Ryobi 18V One+ Brushless Handheld Tile/Masonry Saw

Cutting through hard materials like tile, brick, stone, and glass can be quite challenging, especially if you want precision and minimal dust. Enter the Ryobi 18V One+ Brushless Handheld Tile/Masonry Saw, a compact yet powerful tool designed to make such tasks easier and more efficient. I recently had the opportunity to put this saw through its paces on a variety of projects, and here’s my detailed take on its performance.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this saw was its compact and ergonomic design. Weighing in at 6.2 lbs bare and 7.8 lbs with a 4.0Ah battery, it’s lightweight enough to handle easily but heavy enough to feel sturdy and well-built. The brushless motor is a significant upgrade, providing improved performance and longevity. The integrated water delivery system is a thoughtful addition, featuring a 20.5 oz on-board water tank and a 12 ft water supply hose. This system is designed to minimize dust during operation, which is crucial when working with materials that produce a lot of debris.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Ryobi saw does not disappoint. The 5-inch blade, coupled with a no-load speed of 10,500 RPM, is more than capable of cutting through a variety of hard materials. I tested it on ceramic tiles, stone pavers, and even some Hardiboard sheets. The cuts were clean and precise, and the saw handled the materials with ease.

One feature that stands out is the adjustable water flow. This allows for better control over dust and debris, making the workspace cleaner and safer. However, I did encounter some issues with the water delivery system. Specifically, when cutting Hardiboard, the saw generated a lot of sludge that occasionally blocked the water outlet. This required frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance. While this was a bit inconvenient, it didn’t significantly detract from the overall functionality of the tool.

Ease of Use

One of the most appealing aspects of this saw is its ease of use. The lock-on trigger allows for continuous operation without having to keep the trigger pressed, which is a boon for longer cutting tasks. The up to 45° bevel capacity adds versatility, enabling angled cuts that are often required in tiling and masonry projects. The LED work light is another handy feature, providing improved visibility in dimly lit areas.

Setting up the saw is straightforward, and switching between the portable water tank and the hose attachment is a breeze. However, the manual pressure required to dispense water from the reservoir or hose can be a bit cumbersome. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of, especially if you’re working on more delicate materials that could catch if too much pressure is applied.

Versatility and Portability

The Ryobi saw excels in versatility and portability. Its compact size makes it perfect for small to medium-sized projects, and it’s easy to store when not in use. I found it particularly useful for tasks like cutting tiles for a kitchen backsplash and trimming stone pavers for a garden path. For larger projects, you might still want to rely on a table saw, but for quick jobs and tight spaces, this handheld saw is a fantastic option.

Battery Life

As with all cordless tools, battery life is a crucial factor. The Ryobi saw is part of the One+ system, so it’s compatible with a range of Ryobi batteries. I used a 4.0Ah battery, and it provided ample runtime for my needs. Of course, the actual battery life will depend on the material being cut and the intensity of the work, but I found it more than sufficient for most tasks. Having a spare battery on hand can ensure that you don’t run into downtime during longer projects.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to maneuver and store.
- Powerful Brushless Motor: Improved performance and longevity.
- Integrated Water Delivery System: Minimizes dust and debris.
- Adjustable Water Flow: Better control over the cutting environment.
- Lock-on Trigger: Allows for continuous operation.
- Versatile Bevel Capacity: Up to 45° for angled cuts.
- LED Work Light: Enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

Cons:
- Water Delivery System Issues: Occasional clogging when cutting certain materials.
- Manual Pressure Requirement: Can be cumbersome when dispensing water.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ryobi 18V One+ Brushless Handheld Tile/Masonry Saw is a robust and versatile tool that excels in a variety of cutting tasks. Its compact design, powerful motor, and integrated water delivery system make it a valuable addition to any DIYer’s or professional’s toolkit. While it does have some minor drawbacks, such as the occasional clogging of the water outlet and the need for manual pressure to dispense water, these are relatively minor issues that don’t significantly impact its overall performance.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. Its ease of use, versatility, and powerful performance make it an excellent choice for both small and medium-sized projects. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast tackling home improvement tasks or a professional looking for a reliable handheld saw, the Ryobi 18V One+ Brushless Handheld Tile/Masonry Saw is well worth considering.