Ridgid 15 Amp Corded 12 in. Dual Bevel Miter Saw with LED

Investing in a miter saw is a big step, especially if you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional carpenter. Recently, I had the opportunity to use the Ridgid 15 Amp Corded 12 in. Dual Bevel Miter Saw with LED, model R4123. This saw has several promising features and specifications that initially caught my attention, but the real test was in its performance and usability.

Setup and Assembly

The setup process was fairly straightforward, and the instructions provided were adequate. Assembly took me about 30 minutes, and I was pleased that all necessary components, including the blade, blade wrench, sliding miter fences, dust bag, work clamp, and operator's manual, were included.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Ridgid miter saw has a robust and professional look. It is equipped with a 12-inch blade and a powerful 15-amp motor, which boasts a no-load speed of 4000 rpm. The zero-clearance throat plate and adjustable miter table are thoughtful design elements. However, the saw is quite heavy and bulky, making it less portable and a bit cumbersome to maneuver.

Cutting Performance

The dual bevel capability allows for beveling from 0 to 48 degrees in both left and right directions, which is very convenient for various cutting applications. The miter range from 0 to 50 degrees also adds versatility. Initially, the cuts were smooth, and the saw seemed accurate. The LED guide for cut line alignment is a standout feature, as it helps in achieving precise cuts.

However, I encountered some issues with the blade's squareness. Despite following the zero-degree bevel adjustment precisely, the blade was not perfectly square to the table. This required frequent recalibration, which became frustrating over time. Additionally, I noticed that the blade would loosen after a few cuts, which significantly impacted the accuracy and quality of the cuts.

Usability

The saw's usability is a mixed bag. On one hand, the quick-release miter lock and sliding miter fence are user-friendly and make adjustments easy. The work clamp effectively holds the material in place. On the other hand, the saw's weight and bulkiness make it difficult to move around, and it doesn't fit well on my existing miter saw stand due to the distance between the mounting holes.

Durability and Reliability

One of the biggest concerns I had with this saw was its durability. After a few uses, I noticed oil dripping from the gearbox, and the motor started making strange noises. These issues raised red flags about the tool's longevity. Furthermore, the blade wobble and the ineffective dust collection system added to my frustration. The fixed dust port does not move with the blade, making it almost useless for taller stock cuts.

Customer Support and Warranty

Ridgid offers a lifetime warranty on this saw, which initially seemed like a great deal. However, my experience with their customer service was less than satisfactory. It involved long hold times, multiple transfers, and a lack of clear information. Although Home Depot accepts returns, the process can be cumbersome and time-consuming.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Dual Bevel Capability: Allows for versatile cutting angles.
• LED Guide: Helps with precise cut line alignment.
• Powerful Motor: 15-amp motor with 4000 rpm for smooth cutting.
• Adjustable Miter Table: Supports various cutting applications.
• Zero Clearance Throat Plate: Helps in achieving clean cuts.

Cons

• Weight and Bulkiness: Difficult to transport and maneuver.
• Blade Wobble: Affects the accuracy and quality of cuts.
• Durability Concerns: Issues with oil leakage and motor reliability.
• Poor Dust Collection: Fixed dust port does not align well with taller cuts.
• Customer Support: Inefficient and time-consuming.

Final Thoughts

The Ridgid 15 Amp Corded 12 in. Dual Bevel Miter Saw with LED has several features that make it appealing on paper. The dual bevel capability, powerful motor, and LED guide are impressive. However, the tool's performance and reliability leave much to be desired. Frequent blade loosening, difficulty in maintaining square cuts, and durability issues overshadow its positive attributes.

Would I recommend this miter saw? Unfortunately, I wouldn't. The initial allure of its features does not compensate for the practical challenges and frustrations I experienced. For those who need a reliable and precise miter saw, I would suggest looking at other brands that offer better build quality and customer support. Investing in a tool should bring confidence and ease, not continuous troubleshooting and maintenance.