Ryobi 18V ONE+ Brushless 5" Handheld Tile/Masonry Saw Kit

Exploring the world of DIY projects and home renovations often leads us to the necessity of cutting through tough materials like tile, masonry, and even stone. For these tasks, having a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly tool is paramount. The Ryobi 18V ONE+ Brushless 5" Handheld Tile/Masonry Saw Kit, model PBLHTS01K, steps into this space with a promise of power, precision, and portability.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that strikes you about this tool is its compact and ergonomic design. Its handheld nature means it’s easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or for less accessible cuts. The build quality is impressive, exhibiting the robust durability we’ve come to expect from Ryobi. The inclusion of a 5" diamond blade tailored for cutting through various materials such as tile, brick, stone, and even glass, indicates its versatility and readiness for a range of projects.

Performance and Power

The heart of this saw is its brushless motor, which churns out a speed of 10,500 RPM. This high-speed capability ensures smooth, efficient cuts, making it a formidable opponent against even the toughest materials. In my experience, the saw delivered clean and precise cuts through 1-1/2" thick stepping stones without breaking a sweat. The depth of cut at 90° is 1-5/8", which is pretty impressive for a handheld device, providing ample capacity for most DIY projects.

Dust Management

One of the most commendable features is the integrated water supply system. The 20.5oz on-board water tank is designed to reduce dust during operation, making it safer and cleaner to use. There’s also the option to connect a hose for continuous water flow. However, it's worth noting that the water delivery system isn't without its quirks. You need to manually press the top of the tank to dispense water, which can be a bit cumbersome and might require a bit of getting used to.

Despite this minor inconvenience, the water system does a satisfactory job of minimizing dust, which cannot be understated when working with materials like tile and masonry that typically generate a lot of debris.

Ease of Use

The saw is designed to be user-friendly, and for the most part, it delivers. Its lightweight nature makes it easy to handle and reduces fatigue during prolonged use. The bevel capacity of up to 45° adds another layer of versatility, enabling angled cuts which are often necessary in intricate projects.

While it’s perfect for tasks like cutting 2' x 4' tiles or making circular cuts in stones for garden projects, it does have some limitations. For instance, while working on ledger panels with varying thicknesses, the saw tends to catch a bit. This is something to be mindful of depending on the specifics of your project.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, but the Ryobi 18V ONE+ ecosystem does a commendable job here. Using a 12Ah battery, the saw can cut over 100 linear feet on a 1/4" tile per charge, which is more than adequate for most small to medium-sized projects. If you already own other Ryobi tools, chances are you have compatible batteries on hand, which is a significant convenience.

Versatility and Practicality

One of the major selling points of this saw is its versatility. It's not just a tile saw; it’s also adept at cutting through pavers and other masonry materials. This makes it a fantastic tool for those who frequently find themselves working on different types of home renovation tasks. Its compact size also means that it’s much easier to store compared to a traditional table tile saw, saving valuable space in your workshop or shed.

Pricing and Value

Coming to the cost, it’s on the higher end, especially since it doesn't include batteries. However, if you’re already entrenched in the Ryobi ecosystem, this isn’t as big of a drawback. Considering its performance, versatility, and the convenience it brings, the price is justified. It’s an investment in a high-quality tool that will serve you well across a variety of projects.

Final Thoughts

Having spent considerable time using the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Brushless 5" Handheld Tile/Masonry Saw Kit, I can confidently say it’s a valuable addition to any DIY enthusiast or professional’s toolkit. It’s powerful, versatile, and designed with user convenience in mind. While the water delivery system could use some refinement, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall functionality and efficiency of the tool.

If you’re in the market for a compact, yet powerful saw for cutting tile, masonry, or stone, this Ryobi tool is worth considering. Its ability to handle a range of materials, coupled with the convenience of battery operation, makes it a standout choice. I recommend this tool for its robust performance and the ease it brings to tackling tough cutting tasks.