Ridgid Brushless 18V 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw

Circular saws are a staple in any serious DIYer's tool arsenal, and Ridgid's Brushless 18V 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw (R8653B) promises a lot on paper. With features like a sight line blower for improved visibility, a 0 - 56 Degree Bevel Detent System, and an integrated dust blower, it seems designed to meet the needs of both casual users and professionals alike. However, the real question is whether it lives up to these promises in actual use.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about this circular saw is its robust build. The heat-treated aluminum base feels durable and sturdy, giving the tool a solid foundation. The overall design is ergonomic, making it comfortable to handle during prolonged use. The integrated dust blower is a thoughtful addition, keeping the cutline clean and enhancing visibility during cuts. This feature alone can save a lot of time and frustration, especially when working on intricate projects.

Performance

Performance is where this saw has its highs and lows. On the positive side, the brushless motor delivers a no-load speed of 3,700 RPM, which is quite impressive for a cordless tool. The saw cuts through standard 2x4 lumber and plywood with ease, making it a reliable choice for many home improvement projects. The 0 - 56 Degree Bevel Detent System with positive stops at common angles is another highlight, allowing for quick and precise adjustments.

However, the saw does have its limitations. While it performs well on softer materials, it struggles with harder woods and thicker cuts. There were instances where the saw stalled mid-cut, especially when attempting to rip through thicker materials like 3/4" plywood. This stalling issue can be a significant drawback if you're planning to use this saw for more demanding tasks.

Battery Life

Battery life is another mixed bag. The saw is compatible with Ridgid's 18V battery system, which is convenient if you already own other Ridgid tools. However, the performance heavily depends on the battery's capacity. Using lower capacity batteries like the 1.5 Ah or 2.0 Ah versions results in frequent stalling and reduced power. For optimal performance, I found that using a 4.0 Ah or higher capacity battery is essential. With the right battery, the saw can last through a decent amount of work without needing a recharge.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this saw is its ease of use. The sight line blower and integrated dust blower significantly improve visibility, making it easier to follow your cutline accurately. The bevel and depth adjustments are straightforward, and the saw feels balanced and comfortable in hand. The inclusion of a rafter hook is a nice touch, providing a convenient way to hang the saw when not in use.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is where this saw has received mixed feedback. While the build quality is generally good, there have been reports of the tool failing after short periods of use. Issues like the saw not turning on, stalling mid-cut, and even making unusual noises have been reported. These reliability issues are concerning, especially for a tool that is marketed towards both DIYers and professionals.

Additional Features

The saw comes with an electronic blade brake, which is a fantastic safety feature. It stops the blade almost immediately after releasing the trigger, reducing the risk of accidental cuts. The tool also includes a vacuum attachment for dust collection, which is useful for keeping your workspace clean. However, using the vacuum attachment can sometimes hinder the saw's mobility, as the hose can get caught on obstacles.

Pros

• Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to handle and use.
• Good Visibility: Sight line blower and integrated dust blower keep the cutline clean.
• Quick Adjustments: 0 - 56 Degree Bevel Detent System with positive stops.
• Safety Features: Electronic blade brake and vacuum attachment for dust collection.

Cons

• Inconsistent Performance: Struggles with harder woods and thicker cuts.
• Battery Dependent: Requires higher capacity batteries for optimal performance.
• Durability Issues: Reports of the tool failing after short periods of use.
• Stalling: Frequent stalling during cuts, especially with lower capacity batteries.

Final Thoughts

The Ridgid Brushless 18V 7-1/4 in. Circular Saw has a lot of potential, but it falls short in some critical areas. While it excels in design, ease of use, and some aspects of performance, its inconsistent power and durability issues are significant drawbacks. For casual DIYers who plan to use it for light to moderate tasks, this saw can be a good addition to your toolkit, especially if you already own other Ridgid tools and batteries.

However, for professionals or those who need a reliable tool for heavy-duty tasks, this saw might not be the best choice. The frequent stalling and durability concerns are too significant to overlook. In such cases, investing in a more robust and reliable tool from another brand might be a better option.

Would I recommend this saw? For light to moderate use and if you already have Ridgid batteries, yes. For heavy-duty, professional use, I would advise looking elsewhere.