Evolution 10″ Miter Saw Review

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Sometimes all you need is something that will be versatile and handle a lot of different things. You know that “one size fits all”? So many times it doesn’t really fit all. But what if the Evolution R255SMS might just be the option that really does fit almost all of your needs?

Take a closer look at this miter saw with my review of the Evolution R255SMS miter saw.

Evolution R255SMS 10″ Miter Saw Key Features

The Evolution R255SMS miter saw is all about versatility. It has a lot of great features and yet it’s perfectly simple. The thing is that sometimes versatility really counts and Evolution found a great way to deliver on that aspect with their choice. It’s large and in charge but it can do a lot if you have the space for it.

Let’s start with the basics. Here is a quick overview of some of the key features that stand out with this miter saw.

  • 15 amp motor
  • Handles a variety of materials well
  • 10 inch blade for compound use
  • Laser guide for accuracy and precision
  • Sliding miter saw to set up however you need
  • Built with a quick-release clamp to hold materials in place

Evolution Miter Saw Features Highlight

You’ve got the basics but it’s a good idea to really know what will set this miter saw apart from any other option out there. With the Evolution miter saw, it’s really all about the versatility. It has so much to offer where many miter saws can often be designed for generic or specific use.

Check out some of these highlighted features.

Miter saw was placed outside in the ground.
  • Versatility: I really can’t say it enough. The Evolution R255SMS miter saw is incredibly versatile. It’s a workhorse designed to do just about any type of task that you might want it to. If you have the space for it, you will be pleasantly surprised with the possibilities. On top of practical versatility, it’s still easy to put to use.
  • Power: This miter saw hosts 15 amps of power. That’s right in line with most quality miter saws on the market. In general, the range for power is anywhere from 10-16 amps. This means that the Evolution miter saw falls towards the top of the tier, making it a powerful competitor in the market. This also backs up the claim for versatility and the ability to handle different materials.
  • Safety: When it comes to a power tool like this, it’s not always just about function. Being able to function knowing that the tool is designed to be as safe as possible is also important. I feel like the Evolution miter saw stands out for safety. They have a built-in clip for your materials. The blade has a safety blade cover that will keep anything not in the direct blade path protected from a fast-spinning blade. Safety is one of those things too often overlooked.

Additional Features

If you know anything about power tools, you know it’s not just those really great features that make the tool. There are always other things that go into the quality of a tool. I will talk about the cutting capacity in more detail in a moment but it really is an excellent feature that deserves mention.

This miter saw also comes with a 3 year warranty. Finding a quality warranty is often a challenge. Not every tool comes with a great warranty. In fact, you will find many of the top brands only offer 6-12 months when it comes to a warranty. Evolution is willing to stand behind their saw much longer and that’s pretty incredible.

This miter saw from Evolution is very large. That’s great because it’s the size that gives you so much versatility. However, it’s really important that you consider the entire measurement of the saw before you order. The last thing I want is for you to decide this is the saw for you only to be irritated about the size when you get it.

The miter saw guide laser is turned on

Despite the size, it’s also still fairly portable and lightweight. It just takes up space and that can be a challenge in some situations. I really appreciate the overall look and the overall performance of this miter saw

Evolution R255SMS Cutting Ability

Let’s take a moment to talk about the cut. After all, that’s what this saw is for, right? This is where the saw becomes versatile. The miter saw can cut from different angles and it can handle a large cutting capacity.

The blade size is smaller at 10″ than competitors at 12″. This just means that you won’t be able to cut as large of workpieces. For a beginner miter saw, 10″ is plenty big enough.

The angles include pre-set options for 0, 15, 22.5, 30, and 45 degrees. Most miter saws only have one or two angle settings so this is substantial.

This is a dual bevel saw so it allows you to cut your angles from the right or from the left and it’s easy to set it up. Plus, it has that laser for precision. Does it really get much better than that?

That angle variety alone gives you a substantial cutting capacity. You can handle a variety of materials and even some tough materials as well.

The Cons

You know that no miter saw can ever be completely perfect. But they can certainly be close. While the Evolution is close, it has things to be aware of just like any other tool.

In the case of the Evolution miter saw, the biggest drawback seems to be the size. It’s a 10 inch saw but the cutting capacity, the dual bevel, and the path to move your material all take up quite a bit of room. In order to be versatile, they made it large so you do have to plan for the space.

How to Use a Miter Saw - Shop Class Basics

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a miter saw that can be the jack of all trades, this might just be the option. My draw to this miter saw is the versatility. It proves to be useful for a lot of different things and you can count on it to be durable and reliable at the same time.

Don’t let varying needs hold you back from a great saw. This one can handle just about anything you throw at it. 

Raised with a fix-it and improvement mindset, my wife and I completely restored our Craftsman-style home. Learning how to DIY a variety of home improvement projects, I started SawsHub with my father. He's the fine woodworker, I'm the DIYer!