For years, I wrestled with inefficient and cumbersome cutting methods for various projects around the house and workshop. Cutting metal, wood, and plastic always felt like a major undertaking, often requiring multiple tools and a significant amount of time. This inefficiency frustrated me, especially when tackling smaller projects that deserved a more precise and manageable approach. I knew a portable band saw like the Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw (Tool Only) P590 would have been a lifesaver, making those tasks significantly easier and faster.
- 2-1/2 in. cut capacity for a wider range of applications, Designed to cut wood, metal, or plastic
- Integrated pommel handle delivers more comfort and increased visibility
- 560 SFPM for quick cuts in all materials
Pre-Purchase Considerations: Choosing the Right Portable Band Saw
The market offers a wide array of portable band saws, each designed to tackle different materials and project sizes. Before investing in a Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw, consider your specific needs. What materials will you be cutting most frequently? What’s your budget? Do you need a corded or cordless model? A cordless option like the Ryobi P590 offers portability, but you need to factor in battery life and charging time. If you’re working on large-scale projects, a more powerful corded saw might be preferable. Furthermore, consider the cut capacity—the Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw boasts a 2.5-inch capacity, which is suitable for many tasks but might not be sufficient for larger pieces. Think carefully about your typical project size before purchasing.
- 2.8-amp motor rotates the blade up to 2500 feet per minute
Introducing the Ryobi P590: A Closer Look
The Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw P590 is a compact, lightweight cordless band saw designed for various cutting applications. Its primary selling point is its portability and versatility, allowing users to cut wood, metal, and plastic with relative ease. It’s marketed as a tool for DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a portable solution for smaller-scale projects. While it may not match the power of larger, corded band saws, its cordless nature and ease of use make it an excellent choice for many. Compared to previous Ryobi models, the P590 offers improved blade tensioning and a more ergonomic design. It’s a direct competitor to similar cordless models from other brands but often offers a more competitive price point.
Pros:
* Lightweight and portable
* Versatile for various materials (wood, metal, plastic)
* Relatively easy to use
* Compact storage
* Affordable
Cons:
* Battery and charger sold separately
* Limited cut capacity (2.5 inches)
* Blade changes can be slightly fiddly initially
Unpacking the Features and Benefits of the Ryobi P590
Portability and Ease of Use
The Ryobi P590‘s defining feature is its portability. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to transport and use in various locations. This portability is a huge advantage for DIY enthusiasts working on projects outside of their workshop or for professionals who need a portable solution on the job site. The integrated pommel handle provides enhanced control and comfort during use, minimizing hand fatigue during extended work sessions. This ease of use extends to the simple blade changing mechanism, although it might take a few tries to master.
Cutting Power and Versatility
The Ryobi P590 is designed to cut through wood, metal, and plastic. Its 560 SFPM (surface feet per minute) blade speed ensures relatively quick cuts in all materials. While not as powerful as larger corded models, it handles most DIY tasks efficiently. The 2.5-inch cut capacity, while limiting, is still sufficient for a wide range of applications, from plumbing to woodworking projects. The blade itself is a crucial element, and I found the alloy steel blade provided good cutting performance across all three materials, ensuring clean and accurate cuts, even in harder materials.
The Ryobi ONE+ System Integration
Being part of the Ryobi ONE+ system is a significant advantage. This means the Ryobi P590 uses the same 18-volt battery as many other Ryobi tools. If you already own other ONE+ tools, you won’t need to buy additional batteries. This is not only convenient but also cost-effective in the long run. The ability to swap batteries between tools is a huge time-saver and simplifies the overall workflow.
Blade Tensioning and Adjustments
The blade tensioning mechanism on the Ryobi P590, while initially slightly tricky, is crucial for optimal performance. Properly adjusted blade tension is essential for clean cuts and to prevent blade breakage. Once I understood the adjustment process (which involves the small set screws beneath the blade), I was able to achieve the perfect tension, leading to significant improvements in cutting quality and overall performance. This is a detail that is often overlooked but can significantly impact a user’s experience.
What Other Users Are Saying
Numerous online reviews praise the Ryobi P590‘s portability and ease of use. Many users highlight its versatility for cutting various materials, noting its efficiency on smaller-scale projects. Positive feedback often emphasizes the tool’s value for money. However, some users acknowledge the limited cut capacity and the need to purchase the battery and charger separately.
Final Verdict: Is the Ryobi P590 Right for You?
The Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 2.5 in. Portable Band Saw P590 effectively solves the problem of inefficient cutting for smaller projects. Its portability, versatility, and ease of use make it a valuable tool for DIYers and professionals alike. While it has some limitations, such as the need to purchase batteries and charger separately and a more limited cut capacity, its affordability and integration into the Ryobi ONE+ system makes it a compelling option. If you’re looking for a portable and convenient solution for cutting wood, metal, and plastic on smaller projects, click here to check it out and experience the difference yourself!
Last update on 2025-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API