Ryobi sliding miter saw review: Value for DIY

Best cordless Ryobi miter saw

When you’re browsing through Ryobi’s selection of miter saws, you’re likely to come across specifications such as extension wings, dust bags, easy blade changes, easy-to unlock blade pivot, and stand compatibility.

These attributes can vary from model to model however, you can find them on most Ryobi miter saws making them versatile, durable, and great for professionals and novices alike.

If you’re an experienced user, there’s a first class chance you won’t need a laser.

Although lasers are designed to increase cutting accuracy, some can become knocked and end up reducing your accuracy instead.

However, if you’re a novice miter saw user then a laser may be a first class investment for you.

Lasers can help you become accustomed to the saw you’re using, guaranteeing you greater accuracy for those first few cuts.

The Ryobi TSS120l 12” 15amp Sliding Miter Saw With Laser is a powerful and versatile model that attributes a sliding head capable of making crosscuts up to 13 ¼”.

The precision machined miter scale allows for extremely accurate alignments, and it even has a fixed dust port that remains locked into position for optimum dust collection. 

At the core of the Ryobi TSS120l is a 15-amp motor that is as powerful as they come.

For the price, you also get two table extensions that provide excellent support, as well as a 12” carbide-tipped blade that ensures smooth and precise cuts every time. 

The Ryobi 10” Cordless Miter Saw is an equally impressive model, boasting a dual-bevel design in a cordless unit.

One of the simplest and most straightforward miter saws on the market, it is remarkably easy to set and use.

The package comes with a 10” carbide-tipped blade, along with a work clamp and a handy blade wrench. 

The Ryobi 10” Miter Saw is compatible with all the batteries in the Ryobi 18-Volt One+ system. It is driven by two 18-volt batteries that give you a total of 36 volts of cutting power.

If you need the convenience of a cordless miter saw and the power of a corded model, the Ryobi 10” Miter Saw is the perfect option.

Practice makes perfect.

It’s always a first class idea to familiarise yourself with your miter saw before you begin using it on serious projects.

Get your hands on some scrap wood and practice performing different cuts like bevel cuts for joining woods so you can get a feel for the way your miter saw operates.

Allow your saw to reach full speed before making a cut.

Before lowering the blade on your miter saw for a cut, you should always let it reach full speed. Never begin with the saw blade directly on your cutting piece.

Never work with a dull blade.

Cutting with a dull blade can damage your materials as well as your miter saw.

Remember, there are various retailers that stock replacement parts for Ryobi miter saws so if you require a replacement blade, be sure to visit them before working with unsafe parts.

1. Be safe.

Wear the appropriate safety gear, disconnect your saw from the mains and wait for the blade to stop spinning before you handle it. 

2. Move the blade arm.

Remove the lock pin on the blade arm so it can move upwards.

3. Take off the bolt cover.

Move the blade guard into an upward position until you can see the head of the screwdriver. Release the screw, remove the bolt cover, and expose the blade’s bolt. 

4. Take the blade out.

Push in the spindle lock button until the spindle is fully locked, then remove the bolt and the outer of the washer. You should now be able to remove the blade from the unit.

5. Fit your new blade.

Position your new blade onto the spindle and then reattach the outer washer and bolt to your blade, tightening the bolt securely with the help of a wrench.

After this, attach your spindle cover screw and lower the blade guard and your new blade should be ready for use. 

If you’re a novice user, you may want to consider purchasing the Ryobi TSS120L.

This model has a more reliable laser, great for those who lack confidence with miter saws, plus it’s one of the most affordable models on the market.

If you’re a slightly more advanced user then Ryobi’s 10” miter saw is likely to be better for doing trim work.

This miter saw comes with some more advanced attributes than the TSS120L making it an ideal investment for long-term, heavy-duty use.

If you’re dealing with tough materials or you’re looking for a saw suited to commercial use, remember to explore other brands on the market too.

Although Ryobi has a vast selection of miter saws, you may find exactly what you need in another reputable manufacturer if you are looking for the best miter saw.

And if you’re torn between getting a circular saw and a miter saw, get to know them more in this guide. And if you’re still not decided, we have more tips and hacks for cutting 45-degree and angled cuts on wood.