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

As a seasoned DIY enthusiast and professional contractor, I’ve had the pleasure of testing out various tools over the years. The Ridgid 18V Brushless 7-1/4 in. Rear Handle Circular Saw stands out as a notable addition to my collection. It combines the power and performance of a corded saw with the convenience of a cordless one, making it an excellent choice for both amateurs and professionals.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that strikes you about this saw is its design. It mirrors the classic worm drive saws in appearance, but without the hassle of the twist torque. This design ensures that the saw remains steady and doesn’t twist when you start it, a common problem with traditional worm drives. The magnesium construction helps keep the tool lightweight at 9.5 lbs, which is a significant advantage when you’re working for extended periods.

The rear handle design is a standout feature, providing excellent control and balance. This is especially useful for longer cuts where precision is crucial. The saw feels sturdy and well-built, with no noticeable runout, ensuring that the kerf matches the blade perfectly. The rubber grip on the main handle adds to the comfort, making it easier to manage during prolonged use.

Performance and Cutting Power

Performance-wise, this saw does not disappoint. The brushless motor delivers a whopping 5,800 RPM, allowing for fast and efficient cuts through various materials. I tested it on several types of wood, including 2x4s and plywood, and it handled them effortlessly. The torque is impressive, with no hesitation during cutting, making it feel just as powerful as a corded worm drive saw.

The depth of cut is another strong point. At 90 degrees, it offers a 2.5-inch cutting capacity, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. The bevel capacity is 53 degrees, providing versatility for different cutting angles. The bevel adjustments are easy to make, with clear markers and tactile feedback at common angles, ensuring accurate results.

Battery Life and Charging

The saw comes with an 8.0 Ah MAX Output Battery, which is a beast. During my testing, the battery life was exceptional. I was able to complete several projects without needing a recharge. The battery also features a charge indicator, so you’re never left guessing how much power you have left. The rapid charger included in the kit charges the battery in a bit less than an hour, which is quite impressive.

Safety and Convenience Features

Safety is always a critical aspect of any power tool, and this saw excels in that department. The electronic blade brake is a fantastic feature, rapidly slowing the blade to a stop once you release the trigger. This adds an extra layer of safety, reducing the risk of accidental cuts. The guard moves smoothly and encloses the blade quickly after cutting, ensuring you can safely set the saw down.

The integrated rafter hook is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to hang the saw on a rafter or ladder when not in use. This is particularly useful when working at heights or in tight spaces. The onboard wrench storage is another convenient feature, making blade changes quick and hassle-free.

Dust Control and Visibility

One area where the saw could use some improvement is dust control. The vacuum attachment is a nice touch, compatible with both 1-1/4 in. and 1-7/8 in. hoses. However, if you’re not using a vacuum, you might find the sawdust discharge a bit overwhelming. The LED work light is a nice addition, but its placement could be better as it doesn’t illuminate the cutting line effectively due to obstruction from the bevel bracket.

Portability and Storage

Portability is another strong suit of this saw. The carrying bag provided is large and sturdy, easily accommodating the saw, battery, charger, and even a spare battery or two. This makes it convenient to transport the tool to different job sites. The bag also has multiple flat pockets on the outside, which is great for storing smaller accessories or tools.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Ridgid 18V Brushless 7-1/4 in. Rear Handle Circular Saw is an excellent tool that combines power, performance, and convenience. Its design and build quality make it a joy to use, while its cutting power and battery life ensure you can tackle any project without interruption. The safety features and additional conveniences like the rafter hook and onboard wrench storage add to its appeal.

While the dust control could be better, and the LED light placement isn’t perfect, these are minor issues compared to the overall performance and usability of the saw. If you’re looking for a powerful, reliable, and versatile cordless circular saw, I highly recommend this Ridgid model. It’s well worth the investment and will undoubtedly become a staple in your tool collection.