The Ryobi PBLRS02B is the second-generation ONE+ HP 18V brushless reciprocating saw, succeeding the PBLRS01B. Ryobi claims 25% faster cutting speed compared to the prior generation, attributed to improvements in motor and drive-train efficiency. At 18.75 in. long and 6.56 lbs., it is slightly larger than the Gen 1 but adds practical jobsite features: a Rapid-Release blade lever for faster single-hand blade swaps and a folding rafter hook that keeps the saw accessible overhead without setting it down. The 3,200 SPM brushless motor handles demo lumber, PVC conduit, and nail-embedded material. Sold as a bare tool — pair it with any 18V ONE+ or ONE+ HP battery. The PBLRS01B (Gen 1 tool only) and PBLRS01K1 (Gen 1 kit) remain available for reference.
How much faster is the PBLRS02B compared to the Gen 1 PBLRS01B?
Ryobi claims the PBLRS02B cuts 25% faster than the PBLRS01B. Both share the same 3,200 SPM top speed and 1-1/4 in. stroke, so the improvement likely comes from drive-train efficiency and torque delivery under load rather than raw SPM.
What is the folding rafter hook used for?
The folding rafter hook lets you hang the saw from a rafter, scaffold, or ladder rung while working overhead, keeping both hands free and the saw close. It folds flat when not needed so it does not snag on materials.
What is different about the Rapid-Release lever versus the Gen 1 tool-free lever?
The Rapid-Release lever is designed for single-hand blade changes — press the lever and the blade ejects without needing to rotate or lock a collar. It is faster than the standard tool-free lever on the PBLRS01B, which can be useful during repeated blade changes on demo days.
Does the PBLRS02B come with a kit version?
There is no widely listed Gen 2 kit. If you need a battery and charger bundled, the PBLRS01K1 (Gen 1 kit with 4.0 Ah HP battery) is the primary kit option from the PBLRS line.
Will my existing ONE+ batteries work with the PBLRS02B?
Yes. The PBLRS02B accepts all 18V Ryobi ONE+ and ONE+ HP batteries. For best performance under heavy cutting loads, Ryobi recommends using a HIGH PERFORMANCE battery such as the 4.0 Ah or 6.0 Ah HP packs.
# Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw (Tool Only) **Model:** `PBLRS02B` **Brand:** Ryobi **Category:** Reciprocating Saw > The Ryobi PBLRS02B is the second-generation ONE+ HP 18V brushless reciprocating saw, succeeding the PBLRS01B. Ryobi claims 25% faster cutting speed compared to the prior generation, attributed to improvements in motor and drive-train efficiency. At 18.75 in. long and 6.56 lbs., it is slightly larger than the Gen 1 but adds practical jobsite features: a Rapid-Release blade lever for faster single-hand blade swaps and a folding rafter hook that keeps the saw accessible overhead without setting it down. The 3,200 SPM brushless motor handles demo lumber, PVC conduit, and nail-embedded material. Sold as a bare tool — pair it with any 18V ONE+ or ONE+ HP battery. The PBLRS01B (Gen 1 tool only) and PBLRS01K1 (Gen 1 kit) remain available for reference. ## Specifications | Attribute | Value | |---|---| | Voltage (V) | 18 | | Platform | ONE+ HP | | Motor Type | Brushless | | No Load Spm | 3,200 | | Stroke Length (in.) | 1.25 | | Blade Clamp | Rapid-Release Lever | | Tool Only | Yes | | Batteries Included | 0 | | Battery Included | No | | Charger Included | No | | Length (in.) | 18.75 | | Weight (lbs) | 6.56 | | Warranty | 3-year limited | ## What's Included - (1) RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw Gen 2 (PBLRS02B) - (1) Reciprocating Saw Blade - (1) Folding Rafter Hook Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/ryobi/reciprocating-saw/pblrs02b-ryobi-18v-one-hp-brushless-reciprocating-saw-tool-only-gen2/