Ridgid holds strong as a manufacturer that focuses less on bells and whistles and more on quality. While Miter Saws certainly aren’t new to the market, their versatility and usefulness are timeless. Laser technology has advanced at a rapid pace in the tool world and if you have ever used a laser level, you know it can save a lot of time and errors. While it isn’t new, its use continues to gain appreciation in a variety of settings where precision is key. Combining Ridgid’s dependability in such a staple tool with laser technology seems like a sure thing. Let’s investigate in the Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser Review.
Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser Review Overview
If you asked me what my favorite tool is that I have ever owned, I would have no problem saying a Miter Saw is absolutely my top pick. I could talk about my love of a good miter saw for hours, but it really comes down to bring the best bang for your buck. Not only are miter saws versatile, but they are easy to get the hang of for a beginner and become a staple for most any professional contractor. The power Miter Saw was developed in the 1960’s and still has a huge place in any carpenter’s workshop. The Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser keeps the same tradition of reliable and accurate cuts, while the laser adds an exciting twist to the mix.
Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser Review Features
Ridgid packs this Miter Saw with sufficient power using a corded 15 amp motor, allowing the saw to function at 4,000 RPM’s and weighs in at 43 pounds. The saw has 4 predrilled mounting holes for securing the saw to a workbench.
The 12-inch blade allows for a maximum cut depth of 6.75 inches or a width of 7.5 inches and includes a 40-tooth carbide blade.
The plastic blade guard conceals the saw blade while not in use and is retracted when the saw is brought down into a workpiece.
The miter ranges go from 0 to 50 degrees both left and right.
The miter lock lever allows easy angle changes, that include positive stops at 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 22.5 degrees, 31.6 degrees and 45 degrees both left and right. As you attempt to set one of these angles, the saw will lock into place automatically.
Ridgid also includes a detent release button just above the lock lever that after pushing allows the angle to be changed without using the lever for quick adjustments.
The Bevel range allows for 0 to 48 degrees both left and right and is easy to read and has adjustable markers should you need to make adjustments.
To adjust the bevel settings, you simply turn the bevel lock knob to allow the saw arm to rotate left and right.
Ridgid included bevel stops as well at 0 degrees, 33.9 degrees, 45 degrees, and 48 degrees. To utilize these stops, you rotate a small knob on both the left and the right of the saw arm base to prevent the saw from going past that angle.
Ridgid’s D-Handle in their signature orange color features rubber molding for an improved grip and allows for a comfortable depress of the trigger during use.
The Laser guide is turned on easily with a switch located just above the D handle. The laser provides quite accurate cuts by allowing the user to match their line to the laser line projected.
Ridgid includes two miter fences that are contoured to allow for continued use during higher angled bevel cuts where the motor would traditionally be unable to pass.
The fences slide effortlessly in their channels and are made out of the same metal the saw base is made from. Adjustments are made from the lock knob behind each fence, and the blade wrench is also stored in the back of one of the fences.
The zero clearance throat plate is made of plastic and is cut by the user upon initial use. You can see the laser projection here as well.
The included workpiece clamp slips easily into the back of the saw and has an easy to use knob that you can turn to secure the workpiece.
The fixed dust port allows for a better grab of the sawdust keeping work area clean.
The included dust bag has a decent capacity for this size saw and is easily attached.
The 2-1/2 inch dust port allows the option to connect it to a dust collection system.
The Lock pin is a safety feature allowing the saw blade to be locked within the throat plate and preventing use.
The upper handle allows for easy transport of the saw when not in use.
Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser Review Performance
Ridgid made a solid saw with a lot of great features with this Miter Saw with Laser. The saw was very easy to level and adjust. The saw blade was level on the first try which is pretty impressive and remained level during use. The laser works incredibly well, offering a massive improvement in accuracy vs. my previous miter saw that lacked a laser. I appreciate the miter gauge and how easy it is to see the markings clearly. The positive stops were also very helpful and accurate when you are looking for consistency. The dust collection was about average for a miter saw. Saws just aren’t a dust-free tool but connecting to a dust collection system can greatly improve the dust grab. This Miter Saw’s design also allows for easy cleaning beneath the throat plate and base.
There are two small things I wasn’t a huge fan of, first the throat plate was plastic. This tool is heavy and solid. It skips no material quality elsewhere, so the plastic throat plate seems out of place. Ridgid isn’t the only company to switch to consumer cut zero clearance throat plates though, several major manufacturers opt for this design now as well. Zero clearance throat plates do provide additional support to the workpiece so they aren’t without value. To a degree, this is more a matter of preference. I would like to see Ridgid machine a metal version to have the same benefits without sacrificing durability. The other small concern I have is in the brake system. While the saw has a brake it wasn’t as quick to stop the blade rotating as some other brakes I have seen. Despite my concerns, I still love this miter saw. I find the precision and user-friendly operation to make it a breeze to work with.
Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser Review Value
The Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser Model number R4122 retails at $299.00 at Home Depot. Laser additions are not as costly as they once were, but they are still a pricey add-on to a tool. The laser is paired with the 12-inch blade that allows for a significant increase in cut capacity over smaller models, the saw is priced very competitively. Ridgid’s Miter Saw with Laser has the weight and overall construction that make it a workhorse and give you a lot of bang for your buck.
Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser Review Final Thoughts
Overall Ridgid did great with this miter saw. The Ridgid Miter Saw with Laser is incredibly well equipped. This saw brings a lot to the table feature wise. The 12-inch blade lends itself to larger than average cut capacity. The included laser works incredibly well at improving overall accuracy which is important in a miter saw. For me, this saw isn’t perfect, but it is still an amazing saw with a lot of great features. For most users, this saw will be an amazing addition to a shop and is a consistent performer.
