Full Review ⭐ Ryobi R18IW7-0: 18V ONE+ Cordless Brushless 3-Speed Impact Wrench (Body Only)

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Brushless 3-Speed Impact Wrench is a powerful and versatile addition to Ryobi's range of 18V ONE+ power tools. This impact wrench is designed for driving and removing fasteners in automotive, construction, and DIY applications.

The R18IW7 features a brushless motor for improved runtime, performance, and durability compared to brushed motors. It has a compact and lightweight design at only 2.2kg, making it easy to handle and reducing user fatigue. Variable speed settings allow the user to match the power and speed to the application. An LED light illuminates the work area.

Overall, the Ryobi R18IW7 is an affordable, cordless impact wrench suitable for most fastening tasks. It combines power and performance with thoughtful ergonomics. This review will take a more in-depth look at the key features and performance of this impact wrench.

Design

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 impact wrench has a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver and handle. It weighs just 2.2 lbs with the battery installed, making it one of the lightest 18V impact wrenches on the market.

Despite its small size, the R18IW7-0 doesn't compromise on durability. The housing is constructed from a durable composite material that can withstand job site abuse. Reinforced metal areas protect high stress points from damage.

An ergonomic overmold grip provides comfort and control when using the wrench for extended periods. The grip has an anti-roll design to prevent the tool from rolling off surfaces. At just 5.7 inches long, the R18IW7-0 can fit into tight spaces other impact wrenches can't reach.

The streamlined design also enhances balance and reduces user fatigue. With its compact dimensions and low weight, the R18IW7-0 is easy to transport and ideal for mobile mechanics or anyone needing a portable high-torque impact.

Motor

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 impact wrench features a powerful brushless motor that delivers impressive torque and runtime. The brushless motor is more efficient and durable than a standard brushed motor, providing longer life and better performance over time.

It has a max torque output of 300 Nm, which gives it plenty of fastening force for automotive and heavy duty applications. The motor is optimized to deliver maximum power while using less energy. This results in faster job completion with less strain on the battery.

The brushless motor also generates less heat and friction during operation compared to brushed motors. This allows it to run cooler while maintaining constant power output. The reduced wear and tear enables a longer lifespan with consistent torque delivery over time.

Overall, the Ryobi impact wrench’s brushless motor technology provides excellent power in a compact and efficient package. It’s built for demanding tasks that require sustained high torque. Another popular Ryobi impact wrench is the Ryobi PCL250B: Cordless 3/8 in. Impact Wrench (Tool Only). This model delivers 250 ft-lbs of maximum torque and variable speed up to 2,500 RPM. It's designed for automotive and light truck lugs and other driving and removal applications.

The PCL250B features a durable magnesium gear case and steel hammer mechanism. It has an LED light to illuminate dark work areas. The 3-speed power selection switch provides versatility for a range of fastening jobs. And the lithium-ion battery delivers cordless convenience without memory loss.

With its high torque in a compact size, the PCL250B is a versatile impact wrench choice for automotive repairs and construction jobs. It provides the power needed for most common fastening tasks. Overall, Ryobi produces quality impact wrenches like the R18IW7-0 and PCL250B that feature efficient brushless motors and deliver impressive torque in compact packages.

Batteries

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 impact wrench comes as a tool-only option, so you'll need to purchase batteries separately. It's compatible with all of Ryobi's 18V ONE+ lithium-ion battery packs, giving you flexibility to choose the battery capacity that suits your needs.

Lower capacity 1.3Ah or 1.5Ah packs are a good option if you only need short bursts of power. The mid-range 4Ah or 5Ah batteries offer a better balance of weight and runtime for general use. For extended heavy duty use, the high capacity 6Ah or 9Ah batteries will provide maximum runtime.

Charging time can vary from 30 minutes for a small 1.5Ah battery up to 90 minutes for a large 9Ah pack. This impact wrench is part of Ryobi's ONE+ system, so any 18V Ryobi batteries you already own will be compatible. It's a good idea to have 2 or more battery packs so one can be charging while you work with the other.

Speeds

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 impact wrench comes equipped with 3 speed settings that allow you to match the speed and torque to your specific fastening application.

The wrench offers 0-1900 RPM, 0-2600 RPM and 0-3200 RPM speed settings. At 0-1900 RPM, the wrench delivers its maximum torque output of 300 ft-lbs for driving large fasteners or breaking loose stuck bolts. The medium 0-2600 RPM is a good all-purpose speed for most automotive and DIY projects. Finally, the 0-3200 RPM max speed is ideal when speed is more important than torque, like driving long screws or smaller fasteners.

The variable speed trigger gives you precise control over the speed. You can start off slow to prevent stripping or damage when driving in fasteners, then ramp up to full speed once they are threaded in. The multiple speeds coupled with the variable trigger allows the R18IW7-0 to handle a wide range of fastening tasks.

Anvil

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 impact wrench features a 1/2" square friction ring anvil made from hardened steel. This type of anvil is designed for durability and longevity under high torque loads.

The anvil has a detent pin that securely holds sockets in place during use. This prevents any socket slippage when applying torque or changing sockets. The hardened steel construction allows the anvil to withstand repeated heavy impacts without deformation or cracking.

Overall, the anvil is a robust component that provides the durability required for professional use. It can handle the most demanding automotive and industrial bolting applications without any issues. The friction ring also keeps sockets securely in place for convenience during jobs requiring multiple socket changes.

Ergonomics

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 impact wrench features an ergonomic grip design that makes it comfortable to hold and easy to control. The tool has a rubber overmold grip that provides a secure hold, even when wearing gloves or working with wet hands.

The impact wrench is lightweight at only 2.5 lbs, allowing you to use it for extended periods without hand fatigue. It's well balanced, so you don't have to fight the tool to keep it steady. The compact size fits nicely in your hand.

Vibration is kept to a minimum thanks to the brushless motor and proper internal balancing. You won't get numb hands even after using this impact wrench for several hours straight. The low vibration allows you to remain in control of the tool.

Overall, the ergonomic design of the Ryobi R18IW7-0 makes it a comfortable impact wrench to grip and operate. The rubber grip, light weight, good balance, and minimal vibration come together to reduce user fatigue.

Applications

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 impact wrench is a versatile power tool suitable for a wide range of applications. Here are some of the main uses for this impact wrench in home, auto, and workshop settings:

Home Use

Around the house, the R18IW7-0 can make quick work of tasks like assembling furniture, tightening hardware, removing old fixtures, driving lag bolts into wood, and any other job requiring substantial torque. It has plenty of power to zip through bolts and screws, saving you time and effort compared to using just hand tools. The compact size makes it easy to use in tight spaces.

Automotive

This impact wrench really shines when working on vehicles. The high torque allows you to efficiently zip off lug nuts, wheel bolts, and other stubborn fasteners on cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, trailers, and more. The variable speed trigger gives you control to avoid overtightening small fasteners. The right angle head design is perfect for getting into tight engine compartments.

Workshop/Garage

In a workshop or garage setting, an impact wrench like the R18IW7-0 is indispensable. Tackle equipment/machine repair and maintenance jobs quickly and easily. The power and versatility also make it handy for hobbies like auto restoration, metal fabrication, woodworking, and home improvement projects. The brushless motor means it can stand up to heavy daily professional use.

So whether you're a homeowner, auto enthusiast, or professional tradesman, the Ryobi 18V impact wrench packs the punch needed for a wide range of demanding tasks. It's a high powered fastening tool no garage or workshop should be without.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Powerful brushless motor provides high torque for driving screws and bolts
• 3-speed settings for improved control in various applications
• Compact and lightweight design increases maneuverability
• Anvil mechanism prevents overtightening and stripping of fasteners
• Good grip and ergonomics make it comfortable for extended use
• Uses Ryobi One+ batteries for convenience and compatibility with other tools
• Decent run time per charge

Cons:

• Chuck wobbles a bit when not under load
• No belt clip or hook for hanging the tool
• Not the best for high precision work
• Lower torque compared to some higher voltage models
• Doesn't come with a battery so initial cost is higher

Conclusion

The Ryobi R18IW7-0 is an excellent choice for DIYers and homeowners looking for a versatile and powerful cordless impact wrench. Its brushless motor provides impressive torque while remaining compact and lightweight. The 3-speed settings allow you to dial in just the right amount of power for the task at hand.

Ergonomics are very good, with an overmolded grip that fits nicely in your hand. The battery platform is versatile, allowing you to use any Ryobi 18V One+ battery. Runtimes are decent, but heavy users may want to invest in higher capacity batteries.

While not meant for constant professional use, the R18IW7-0 packs impressive power into a compact package. It's a great addition to your tool collection if you need to drive and remove large bolts and lag screws. The cordless convenience makes it easy to use in various locations.

Overall, the Ryobi R18IW7-0 is highly recommended for homeowners, DIYers, and auto enthusiasts looking for an affordable, high-quality 18V impact wrench. It provides excellent value for the price.