Ridgid 15 Amp Corded 12 in. Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw

As a woodworker and DIY enthusiast, I frequently find myself in need of reliable and high-performing tools. Recently, I had the opportunity to put the Ridgid 15 Amp Corded 12 in. Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw (model R4222) to the test. This tool promises a lot on paper, and I was eager to see if it would live up to its impressive specifications and features.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the Ridgid miter saw was its sheer size and weight. It's a hefty piece of machinery, which speaks to its robust build quality. The saw is well-constructed with a solid feel, which is crucial for stability and precision in woodworking. The sliding action on the twin rails is smooth, although not as silky as some high-end models with articulating arms. The weight and bulk can be a downside for portability, but the inclusion of two carry handles helps mitigate this issue somewhat.

Setup and Calibration

Setting up the Ridgid miter saw was a straightforward process. Out of the box, it required minimal assembly—essentially just attaching the blade, clamp, and dust bag. Calibration was surprisingly accurate right from the start. The saw was square, and the LED shadow cut-line indicator was spot-on, a feature I found particularly useful for quick and precise cuts. This LED system is far superior to laser guides I've used in the past, providing a clear and accurate cut line.

Performance

The 15-amp motor powering this miter saw spins at 4000 rpm, offering ample power for a variety of cutting tasks. I've used it to cut through everything from 2x4s to larger 2x16s and 4x6s, and it handled these tasks with ease. The soft start motor is a nice touch, reducing the initial kick and making the saw feel more controlled.

One of the standout features is the saw's 70° miter capacity, both left and right. This expansive range is a game-changer for complex cuts and is complemented by a series of positive miter stops at common angles (0°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, 45°, 60°, and 67.5°). The positive bevel stops are equally useful, covering angles from 0° to 45°. These detents make angle adjustments quick and precise, a significant time-saver on the job.

Usability

While the Ridgid miter saw excels in many areas, it's not without its flaws. The bevel lock switch, for instance, is awkwardly positioned, making it difficult to operate from the front of the saw. This could have been better designed for more convenient access.

The sliding fences, which should be a strong point, also present some issues. When locked in place, the fences do not always stay perfectly flush with the fixed fence, leading to slight inaccuracies. This is disappointing, especially for a saw that aims to produce precise angled cuts. Proper cutting technique can mitigate some of these issues, but the design flaw is hard to overlook.

Dust Collection

Dust collection is often a weak point for many miter saws, and the Ridgid R4222 is no exception. The built-in dust collection port is compatible with common vacuum adapters, but the overall effectiveness is mediocre at best. It does capture some dust, but a significant amount still escapes, making it less ideal for indoor use without additional dust management measures.

Additional Features

The Ridgid miter saw includes several thoughtful features that enhance its usability. The blade brake, for instance, is a welcome addition, allowing for quick transitions between cuts. The crown stop mounting holes offer compatibility with various stops, adding to the saw's versatility.

The saw also comes with a 12-inch carbide tipped blade, dust bag, material clamp, blade wrench, and an operator's manual. While the stock blade is adequate for construction tasks, I would recommend upgrading to a higher-quality blade, like a Diablo or Makita Max, for finer cuts.

Durability and Longevity

I've used this saw for several weeks on various projects, and it has performed consistently well. However, some users have reported issues with blade wobble and gear noise after extended use. These problems can affect the saw's longevity and might require professional servicing. On the plus side, Ridgid offers a lifetime warranty, provided you register your purchase, which adds a layer of assurance.

Portability and Storage

Given its size and weight, the Ridgid miter saw is not the most portable option. It takes up considerable space on a workbench and requires ample room for the slider poles to retract fully. However, the included mobile stand (if purchased with the saw) is a fantastic addition. The stand is sturdy, easy to move around, and folds down for more compact storage, offsetting some of the saw's bulkiness.

Final Thoughts

The Ridgid 15 Amp Corded 12 in. Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw is a formidable tool with many strengths. Its powerful motor, expansive miter and bevel capacity, and accurate LED cut-line indicator make it a valuable asset for serious woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts. However, it does have some design flaws, particularly with the bevel lock switch and sliding fences, that prevent it from being perfect.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, with some reservations. If you need a miter saw with a high degree of versatility and don't mind dealing with occasional calibration issues, the Ridgid R4222 is a solid choice. Its build quality, power, and additional features make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you can get it with the free mobile stand. However, if precision and dust collection are your top priorities, you might want to consider other options in the same price range.

In summary, the Ridgid miter saw is a reliable and powerful tool that offers excellent value for money, despite a few shortcomings. It has earned a place in my workshop, and I believe it can be a valuable addition to yours as well.