Ridgid's R3203 FUEGO 6-1/2-Inch Compact Framing Saw is quick on the cut and streamlined in design, yet it packs all the strength and durability of larger models. Powered by a 12-amp motor and weighing 8 pounds, Ridgid claims this lightweight tool is the world's fastest and lightest framing saw, boasting speeds up to 41-percent faster while weighing 25-percent lighter than the nearest competitor. The R3203 is certainly the fastest and lightest framing saw we've ever tested, with a smooth cut and impressive power. This saw cuts through just about anything, from plywood and sheet stock to doors. In fact, the R3203 can cut finished 2x material at a 45-degree angle in a single pass, which, for the uninitiated, is very good.

The R3203 comes with several high-performance features, such as a quick-release design for fast bevel adjustments, full-length front and rear kerf indicators for added cutting precision and an 18-tooth kerf carbide-tipped blade for smoother crosscuts and rip cuts, as well as longer life. This unit is also extremely durable, with upper and lower blade guards built of lightweight magnesium for greater strength, as well as a high-strength yet ultra-light composite shoe designed to withstand up to a one-story drop.

The design is sleek and ergonomic, with a wrap-around soft-grip handle. An integrated dust blower keeps the cut line clear, and the blade line is easy to see. Other features we like include ratcheting lock levers that can be secured in multiple positions, an easily accessible depth-adjustment lever and externally accessible brushes. The R3203 also has a generous 12-foot rubber cord to give you plenty of room to work, and the lighted plug tells you when the tool is live by displaying a backlit icon of the tool.

The R3203 comes with the carbide-tipped blade, an on-board hex wrench and a heavy-duty contractor bag. Any way you cut it, the Ridgid R3203 FUEGO 6-1/2-Inch Compact Framing Saw gets high marks from us all the way around.


Pros: Sleek and lightweight framing saw is powerful enough to cut through just about anything, full-length front and rear kerf indicators, magnesium upper and lower blade guards and high-strength composite shoe for maximum durability, 0- to 50-degree bevel capacity with 45-degree positive stop, ratcheting lock levers, depth-adjustment lever easy to use, 12-foot rubber cord with cord wrap and lighted plug
Cons: None

Warranty
3 years, limited