RYOBI ONE+ ultimate combo kit review.

I have used all types of cordless tools, in my 20 years experience in industries ranging from construction to hazardous materials. The big names, including Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ryobi, and others. And while none offer the same power of a high quality corded tool, they are better than ever, with enough power to get the job done.

For the average homeowner or professional handyman, any of the brand names mentioned will be enough to tackle the majority of projects around the home, with ease. But one glaring difference remains, the price!

Ryobi represents the greatest value vs. quality in battery powered tools available to the consumer. First things first, what I don't like about Ryobi tools.

While no battery powered circular saw on the market can match the raw power and precision of a corded saw, I still found it to be under powered in it's class, it's tiny blade only barely makes it all the way through a pine 2x4. The included batteries only provide enough power for a few cuts before they are back to the charger. Once you begin a cut, you are essentially committed, because of it's low power, twisting the saw back on course if you go off will bind the blade and stop the saw all together. Part of the problem is that the batteries included in the kit are small, low capacity units, and I didn't have as much trouble with the larger 18v units.

Another minor gripe is regarding the safety. Above the trigger is an ambidextrous button you must push to engage the trigger. While I agree safety is paramount when using power tools, odd angles, and the often required reverse cutting needed on long material can be extremely difficult without two hands on the tool. I would really prefer a trigger safety on the saw resembling something like those found on modern polymer handguns, such as a Glock or Springfield armory pistol. As it would make the saws no only easier to use, but cheaper to manufacture.

My second issue is with the included "trouble" light.

I used it to help illuminate the underside of my Ford F-150 while replacing my starter. Typically anyone needing a light like this will also probably need to use it in a tight space, and I had a hard time getting the beam pointed where I wanted it, A strong magnet built into the light would add some functionality, but I digress.

The battery life for the light was far less than expected for the output of the light, and while I don't have the equipment to measure lumens or candella, I can say I have a streamlight poly-tac flashlight that out performs it. And the poly-tac is probably a tenth of its size and weight, with a much smaller battery.

With all that minor annoyance out of the way, its on to the good.

The Ryobi "multi" is absolutely amazing, and I have not a single complaint about any of the other tools I have used thus far besides the safety arrangement on some. All of the needed tools for blade changes are included. The included instructions are easy to follow, and the included blades are of sufficient quality to use the tools as they are, right out of the box.

Ryobi included some very nice touches, one of them being a button behind the battery pack that when pressed, gives you a good idea of the power left within the battery.

You no longer need to wonder if the battery pulled from your tool box has half a charge or full.

The majority of the tools include LED lights to illuminate your work area, and while nothing new, I like to see it. Especially on tools in this price range.

The batteries while small charge rapidly.

All of the tools represent and absolute home-run of a product regardless of my gripes. They are powerful, durable, and just as reliable as the competitors. I paid only a shade over $230.00 for my set, with comparable name brands at three and four times as much.

I am not a spokesperson, and receive no payment from Ryobi. I use these tools almost daily, and I am glad I purchased them.