Ridgid 10 in. Pro Jobsite Table Saw with Stand

As someone who's spent countless hours in the workshop, I was quite eager to test out the Ridgid 10 in. Pro Jobsite Table Saw with Stand (R4514). Ridgid has a reputation for producing reliable tools, and I was curious to see how this table saw would stack up. After putting it through its paces, I've formed a well-rounded opinion on its performance, features, and overall value.

Initial Impressions and Assembly

Right out of the box, the first thing that stood out was the weight and sturdiness of the saw. The table saw came with a folding stand, which I found to be a practical addition for a jobsite tool. Setting up the saw was a mixed experience. While the assembly process was generally straightforward, the instructions could have been clearer in some areas. I had to spend a bit of time cross-referencing the manual and figuring things out on my own. Once assembled, the stand felt robust and stable, which is crucial for making accurate cuts.

Performance and Cutting Capability

The Ridgid table saw is equipped with a 5000 RPM motor and a 10-inch blade, which promises to handle heavy-duty tasks. When it came to actual cutting, the saw did not disappoint. It could rip through 4-inch by 4-inch material in a single pass with relative ease. The maximum cut depth of 3-1/2 inches at 90 degrees and 2-1/4 inches at 45 degrees covered most of my cutting needs efficiently.

One of the standout features was the front and back clamping fence with integrated T-slots. This design allowed for more precise adjustments and improved the overall cutting accuracy. However, I noticed that the factory settings for angles and measurements were slightly off. It took me about an hour to calibrate everything properly. While this was a bit of a hassle, once everything was set, the cuts were accurate and repeatable.

Build Quality and Design

The overall design of the Ridgid table saw is good, but there are some aspects that could use improvement. The use of plastic components in blade control means that frequent readjustments are necessary. This can be a bit frustrating during prolonged use. Additionally, the table surface wasn’t completely flat near the blade, which occasionally made it difficult to achieve perfectly square cuts.

On a positive note, the onboard storage for accessories is a thoughtful addition. All tools and accessories are close at hand, which enhances the workflow. However, the storage solution for the fence and other components relies on rubber bands, which isn't the most durable or practical method. There’s also no dedicated storage for extra blades, which could have been a valuable addition.

Usability and Portability

One of the key selling points of this table saw is its portability. The folding stand makes it easy to transport from one job site to another. Despite its robust build, the saw is relatively easy to move around, thanks to the well-designed stand. This makes it an excellent choice for professionals who need to take their tools on the go.

Ease of use is another area where the Ridgid table saw shines. The hand vac feature, although not particularly useful for those who don't own other Ridgid battery-powered tools, is a nice touch for those who do. The saw’s overall operation is straightforward, and with a bit of practice, assembling and disassembling the accessories becomes quicker and more intuitive.

Customer Service and Support

Unfortunately, my experience with Ridgid's customer service was less than stellar. I encountered an issue with missing parts and reached out for support, only to be met with unresponsiveness. This lack of prompt customer service can be a significant downside, especially for users who may encounter similar issues.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Ridgid 10 in. Pro Jobsite Table Saw with Stand is a solid tool with a few caveats. Its powerful motor and cutting capability make it a reliable choice for heavy-duty tasks. The portability and ease of use are significant advantages, especially for professionals who need to move their tools frequently.

However, the need for initial adjustments, the less-than-perfect flatness of the table, and the use of plastic components in critical areas are points of concern. The onboard storage system could also be improved to make it more practical and durable.

If you’re looking for a table saw that delivers powerful performance and portability, the Ridgid table saw is worth considering. However, be prepared to spend some time on initial setup and adjustments. If you can overlook these minor inconveniences, you’ll find this saw to be a valuable addition to your toolkit. On the other hand, if you prioritize flawless factory settings and exceptional customer service, you might want to explore other options.

Would I recommend the Ridgid 10 in. Pro Jobsite Table Saw with Stand? Yes, but with reservations. It’s a capable and portable tool that serves its primary function well, but it’s not without its flaws. If you’re willing to put in a bit of extra effort to fine-tune the settings and can manage without stellar customer support, this table saw offers good value for its price.