Product · Evolution Power Tools
Evolution R255SMS+: 255 mm multi-material sliding saw
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Evolution's R255SMS+ is a corded 255 mm sliding mitre saw for builders, fabricators, shed and garden room makers and DIYers who cut more than just timber. The standout is the supplied multi-material TCT blade, which Evolution says cuts steel, aluminium, wood with embedded nails and plastic. One saw can therefore handle box section, angle iron, reclaimed timber and skirting without a blade change.
- Blade
- 255 mm
- Power
- 220 to 240 V, 2,000 W
- Slide
- 300 mm slide
- Cut capacity at 90 degrees
- Not stated in this listing
- Cut line guide
- Laser
In its favour
- The supplied TCT blade cuts steel, aluminium, nailed wood and plastic, according to Evolution.
- 300 mm slide, laser guide, 0 to 45 degree bevel and 50 degree mitre either way.
- 3 year warranty if bought in the UK, per the listing.
Good to know
- Cut capacity is not stated in this listing; check before buying for wide boards.
- A multi-material blade leaves a rougher finish on trim than a fine wood blade.
Our take
What Evolution lists
The motor is rated at 2,000 W, with an optimised gearbox and blade system that Evolution says extends motor and blade life. There is a 300 mm slide, bevel from 0 to 45 degrees, mitres from 50 degrees left to 50 degrees right, laser guidance and a trench cut facility. Trench cutting lets you set a depth stop to cut housings and notches rather than going right through.
The 28 tooth R255 TCT blade, dual quick release clamps, a slide rail protector, a dust bag, a port adaptor and integrated carry handles are included. The listed weight is 15.3 kg. Evolution offers a three year limited warranty on UK purchases.
Multi-material cutting in practice
Cutting steel on a mitre saw normally means a dedicated metal saw or an abrasive chop saw that throws sparks and leaves burred edges. A TCT multi-material blade running at 1,900 rpm, the listed speed, cuts metal more like a cold saw, with cooler and cleaner results. For anyone building frames, fencing or garden structures from mixed materials, that is a real convenience.
The trade off is finish on fine timber. A 28 tooth general purpose blade leaves a rougher edge on painted trim and hardwood than a high tooth count wood blade.
What the listing leaves out
Cut capacity at 90 and 45 degrees is not given, so the actual width and depth of board you can cut is unknown from this page. Check Evolution's data before buying if you need to cut wide shelving or thick posts. The bevel is single sided.
Next to the other sliders
The Evolution R255SMS-DB+ is the double bevel version with a stated 300 x 80 mm capacity, better for crown moulding and repeated compound cuts. The Metabo KGS 254 M lists a 92 mm depth and an LED shadow line for timber work. The DeWalt DWS774 is a lighter 216 mm option for trim.
Verdict
Buy the R255SMS+ if you cut a mix of steel, aluminium and timber and want one corded slider with a laser guide and a long slide. If you need double bevel or a stated capacity, choose the Evolution R255SMS-DB+, and for pure timber work with deep cuts, the Metabo KGS 254 M.
Compared with alternatives in: Best mitre saws for home and site, Best sliding compound mitre saws
Amazon listing title: Evolution Power Tools R255SMS+ Compound Mitre Saw with Multi-Material Cutting Blade, Chop Wood Metal Plastic, 45° Bevel, 50° Mitre Angle, 300mm Slide, 2000 W, 255 mm, 220-240 V