Ryobi Checks Off A Big Box With Cordless Mud Mixer
With more than 280 tools and lifestyle gear that works on Ryobi’s 18V One+ battery system, it’s tough to find a gap. They do exist, though, and the design team is filling a big one with the Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Mud Mixer (PBLMM01)
Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Mud Mixer Performance
- Brushless motor
- 6 speeds
- 0 – 530/0 – 800 RPM
Ryobi starts with a brushless motor and wraps in its HP Brushless system to take advantage of its High-Performance batteries. There are 6 total speeds to work with. On the upper right side of the handle, there’s a 3-position rocker switch that covers 3 speeds.
Reaching down to the left side of the mower housing, there’s a dial to switch between the high and low gears. High tops out at 800 RPM and low reaches 540 RPM. Additionally, there’s also a variable speed trigger plus a lock-on button to work at the top end of any of those 6 speeds. Between all of those functions, you’re sure to find a mixing rate that’s just right for what you’re working with.
As a mud mixer, there are plenty of items on the menu. Drywall mud, thin-set, concrete, mortar, grout, paint, and more are all materials you should expect this model to handle.
Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless Mud Mixer Design Notes
- 7.25 pounds bare, 8.85 pounds with a 4.0Ah High Performance battery
- Hardened steel chuck
- Die-cast metal gear case
There are several ways to design a mud mixer from traditional dual D-handles to Milwaukee’s rotating pistol grip style. Ryobi stays on the tried-and-true path with its dual D-handles that make for a comfortable grip that’s stable when you’re working with thicker mixes.
As we expect on a mixer, the 1/2-inch chuck is keyed so you can get a nice, tight grip on the mixing paddle. It’s also made from hardened steel, so expect it to last a long time. There’s a storage slot for the key under the handle to keep it close by and avoid losing it.
Under the hood, the gear case is made from die-cast metal and is another nod to the durability the product team knew had to be in the design of a quality mud mixer.
The bare tool weighs 7.25 pounds and a 4.0Ah High Performance battery brings it up to 8.85 pounds. Add a mixing paddle and your total working weight is a little over 10 pounds.
Price
As a bare tool, the PBLMM01 is $199. There’s also a kit with a 4.0Ah High Performance battery and charger for $269. As usual, there’s a 3-warranty on the tool and you can find it at The Home Depot.
The Bottom Line
Ryobi’s 18V One+ HP Brushless Mud Mixer doesn’t feel or perform like a first-generation tool. It’s strong, performs well, and is easy to use while avoiding the temptation to overcomplicate the design. If your DIY projects include mixing or you’re a budget-conscious Pro that appreciates the value of Ryobi’s brushless tools, this cordless mud mixer gets two thumbs up from our team.
