Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ DEALS
As a seasoned DIY enthusiast and occasional contractor, I’m always on the lookout for versatile tools that can handle a variety of materials without breaking the bank. When I came across the Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ 7-1/4″ Multi-Material Compound Sliding Miter Saw, I was intrigued by its promise of cutting through wood, metal, and plastic with a single blade. After extensively testing this saw over the past few months, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer for anyone who needs a compact, powerful, and versatile cutting solution.
This saw has impressed me with its ability to tackle diverse projects, from trimming baseboards to cutting steel pipes. Its compact size belies its impressive cutting capacity, and the multi-material blade has proven to be a true workhorse. While it’s not without its minor drawbacks, the R185SMS+ has earned a permanent spot in my workshop and job site toolkit.
Product Overview
The Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ is a 7-1/4″ compound sliding miter saw designed to cut through a variety of materials. Key features include:
– Powerful 10A motor with 3,700 RPM no-load speed
– Multi-material cutting capability (wood, mild steel, non-ferrous metals, plastic)
– 0° – 45° bevel cutting
– -50° – +50° miter cuts
– Adjustable depth stop
– Laser guide for improved accuracy
– 3-piece top clamp system
– Integrated carry handles
– Dust bag included
– 10-foot power cable
The saw arrives well-packaged in a sturdy cardboard box, with all components securely nestled in molded foam. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the saw’s compact size and solid construction. The package includes the saw unit, a 7-1/4″ 20-tooth TCT (Tungsten Carbide Tipped) blade, dust bag, and instruction manual.
Technical specifications:
– Max crosscut: 8-1/4″ x 2-1/4″
– Max bevel cut: 8-1/4″ x 1-1/2″
– Max miter cut: 5-3/4″ x 2-1/4″
– Max compound cut: 5-3/4″ x 1-1/2″
– Mild steel cutting capacity: 1/4″ (plate and box section)
– Product dimensions: 11-3/8″ x 23-1/2″ x 22-1/4″
– Weight: 19.7 lbs
The R185SMS+ stands out from traditional miter saws with its ability to cut mild steel and other metals, making it a versatile option for those who work with multiple materials.
Design and Build Quality
The Evolution R185SMS+ boasts a sleek and modern design that manages to look both professional and approachable. The predominantly silver and black color scheme gives it a clean, industrial appearance that wouldn’t look out of place in a high-end workshop or on a professional job site.
- MULTI-MATERIAL - Patented Evolution multi-material cutting technology, Premium tungsten carbide tipped (TCT) blade included cuts steel, aluminum, wood with embedded nails, plastic and more with virtually no sparks, heat or burrs when cutting mild steel
- 3 YEAR WARRANTY INCLUDED - This tool comes equipped with our best-in-class 3 year manufacturer's warranty
- MITER & BEVEL ANGLES - With 0 - 45 degrees bevel capacity and 50 - 50 degrees miter settings, this saw covers all common cutting angles
- POWERFUL - 1500 W optimized gearbox and blade system, increases motor and blade life to cut through a variety of materials with ease
- PLUS+ FEATURES - Premium TCT blade, laser cutting guide, carry handle, premium 3 piece clamp, dust collection bag
The saw’s body is constructed primarily from durable cast aluminum, which strikes an excellent balance between strength and weight. This choice of material contributes to the saw’s impressive portability while ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The table and fence are made of high-quality, precision-machined aluminum that provides a smooth, flat surface for accurate cuts.
One of the standout design features is the sliding mechanism. The dual linear rails are robust and operate smoothly, allowing for precise control during cuts. The rails are also well-protected from dust and debris, which should contribute to their longevity.
The ergonomics of the R185SMS+ are well thought out. The main handle is comfortable to grip and positioned for optimal control. The power trigger is responsive and easy to access, while the safety lock is conveniently located for quick engagement and disengagement.
The miter and bevel adjustment mechanisms are intuitive and easy to use. The miter scale is clearly marked and features positive stops at common angles, making it quick to set up for standard cuts. The bevel adjustment lever is easily accessible and locks securely in place.
I particularly appreciate the inclusion of integrated carry handles, which make transporting the saw between job sites or around the workshop a breeze. The compact design also means it takes up less space when stored, a significant advantage for those with limited workshop space.
The build quality extends to smaller details as well. The laser guide module feels sturdy and well-integrated, not like an afterthought. The dust collection port is thoughtfully designed, although like many miter saws, its effectiveness is somewhat limited.
Overall, the design and build quality of the Evolution R185SMS+ inspire confidence. It feels like a tool built to last, capable of handling both occasional DIY projects and more demanding professional use.
Performance and Functionality
In terms of performance, the Evolution R185SMS+ truly shines. Its 10A motor provides ample power for cutting through a variety of materials, and I’ve been consistently impressed by its capabilities.
Starting with wood, which is likely to be the most common application for many users, the saw performs admirably. It slices through both softwoods and hardwoods with ease, leaving clean, precise cuts. I’ve used it extensively for trimming baseboards, cutting crown molding, and even ripping through some thick oak boards. The cuts are consistently smooth, with minimal tear-out, even when cross-cutting.
Where this saw really sets itself apart is its ability to cut metal. I was initially skeptical about how well it would perform on steel, but it exceeded my expectations. The saw cut through 1/4″ mild steel plate with surprising ease, leaving a clean edge that required minimal finishing. It’s worth noting that while it can handle mild steel, it’s not recommended for hardened steel or stainless steel.
I’ve also used the saw to cut aluminum profiles and copper pipes, and it performed these tasks effortlessly. The ability to cut both wood and metal with the same saw and blade is a huge time-saver, especially on jobs where you’re working with multiple materials.
The laser guide is a standout feature, providing accurate alignment for cuts. It’s bright enough to be visible even in well-lit conditions, and I found it to be consistently accurate after a quick initial calibration.
The sliding mechanism works smoothly, allowing for larger crosscuts than you’d expect from a saw this size. The maximum 8-1/4″ crosscut capacity is generous for a 7-1/4″ saw and has been sufficient for most of my needs.
Bevel and miter adjustments are straightforward and lock securely in place. The positive stops at common angles are a time-saver, especially when working on repetitive cuts.
Compared to other miter saws I’ve used in this size range, the R185SMS+ stands out for its versatility and power. While it may not match the raw cutting capacity of larger 10″ or 12″ saws, its ability to handle multiple materials more than makes up for this in my opinion.
The dust collection system is perhaps the one area where performance is merely adequate rather than exceptional. While the included dust bag does capture a fair amount of debris, you’ll still want to use this saw in a well-ventilated area or connect it to a shop vac for optimal dust management.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile multi-material cutting capability
- Compact and portable design
- Powerful motor for its size
- Accurate laser guide
- Smooth sliding mechanism for larger crosscuts
Cons:
- Dust collection could be more effective
- Not suitable for cutting hardened steel or stainless steel
- May require upgrade to a finer-toothed blade for the cleanest wood cuts
User Experience
My day-to-day experience with the Evolution R185SMS+ has been overwhelmingly positive. The saw has become my go-to tool for a wide range of cutting tasks, from basic woodworking to more complex projects involving both wood and metal.
There was a slight learning curve when it came to cutting metal, as the technique differs somewhat from cutting wood. The key is to let the saw do the work and not force the cut. Once I got the hang of it, making clean cuts through steel became second nature.
The saw’s compact size and relatively light weight make it easy to move around the workshop or transport to job sites. I’ve found myself reaching for it even for small tasks where I might have previously used a circular saw, simply because it’s so convenient to set up and use.
Long-term usage has shown the saw to be durable and reliable. After several months of regular use, all mechanisms continue to function smoothly, and the blade has held up well. I’ve only had to replace the original blade once, which I consider reasonable given the variety of materials I’ve cut.
One aspect of the user experience that stands out is the saw’s versatility. Being able to switch from cutting baseboards to trimming steel brackets without changing tools or blades is a significant time-saver. This versatility has allowed me to take on a wider range of projects than I could with a traditional wood-only miter saw.
The laser guide has proven to be more than just a gimmick. It’s accurate and easy to see, which has improved my cutting precision, especially on more intricate jobs.
While the dust collection isn’t perfect, I’ve found that connecting the saw to a shop vac significantly improves this aspect. For outdoor use or in well-ventilated areas, the included dust bag is generally sufficient.
Overall, the R185SMS+ has integrated seamlessly into my workflow, enhancing my productivity and expanding the range of projects I can tackle efficiently.
Value for Money
Priced at $189.61 at the time of this review, the Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ offers exceptional value for money. When you consider its versatility, build quality, and performance, it stands out as a highly competitive option in its price range.
Compared to traditional single-material miter saws, the R185SMS+ offers significantly more functionality for a similar or often lower price. Many comparable 7-1/4″ sliding miter saws designed solely for wood cutting are priced similarly, making the Evolution saw’s multi-material capability an excellent bonus.
For professionals who regularly work with both wood and metal, this saw could potentially replace two separate tools, leading to cost savings and reduced tool clutter. For DIY enthusiasts, it opens up a world of project possibilities without requiring a significant investment in multiple specialized tools.
When comparing to other multi-material saws on the market, the R185SMS+ generally offers similar capabilities at a more accessible price point. While there are more powerful options available, they typically come with a much higher price tag and larger size, making the Evolution saw an attractive option for those who prioritize versatility and portability.
The saw’s durability also factors into its value proposition. Based on my experience and the solid build quality, I expect this tool to provide many years of reliable service, making it a sound long-term investment.
Consider also the cost savings on blades. The ability to use a single blade for multiple materials means you’ll spend less on specialized blades over time. The included TCT blade is of good quality and should last through many cuts before needing replacement.
In my opinion, the Evolution R185SMS+ represents an excellent investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a versatile, compact, and capable miter saw. Its ability to handle multiple materials efficiently, combined with its reasonable price point, makes it a standout value in the miter saw market.
Conclusion
After extensive use across a variety of projects, I can confidently say that the Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ 7-1/4″ Multi-Material Compound Sliding Miter Saw is an impressive and versatile tool that offers excellent value for money. Its ability to efficiently cut through wood, metal, and plastic with a single blade sets it apart from traditional miter saws and makes it an invaluable addition to any workshop or toolset.
The saw’s compact design, powerful motor, and thoughtful features like the laser guide and sliding mechanism make it suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as the somewhat inefficient dust collection, these are far outweighed by its strengths.
I would particularly recommend this saw to:
– DIY enthusiasts looking for a versatile tool to handle a wide range of projects
– Professionals who frequently work with both wood and metal, especially those who value portability
– Anyone with limited workshop space who needs a compact yet capable miter saw
For its price point, the R185SMS+ offers exceptional functionality and performance. It has certainly earned its place as one of my most-used and most-valued tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this saw cut pressure-treated lumber?
Yes, the R185SMS+ can cut pressure-treated lumber. However, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear and work in a well-ventilated area due to the chemicals in treated wood.
How loud is this saw during operation?
The saw operates at a noise level typical for power tools of its class. While not excessively loud, hearing protection is recommended during prolonged use.
Can the blade be replaced with a standard 7-1/4″ circular saw blade?
While the saw accepts standard 7-1/4″ blades, it’s recommended to use Evolution’s multi-material blades for optimal performance and safety, especially when cutting metal.
Is this saw suitable for cutting aluminum?
Yes, the R185SMS+ handles aluminum very well. It’s great for cutting aluminum extrusions, profiles, and sheets up to 1/4″ thick.
How effective is the dust collection system?
The included dust bag provides adequate collection for light use. For better dust management, especially indoors, connecting the saw to a shop vac is recommended.
Can this saw make dado cuts?
This saw is not designed for dado cuts. It’s primarily intended for straight, miter, and bevel cuts across various materials.
Is the laser guide battery-powered or corded?
The laser guide is powered by the saw’s main power supply, so there’s no need for separate batteries.
Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ 7-1/4" Multi-Material Compound Sliding Miter Saw Plus
9 used from $174.83
The Review
Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+
The Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ 7-1/4" Multi-Material Compound Sliding Miter Saw is a versatile and powerful tool that offers exceptional value for money. Its ability to cut wood, metal, and plastic with a single blade sets it apart from traditional miter saws. The compact design, smooth sliding mechanism, and accurate laser guide enhance its usability. While the dust collection could be improved, the saw's overall performance, build quality, and versatility make it an excellent choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. It's particularly well-suited for those who frequently work with multiple materials or have limited workshop space. At its price point, the R185SMS+ represents a smart investment for anyone seeking a capable and adaptable miter saw.
Review Breakdown
-
Features
-
Design and construction
-
Performance
-
Price
-
Ease of use
Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ DEALS
We collect information from many stores for best price available
Amazon.com
