Ryobi P320 Brad Nailer Review
If you’re in the market for a versatile and convenient cordless nailer, the Ryobi P320 Brad Nailer is a compelling option to consider. With the freedom to work without the constraints of cords and hoses, this power tool offers a range of features that make it a valuable addition to any DIY enthusiast or professional woodworker’s toolkit.
Key Features
Cordless Design: The Ryobi P320 is part of Ryobi’s ONE+ 18V system, which means it is powered by an 18 volt lithium-ion battery. This cordless design offers a high level of portability, making it easy to move around your workspace without being tethered to a power source.
Depth Adjustment: The depth adjustment feature is a handy addition that allows you to control the nail depth precisely. This feature is essential when you’re working on various materials or projects, ensuring that the brads are flush or countersunk consistently.
Sequential and Contact Actuation Modes: The P320 offers both sequential and contact actuation modes, providing versatility for different applications. The sequential mode is excellent for precise placement of brads, while the contact actuation mode allows for faster and continuous nailing.
Magazine Capacity: The nail gun has a decent magazine capacity, capable of holding up to 105 brads (18 gauge) at a time. This capacity minimizes the need for frequent reloading, improving productivity.
LED Work Light: A built in LED work light is a valuable feature for working in low light conditions or tight spaces. It illuminates your workspace, allowing for precise and accurate nail placement.
Anti Dry Fire Mechanism: The anti dry fire mechanism prevents the nailer from firing when there are only a few nails left, extending the life of the tool and preventing potential damage.
Tool Free Jam Release: When a nail jam occurs, the tool free jam release feature allows for quick and easy clearing without the need for additional tools.
Belt Clip: The included belt clip offers a convenient way to keep the nailer within reach while working and frees up your hands when you need them.
Performance
The Ryobi P320 cordless brad nailer delivers an impressive performance that caters to the needs of both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its cordless design, powered by the 18V ONE+ lithium-ion battery system, provides exceptional portability, allowing you to move around your workspace without the limitations of cords and hoses.
With the choice of sequential and contact actuation modes, it offers versatility in nailing applications, from precise, controlled placements to rapid, continuous firing. The depth adjustment feature ensures that your brads are driven with precision and the anti dry fire mechanism protects the tool from potential damage, prolonging its lifespan. The inclusion of an LED work light enhances accuracy and productivity, especially in dimly lit conditions.
The generous magazine capacity of 105 brads minimizes downtime for reloading. While it has some weight, which may be subjective and a limitation to 18 gauge brad nails, the Ryobi P320 offers an outstanding balance of performance, convenience and affordability, making it a top choice for those seeking a reliable cordless brad nailer for various woodworking projects.
Pros
Cordless Convenience: The cordless design is a significant advantage of the Ryobi P320 Airstrike, as it eliminates the need for cords and hoses, allowing you to work freely without worrying about being tethered to a power source or tripping hazards.
Impressive Battery Life: The 18V ONE+ lithium-ion battery delivers impressive battery life, enabling you to complete multiple projects on a single charge. For those who own other Ryobi ONE+ tools, the battery compatibility is a big plus.
Versatile Actuation Modes: The option to switch between sequential and contact actuation modes provides versatility for various woodworking tasks. Whether you need precision or speed, the P320 has you covered.
Depth Adjustment: The depth adjustment feature is precise and easy to use, ensuring your nails are driven exactly as you intend, whether flush or countersunk.
LED Work Light: The built in LED work light is a practical feature, particularly when working in dimly lit areas. It improves accuracy and productivity.
Magazine Capacity: With the capacity to hold 105 brads, you can work longer without frequent interruptions to reload nails.
Anti Dry Fire Mechanism: The anti dry fire mechanism protects the tool from damage and extends its lifespan, which is an essential feature for long term durability.
Affordability: The Ryobi P320 is reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals on a budget.
Cons
Limited Nail Size: The Ryobi P320 is designed for 18 gauge brad nails, limiting the range of nail sizes you can use with this tool. If you require a wider range, you may need to consider other nailers.
Heavy: Some users find the P320 a bit heavy, especially when used for extended periods. However, this may be a subjective issue, as it depends on individual preferences and physical strength.
Lack of Depth Indicator: Unlike some other nailers on the market, the P320 does not have a depth indicator. You’ll need to rely on trial and error or visual inspection to set the correct depth for your nails.
Comparison
Ryobi P320 vs DeWalt DCN680B
The DeWalt DCN680B is known for its exceptional build quality and precision. It offers both sequential and bump firing modes, similar to the Ryobi P320. Additionally, it has a depth adjustment feature. The DeWalt model is generally lighter, which can be an advantage for extended use.
DeWalt’s pricing is often higher than Ryobi’s and it may not be as budget friendly. The battery and charger are sold separately, potentially increasing the overall cost.
Ryobi P320 vs BOSTITCH BCN680D1
The BOSTITCH BCN680D1 also offers a cordless design with a depth adjustment feature. It has a brushless motor for longer runtime and improved durability. The kit includes a battery and charger.
Similar to DeWalt, the BOSTITCH cordless brad nailer is typically more expensive than the Ryobi P320. The magazine capacity is slightly smaller than the Ryobi’s.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ryobi P320 cordless brad nailer is a versatile and cost effective option for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its cordless design, impressive battery life and versatile actuation modes make it a valuable addition to your toolkit. The depth adjustment feature, anti dry fire mechanism and LED work light further enhance its usability.
While there are some limitations, such as the tool’s weight and its compatibility with only 18 gauge brad nails, these may not be significant drawbacks for many users. Overall, the Ryobi P320 offers an excellent balance of performance, convenience and affordability.
When comparing it to other cordless brad nailers like the DeWalt DCN680B and the BOSTITCH BCN680D1, the Ryobi P320 Airstrike holds its own in terms of functionality and price. It may lack some of the premium features of more expensive models, but it delivers reliable performance for a wide range of woodworking projects.
If you’re looking for a cordless brad nailer that allows you to work freely without sacrificing performance, the Ryobi P320 is definitely worth considering. Its combination of features and affordability makes it a compelling choice for both beginners and experienced craftsmen.
