Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw Review

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Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw Review 1

The Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw is a practical tool designed for homeowners and gardeners who need a reliable solution for light pruning tasks.

This compact chainsaw is part of Ryobi’s ONE+ system, which means it can use any 18V ONE+ battery, making it versatile and convenient. With its lightweight design and user-friendly features, this chainsaw aims to simplify the process of trimming small branches and maintaining your garden.


Product Overview

This mini pruning chainsaw is built for efficiency and ease of use. It features a brushless motor that provides faster cutting speeds compared to traditional models. With a 6-inch bar, it is ideal for handling branches up to 4 inches in diameter, making it suitable for various light-duty tasks around the yard.

The tool’s compact size allows for easy maneuverability, ensuring you can reach tight spots without difficulty. Additionally, the oil-free design minimizes maintenance, allowing users to focus on their gardening tasks rather than worrying about upkeep.

Specifications

Voltage18V (Battery-Powered)
Bar Length6 inches
Battery SystemRyobi One+ 18V
Battery Capacity2.0 Ah (Battery and charger sold separately)
Chain Speed4.6 m/s
Weight4 lbs (without battery)
Chain OilManual Oiling
Warranty3-Year Limited

Features of Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw

The Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw comes equipped with several key features that enhance its performance and usability:

  • Brushless Motor: This technology delivers up to 40% faster cutting compared to older models, making pruning quicker and more efficient.
  • Tool-less Chain Tensioning: Users can easily adjust the chain tension without the need for additional tools, which saves time and effort.
  • Oil-free Design: The chainsaw operates without the need for oil, reducing mess and maintenance requirements while still providing effective cutting.
  • Compact Size: Weighing around 6 pounds, this chainsaw is lightweight and easy to handle, making it suitable for extended use without causing fatigue.
  • Safety Features: It includes a safety switch to prevent accidental starts and a chain brake that stops the chain quickly if necessary, ensuring safe operation.

These features make the Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw a valuable tool for anyone looking to maintain their outdoor space efficiently.


Safety Features

The Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw includes basic safety features to ensure secure operation, especially for beginners. It has a safety lock-off button to prevent accidental startups, ensuring that the chainsaw doesn’t turn on unless both the lock and trigger are engaged.

The small bar length reduces kickback risk, which is often a concern with larger chainsaws. Additionally, the chain is covered by a bar guard when not in use, protecting both the user and the chain from damage during storage. While there are no advanced braking systems, the tool’s compact design and safety lock make it safer for users who may be new to using chainsaws.


Design and Build

The Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw is small, lightweight, and easy to handle. With its 6-inch bar and ergonomic handle, it’s designed for quick pruning in tight spaces. The plastic and rubber build keeps the weight low, making it comfortable to use for a variety of trimming tasks. The tool-free chain tensioning feature allows for quick adjustments, and the safety switch is conveniently placed for easy operation.

However, it uses a manual oiling system, so you’ll need to lubricate the chain yourself, which adds a bit of maintenance. The overall design suits homeowners and gardeners looking for something simple to use for light yard work.


Performance of Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw

The Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw delivers good cutting power for small branches and softwoods, efficiently handling up to about 3-4 inches in thickness. Its chain speed allows for smooth and controlled cuts on light materials, but it may slow down when cutting tougher, denser wood. For quick pruning tasks around the yard, it performs well and is easy to maneuver in tight spots.

Battery life on the 2.0 Ah pack lasts around 20-30 minutes for light pruning tasks. While this is suitable for quick jobs, you may need to recharge frequently if tackling larger projects. To improve runtime and cutting efficiency, a higher-capacity battery from the Ryobi One+ series can be used. This enhances overall performance, allowing for longer work periods and better handling of thicker branches without the tool slowing down.


Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight & Compact: Easy to handle for quick pruning tasks without causing hand fatigue.
  • Tool-Free Tensioning: Adjusting the chain is simple and doesn’t require extra tools.
  • One+ Battery Compatibility: Works seamlessly with other tools in the Ryobi One+ 18V lineup.
  • Comfortable Grip: Ergonomic handle provides good control for precise cuts.

Cons

  • Limited Cutting Power: Struggles with branches over 4 inches or dense hardwood.
  • Manual Oiling System: Requires frequent lubrication, adding maintenance time.
  • Short Battery Life: The 2.0 Ah battery lasts around 20-30 minutes, needing recharges for bigger tasks.
  • Separate Battery Purchase: If you don’t own a Ryobi One+ battery, you’ll need to buy one, adding to the cost.

It is Worth it?

The Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw is best suited for casual gardeners, homeowners, and DIY enthusiasts who need a compact tool for light pruning and trimming tasks. It’s ideal for those who need to maintain smaller trees, hedges, or shrubs and want a battery-powered option for quick, hassle-free yard work.

If you’re looking for a chainsaw that’s easy to use, lightweight, and compatible with the Ryobi One+ 18V battery system, this model is a great addition. However, if you require a tool for heavy-duty cutting or frequent large-scale use, you may need to consider a more powerful, full-sized chainsaw.


Conclusion

The Ryobi 18V One+ Mini Pruning Chainsaw is a lightweight and easy-to-use tool for light pruning and trimming tasks around the yard. Its compact design, safety features, and compatibility with the Ryobi One+ battery system make it a practical choice for homeowners and casual gardeners. While it’s not meant for heavy-duty cutting, it’s a reliable and convenient option for maintaining smaller branches and shrubs.

David Murray
David Murray
Forestry Author

I'm David Murry, a forestry equipment specialist with a focus on chainsaw operation. With over 13 years of experience, I've honed my skills in operating and maintaining a wide range of machinery, from chainsaws to log splitters. My passion for the outdoors and commitment to sustainable forestry drive my work, which emphasizes safety, efficiency, and staying updated with industry advancements. Additionally, I'm dedicated to sharing my expertise and promoting environmental awareness within the forestry community.

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