What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a significant recall involving specific models of RYOBI 40-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmers. This action, issued on June 12, 2025, targets a distinct subset of outdoor power equipment manufactured by TTI Outdoor Power Equipment (TTIOPE). The recall is not broad enough to affect every hedge trimmer in the RYOBI lineup; rather, it focuses exclusively on units that possess a specific manufacturing defect related to their safety controls. If you own a RYOBI hedge trimmer, it is crucial to verify whether your specific unit falls within these designated parameters before taking any further action.
The affected products are identified by precise model numbers and serial number ranges. Consumers need to check the data plate located on the bottom of their trimmer to confirm if their device is included. The recall covers hedge trimmers with the following model numbers: RY40620VNM, RY40602VNM, and RY40602BTLVNM. It is important to note that simply having a RYOBI brand or a similar voltage rating does not guarantee inclusion; the exact alphanumeric code on your data plate must match one of these three identifiers.
In addition to the model number, the serial number range determines eligibility for this recall. The affected units have serial numbers falling within two specific ranges: LT21091D180001 through LT22365D060025, and RG23125N250001 through RG24252D101110. If your serial number falls outside these boundaries, your unit is not part of this particular safety notice. These trimmers were sold at retailers nationwide, though the specific store locations are not itemized in the current recall data. The primary method for determining if you own a recalled unit is to visit the manufacturer’s dedicated recall page at https://www.ryobitools.com/recall, where you can input your model and serial numbers for verification.
While the total number of units sold globally is not explicitly stated in the initial report, the scope of the recall is underscored by the number of incident reports received. TTI Outdoor Power Equipment has documented 27 reports associated with these specific models, including 16 reports of injuries ranging from minor to severe lacerations. This data highlights that the defect is not merely theoretical but has resulted in real-world harm to users. The recall aims to remove these potentially dangerous tools from homes and gardens to prevent further injury. If you are unsure whether your trimmer is included, do not guess; verify using the official channels provided by TTIOPE.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a fundamental design flaw in the safety mechanism of the RYOBI 40-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmers. These tools are engineered with two distinct controls: a trigger that activates the cutting blade and a separate safety switch that must be engaged first to allow the tool to operate. Ideally, this dual-control system is designed to prevent accidental startup, ensuring that the blades only spin when you intentionally press both buttons at the same time. However, in the recalled units, this safeguard fails under specific conditions. The mechanism allows the blade to unexpectedly activate if a user presses just one of these controls individually, rather than engaging the safety and trigger simultaneously as intended.
To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at how hedge trimmers typically function. These tools use high-speed reciprocating blades designed to slice through woody stems with significant force. Under normal operation, the user expects a deliberate sequence: locate the branch, position the tool, press the safety, then pull the trigger. This workflow builds muscle memory and situational awareness. The flaw in these RYOBI models disrupts that expectation. If a user inadvertently presses the trigger while adjusting their grip, or if they lean on the safety switch without meaning to, the blades may spring to life unexpectedly. Because the tool is cordless and battery-powered, there is no audible engine hum to warn you that the unit has powered up before the blades begin moving.
The physical consequence of this malfunction is immediate and severe. When the blade activates unexpectedly, it does so with enough torque to cut through organic material rapidly. If your hand or arm is near the cutting zone during this accidental activation—which is highly likely given that you are holding the tool against a bush or hedge—the result is a laceration. These are not superficial scrapes; they are deep cuts caused by sharp, moving metal teeth. The severity of the injury depends on factors like the speed of the blade and the proximity to major blood vessels, but the potential for significant tissue damage is real.
This is not just a theoretical risk. The manufacturer has documented 27 reports where this specific activation failure occurred. More troublingly, 16 of those incidents resulted in actual injuries to consumers. These injuries ranged from minor lacerations requiring basic first aid to more severe cuts that needed medical attention. The fact that the blade can activate with a single press means that even a slight slip or an awkward angle while trimming can turn a routine gardening task into a painful emergency. This mechanical unpredictability removes the element of control, leaving the user vulnerable to harm without warning.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this recall consists of homeowners and gardeners who own the specific RYOBI 40-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmers identified by model numbers RY40620VNM, RY40602VNM, and RY40602BTLVNM. Because the defect allows the blade to activate with a single-handed press of either the safety or trigger control, any user who attempts to operate the tool as intended—by pressing both controls simultaneously—is vulnerable to accidental injury if they inadvertently release one finger or misjudge their grip pressure. This is not a risk limited to professional landscapers; it extends to casual users maintaining hedges in their front yards, trimming overgrown shrubs along fences, or performing seasonal garden cleanup. The nature of the hazard means that the moment of greatest danger is during normal operation, rather than during assembly or storage.
Certain demographics face heightened vulnerability due to the physical demands and reaction times required to prevent injury. Older adults, who may make up a significant portion of DIY home maintenance, are particularly at risk. As we age, grip strength can diminish, and fine motor control may become less precise. If an older user’s hand slips slightly on the trigger or safety button, the margin for error shrinks dramatically. The recalled trimmer’s design flaw eliminates the dual-control safeguard that is specifically engineered to protect users from accidental activation when hands are sweaty, tired, or unsteady. Consequently, a momentary lapse in concentration or physical strength could result in the blade engaging unexpectedly.
Individuals with less experience using power tools also face disproportionate danger. Novice users may not have developed the muscle memory necessary to maintain consistent pressure on both controls without fatigue. When using a heavy tool like a 24-inch hedge trimmer for extended periods, arm fatigue sets in quickly. As muscles tire, the likelihood of accidentally releasing one control increases. This is especially true for users who are not accustomed to the weight and balance of cordless power equipment. The unexpected activation can cause the sharp blades to swing toward the user’s hands, arms, or legs before they can react.
Furthermore, anyone using this trimmer in close proximity to others, including children or pets, faces amplified risk. If the blade activates unexpectedly while the user is distracted by a child running nearby or a pet moving into the frame, the resulting laceration could be severe. The reported incidents confirm that injuries range from minor cuts to more serious lacerations, indicating that the force and speed of the blade can cause significant tissue damage instantly. Therefore, any person who has purchased or received one of these specific RYOBI models should consider themselves immediately at risk until the unit is replaced. Do not wait for symptoms of fatigue or distraction to appear; the mechanical flaw is present from the first use.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your hedge trimmer is part of this specific recall requires a bit of detective work, but the process is straightforward once you know exactly where to look. Because RYOBI produces many different tools with similar appearances, relying on the general look of the device is not enough. You must verify the unique identifiers stamped directly onto the hardware. The first step is to locate the data plate. For these specific RYOBI 40-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmers, this plate is securely attached to the bottom of the trimmer’s body. It may be slightly recessed or flush with the casing, so you might need to tilt the tool over a table or hold it up to a light source to read the text clearly without glare.
Once you have located the data plate, you need to check two specific pieces of information: the model number and the serial number. Both are critical because the recall applies to very specific production runs, not every RYOBI trimmer ever made. The model numbers for this recall are strictly limited to three variants: RY40620VNM, RY40602VNM, and RY40602BTLVNM. If your model number does not match one of these three codes exactly, your unit is not included in this safety notice. However, having the correct model number is only half the battle; you must also confirm that your serial number falls within the affected ranges.
The serial numbers for this recall are divided into two distinct batches. Your trimmer is recalled if its serial number begins with "LT" and falls between LT21091D180001 and LT22365D060025. Alternatively, it is included if the serial number begins with "RG" and falls between RG23125N250001 and RG24252D101110. Serial numbers are typically printed in a clear, bold font on the data plate. It is important to read these digits carefully, as a single character difference means your tool is safe from this particular defect. If you cannot find the data plate or if the information is worn away beyond recognition, do not guess. Visit the official recall page at https://www.ryobitools.com/recall and enter any available details there for confirmation.
While the CPSC announcement does not specify the exact retail stores or online platforms where these units were sold, nor the specific price points, they were marketed as part of the RYOBI 40-Volt outdoor power equipment line. The physical description remains consistent: it is a cordless hedge trimmer with a 24-inch cutting blade length. If you purchased a RYOBI 40V hedge trimmer recently and cannot find the data plate, or if you are unsure about the serial number ranges, the safest course of action is to contact TTIOPE directly at 800-597-9624 or use their online verification tool. They can cross-reference your specific unit against their internal records to give you a definitive answer.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the affected RYOBI 40-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmers, the most critical first action is straightforward but vital: stop using the tool immediately. Do not wait for a reminder, and do not assume it is safe to use just once more. The hazard here is not a gradual wear-and-tear issue; it is an unexpected mechanical failure where the blade can activate with only one finger instead of requiring both hands. By putting the trimmer down now, you are eliminating the risk of a sudden laceration before it even has the chance to occur. This is not about being cautious for the sake of caution; it is about addressing a specific design flaw that makes normal operation dangerous. Once you have secured the tool in a safe place where children or pets cannot access it, your next step is to verify exactly which model you possess. The recall covers three specific model numbers: RY40620VNM, RY40602VNM, and RY40602BTLVNM. You will find the necessary details on a data plate located on the bottom of the trimmer’s body. Look closely at both the model number and the serial number. The affected serial numbers fall into two distinct ranges: LT21091D180001 through LT22365D060025, or RG23125N250001 through RG24252D101110. If your serial number falls within these ranges, your unit is definitely part of this recall. If you are unsure how to read the plate or cannot find it, that is okay; the remedy process is designed to be accessible regardless. To initiate the remedy, visit https://www.ryobitools.com/recall to determine if your trimmer is included and to start the return process. TTI Outdoor Power Equipment (TTIOPE) has arranged for a free replacement trimmer for all affected customers. You do not need to purchase a new part or pay for shipping. TTIOPE will provide you with a prepaid shipping label, meaning you will not incur any costs to send the defective unit back. It is important to note that proof of purchase, such as a receipt, is not required to receive your replacement. This policy ensures that even if you bought the tool second-hand or have misplaced your original documentation, you are still fully protected. While you can initiate this process online, TTIOPE is also proactively contacting all known purchasers directly. If you receive a call or email from them, please cooperate with their instructions to ensure your replacement arrives promptly. For additional questions or if you need to speak with a representative, you can call the TTIOPE toll-free number at 800-597-9624. Their team is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can navigate to https://www.ryobitools.com/ and click on "Important Recall Information" at the bottom of the page for more information. By following these steps, you are not just complying with a recall; you are actively ensuring your safety and the safety of anyone else who might use the tool in your home.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that your RYOBI 40-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Hedge Trimmer is part of this recall, the good news is that the remedy is straightforward and designed to be as frictionless as possible. You are not required to keep a defective tool, nor are you expected to cover any costs associated with making it safe again. The manufacturer, TTI Outdoor Power Equipment (TTIOPE), has committed to providing a complete, free replacement trimmer to every affected consumer. This means your financial outlay for the fix is exactly zero. The company understands that safety issues can be stressful and inconvenient, so they have structured the process to remove barriers like shipping fees or proof of purchase.
To initiate this remedy, you do not need to hunt down your original receipt. Proof of purchase is explicitly not required for this recall. This is a significant relief for many consumers who may have purchased their equipment months or even years ago and no longer have the physical paperwork handy. The focus here is on ensuring you get a working tool, not on auditing your spending history. You can simply visit the official recall page at https://www.ryobitools.com/recall to start the process. If you prefer to go directly through the main manufacturer site, you can navigate to https://www.ryobitools.com/ and look for the "Important Recall Information" link located at the bottom of the page.
The physical return process is also simplified. TTIOPE will provide you with a prepaid shipping label. This means you do not need to go to a post office or shipping center, pay for boxes, or arrange for pickup yourself. You simply place the recalled hedge trimmer in its original packaging (if available) or any sturdy box, attach the provided label, and drop it off according to the instructions included with your recall notice. It is important to note that TTIOPE is actively contacting all known purchasers directly, so keep an eye on your email or mail for their initial outreach.
If you need further assistance or have questions about the replacement process, you can reach out to TTIOPE’s consumer support team. They are available toll-free at 800-597-9624. Their representatives are on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. When you call, have your model and serial numbers ready, as these are printed on the data plate located on the bottom of your trimmer. By taking these steps promptly, you ensure that you are no longer at risk of the laceration hazard associated with the unexpected blade activation, and you will soon have a safe, fully functional tool in return.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your hedge trimmer mid-project. The thought of hauling a heavy box to the post office or waiting for a replacement part can feel like an unnecessary hassle, especially when you have yard work piling up. However, ignoring this recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is a direct gamble with your physical safety. The core issue here is mechanical unpredictability. This specific RYOBI model was designed with a dual-safety mechanism that requires you to press two buttons at once for the tool to function. This design exists for a critical reason: to prevent accidental activation. When that system fails and the blade engages with just a single button press, you lose the primary layer of defense against injury. You are no longer in control of when the sharp blades move; they can start spinning the moment your finger touches the trigger, even if you intended to hold it still or adjust your grip.
The reality of this failure mode is that it turns a standard gardening tool into an unpredictable hazard during routine use. Hedge trimming often requires precise hand placements and frequent adjustments to reach awkward branches. In these moments, your hands are naturally close to the cutting area. If the blade activates unexpectedly while you are repositioning your grip or stabilizing the tool against a branch, there is little time to react. The reported incidents confirm that this is not a theoretical risk but an active danger. Consumers have already sustained injuries ranging from minor cuts to severe lacerations. These are not abstract statistics; they represent real people who were cut while performing normal tasks, simply because the safety feature did not behave as expected.
Furthermore, the severity of these injuries can escalate quickly. Lacerations from power tool blades do not always stay superficial. Deep cuts can sever tendons, damage nerves, or cause significant blood loss, potentially leading to long-term mobility issues or requiring complex medical interventions like stitches, surgery, or physical therapy. By continuing to use a unit that falls within the recalled serial number ranges, you are essentially walking around with a loaded gun in your hand, hoping the safety never fails. The risk is highest during moments of fatigue or distraction, which are common when tackling large yards. There is no benefit to saving time today that outweighs the potential for permanent harm. The remedy provided—a free replacement—is designed to eliminate this risk entirely, so there is no logical reason to expose yourself to these preventable dangers any longer.