The Evolution Power Tools R185CCS-Li Circular Saw is a versatile, cordless 18V saw designed to provide the freedom and flexibility that DIYers and professionals alike seek in a power tool. With a brushless motor, lightweight design, and impressive cutting capabilities, this circular saw offers a well-rounded solution for wood, metal, and plastic cutting tasks. Let’s dive into its features, performance, pros, and cons.
Key Features
Brushless Motor:
The brushless motor provides improved efficiency and a longer lifespan. This means more power and less maintenance, giving you better cutting performance and longer runtime per charge.
18V Cordless Freedom:
The 18V battery (sold separately) offers cordless convenience, allowing you to work anywhere without being tethered to a power outlet. It's part of the Evolution cordless tool platform, so you can interchange batteries with other tools in the same range.
185mm Blade with Multi-Material Cutting:
Equipped with a 185mm blade, the saw is capable of cutting through various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic, making it versatile for a range of applications. It’s especially useful for users who need a single tool that can handle different types of materials in one project.
Depth and Bevel Adjustment:
The cutting depth can be adjusted up to 64mm at 90 degrees and 42mm at 45 degrees, giving it plenty of range for most woodworking and general construction tasks. It also allows for 0-45° bevel cutting, providing more flexibility for angled cuts.
Ergonomic Design:
The tool is designed with user comfort in mind. It has an ergonomic handle for improved grip and control during cutting, and its relatively lightweight construction (just 3.2kg) reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
Laser Guide:
A built-in laser guide helps ensure straight and precise cuts, making it easier for users to stay on track without relying solely on sightlines.
Dust Extraction:
The saw includes a dust extraction port, which helps keep your workspace cleaner by directing sawdust away from the cutting area, reducing the mess and improving visibility.
Performance
Power and Cutting Ability:
The brushless motor delivers solid power for a cordless tool, providing a smooth and efficient cutting experience. It’s capable of cutting through hardwood, softwood, mild steel, aluminum, and even plastic with the supplied multi-material blade. Whether you're cutting decking boards or sheet metal, the R185CCS-Li handles the task with relative ease.
For woodworking, it offers clean and accurate cuts, and the laser guide adds extra precision. When cutting metal, the saw produces minimal heat and burrs, which is a big plus when dealing with materials that can warp or deform under heat.
Battery Life and Efficiency:
As with any cordless tool, battery life depends on the material being cut and the intensity of the job. When using an Evolution 18V battery (not included), the saw offers a decent runtime, though heavy-duty cutting tasks may deplete the battery faster. The brushless motor's efficiency does help in maximizing the runtime compared to traditional brushed motors.
Ease of Use:
The ergonomic design and lightweight construction make the R185CCS-Li easy to handle, even for extended periods. The adjustable depth and bevel make it suitable for a variety of cuts, from straight to angled. The laser guide is a useful feature, especially for beginners, as it helps maintain accuracy during long cuts.
Portability:
Being cordless, this saw is highly portable, allowing you to work on-site without worrying about power sources. The 18V battery keeps it lightweight while still delivering sufficient power for most standard DIY and professional jobs.
Pros of the Evolution R185CCS-Li Circular Saw
Brushless Motor: Provides more power, longer tool life, and better battery efficiency compared to brushed motors.
Cordless Convenience: No need to be near a power outlet, making it perfect for on-site work or outdoor projects.
Multi-Material Cutting: Capable of cutting wood, metal, and plastic with the same blade, adding versatility.
Laser Guide: Improves cutting accuracy and makes it easier to follow straight lines.
Depth and Bevel Adjustment: Offers flexibility for a range of cuts, including angled and deeper cuts.
Dust Extraction: Helps maintain a cleaner workspace and better visibility during cutting.
Ergonomic and Lightweight: Easy to handle, even during extended use, reducing fatigue.
Cons of the Evolution R185CCS-Li Circular Saw
Battery Sold Separately: The 18V battery is not included with the tool, which adds to the overall cost, especially if you’re not already using Evolution's battery system.
Battery Life: Heavy-duty cutting tasks can deplete the battery relatively quickly, so having a spare or larger capacity battery is recommended for bigger jobs.
Limited Blade Size: The 185mm blade is standard for most jobs but may not be sufficient for larger or deeper cuts compared to larger circular saws.
Best Use Cases
DIY Home Projects: Ideal for home improvement tasks like cutting timber for furniture, trimming decking boards, or installing shelves.
On-Site Construction Work: The cordless design makes it suitable for professionals who need to work on-site without constant access to power outlets.
Metal and Plastic Cutting: Its multi-material blade adds versatility for projects that require cutting more than just wood.
Final Verdict
The Evolution Power Tools R185CCS-Li Circular Saw is an excellent option for anyone looking for a cordless, versatile, and user-friendly saw. Its brushless motor provides powerful and efficient cutting performance, while the multi-material blade makes it ideal for a range of projects. While the need to purchase the battery separately might be a downside, the overall performance and ease of use make this saw a worthwhile investment for both DIYers and professionals.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
The Evolution R185CCS-Li stands out with its combination of power, versatility, and cordless convenience. The laser guide and depth adjustments add to its precision, making it a top choice for users who need a reliable saw for various cutting tasks across different materials. With the only minor drawback being the separately sold battery, it’s a tool that will satisfy most users in terms of functionality and ease of use.