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The Ryobi BT-2500 is a small table saw with a 10-inch blade. Its small size and comparatively low weight make it easy to move to the job site and I have frequently moved the BT-2500 right next to where I need it. I own two homes and can easily move the saw between the two houses.
The BT-2500 has a cast aluminum deck that is rigid, yet lightweight. On one side is a mounting location for a router, which is a feature I have often used. Holes are drilled for a Ryobi router but I was able to mount a Black & Decker router by drilling a new hole. There is a groove for a saw guide but I seldom use the guide. I removed the blade guard that came with the saw and use the Ryobi BT-2500 with great care -- I always think through what I'm doing and have a push stick handy. Working with the supplied blade guard was difficult.
The saw has a rip fence that is easy to use and fairly precise. I usually use a ruler to measure the precise distance from the blade to the rip fence but the ruler for the rip fence is within 1/16 of an inch of my measurements. It is easy to get the rip fence perfectly parallel with the blade and the rip fence holds its position rigidly. Really, everything about the Ryobi BT-2500 is nicer and easier than my old table saw, which was made by Rockwell.
The BT-2500 is a table-top model, so it needs a stand to use it at normal working height. I have the stand from my old table saw and I attach the BT-2500 to this stand with a couple of C-clamps. This works fine for my use and it is easy to disconnect the two pieces when it's time to move the saw.
Making the Cut
I have a good-quality carbide-tipped saw blade in the Ryobi BT-2500 and it cuts easily with the saw's powerful motor. I mostly use the BT-2500 for rip cuts, usually with 3/4-inch or 1.5-inch stock. The saw powers through this material, even using hardwoods like oak, maple and birch. It positively laughs at soft woods like pine and fir. Rip cuts are clean and smooth.
There are two blade adjustments on the BT-2500, both of which use cranks. One raises and lowers the blade and the other tilts the blade for miter cuts. Both work well and the raise/lower crank has a lock nut that will hold the blade at exactly the right depth. I seldom use this lock nut, as the blade depth just doesn't drift.
The raise/lower crank once got clogged with sawdust after a few years' use and stopped working. I cleaned it with a wire brush and vacuum cleaner, and it has worked fine since.
Summary
The Ryobi BT-2500 has been an excellent table saw for my occasional use. I do not do exceptionally precise work, such as cabinetry. However, it has been a workhorse for ripping and trim work, at least for my occasional needs. It is small and easy to move, which is a big benefit for me.
If you need a small 10-inch table saw and spot the Ryobi BT-2500 at a yard sale, snap it up. It is a good little saw.
