Ridgid Mobile Miter Saw Stand

As a woodworker, I've always placed a high value on the stability and portability of my tools, and recently, I had the chance to use the Ridgid Mobile Miter Saw Stand (model AC9946). This stand has garnered attention for its robust construction and ease of mobility, and after working with it, I can see why. Here’s a thorough breakdown based on my experience with this tool.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that stands out about this miter saw stand is its solid construction. Weighing in at 67 pounds, it’s not the lightest stand on the market, but that weight contributes significantly to its stability. The frame feels rugged and well-built, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use without showing signs of wear or instability.

One of the standout design features is the 50% larger wheels. These wheels are a game-changer when it comes to mobility. Whether you're rolling the stand over uneven surfaces, through grass, or up a set of stairs, the large wheels make it remarkably easy to maneuver. This is particularly beneficial if you’re frequently changing job sites or moving the saw around a large workshop.

Assembly and Setup

Assembling the stand was a bit of a mixed bag. The instructions that came with it were less than ideal – the diagrams were small and not very clear, which could be frustrating. However, there are several helpful assembly videos available online, and once I turned to those, the process became much smoother. With the right guidance, I was able to get it fully assembled in about 30 minutes.

Despite the initial hurdle of the instructions, once set up, the stand proved to be very user-friendly. The single-step release mechanism allows for quick and easy setup and takedown, which saves time and effort when transitioning between tasks.

Versatility and Compatibility

One of the significant advantages of this stand is its universal mounting brackets. I tested it with both a 12” Bosch glide miter saw and a Dewalt saw, and in both cases, the saws mounted securely and easily. This universality means you’re not limited to a specific brand of saw, providing a lot of flexibility if you have multiple saws or plan to upgrade in the future.

The tool-free material stops and tool-free indexing extension lock levers are also highly practical features. They allow for fast adjustments without the need for additional tools, making the stand very versatile and efficient to use. The extensions can reach up to 9 feet 6 inches, providing ample support for long workpieces.

Stability and Performance

In terms of performance, the stand excels. Once the saw is mounted, the stand offers a stable and sturdy platform that minimizes movement and vibration during cuts. This stability is crucial for making accurate cuts, and I found that the stand held up well even when working with heavy materials.

However, there were a couple of issues I noted. In one instance, the stand seemed slightly warped when fully extended, causing a bit of a tipping issue. This was a minor inconvenience that I was able to correct with some adjustments, but it’s worth noting for those who require absolute precision.

Durability-wise, the stand has shown good resilience. Even under frequent use, the components, including the wheels and frame, have held up well. I did notice some concerns with the plastic locking handles for the extension wings. They feel somewhat less durable than the rest of the stand, and I suspect they might need replacing after prolonged use.

Storage and Portability

Storage is another area where this stand shines. It folds down compactly, making it easy to store when not in use. The large wheels also come in handy here, as they make it easy to roll the folded stand into a corner or a storage area without much effort.

The portability of this stand cannot be overstated. Whether you’re a professional who needs to transport your tools to various job sites or a hobbyist who needs to move your saw around a home workshop, the ease with which this stand can be moved is a significant benefit.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Ridgid Mobile Miter Saw Stand is a solid addition to any workshop. Its robust build quality, ease of mobility, and versatility make it a standout option for anyone in need of a reliable stand for their miter saw. The assembly instructions could definitely use improvement, and there are minor concerns about some plastic components, but these are relatively small issues in the grand scheme of things.

I would recommend this stand to both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. Its ability to handle heavy saws, ease of setup, and impressive portability make it a valuable tool that enhances the efficiency and accuracy of woodworking projects. The convenience of being able to move the saw effortlessly and set up quickly is a significant time-saver and greatly improves the overall workflow.

If you’re in the market for a miter saw stand that offers a great balance of stability, durability, and mobility, the Ridgid Mobile Miter Saw Stand is definitely worth considering.