!
Switching to battery powered tools is one of the most rewarding decisions I made. Not fucking around with power cords, gas and oil makes home ownership plain easier!
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