Ridgid 10-inch Table Saw with Folding Stand

Owning a table saw is a game-changer for any DIY enthusiast or professional carpenter. Recently, I had the opportunity to work extensively with the Ridgid R4518 10-inch Table Saw with Folding Stand, and here is my detailed experience with it.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Right out of the box, the Ridgid R4518 made a solid first impression. The packaging was secure, and all components were neatly organized, making the whole unboxing experience smooth. The setup process was relatively straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions provided. It did take some time to assemble the folding stand, but once it was up, the saw felt sturdy and secure.

Build Quality and Design

The table saw features a steel roll cage, which immediately gives it a sense of durability. The plastic components, such as the blade guard and some adjustment knobs, felt thick and sturdy. Given that I work in a coastal area with high humidity, I actually appreciated the use of plastic in places where metal might rust over time. However, I did notice that some parts, like the blade lock mechanism, seemed a bit flimsy compared to older models, which used more metal components.

Performance and Precision

The heart of any table saw is its motor, and the R4518 doesn't disappoint in this regard. With a 15-amp motor delivering a no-load speed of 5000 RPM, it provides a smooth startup and ample power for most cutting tasks. Whether I was cutting through softwoods, hardwoods, or even some aluminum plates, the saw performed consistently without bogging down.

One of the standout features is the blade brake, which stops the blade in under four seconds. This is a fantastic safety feature that I found very reassuring during use. The saw also includes a 27-inch rip capacity, which is more than sufficient for cutting large sheet materials. The integrated dust collection port is another thoughtful feature, though it didn't fit my shop vac without an additional adapter.

Fence and Miter Gauge

The rip fence on this saw is a mixed bag. It is sturdy and locks down tightly, but I did have to measure from the front and back of the blade to ensure it was parallel each time I moved it. This added a bit of extra time to my workflow, but it wasn't a deal-breaker. The miter gauge, on the other hand, left much to be desired. It had some wiggle room, which could affect the precision of crosscuts. For more accurate work, I found myself relying on a separate crosscut sled.

Cutting Experience

Once everything was set up and calibrated, the cutting experience was generally positive. The saw blade provided clean cuts, and the motor's power was evident in every task I threw at it. I particularly appreciated the slow startup feature, which reduced the jarring motion often associated with table saws. The fence's additional weight made it less smooth to slide, but it was manageable with a bit of practice.

Safety Features

Safety is always a priority, and Ridgid has equipped this saw with several important safety features. The blade guard and anti-kickback pawls are essential for preventing accidents, though they were a bit stiff to lock into place initially. The on/off switch is conveniently placed and can be locked to prevent accidental startups, which is a nice touch.

Portability and Storage

The folding stand is a significant feature for those who need to move the saw around. It's not the lightest table saw, but the stand's wheels make it relatively easy to transport. On-board storage is available for various accessories, including blade wrenches, push sticks, and the miter gauge, which helps keep everything organized and within reach.

Areas for Improvement

While the Ridgid R4518 has many strengths, there are areas where improvement is needed. The fence could benefit from a more robust locking mechanism to ensure it stays parallel without frequent adjustments. The miter gauge's looseness is another issue that could be addressed in future models. Additionally, the plastic knobs for adjusting the blade angle and depth feel less durable than they should be and could be prone to breaking over time.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Ridgid R4518 10-inch Table Saw with Folding Stand offers a lot of value for its price point. It is powerful, reasonably precise, and comes with several useful features that enhance both safety and convenience. While it does have some shortcomings, such as the fence and miter gauge issues, these are not insurmountable and can be managed with a bit of extra care and attention.

Would I recommend this table saw? Yes, but with some reservations. If you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional who needs a reliable and powerful table saw for general use, the Ridgid R4518 is a solid choice. However, if you require absolute precision and top-tier components for intricate woodworking projects, you might need to invest in a higher-end model. Overall, for its price and feature set, the Ridgid R4518 offers a good balance of performance and value.