Ridgid 18V SubCompact Brushless 3 in. Multi-Material Saw

Compact, lightweight, and versatile, the Ridgid 18V SubCompact Brushless 3 in. Multi-Material Saw (model R87547B) promises a lot on paper. It touts features like a brushless motor for improved runtime and longevity, cutting speeds up to 19,000 RPM, a forward and reverse switch, a variable speed trigger, and an adjustable wire depth guide. But how does it measure up in real-world usage?

Design and Ergonomics

One of the first things I noticed about this tool is its compact design. The saw is small enough to fit comfortably in one hand, making it ideal for tight spaces where larger tools simply can't go. The lightweight nature of the tool further enhances its portability, making it easy to carry around without causing strain. The handle is well-designed, providing a comfortable grip that makes prolonged use less tiring.

Performance

The brushless motor is certainly a highlight. This technology not only extends the life of the motor but also ensures longer battery runtime. However, it's worth noting that while the motor is efficient, the tool's power is somewhat limited. It handles metal, plastic, and drywall quite well, but it struggles when tasked with cutting thicker materials. For instance, attempting to cut through thicker metal or wood often led to the tool stalling or shutting off.

The cutting depth is another limitation. With a maximum depth of 5/8-inch, it's clear that this tool is not designed for heavy-duty tasks. This depth is sufficient for tasks like cutting drywall or thin metal sheets, but it falls short for more demanding projects.

Blade Compatibility

One of the more frustrating aspects of this tool is the blade compatibility. The saw uses a non-standard 3-inch blade with a unique arbor size, making it difficult to find replacement blades. While the included blades work well for their intended purposes, finding additional or specialized blades can be a hassle. This issue is compounded by the fact that the tool does not come with a wood-cutting blade, limiting its versatility right out of the box.

Variable Speed and Directional Cutting

The variable speed trigger is a fantastic feature that provides more control over the cutting speed, allowing for more precise cuts. This is especially useful when working with more delicate materials like tile or thin metal. The forward and reverse switch is another handy feature, giving you the option to change the direction of the blade's rotation. This can be useful for controlling the direction of sparks when cutting metal or for other specific applications.

Battery Life and Compatibility

Using a 2Ah battery, I found that the tool provides about 25 minutes of continuous runtime, which is fairly standard for a compact tool. However, using a larger 4Ah battery significantly increases the runtime but can make the tool awkward to handle in tight spaces due to the added bulk. The fact that the tool is compatible with all Ridgid 18V batteries is a plus, especially for those who already own other Ridgid tools.

Dust Control and Safety

One area where this tool could improve is dust control. The lack of a built-in dust collection system means that cutting materials like drywall can create a significant mess. This is not a deal-breaker but is something to be aware of, especially if you're working in a confined space.

Safety features are well thought out, with the tool featuring a motor brake that quickly stops the blade when the trigger is released. This is a valuable feature that adds a layer of safety, especially when compared to corded tools that take longer to spin down.

Build Quality

The build quality of the Ridgid 18V SubCompact Brushless Saw is generally good. The materials used feel durable, and the tool seems well-constructed. However, there are a few minor issues. For example, the back cover plate tends to fall off easily, which can be annoying. Also, the blade guard, while functional, could be designed better to prevent it from getting in the way during certain cuts.

Use Cases

This tool shines in specific scenarios. Cutting drywall, PVC, and thin metal sheets are tasks it handles with ease. It's also quite useful for making quick, precise cuts in tight spaces where larger tools can't fit. However, for more heavy-duty tasks or for cutting thicker materials, you'll likely need a more powerful saw.

Overall Impression

The Ridgid 18V SubCompact Brushless 3 in. Multi-Material Saw is a useful tool that fills a niche. It's compact, lightweight, and offers features like variable speed and directional cutting that make it versatile for a range of small to medium tasks. However, its limited cutting depth and non-standard blade size are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. It's a great addition if you already own Ridgid tools and are looking for a compact, versatile saw for specific tasks. However, if you need a tool for more heavy-duty applications or require a standard blade size, you might want to consider other options. This saw excels in what it’s designed for but falls short when pushed beyond its intended limits.