Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 6-1/2" Track Saw

Power tools are a staple in any serious DIY enthusiast or professional's workshop, and Ryobi has long been a dependable brand in this space. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out their 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 6-1/2" Track Saw (Model PTS01B), a promising entry in the track saw market. Here's a detailed look at what this tool brings to the table and where it falls short.

Design and Build Quality

The Ryobi track saw boasts a brushless motor, which promises efficient cutting performance and longevity. The tool feels solid in hand, thanks to its compact design and balanced weight distribution. However, one glaring issue is the use of plastic in the base of the saw. For a $400 tool, I would expect a more durable material like metal, which would provide better stability and longevity. The plastic base tends to flex slightly during use, which can compromise the precision of your cuts.

Performance

In terms of raw cutting power, the saw delivers up to 4,300 RPM, which is quite competent for a cordless track saw. I tested it on various materials, including 3/4" plywood, 2x4 lumber, and melamine, and it performed admirably in most cases. The saw made clean, straight cuts in plywood and melamine, thanks to its adjustable depth control and bevel capacity ranging from -1° to 48°. However, cutting thicker materials like 2x4s revealed some limitations. The blade deflection was noticeable, causing the saw to get hung up on the track occasionally.

Track System

The track system is where the Ryobi track saw has its most significant drawbacks. The saw comes with two 27.5" tracks, which can be connected for a total cutting length of 55". While this is sufficient for cross-cutting standard 4x8 plywood sheets, it's not ideal for ripping them lengthwise. The connectors used to join the tracks are not as precise as one would hope, often resulting in slight misalignments that can affect the straightness of your cuts.

Additionally, the track uses a proprietary design, which means you are locked into using Ryobi's tracks and accessories. This wouldn't be a deal-breaker if the tracks and accessories were readily available, but they often are not. Finding additional tracks or replacement parts can be a challenge, and the lack of third-party compatibility further limits your options.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Ryobi track saw is relatively straightforward. The wrenches needed for adjustments are conveniently stored in the saw itself, ensuring they're always at hand. The saw also features a useful dust collection system compatible with 1-1/4" and 1-7/8" dust collection systems, which helps keep your workspace clean.

However, the saw only comes with one track clamp. For longer, more precise cuts, two clamps are necessary to secure the track properly. The lack of a second clamp means you may need to improvise with other clamping methods, which can be cumbersome and less effective. Moreover, the depth adjustment mechanism could be more user-friendly. It's functional but feels a bit clunky, particularly when making fine adjustments.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of this track saw is its compatibility with the 18V ONE+ battery platform. If you're already invested in Ryobi's ecosystem, this is a significant advantage. During my tests, the saw performed well with a 4Ah battery, providing ample power for most tasks. However, for more demanding jobs requiring longer runtimes, you might need to keep a spare battery handy.

Precision and Stability

Precision is a crucial factor for any track saw, and this is where the Ryobi model has mixed results. While it makes clean cuts in thinner materials, the blade tends to wobble slightly during more demanding cuts, affecting the overall straightness. The plastic depth stop pins also have a tendency to get stuck, which can disrupt the plunge mechanism.

Value for Money

At its price point, the Ryobi track saw offers a decent value, especially for those already in the Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem. However, the issues with the track system, plastic base, and the lack of additional clamps make it less appealing compared to other brands like Milwaukee or Makita, which offer more robust and precise track saws albeit at a higher price point.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 6-1/2" Track Saw is a tool with a lot of potential but also some notable shortcomings. It excels in portability and convenience, making it a handy addition for quick jobs and smaller projects, especially if you're already using Ryobi's battery platform. The saw performs well in lighter tasks, and its cordless nature adds a layer of convenience that's hard to beat.

However, the proprietary track system, lack of available accessories, and build quality issues hold it back from being a top-tier choice for more serious woodworking tasks. If you're a hobbyist or a DIY enthusiast looking for a reasonably priced track saw for occasional use, this tool can be a good fit. But for professionals or those who require higher precision and durability, investing in a more premium option might be the better route.

In conclusion, while the Ryobi track saw has its merits, particularly in terms of price and portability, it falls short in areas that matter most for precision woodworking. Therefore, I would recommend this tool for casual users but advise more serious woodworkers to look elsewhere for a more robust and reliable solution.