Ridgid Cordless Miter Saw Review
Ridgid 18V Cordless Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw
18V Cordless Dual Bevel Miter Saw
Manufacturer: Ridgid
Model number: R48607K
Price: $399
Power source: 18V Li-Ion
Weight: 24 lbsI’m sure I sound like a broken record lately but the cord is being cut on so many larger high demand tools including miter saws. Ridgid just announced their first cordless miter saw with the 18V 7-1/4″ Cordless Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw, Model R48607K. This new cordless miter saw features a brushless motor and it’s the only cordless dual bevel sliding miter saw in this size category. It’s powered by their 18V Li-Ion packs and comes with a 5 Ah extended life pack for extra run time.
Cordless Miter Saw Features and Specifications
- Powerful motor
- Ergonomic light weight design weighing only 24 lbs. for ultimate jobsite portability
- Brushless motor technology delivers extended run-time and a longer motor life to increase efficiency on the jobsite
- LED cut line indication and work-light projects cut line and illuminates material to improve accuracy of the cut and visibility
- Dual bevel design 0-degree to 48-degree left and right bevel with positive stops allows moving the saw head instead of the material
- Miter detents and bevel positive stops for quick adjustment to most common angles
- Built-in dust collection port works with common 1-1/4 in. wet/dry vacuum adapters
- Positive bevel stops positive stops at the most common angles 0-degree, 33.9-degree, 45-degree and 48-degree
- Positive miter detents positive stops at the most common angles 0-degree, 15-degree, 22.5-degree, 31.6-degree and 45-degree
- Blade Size – Standard 7-1/4″ Circular Saw Blade
- 90 Degree Cross Cut Capacity = 2×8 (7-1/4″)
- 45 Degree Cross Cut Capacity = 2×6 (5-1/2″)
- Maximum Cut Thickness = 4″
- Maximum Miter Cut = 48 Degrees Left and Right
Maximum Portability & Functionality
Cordless drills have become the standard in construction in large part because of being extremely portable and functional. Cutting the cord has made jobs safer and more productive and most of us can’t imagine using a corded drill anymore. With the advancements in battery technology tool manufacturers are offering more high demand cordless tools like the new Ridgid Cordless Miter Saw.
The first thing I noticed about this new miter saw was it’s unbelievable light weight of only 24 lbs. Not only is the saw light, but it folds up really well making it super comfortable to move around from job to job unlike larger corded versions. Plus, no more cord to trip over when you’re carrying the saw down the stairs or across the parking lot!
The second thing I noticed was how many features this small miter saw offers. This saw is packed with all the features most of us expect in a quality miter saw including; a machined table and fence, standard miter detents, an LED shadow cut line, dual bevel operation, and a quality blade guard. This is the only cordless compact miter saw on the market that offers dual bevel (left and right) including compound angles of 45 and 45 in both directions.
Run Time – Can It Get The Job Done?
The first question people ask me about cordless miter saws is on run time. Everyone wants to know if these saws can get the job done or are they simply an occasional use tool. The use of a brushless motor combined with their 5 Ah battery pack makes this cordless miter saw the real deal.
In order to put things into perspective I ran a run time test over the weekend using SPF (Spruce/Pine/Fir) 2×4 framing lumber to see how many cross cuts can be achieved on a single battery charge. (Quick note, I used the 2×4 because we’ve done the same test on the DEWALT and Makita cordless miter saws for comparison reasons.) The test involves cross cutting (at 90 degrees) the 2×4 every 10 seconds for a total of 10 cuts. Then the saw is allowed to rest for 1 minute. Then another 10 cuts are made, followed by another rest. We feel this is the best way to simulate actual use on the job. This test also allows us to fairly compare different Brands.
I was able to cross cut 230 2×4’s using one fully charged 5 Ah battery pack. Some other published reports have managed to get as many as 286 cuts but I’m not sure what time parameters they used. Regardless, we feel that 230 cuts on one battery is really impressive and makes this a very viable saw on the jobsite.
It should be noted that this run time test was performed with the stock Ridgid blade that came with the saw.
Fit & Finish – Very Nice Quality
In addition to all the features this little miter saw offers, I was very impressed with the quality of the fit and finish. This saw is very well built and doesn’t feel cheap at all. In fact, it’s just as nice and possible nicer than the other two competitors that we have recently evaluated. This saw was definitely designed to last and produce excellent quality cuts.
Final Thoughts – Ridgid Cordless Miter Saw
Once again I find myself scratching my head wondering why more people haven’t discovered the hidden gem that exists with Ridgid tools. The Ridgid 18V Cordless Miter Saw really impressed us and offers users features that can’t be found on the other two competitive models on the market today. This miter saw offers dual bevel capacity which no one else offers, it runs on their 18 Li-Ion battery packs, it only uses one battery pack, it has great run time, and it’s priced very competitively at $399 which includes a 5 Ah battery pack.
The bottom line is this, don’t overlook this compact cordless miter saw. If you’re a flooring installer, remodeler, renovation contractor, or the carpenter that handles punch lists this is an excellent option. For these reasons we think it’s a 5 star rating!
Ridgid Cordless Miter Saw Video Review
About the author
Todd Fratzel
Todd Fratzel is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz, and the President of Front Steps Media, LLC, a web based media company focused on the Home Improvement and Construction Industry.He is also the Principal Engineer for United Construction Corp., located in Newport, NH. In his capacity at United he oversees the Residential and Commercial Building Division along with all Design-Build projects.He is also the editor of Home Construction & Improvement.
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This saw is so “bad ass”!
Thanks for the detail and effort that goes into all you put out here for us. I was leaning toward the Milwaukee cordless miter saw, especially after the review on their cordless table saw. After watching this review I will purchase the Ridgid cordless miter saw. Looking forward to staying updated and informed. Keep up the good work and Happy New Year.
Don’t think it’s carried anymore for some reason.
You are correct…they have discontinued it. Bummer because it’s a great saw!