The Ryobi 18V 4 1/2-Inch Angle Grinder Shows Off Improved Ergonomics and Safety
Ryobi’s production pace is among the most aggressive in the industry. After all, people know them primarily for catering to the consumer sector, where appetites for new products are downright ravenous. Among these tools is the updated Ryobi 18V HP Brushless 4 1/2-inch angle grinder. We’re going to break down the key details and give you a first-hand look at what makes this grinder worth considering.
Ryobi 18V Angle Grinder Performance
- No-Load Speed: 9200 RPMs
- Corded Equivalent: 11 amp
- Arbor Size: 5/8 in.
- Wheel Size: 4-1/2 in.
At the heart of this tool is Ryobi’s brushless motor, which delivers 11 amp equivalent power and a top speed of 9,200 RPMs. This is identical to the previous iteration, the Ryobi PBLAG01 angle grinder, but it’s still pretty respectable when you consider this tool falls in the DIY realm.
So what does this mean for real world applications? Well, Ryobi tells us to expect around 210 cuts per charge using the kitted 4.0Ah High Performance battery. Additionally, Ryobi improved their heat management technology, meaning your tool and battery are better protected during extended use.
In terms of expectations, the PBLAG02 is poised to handle the majority of cutting and grinding tasks you’re likely to encounter, limited only by disc size. Keep in mind, cordless grinders consume quite a bit of power during normal operation, so it’s reasonable that your batteries will drain a little faster than they would during standard drilling and driving tasks. Luckily, the Ryobi PBLAG02 is fully compatible with all Ryobi 18V batteries, so you can always pick up an extra battery to keep you up and running during bigger jobs.
Ryobi PBLAG02 Angle Grinder Design
- Model: Ryobi PBLAG02
- Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
- Weight: 4.1 lbs (bare tool), 5.8 lbs (with kitted 4.0Ah battery)
- Length: 12 in.
Size and Weight
The Ryobi PLBAG02 weighs in at 4.1 pounds as a bare tool, and 5.8 pounds with the kitted 4.0Ah battery. It measures 12 inches from tip to tail, and is right at 5 inches wide. This is slightly larger than the previous model, but I’ll chalk that up to the improved grip angle. Regardless, it’s compact profile and easy to maneuver.
Ergonomics
While the overall design doesn’t stray too far from the original, Ryobi made some meaningful updates. The angled grip makes a huge impact when making flush cuts, and helps keep your hands away from metal slag and other cuttings. It features a 3-positon auxiliary handle that doubles as storage for the kitted spanner wrench. This allows you to configure the tool to best suit your needs.
I’m happy to report that Ryobi stuck with their paddle switch trigger design. Personally, I think this adds another element of safety, and makes it more approachable for beginners. Additionally, this grinder features tool-free guard adjustment.
Accessory Changes
One big change on this grinder is that Ryobi moved away from their tool-free accessory change system and instead opted for a more traditional tooled system. From my experience, I believe this decision is motivated by safety.
Using the kitted spanner wrench allows you to tighten the flange nut more than you could with just your fingers. It’s a little more cumbersome, but if it increases the overall safety factor, I’m all for it.
Ryobi 18V Angle Grinder Price
The Ryobi PBLAG02 retails for $129 as a bare tool, and $199 as a kit. The kit includes a 4.0Ah High Performance battery and charger. Both options come with a spanner wrench, side handle, grinding wheel, and a cut-off wheel.
The Bottom Line
Side by side, the differences between the first and second generation Ryobi One+ HP cordless brushless angle grinders are subtle, but meaningful. The angled grip and traditional flange nut contribute to the overall usability of this tool, and the paddle switch trigger makes it very approachable for beginners. It’s a great fit for lighter jobs and tight spaces when the size, weight, and power of medium and large angle grinders are overkill.
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