Ridgid Flip Top Portable Work Support

When I first encountered the Ridgid Flip Top Portable Work Support, I was intrigued by its promise of versatility and stability in a compact, portable form. As someone who frequently tackles solo projects, the prospect of having a reliable assistant for handling large materials like plywood and long boards was highly appealing. After putting the Flip Top to the test in various scenarios, I'm pleased to share that it has exceeded my expectations in several ways, while also highlighting a few areas where it could be improved.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of this support stand is its robust construction. Made from thick wall tubing, the stand feels solid and dependable. The steel frame, coupled with non-skid feet, provides a stable base that doesn’t wobble or shift under load—a crucial factor when dealing with heavy materials. The load capacity of 200 lbs is impressive for a stand of this size, and it comfortably handled everything I threw at it, from heavy doors to long baseboards.

The adjustable height is another key feature, ranging from 27 inches to 45 inches. This adjustability makes it highly versatile, allowing it to be used with various tools like table saws, miter saws, and even as a general work support. The height adjustment mechanism is straightforward, although I did find that the locking jaws needed some tweaking out of the box to ensure they were tight enough. A simple adjustment with a Phillips screwdriver rectified this, and once set, the height remained secure throughout use.

Functionality and Performance

The Flip Top function is where this stand truly shines. Unlike traditional roller stands, which can be problematic with sagging materials, the Flip Top Stand is designed to lift and level materials as they are fed through. This feature is invaluable when working alone, as it maintains the alignment of the material with the saw, preventing any unwanted tilting or sagging.

The top can be locked in place to serve as a conventional support or left to pivot, depending on the requirements of the task at hand. This flexibility makes it a versatile addition to any workshop. I found that locking the top was particularly useful when working with longer materials, as it provided a stable surface that didn’t move unexpectedly.

One minor issue I encountered was that the surface of the stand isn’t as smooth as I would have liked, which occasionally caused the material to drag slightly. A quick spray of lubricant solved this issue, but it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to use it for materials that require a smooth feeding surface.

Ease of Use and Storage

One of the most practical aspects of the Flip Top Stand is its ease of setup and storage. The stand folds flat, making it easy to transport and store in a small space. This is a significant advantage for those with limited workshop space or who need to move their tools frequently. The compact form factor doesn’t compromise its stability or functionality, which is a testament to its thoughtful design.

Setting up the stand is quick and uncomplicated. The height adjustment lever is intuitive, and the overall design ensures that you can get it up and running in minutes. For someone who often moves between different job sites, this ease of transport and setup is a major plus.

Durability and Longevity

Having used the Flip Top Stand for several years now, I can attest to its durability. The lifetime service agreement offered by Ridgid provides additional peace of mind, although I’ve yet to encounter any issues that required invoking the warranty. The materials used in its construction have held up well to regular use, and the stand shows no signs of weakening or instability.

However, I did notice a minor issue with the height adjustment lock over time. The lever socket isn’t as deep as it could be, which led to some wear and tear. I eventually replaced the lever with an adjustable wrench for tightening and loosening, which resolved the problem. While this is a small inconvenience, it’s worth noting for those who plan to use the stand extensively.

Overall Impressions

The Ridgid Flip Top Portable Work Support has proven to be an invaluable tool in my workshop. Its combination of sturdy construction, versatile height adjustment, and the unique flip top function make it a standout choice for anyone needing reliable work support. The ability to fold it flat for easy storage and transport adds to its appeal, especially for those with limited space or who need to move their tools frequently.

While there are a few minor areas for improvement—such as the surface smoothness and the depth of the height adjustment lock—these issues are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things. The stand’s overall performance and reliability far outweigh these small drawbacks.

Recommendation

I wholeheartedly recommend the Ridgid Flip Top Portable Work Support to anyone in need of a reliable and versatile work stand. Its combination of solid construction, ease of use, and innovative features make it a valuable addition to any workshop. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this stand will undoubtedly enhance your productivity and make handling large materials significantly easier. The lifetime service agreement is an added bonus, providing peace of mind that this tool will serve you well for years to come.