If you enjoy doing some home improvement and maintenance projects in your free time, the tools you invest in can affect the ease with which you work and the quality of your projects. A band saw is one versatile machine every novice or experienced DIYer must have. It helps you make fast, accurate cuts on many materials with minimal waste. You can use the Ryobi P590 portable saw for DYI creatively to develop uniquely designed shelves, furniture, ornaments, or gifts. Here is a detailed review of this handy tool covering its specifications, features, and uses to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Ryobi P590 18V One+ 2-1/2″ Band Saw
Description and Specifications
Ryobi portable saws are high-quality, high capacity, versatile tools perfect for regular use. The Ryobi P590 band saw has an adjustable blade tracking that can fit 32-7/8″ blades to cut wood, metal, or plastics. It’s easy to change the blades for this model. You only need to tilt the tension release lever at about 180 degrees, then take the blade out of the rollers and pulleys. After placing a new blade in place, you push back the lever and are ready to go.
The band saw also has an ergonomic design. You will love the comfortable pommel handle that helps you make a stable, accurate cut. This Ryobi band saw comes with a hanging hook that allows for easy storage. It also has a sturdy base that controls vibrations and helps you quickly cut the materials. Other significant specifications in this model include:
Battery, Capacity, and Power Output
This band saw runs on Ryobi one+ 18V Lithium-Ion 4.0 Ah Battery. The battery provides three times more runtime than the standard 1.5 Ah lithium-ion battery. It increases the band saw’s torque by 15% and can hold charge four times longer. The Ryobi one+ 18V Lithium-Ion battery has a robust construction that protects it from impact. It also delivers consistent power even in harsh weather conditions.
The Lithium-Ion chemical composition helps prevent drainage when you leave the battery idle for a long time. Another great thing about the battery is that it has an LED fuel gauge that lets you monitor the amount of charge left before you begin working. It easily snaps into the band saw, and you only need to press the quick release latch to detach it. The battery also comes with a three-year warranty and an operator’s manual. You can use any 18V ONE+ Charger to recharge the battery, but you buy it separately.
Ryobi P590 portable band saw has a cut capacity of 2-1/2″, perfect for cutting through gas pipes, solid steel, threaded rod, ducts, and electrical conduit. The brushed motor moves the blades at 560 Surface Feet per Minute (SFPM), an incredible cutting speed. It has roughly twice higher tooth engagement than a reciprocating saw, so you will notice that it quickly and smoothly cuts through plumbing and even metallic surfaces.
This Ryobi portable saw for DYI also comes with a pair of 18 TPI blades that give you a smooth cut. With the 18V battery, you can make about 100 cuts on a single charge.
Dimensions and Weight
Ryobi P590 band saw weighs about 5.59 pounds. That means it’s sturdy enough to stand its ground as you pass tough materials through the blade yet light enough to take off the worktable after use. Most parts contain high-quality plastic with metal parts strategically placed. This makes the band saw lightweight, so you can easily lift, swing, and move it in and out of tight spaces without straining your arm.
The band saw’s dimensions are 20.5″ x 12.5″ x 10.5′. It has a 2.5″ throat size, the distance from the blade to the frame. So, you will have enough space to cut through wider materials and maneuver a workpiece to make intricate cuts. With the band saw, you can use thinner blades to make scrolling cuts and the wider ones for straight cuts and resaws on hardwood chunks.
Noise and Safety
When cutting objects, the band saw produces fewer vibrations on the blade compared to other models. You can still communicate with another person in the work space without too much strain. However, you will need hearing protection if you’ll be using the tool for an extended period.
Trapped sawdust between the pulleys and blades, wobbly blades, ill-fitting belts, and poorly running wheels may intensify the noise. You can reduce the machine’s vibrations by checking the blades and bearing conditions before use.
Regarding safety features, the integrated pommel handle allows for accurate cuts while keeping your hand from the blades. The power switches help you turn off the item when not in use to keep children from accidentally activating the saw. A switch trigger also prevents the band saw from starting accidentally. Ryobi P590 band saw also has a convenient onboard LED light that helps improve visibility in dark work areas.
Certifications and Warranty
Ryobi P590 band saw is a UL-listed tool in compliance with the safety and energy-efficient standards. The manufacturer also offers a three-year limited warranty if you use the band saw for household projects. During this period, the manufacturer covers the repairs or replacement cost for defective parts. The owner pays for the expenses incurred in delivering the item to the service center and returning it.
However, the warranty doesn’t cover faults due to misuse of the tool, negligence, or accidents while using the band saw contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions. It also doesn’t cover malfunctions due to improper maintenance or natural wear and tear.
Ryobi has a 90-day return policy within which you can return a defective band saw to the dealer you purchased it from for a replacement. You will need to present proof of purchase.
Common Problems and Parts
Ryobi portable saws are handy tools, but some users experience problems after use. Some of the common issues include:
- The Blades Coming Off the Wheel
The blades may become loose due to natural wear and tear after years of use. The solution is to tighten or replace them. A dull blade also struggles to cut through the material, and it may slip off if you exert excess pressure. Observe how the blade operates, or touch it with your fingernail. If it slides smoothly, replace it with a sharp one. The blades may also come off if the wheel wobbles. This happens due to worn-out bearings. As the wheel shifts back and forth, it can knock out the blades. You can try tightening the wheel by spinning it. If this doesn’t work, replace the bearings.
- The Band Saw Won’t Turn On
If your Ryobi band saw fails to turn on, it could be due to an inadequate power supply or a faulty on-and-off switch. You might need to fix the connection or replace the switch.
- The Band Saw Blade May Wander
The band saw blade might wander if you fail to install it correctly. A dull blade cuts crookedly, and worn-out wheels may also cause the blade to wander around. You can resolve this by replacing the wheels or blade. If your band saw breaks down and you need to replace some parts, you will find a wide range of spare parts at Amazon, Ryobi, and The Home Depot. Always have the bandsaw serviced by a qualified technician and replaced with identical parts to ensure safe and efficient operation.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Battery/Charger Cord Length | Charger Not Included |
| Blade Size | 32-7/8″ |
| Tool Bag | Not Included |
| Saw Drive Type | Compact |
| Motor Type | Brushed |
| Weight | 7.35 lbs. |
| Accessories / Extra Features | Keyless Blade Change,Lockout Power Switch,No Tool Blade Change |
| Certifications | UL Listed |
| Warranty | 3-years (Limited) |
Price
The price range for the Ryobi P590 band saw is approximately $110 to $149. This band saw offers great value for your money since it cuts through different materials fast, with high accuracy and reduced vibrations. Other brands like DeWalt or Bosch have similar perks like ease of use, comfortable grip, precise cuts, and quick blade changing. Therefore, the Ryobi P590 band saw is a relatively inexpensive tool with most of the qualities of premium models. This is one of the best portable band saws on the market, considering that most DIY tools pros like Craftsman, Hart, and Skil haven’t yet developed a portable band saw to compare.
What Are Consumers Saying About The Ryobi P590?
Most consumers acknowledge the band saw’s excellent performance. It works flawlessly and gives smooth cuts. They find it easy to use, convenient, and lightweight. It’s also sizable enough to handle most household projects. The band saw is easy to clean, and its battery life is pretty good.
Others find it very efficient and cost effective. They appreciate the soft, comfortable, centered handle position that promotes optimal balance. It’s also effortless to set up and performs excellently in tight spots. Most consumers consider it a worthy investment for the price, and they highly recommend it. Here is a summary of the portable band saw’s reviews.
Pros
- Impeccable cutting speed
- Cuts a variety of materials
- Budget-friendly
- A convenient option
- Allows for tool-free blade change
Cons
- Lacks a pivoting stand
- Has a slightly smaller opening
Ryobi P590 18V One+ 2-1/2″ Band Saw
Additional Resources:
Is the Ryobi P590 for You?
Ryobi P590 can benefit any woodworker, electrician, or plumber who wants to make smooth, precise cuts. Since it’s a portable saw, it’s a perfect option for a hobbyist with limited work space. Imagine you are doing a project and would want to cut a thin board into halves and make intricate cuts like curves, shapes, and angles on each board. You might need different saws to complete such a project, but with the Ryobi band saw’s versatility, you can accomplish the task with a single tool.
If you do a lot of ripping in your projects and want to gain total control over the actions, the Ryobi P590 18V One+ 2-1/2″ Band Saw will benefit you. This is also a vital tool for a beginner since it can help you complete various projects before you build up your tool collection. You can use the tool to make photo frames, children’s toys, boxes, chairs, cabinetry, and shelving.
If you have come across a guide on how to choose a portable saw, you probably have noted that size is a significant consideration since it affects the type of projects you can do with your tool. Ryobi P590 band saw is great for smaller spaces and strong enough to handle simple commercial projects. It also has a powerful motor to cut through thick wood pieces easily. With this tool, you can use a 14 TPI blade to cut plastics and wood, 18 TPI for soft metal, and 24 TPI blades on hard metals. The small blade width of 0.5″ is excellent for making curved cuts.
Why Choose Ryobi?
Ryobi is a renowned tool brand that provides reliable and competitively priced products for homeowners, DIYers, and even professional contractors. The brand has gained vast popularity in the previous years due to the production of the 8V One+ battery system that allows people to use a single battery in over 260 different cordless tools. They have high-quality, durable tools, a vast collection of accessories, and good warranties with comprehensive coverage. Check out more benefits of Ryobi power tools below.
Since the band saw quickly cuts electrical conduits and metals, it can also cut through bones and frozen meat. However, you may want to try using food-grade stainless-steel blades.
Ryobi P590 18V One+ 2-1/2″ can make straight-line cuts in high carbon steel, metal pipes, plastics, and wooden posts up to 2.5″.
Ryobi P590 runs on the Ryobi 18V One+ battery that you can use with other standard power and garden tools to avoid paying for different batteries and chargers for each tool.
Ryobi P590 band saw is one of the safest machines, but it can still cause injuries when misused. Wear safety glasses as required, and don’t touch the blades while running the tool.
Mark the surface you want to cut, place the saw blade against the mark, squeeze the trigger to start the saw, and then hold it with both hands. Remember to turn off the tool after use.
When you’re using it for light projects, the battery can last up to four hours when fully charged. It can last about an hour for heavy-duty work.
Ryobi band saw doesn’t come with a battery. You will need to buy its battery and charger separately.