Homebuilding Verdict
An impressive reciprocating saw that feels solid and sturdy — the only drawback? No hanging loop for keeping it easily to hand
Pros
- +
Brushless motor
- +
Light weight
- +
LED light
- +
Compatible with range of RYOBI ONE+ products
- +
Cost
Cons
- -
No hanging/belt hook
You can trust Homebuilding & Renovating.
RYOBI ONE+ HP RRS18X-O 18V brushless reciprocating saw is a good pick for a demolition saw. There is a blade fitted at the front of the tool that reciprocates forwards and backwards in a sawing action. A number of different blades can be fitted to it for sawing different materials such as timber, panelling, metal, plastic or composite materials.
These tools are most often used for cutting through stud wall timbers, window and door frames or removing fence panels and posts, where space is limited but you still need the sawing action.
The question is, is this RYOBI tool the best reciprocating saw? We put it through its paces stripping out a bathroom to see if it was up to the task.
Specifications
- High Performance (HP)
- Cordless 18V brushless reciprocating saw.
- Brushless motor (more efficient)
- Up to 3200 SPM (strokes per minute)
- 32mm stroke length.
- Various blades available to 210mm
- Battery charge indicator on the battery .
- Compatible with the Ryobi ONE + batteries up to 9Ah
How does the Ryobi handle?
The RYOBI ONE+ HP RRS18X-O 18V brushless reciprocating saw feels solid and sturdy when used and the contoured handles allow for a firm and confident grip. There is a handy LED light just behind the blade to add light in shadows or darker areas.
The blade is easily changed without the need for additional tools by activating a lever behind the blade area. The saw is operated by pressing a trigger with the index finger and there is also a trigger lock which can easily be engaged so that the tool does not accidentally get activated when not in use.
How long did the battery last?
A reciprocating saw will often be sold ‘bare’ which means that the battery and charger are not included. RYOBI's ONE+ range of cordless power tools are all compatible with the same batteries, so you may already have the batteries you need if you own other RYOBI tools.
The 18V batteries are available in a number of capacities. The longer lasting batteries will inevitably be larger and heavier than the lower capacity ones which means that they can be very useful for those smaller jobs, or for high intensity jobs.
The battery that was supplied with this saw was a 5 Amp hour (Ah) model. For how this tool is often used, this will last a relatively long time, ensuring you're unlikely to run out of power using it within a single day.
How does the Ryobi HP RRS18X-0 cut?
The Ryobi ONE+ HP RRS18X-O 18V brushless reciprocating saw is recommended for cutting timber up to 210mm width, 20mm metal, 40mm metal pipe and 100mm plastic pipe and when fitted with a 5Ah battery should be able to cut up to 220 50mm x 100mm softwood timbers. The saw has a standard reciprocating saw fitting so is compatible with many different blades from many different manufacturers.
It is supplied with a timber cutting blade, but you may need to purchase separate blades for cutting other materials.
What did we test it on?
We used the tool on a bathroom project and it was very happy ripping through the stud wall, cutting metal framework and even cutting a bath in half to get it out (albeit with the appropriate blades).
David is a renewables and ventilation installer, with over 35 years experience, and is a long-standing contributor to Homebuilding and Renovating magazine. He is a member of the Gas Safe Register, has a Masters degree in Sustainable Architecture, and is an authority in sustainable building and energy efficiency, with extensive knowledge in building fabrics, heat recovery ventilation, renewables, and also conventional heating systems. He is also a speaker at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show.
Passionate about healthy, efficient homes, he is director of Heat and Energy Ltd. He works with architects, builders, self builders and renovators, and designs and project manages the installation of ventilation and heating systems to achieve the most energy efficient and cost effective outcome for every home.