Ryobi 12" Sliding Compound Miter Saw with LED

The Ryobi 12" Sliding Compound Miter Saw with LED, model TSS121, has been a versatile addition to my workshop. This saw combines power, precision, and convenience, making it a valuable tool for both DIY enthusiasts and semi-professional woodworkers. Let's dive into the details of my experience with this tool.

Build and Design

The saw is well-constructed and feels robust right out of the box. Weighing in at 45 lbs, it’s not the lightest of miter saws, but it’s manageable for transport, especially when paired with a wheeled stand. The 'D' handle is ergonomically designed, providing comfort during extended use. The sliding head allows for a maximum cross-cut capacity of 13-1/4 inches, which is quite impressive for a saw in this price range.

Performance and Power

Equipped with a 15 Amp motor that delivers speeds up to 3,800 RPM, this saw has no trouble cutting through various materials, including pressure-treated lumber and even thin aluminum. The motor’s power is evident when making cuts on larger materials; it never bogged down, even when cutting 6x6 landscape timbers. The electric brake is a nice safety feature, stopping the blade quickly after the trigger is released.

Accuracy and Adjustments

One of the standout features of this saw is the LED cutline indicator. Unlike traditional lasers, the LED casts a shadow of the blade onto the workpiece, showing exactly where the cut will occur. This feature is particularly useful in low-light conditions and provides a more accurate representation of the cut line. However, the shadow can be less visible on darker woods.

The saw has an extended miter range of 47 degrees to both the left and right, with miter stops at common angles for crown molding. Adjusting the miter angles is straightforward, thanks to the clearly marked scale and positive stops. However, I found that the fence required some fine-tuning out of the box to ensure perfect alignment, which seems to be a common issue. Once adjusted, the saw made accurate cuts consistently.

Versatility and Usability

The Ryobi TSS121 excels in versatility. The sliding function allows for wide crosscuts, making it suitable for cutting large boards. It can handle baseboard cutting up to 5-1/2 inches and crown molding with capacities of 5-1/4 inches (45°/45°) and 4-5/8 inches (52°/38°). The saw is particularly useful for projects requiring precise, angled cuts, such as trim work and framing.

One minor drawback is the dust collection system. The dust port is designed to connect to dust collection systems, but it doesn’t capture all the sawdust effectively. Using a shop vac improves the situation, but expect some cleanup after use.

Durability and Maintenance

In terms of durability, the saw has held up well for most users, but there are a few concerns. Some users reported issues with the blade guard getting loose over time, which I also noticed. Tightening it can be tricky, and if not done correctly, it can affect the saw’s performance. Additionally, the fence alignment can drift slightly with extensive use, requiring periodic checks and adjustments.

Warranty and Support

The saw comes with a three-year warranty, which is reassuring. However, the warranty service experience can be hit or miss. Some users, including myself, found the service process to be slow and cumbersome. It’s worth noting that if you encounter issues, getting the saw repaired or replaced might take several weeks, which can be frustrating if you’re in the middle of a project.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ryobi 12" Sliding Compound Miter Saw with LED is a solid performer for its price range. It offers excellent cutting capacity, power, and precision, making it a great choice for a variety of woodworking tasks. The LED cutline indicator is a valuable feature that enhances accuracy, and the saw’s versatility makes it suitable for both small and large projects.

However, the saw is not without its flaws. The dust collection system could be better, and the need for periodic adjustments can be a bit of a hassle. Additionally, the warranty service could be more efficient.

Would I recommend this saw? Yes, but with some caveats. If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a semi-professional woodworker looking for a reliable and powerful miter saw that won’t break the bank, the Ryobi TSS121 is a great option. It’s particularly suitable for those who need to make accurate cuts on larger materials and appreciate the convenience of the LED cutline indicator.

However, if you’re a professional who relies on a miter saw for daily use, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end model with more robust build quality and better dust collection. The Ryobi TSS121 is a fantastic tool for its price, but it may not meet the durability and precision demands of heavy-duty professional use.