Ryobi Grinder Review
My parents bought me a Ryobi Angle Grinder last April for my birthday (thanks parents!). It’s a handy tool that I’ve been using a lot.
About the Ryobi Angle Grinder (model# AG452K)
The Ryobi Angle Grinder has a 5.5 amp / 11,000 rpm motor. It takes 4 1/2″ wheels and weighs a light 5 lbs. It has a 5/8″ x 11 UNC arbor size. This grinder came with a tool case, side handle, changing wrench and three different wheels (grinding, sanding, wire brush). This model is wired with 10′ of cord to work with.
Amazon sells this grinder new. Or pick up the factory reconditioned grinder for $35.99 (cheaper than Big Orange). It includes a 1 year warranty with full replacement.
Ryobi Grinder Pros
- The “GripZone” handle is comfortable and can rotate 90° left or right (180° total). This gives you a comfortable grip no matter what position you’re in.
- You can also change the location of the side handle. Place it on the left, right or top of the grinder. Left handed user will really appreciate being able to put the side handle on the right side.
- Die cast aluminum protects the gear housing. I’m not always careful with my tools and solid materials will keep my grinder running longer.
- The spindle lock button makes for easy wheel exchanges. There’s a bright yellow button that you press to lock the wheel in place.
- The wheel guard is adjustable too. And you don’t need any tools to rotate it. This makes those tough, awkward cuts a lot easier.
- Once engaged, you can lock-on the grinder with the press of a button.
Ryobi Grinder Cons
- The changing wrench doesn’t stay in place. Ryobi houses the changing wrench in the side handle. It’s a good spot and will keep the wrench close at hand. The problem is that it slips out easily. I usually toss the wrench into the case.
Included Accessories and Uses
- Grinding Wheel - I’ve gotten a lot of use from my grinding wheel. The first job was sharpening my mower blade. I’ve also used it to cut screws and bolts.
- Sanding Disc – Use the sanding disks on metal or wood. I used mine to level my sub-floor. Two pieces of plywood didn’t line up. About 30 seconds with my grinder and everything was flush. Plus you don’t need a sanding pad backer.
- Wire Brush Wheel – This wheel is great for removing paint or rust. Haven’t used mine yet but I’m sure I can find something.
What do you think? Was this a helpful review?
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5 Responses to Ryobi Grinder Review
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August 12th, 2008 1:27 pm
Glad to see this– we’re borrowing my father-in-law’s grinder at the moment, but he’ll want it back eventually. I’ve had great success with all my Ryobi battery-powered tools, so it’s good to know you like the corded ones, too. After my dad quit doing construction, he bought a load of them for around-the-house kinds of jobs and had great luck with his, as well.
August 14th, 2008 11:47 am
I have a DeWalt cordless angle grinder and thought it was powerful until I went to cut some tile. It doesn’t have the same torque as a corded version and I’ve been thinking of getting a corded one.
But for every task OTHER than cutting stone tile, the cordless has been very useful.
-Jon
August 14th, 2008 2:41 pm
@Amalie, Jon McDougal, I really love my grinder. Originally I didn’t think I’d use it as often but it’s been really handy. You can also put a small saw blades on it and then you’ve got a small saw! Anyway, I highly recommend it.
August 19th, 2008 7:33 am
[...] Reconditioned Ryobi Grinder [...]
September 1st, 2009 4:57 pm
Like it as a grinder, but frustrated at lack of sanding pad attachment. Contacted Ryobi two days ago to see if one is available, still have not heard back from them. Had I known this at purchase, I would have bought a 4″, not a 4 1/2″. Based on the lethargic response from the support department to my query, I doubt I’ll buy anything by Ryobi again.