The Ryobi P251 One+ 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Drill is a versatile tool designed to meet the needs of both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. This model is a part of Ryobi's signature ONE+ series, which offers a wide range of power tools that all use the same battery platform. Let's delve into this comprehensive review to explore the features, benefits, and possible drawbacks of this hammer drill.
- Battery System: Uses Ryobi 18V One+ lithium-ion battery (battery not included)
- Motor: Compact brushless motor for power and runtime
- Speed Options: 0-550/0-2000 RPM mechanical clutch with settings for drilling and hammer drilling
- Torque: Up to 450 in-lbs of torque for drilling applications
- Chuck Size: 1/2" keyless chuck for holding drill bits securely
- Weight: 4.2 lbs without battery
- Accessories: Includes sleeve storage and belt hook
- Runtime: Varies depending on battery size and function but 20-30 min typical on a 4.0Ah battery
- Charger: Rapid charger (charger not included) fully charges battery in under an hour
- Trigger: Variable speed trigger for control and comfort
- Clutch: Mechanical clutch protects from overload during drilling and hammering
- Hammer Action: Provides up to 32,000 BPM of hammering force for drilling concrete, stone, etc.
- Warranty: 3 year limited warranty from Ryobi
Design and Build Quality
The Ryobi P251 impresses with its sturdy and ergonomic design. The device is lightweight (at around 3 pounds without the battery), making it incredibly comfortable to handle, even for extended periods. The grip is rubberized for additional comfort and to ensure a firm hold. The build quality is excellent, with the drill exhibiting a robust, durable feel that can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use.
Power and Performance
Powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery, the Ryobi P251 delivers impressive performance. It boasts a powerful motor that provides up to 750 in-lbs of torque, enough to handle a wide range of drilling and driving tasks. The drill has a 2-speed gearbox, allowing users to switch between low speed (0-410 RPM) for high torque applications and high speed (0-1800 RPM) for high speed drilling.
The hammer mode, with up to 24,000 blows per minute, is particularly noteworthy. This feature allows the drill to drive into masonry and concrete with relative ease, making it a valuable tool for more demanding construction projects.
Features
One of the standout features of the Ryobi P251 is its 24-position clutch and 2-speed gearbox. These features offer users the flexibility to adjust the drill's torque output and speed, ensuring optimal performance for different tasks.
The drill also includes an LED work light, a handy feature for working in low-light conditions. The magnetic holder for screws and bits is another thoughtful addition, providing a convenient storage solution during work.
Its compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ battery system is a significant advantage. Users who already own other Ryobi ONE+ tools can use the same batteries interchangeably, offering convenience and potential savings.
Battery Life
The battery life of the Ryobi P251 is dependable, thanks to the efficient 18V lithium-ion battery. While the actual runtime will depend on the nature of the task, on average, users can expect several hours of operation from a single charge. However, it's worth noting that the drill does not come with a battery or charger – these need to be purchased separately unless you already own other Ryobi ONE+ tools.
Value for Money
The Ryobi P251 offers excellent value for money, especially considering its power and the range of features it offers. It's priced competitively compared to other models in its class, making it an attractive choice for those on a budget or just starting their tool collection. The potential savings from the interchangeable battery system further enhance its value proposition.
Drawbacks
While the Ryobi P251 is a high-performing tool, it does have a few drawbacks. As mentioned earlier, the drill does not come with a battery or charger, which could add a significant cost for those new to the Ryobi ONE+ system.
The drill also lacks a brushless motor, a feature that provides better efficiency and longer motor life, now common in many other models. However, this omission is understandable given the drill's competitive price point.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ryobi P251 One+ 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Drill is a reliable, versatile, and affordable tool. Its robust performance, intuitive features, and compatibility with the ONE+ battery system make it an excellent choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Despite a few drawbacks, its benefits far outweigh its limitations, making it a worthy addition to any tool arsenal.