Evolution Power tools chop saw review

[@michaelyoung3746]

I ‘ve owned one of these for 18 months. It stopped working and I called them. They sent me a return shipping label. I shipped it off and in one week I received the saw back completely rebuilt and running better than brand new. I cannot sing the praise of Evolution saws loud enough.

[@marbles430]

New toys are always nice. Great to see that suppliers recognise your integrity and the trust that subscribers have in you is worth their giving you the opportunity to assess their kit.

[@williamsultana3848]

Hi John, im glad you got your free saw because you deserve it because you give out so much information for free.

[@mftmachining]

I have one of those. My 34 year old Stayer TD305 is still goin strong with no bangin, ratteling or shakin inside. I simply love it.

[@thelibertyworkshop2952]

I also have an Evolution saw , and I like it ... One thing I noticed is that no , it doesn't put the dust in the air , but it throws shards instead of particles ...

[@nickarello5266]

After watching your videos for several months I have to say your videos are so relaxing. I often use your videos to go to sleep. You remind me a lot of my grandpa. Thank you for your videos sir.

[@hillviewfarmcookstown1682]

I have this saw two months and it's a brilliant tool no workshop is complete without one 😁👌

[@jjppres]

Really glad you have finally gotten the opportunity to try one of these. I have had one for a little over a year now and it is really a game changer in your shop. Enjoy John!

[@armadilloforge]

I have had one of these saws for a few years. It is a workhorse. Your going to love it....

[@ph1ber0ptik]

How is the blade life?

[@bulldogg4]

I have wanted one of these saws for a few years now the thing looks awesome to use.

[@MrAtaripitbull]

I just bought this model and can't wait to use it. I had a cheap harbor freight abrasive saw and I actually did it's job, but lots of mess, made the metal very hot and didn't always make a perfect cut. Always had to hit my edges with a bench grinder.

[@jimhagler2242]

You will love that saw. I started using a different brand about 8 years ago and have literally cut over 10,000 pieces. The unique thing is you can cut just 1/32” or less and still have a square cut. Looks like a quality tool. Congratulations....Jim in Texas

[@raygonzales668]

I bought my fury3 when they first hit the market. I love it. It’s been years and I am ordering my first replacement blade. I just love it

[@DBacaMaker]

A new blade AFTER years of use?! That sells it for me!

[@vaughanreigner6042]

I have had one for about 2 years now and i have went through 3 blades on it. It chews through everything and anything including HARDOX and abrasive resistant steel quite effectively. I made all my cutoff and a lot of punches from grader and snowplow blades. only issue I have had is the screws on the blade guard have come loose a time or 2 but that is nothing that i would look at it badly for considering the abuse i put it through. Cut everything up to 2" solid 4140 round bar for hammer blanks and 1.25" 5160 square bar I make tomahawks out of. Chews through it and keeps asking for more. Hope you enjoy using it as much as I do mine.

[@BlackBearForge]

Wow, You're cutting a lot of stuff i would have thought it wouldn't cut. Are you annealing the grader blades first?

[@dancrampton]

Hey Vaughan - funny you should mention the screws (bolts) coming loose on the blade guard. My Evolution is a model Rage 2, and I just had one of the bolts on the blade guard come loose. It has worked flawlessly for me for 2 or 3 years. Although I haven't used it continuously, I do use it frequently. It looks like it's going to be a real pain to get at. I got the blade off and the inner blade flange off and it looks like I will have to go and buy a "lock ring spreader" tool to get the lock ring off that is holding the guard on. Is this how you went about fixing yours?

[@joelegrand5903]

@@dancrampton As You know Blue locktight works wonders on loose screws.

[@dancrampton]

@@joelegrand5903 Yeah, I intend to put some locktight on it when I manage to get at the loose bolt. Might call Evolution in an hour or so and get their advice.

[@vaughanreigner6042]

@@BlackBearForge nope, no annealing. I do switch out for a used blade before I cut the cutting edge, I won't use it on a new blade for the same reason I won't use a brand new grinder belt to grind off millscale. The only thing mine had an issue cutting was a 5ft pinch point pry bar. That is some seriously tough stuff if not annealed

[@jockstewart8793]

I have an Evolution Fury 3 and it is my guilty secret - I cut everything with it. It feels 'wrong' dropping a mitre saw into steel but it works beautifully. I bought a spare blade assuming I would have to replace it fairly soon but it is still in it's packaging and the original blade goes on and on.

[@faelwolf1177]

I know, the first time you cut with this it feels like you're using a wood saw on metal, and there's that little gut twinge. But after that you can't help but smile every time you use it. :) I debated getting this, now I won't part with it! (Pardon the pun LOL)

[@mftmachining]

@@faelwolf1177 i know that effect....same here

[@gregmoser2086]

I'm glad to see people wearing protection while cutting. Safety glasses are the obvious, but dust and hearing protection are ideal for long term prevention from lung and hearing issues. Keep up the good work!

[@bobhumphries3998]

I purchased a DeWalt cold cut chop saw years ago and am very happy with it. That being said, I think the Evolution saw is a superior product. Great review John, thanks for posting.

[@TheJACKCOLORADO]

After viewing this video a few weeks ago I went to Evolution's website. I wound up ordering a miter saw from them with the same blade as your chop saw. I am very pleased with it and I am glad I saw your video. I learn a lot from you. I'll see you on the next RMS Zoom demo. Until then, happy new year!

[@robbullis5025]

John I have one of those on my job site I work for a large Minnesota Electrical utility. My crew varies from 5 to 15 guys we have been using that saw for a couple years now. I maybe replace the blade twice a year, on thin flat stack it is best to cut it flat. On edge it tends to grab too much. We are very happy with it.

[@paulspears8888]

I bought one of these 7 or 8 years ago and love it!!! does not sling chips and grinding powder every where and only turns 1700 rpm!!! you will really like it!!!! In s. Georgia these saws and blades can be found at Tom Horne supply in Thomasville, Georgia. I am sure they will be happy to ship them to you!! Paul Spears

[@GadYaHoVaHswarrior]

Awesome review! I'm old enough to remember the days before chop saws even existed or they were way to expensive to afford in a small shop! And when these types of cold cut chop saws started to show up I too was skeptical, But watching you cut with this saw, wow! I'm a believer lol! Awesome review John, great job!

[@tinkmarshino]

Well.. that looks like a tool to look into.. I work mostly with wood but sometimes I need a good cutter for mild steel and such.. Plus wood with nails.. I will have to check into this one John.. thanks..

[@JimG31547]

Great review and boy did you make some hook of the week supplies.

[@steelpennyforge5152]

I have the step down from this one and I have been using it for a couple years as a hobbyist. I am just as impressed with it for lighter use. Super fast and I like being able to cut at angles with a pretty good degree of accuracy. Enjoy the new toy!

[@beewon8334]

Yep got 1 the other day and cut a 5'' rod bar in less then 2 mins. for building a power hammer base it is that good!

[@GibClark]

I have had mine for several years and dont regret the purchase one bit . Slightly different as its older

[@faelwolf1177]

I own one of these, great little saw for fab work, especially if you need an accurate angle. It's the Cadillac of home/small shop cold saws at a reasonable price. Really, the next step up from this is a water cooled industrial saw, and who would need one of those at home? You can get cheaper ones, with a cheap stamped base, etc. but the cost difference isn't really that big, I'd recommend this over one of the Chinese specials. For blacksmithing, it's likely overkill, as a horizontal bandsaw can fill that need for less money, especially if you like being able to just set and forget or cut material in bulk. Just be aware that the carbide teeth can chip, so don't try to hog through a cut, and don't let a pipe rotate or angle iron flip on you, think your set up through before cutting, and keep some support blocks on hand. The blades can be resharpened, or you can buy spares at Home Depot (Diablo brand) at a good price. This is an industrial grade saw, if taken care of, it will last a hobbyist a lifetime, and likely his kid's lifetime too.

[@richardsolomon8076]

Awesome review John and wonderful that you have a new tool in the shop :-) very nice

[@dwylhq874]

Bought one based on this excellent review + demo. Thanks John. Instant Sub. ❤

[@BlackBearForge]

Welcome aboard!

[@elmermainville4429]

Great review, I'm really glad you're enjoying your new saw, you deserve it!! As I mentioned before, I have the sliding mitre saw R255-SMS and lol, my reaction was the same as your's... WOWWW!! It's a game-changer for sure and will change your shop around to accomodate it. Great review! Enjoy it sir!!

[@mitchelperkins6723]

There is another KZbinr who actually does cut a piece of Train track on one of these. Making Stuff I think is his channel name. It went through the rail pretty easily. I cut annealed 4140 bar 1" x 2" fairly regularly. It doesn't seem to affect blade life. I bought a spare blade when I bought mine about a year ago. It's still hanging on the wall. The secret to blade life is make sure it is up to full speed, and only apply enough pressure that it keeps steady progress without any noticable slowing of the motor.

[@BlackBearForge]

Thanks for the info

[@northernfool7453]

Good morning John, I really enjoy your videos and always look forward to them. I got messed up in September and these videos have been keeping me occupied since. When I get back on my feet that saw will be my next tool purchase.Thanks bud!

[@bikerbob1980]

Great in depth review! Thanks.

[@vaughanreigner6042]

I have also used the FEIN Slugger blades from grainger and I got a little longer life out of them on alloyed and tool steel by using the smaller toothed stainless blades

[@rdankers1138]

Vaughan Reigner yep! I was going to say the same thing and Diablo makes a cermeted carbide blade that I have had even a little better luck with! Either of those are (in my opinion) better than the Evo blades.

[@sunqwest1]

Just like a big boy with some new tools.Always fun to get new tools that work...nice impressive thanks for sharing

[@charlessageii2220]

Thats is sweeeet John! I saw my first evolution saw in the gentleman's forge over at old hickory forge. With you being as big of a Milwaukee fan that you are im surprised that you dont have one of theirs.

[@BlackBearForge]

I haven't looked into one of these previously. So I didn't even know I wanted one until they sent it out.

[@charlessageii2220]

Well the first time I used one was about 11yrs ago. I used their skill saw first then their chop saw. Smooth like butter my man.

[@DBacaMaker]

WOW! Like you, the last chop saw I ever used was an abrasive wheel with minimal safety features and I used it on cast iron waste pipe for historical buildings in NYC. THIS would have been amazing to use. And considering how long, by the comments below, the blades last I would completely consider this to be the next saw. Thank you for this practical review.

[@Jasoncohenour]

Nice review. I just purchased one line that one and it cost a LOT more than $188 dollars. Try about 475, for a top of the line 380. However, I’m glad to get one as they are in short supply. -- Covided.....

[@joelegrand5903]

I hate the dust from abrasive blades, would not use one for free. As always good video, very detailed, cut & touch test looked great. For under $400.00 it is a good deal & when I prochase one I will tell them you sent me. Thanks.

[@cutweldngrind]

Well it might be time for me to pick one of these out. I been using abrasive cutting disc and plasma cutters mostly.

[@kensmapleleafretirement]

Wow, Imagine if that blade lasts 50 to 1. It would be well worth it to buy them and stick it in my old saw. Good chat. Thank you for making the video and the chat.

[@rdankers1138]

Ken's Maple Leaf Forge, That would be nice except for the carbide blade on these cold saws spin at a much lower RPM... if you put it in an abrasive saw or a miter saw for wood you would burn the blade up extremely fast.

[@kensmapleleafretirement]

@@rdankers1138 Makes sense... Thanks....

[@j-jfabrication]

I have had a cold cut saw for years now the only thing that I have found not to cut is rebar. the dissimilar metals in the mix ( hard and soft steels )cause the carbide teeth to chip or pop off due to the fast reduction in blade speed when the teeth hit the hard bits in the bar. other than that I have got hundreds of cuts in all types of metals per blade. also if you are seeing lots of sparks when cutting you are pulling to hard on the saw blade.

[@shortfuse43]

Mike, thanks a million for pointing out the negative on cutting rebar. I myself, and probably a lot of folks, would have thought this saw would be ideal for cutting rebar. If I get one of the Evolution saws, I surely won't be cutting rebar!!

[@olddawgdreaming5715]

Great review John, that saw will be a helper around the shop. Thanks for sharing with us and catch you later. Fred.

[@douglasfathers4848]

Hi John I have a old 9 inch grinder I made a swing frame for I've been using it as a drop saw for about 2 years ,but after watching what this saw can do and how clean it cuts I will be looking at buying one very soon.all so the safety factors are a must have .I hope the tool companies keep sending you tools to test . cheers

[@johnthake7401]

Hi I have those type of chop saw I was quite nervous in cutting metal what looks like a wood saw blade as I had vision of a wood saw blade hitting a nail inbeded in a old wood beam but once I got the confidence to cut metal I am not so nervous

[@arfamortis1]

I've had an Evolution 'skilsaw' for 20 years, I cut steel plate from 1/8 up to 5/8, it's really fast cutting with minimal cleanup. I rarely use my plasma cutter for straight line work simply because there's no grinding needed, my chop saw is used for all bar and tube cutting.

[@ph1ber0ptik]

How is the blade life?

[@davidoliver2826]

The saws cool but what you rode in on is even cooler! Man, can I be your neighbor?🤣 Love your show John! Thanks again for taking us all on your journey!

[@BlackBearForge]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aF7QnJKppLanotE

[@jojomama4787]

Evolution sends tool for review,you give it some airtime,you keep tool...sounds like a great deal to me!Plus it's a good tool,I have one!

[@Lesnz2009]

Always have to check the manual, one thing I was taught about tools...it is a very powerful tool. Cool

[@1bassdr]

I have been wanting one of these for several years. The welding school I went to had the skill saw version, it is a beast. Evolution also makes a sliding miter 10 inch chop saw for about $150, they even have some rebuilt ones. There is an area on ebay dedicated to evolution tools. I like you can cut wood and steel with the same blade, mighty handy when you are using reclaimed lumber that has some nails in it. Too me $482 is a great price for a saw that will do what that one does.

[@XavierFaelington]

It's a good thing the guard on that is so good because with how fast that thing cuts metal a stray finger would be nothing to it.

[@petermcneill80]

Great video, very well reviewed 👍🏻 Iv agree with everything you’ve said Iv a slightly older version iv had 4or5 years now with a 14” blade it’s excellent and cuts easily as fast as the large individual band saw at work , which is amazing. 1 thing I’d like to add tho from me several years experience with 1 of these saws is they really don’t like stainless on the standard blade Evolution have a stainless blade available with more teeth which iv used on thin exhaust tubing with great success I believe theres aluminium cutting blades available too although iv not used one. Also very small pieces e.g. if you’re squaring up the end of a bit of shear cut angle then the 1/4” off cut has a habit of going round with the blade inside the guard knocking teeth off as it goes. I have a tiny set of vice grips with a bungee cord attached to the adjustment screw that I clamp to any very small pieces to be cut off and pre load the cord 👍🏻

[@Joe-pr1ut]

I have a Morse Metal Devil. Cut the steel then touch the fresh cut end..... cool to the touch.

[@BigWillSD]

Great video review. The cost is not that bad, and if a person could afford the initial expense I think it would save them time and money in the long run. My local welding shop has one and they swear by it. First time I saw it it tripped me out.

[@augiezehner6059]

I used to run a carbide blade chopsaw for aluminum where I worked and we would send the blades out for sharpening. You may be able to get it sharpened a few times at half the cost of a new blade. On a carbide blade they can even replace broken or chipped teeth.

[@BlackBearForge]

Good suggestion

[@FedorPartolin]

I think big improvement of carbide blade is that it doesn't change the diametre while cutting

[@BlackBearForge]

Very true and something I should have mentioned

[@glencrandall7051]

It is certainly impressive for what you have demonstrated so far. As an earlier poster questioned - how about accuracy? Miter gauge angles? Clamping angle cuts? How well does the chip collector work? I noticed you didn't use it initially. At $482 the price appears reasonable. That's about what I would pay for a DeWalt 12" wood cutting chop saw.

[@BlackBearForge]

Seems accurate and of course the miter gauge is easy to adjust. The chip collector is about 50% or a little better,

[@1averageamerican]

I have a Dewalt metal cutting circular saw. I was a little nervous the first time I ran those teeth into a piece of metal but it cuts great. This looks like a very nice miter saw. Thanks for sharing.

[@bigrockets]

geeat review! I just nought this very same saw! thanks!

[@BlackBearForge]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@demastust.2277]

John, save all the chips that thing rips and tears off and forge weld them into a billet. Also this is fantastic, they sent you material for Hook of the Week

[@ExCinereForge]

I’ve been reasonably happy with my Evolution chop saw and “skill saw” but these things cut the craziest chips that go everywhere and the chip catchers don’t catch much, at least in my experience. I always cut outside to cut down on the mess. Both of them seem to want walk a little on me too. That said, I do think they’re a vast improvement over the typical abrasive chop saw in EVERY way except cutting hardened materials.

[@BlackBearForge]

Thank you for the input. The sharp chips are a nuisance.

[@FranconiaFriend]

@@BlackBearForge Yep I have one of their circular saws - its a beast and can cut metal like crazy, but flings metal bits everywhere - cutting outside is a good idea. You don't want that everywhere in your shop.

[@6806goats1]

Magnets

[@smallblockchevy1022]

@@6806goats1 I thought of that too, but no matter how long I tried it I couldn't get one single aluminum chip to stick to it.

[@smallblockchevy1022]

​@@BlackBearForge Hey, How you doing? I was just curious on your opinion of this saw for cutting steel tubing? I just got one and it does great cutting solid steel, but to me it doesn't seem like it likes the interrupted cut you get from cutting steel tubing. I made a couple cuts in 2" x 2" x 1/4" square steel tubing, and once it broke through the first flat surface and the double, interrupted cut started, it became really jumpy/jerky, to the point it had me worried that teeth would chip or break off the blade. Do you notice this to? And if so, have you came up with a way to alleviate some of this? Thanks Steve

[@BestKiteboardingOfficial]

If you use the V block on the clamp it makes box section tube present to the blade on the corner, this makes the blade last longer than dragging it through a full flat side. They sure do slice through metal.

[@kennethdodds2323]

John, this is a re-engineered Evolution saw; you can move the rear fence towards you to a couple of other positions, which makes it possible to cut the supplied flat stock vertically. Mountain Eagle has a KZbin video showing this feature.

[@jasonmacpherson936]

Vary good review. Looks like it should be a great addition to your tool collection

[@stankrieger3137]

I love you little machine you are getting around with

[@BlackBearForge]

Thanks, here is a short video I did on that kzbin.info/www/bejne/aF7QnJKppLanotE

[@Thegorilla3]

Awesome video. Great speaker

[@Uncle_Bucks_Forge]

I'm Sold I'm going to order one now.

[@Uncle_Bucks_Forge]

Done its on its way

[@mikelastname]

My dad broke the carbide tips off a few teeth when his job came loose in the jaw - had three new tips brazed on at the saw doctor for $30 - way cheaper than $250 for a new SS blade

[@johnjude2685]

Know you are smart about dusty and partical air born you have to like it Big questions is the cost of the operation Looks great if affordable Thanks for demonstrate and the saw company for showing.

[@GaryForgingOn]

I just got the Evolution 14" cut off like this. I really like it but I like some of these improved features on this model. But what I like about these kind of chop saw is the few sparks. It also turns at about 1/2 the speed of the abrasive cut offs.

[@joelnowland2196]

OK, now I am getting one. Thank You sir.

[@josephacker3328]

Full face shield is the best ppe for this saw. Those chips go everywhere.

[@mitchelperkins6723]

Bought one about a year ago. Several hundred cuts, blade still ziping through metal like when it was new. I HATE a regular abrasive chop saw, and refuse to ever own one. Too much dust, noise and Sparks flying around. These are a great tool.

[@BlackBearForge]

Great to know.

[@hughcupples1279]

I’ve always wondered if these were worth the investment... well I feel like this was the review I needed 😁 cheers!!

[@scanyoursector5731]

The Diablo Cerment II 14" blade is about $65 and cuts stainless, cold rolled, mild, hot rolled, tool steel, aluminum, pretty much anything you would need to cut in a metal working shop.

[@danilosilva81]

Perfect DIYer tool

[@roarkludwig1724]

Ordered this saw, based on this and some other reviews. Evolution S380CPS: Metal Cutting Chop Saw The saw arrived DEFECTIVE,, the "lock" used to change the blade does not work. As there is not blade installed, it was a complete show stopper... How could a simple thing like this get missed ? ALSO no 15 inch blade supplied!

[@lucianandrei4802]

WOW !!! THE BEST TOOL !

[@klmbuilders5385]

Very thorough review! Much appreciated.

[@BlackBearForge]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tomcarlson3244]

I really like the guard. Much better tan one without the bottom guard

[@viperchucke1076]

I have one for a few weeks know I love it.

[@dustinroberts6771]

I’d love to see some new hooks of the week or anything using the material you cut off with the new saw. Thanks for sharing.

[@MrDukaman]

Awesome saw I installed a diablo steel demon on my miter saw wow it cuts like a champ. Really would like a saw like this but there pricier and the miter saw with a steel demon blade does a great job as well

[@korpsebrigade1844]

I wonder how this would compare to you and your wife on the manual shear, cutting tent stakes to size. In the Fab shop we would stack material to reduce time when preforming repetitive cuts, might take a few clamps on material for extra safety. If material shifts while cutting it can jump and cause the blade to snap. We have made a few nice knives from the broken chop saw blades as well.

[@BlackBearForge]

This saw certainly would have been competition for that system. Plus it allows one person to do the cutting.

[@georgegriffiths2235]

They have made some great improvements the vice looks better than the old one on mine 👍

[@minskmade]

nice review sir...im going to hopefully do my side by side comparison next week. i have this one and the evo380. the 380 is not my freind...could never get it to cut square...or nice 45s...one side note...you get longer life from your blades if you use a little lube...tap magic or anchor lube work well for me

[@balkamp8888]

Milwaukee used to make one (or rebrand someone else's) and it was a pretty great saw. Evolution is pretty much the only name in the game right now

[@billygildark4565]

Skill saw makes them as well. I have had both and believe skill saw is a little better quality.

[@officialWWM]

Is everyone just going to ignore that cool tracked vehicle!?

[@keepcalmandfarmon5401]

Nice review--looks like a good addition to the shop.

[@jamesbarisitz4794]

I have a small 7 1/4 inch blade carbide chop saw that is a demon at cutting mild steel. The blade cost average is around $20.

[@velvirek]

I want to buy one of these, I'm torn between evolution and dewalt but I'm leaning towards evolution. It is quite expensive but I can't afford to buy cheap tools, hope it will last me for years :) great review.

[@BlackBearForge]

So far I haven't had any issues. I hope I can say the same many years from now

[@stephenborders4654]

Great saw and review.

[@crazybill49]

Great review John. Did you check your cuts for accuracy out of the box? Square, 45, etc?

[@coen555]

I think these moderately priced cold cut saws are a good option. I have a Bosch cold cut and I've been happy with it so far. Much more compact than a band saw and tidier than an abrasive saw. Down sides: Doesn't like really hard alloy steel. Average (but good enough) cut capacity. And deadly man glitter everywhere, ouch!

[@coen555]

btw: 1045 steel not a problem. D2, very not good.

[@BlackBearForge]

Thanks for the input, its good to know it does well in 1045

[@erikcourtney1834]

I wonder if the extra flanges are for an abrasive disk.. Incase someone needed one for tool steel. Change blades vs changing chop saws.

[@JustinTopp]

I have a similar one and I love it. Use the abrasive saw more because it’s more convenient in most cases. I do like the quick release compared to turning the job what feels like 36 times haha

[@smallblockchevy1022]

You believe the abrasive is more convenient? Damn, the specific reason I bought my evolution is for the greater convenience

[@threeriversforge1997]

Got one myself and love it. I don't use it much, but it's never failed to perform and the blade is as good as new. I wonder if their blade technology has improved since I got mine all those many years ago. Definitely worth the money and far better than using an abrasive blade!

[@georgegriffiths2235]

I cut 50mm EN19 / 4140 I use a little cutting oil on heavier stock

[@BlackBearForge]

Good to know it will handle the tougher material

[@jorgensalomonsson6739]

Is the extra flanges for abressive discs? I guess that solid material is easyer on the blade than tubing that has higer force on singel tooth. heavvy solids might need cooling for longer life (i'm guessing) if so a mist nozzel is a cheap solution that dont make as much mess than fluid.. Anyway another tool on Santas list😁

[@51MrBrett]

Thanks for your initial impressions on the evolution cold saw. Two things it would be nice to see hear how the saw holds up over time. Second what is the cool track buggy you made your entrance on include a little history too please. Thanks.

[@BlackBearForge]

so far i am still quite pleased with the saw. The real test will be over several years of use. The vehicle is a Cushman Trackster. I did a video on it here kzbin.info/www/bejne/aF7QnJKppLanotE