Ryobi Compact Brushless 6-1/2" Circular Saw

There’s something uniquely satisfying about finding a tool that seamlessly integrates into your workflow, and the Ryobi Compact Brushless 6-1/2" Circular Saw has proven to be just that for me. This tool, with its blend of power, portability, and thoughtful features, has quickly become a staple in my toolbox.

Performance and Power

At the heart of this saw is its brushless motor, which delivers up to 4,900 RPM. This is more than enough power for the variety of materials I typically work with, including 2x lumber, melamine, OSB, and plywood. The brushless motor not only ensures efficient performance but also contributes to the tool’s longevity by reducing wear and tear. I’ve found that it cuts smoothly and quickly, with minimal effort required on my part.

The saw’s ability to make up to 350 cuts per charge is another standout feature. While this number might be optimistic under real-world conditions, I’ve found that it holds up well for most of my projects. Using a 4.0 AH battery, I was able to work through an entire day without needing to recharge, which is incredibly convenient when working in areas with unreliable power sources.

Design and Usability

One of the first things I noticed about this saw is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing in at just a fraction of my older corded models, it’s easy to handle and maneuver, even in tighter spaces. The aluminum base plate contributes to its lightweight nature while providing a sturdy platform for accurate cuts.

The bevel capacity of 0 - 50° is particularly useful for making angled cuts, something I often need for various woodworking projects. The adjustable depth gauge, allowing cuts up to 2-1/4" deep, adds to the tool’s versatility. I’ve used it to cut through thick pressure-treated joists and even 1" thick maple tabletops without any issues.

Features and Safety

The saw comes equipped with an on-board LED work light, which is a small but thoughtful addition. It illuminates the cutting area well, making it easier to follow the cut line accurately, especially in lower light conditions. The built-in safety features, like the “lock-off” button that prevents accidental starts, are crucial for peace of mind during operation.

Blade changing is straightforward, thanks to the on-board Allen wrench storage. The process is quick and hassle-free, allowing me to switch blades as needed without much downtime. However, I did find that the vacuum dust adaptor, while useful for dust control, has a T-10 star type head instead of the more common Phillips type, which was a minor inconvenience.

Real-World Application

In practice, this saw has handled everything I’ve thrown at it with relative ease. From cutting through 2x4s to making precise angled cuts for deck railings, it’s proven to be both powerful and reliable. The soft start and electric brake functionalities are particularly nice touches, providing a smooth start-up and quick stops, which enhances both control and safety.

One area where the saw could improve is in handling larger, denser stock. While it performs admirably with standard lumber, it can bog down somewhat with thicker or harder materials. This is something to keep in mind if your work frequently involves such materials. For most DIY projects and general woodworking, however, it’s more than capable.

Battery Life and Compatibility

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, but the Ryobi system mitigates this well. I already had several 18V One+ batteries from other Ryobi tools, so I appreciated that this saw is part of the same platform. This compatibility means I didn’t need to invest in new batteries or chargers, making it a cost-effective addition to my collection.

Using a 4.0 AH or higher capacity battery is recommended for optimal performance. I found that smaller batteries, like the 2.0 AH, are sufficient for lighter tasks but may require more frequent recharges for more intensive work. The saw’s runtime and power output are significantly better with larger batteries, making them a worthwhile investment if you don’t already have them.

Drawbacks

No tool is without its flaws, and the Ryobi Compact Brushless Circular Saw is no exception. The most notable issue I encountered is the alignment of the base plate. It wasn’t perfectly parallel to the blade out of the box, which caused some binding and wandering during cuts. This required a manual adjustment, which is a bit of a hassle and something that shouldn’t be necessary with a new tool.

Additionally, while the saw is great for most home projects, it does struggle with more demanding tasks. For example, cross-cutting pressure-treated 2x12s can be a bit of a challenge, and the saw tends to slow down or stop if pushed too hard. This makes it less suitable for heavy-duty construction work.

Final Thoughts

Despite its minor shortcomings, the Ryobi Compact Brushless 6-1/2" Circular Saw is a solid performer and a valuable addition to any DIYer’s toolkit. It strikes a good balance between power, portability, and ease of use, making it well-suited for a variety of home improvement projects. The compatibility with the Ryobi One+ battery system is a significant plus, as it allows for easy integration with other tools in the lineup.

Would I recommend this saw? Absolutely. For anyone looking for a reliable, cordless circular saw that can handle most tasks with ease, this Ryobi model is a great choice. It offers excellent value for the price, especially if you’re already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem. Just be mindful of its limitations with larger, denser materials, and you’ll find it to be a dependable and versatile tool for your projects.