The Kreg KMA2685 Rip-Cut is a rip guide that attaches to a standard circular saw, turning it into a precision edge-guided tool for making straight, accurate, and repeatable cuts in plywood, MDF, and other large sheet goods. It rides along the edge of the sheet, eliminating the need for measuring, marking, or using a chalk line. The guide consists of an aluminum rail (edge guide), a sled that attaches to your saw‘s base, and locking hardware. Compatibility
- Saw type: Side-blade circular saw (corded or cordless). Materials: Plywood, MDF, and other large panels. Cut width: The guide is 24 inches long, allowing rip cuts up to that width. Legacy status: The KMA2685 is an older model; the current version is the Kreg Rip-Cut KMA2400. The KMA2685 remains available from many retailers. ## Setup and Calibration (Ordered Steps)
Based on the manufacturer’s owner’s manual, set up the Rip-Cut as follows:
- Attach the sled to your saw. Secure the sled (the part that holds the saw) to your circular saw‘s base using the provided hardware. Ensure it’s firmly attached.
- Slide the sled onto the rail. Rotate the blade guard up (follow safety precautions), then slide the sled onto the aluminum rail until the saw blade is positioned near the edge guide.
- Set the cut width. Move the sled along the rail until the blade just touches the edge guide. This establishes a zero-clearance reference. 4. Lock the sled in place. Press the locking lever or knob to secure the sled. Verify that the blade aligns exactly with the edge guide’s face.
- Double-check alignment. Make a test cut on scrap material before cutting your workpiece. Measure the resulting strip to confirm the width matches your setting.
- Best for: Ripping down sheet goods quickly without a table saw. Ideal for job sites or small shops.
- Limitations: Requires a side-blade circular saw; worm-drive or left-blade saws may not work. The guide relies on the panel’s edge being straight.
- Where to buy: Amazon and Home Depot currently list the KMA2685. Kreg also offers the current KMA2400 on their site. This article is based on information from manufacturer documentation and retailer listings. No hands-on testing was performed.
Always read and follow the full safety instructions in the manual before use. ## Practical Takeaways
References Kreg Rip-Cut Circular Saw Guide (KMA2400) – https://www.kregtool.com/shop/cutting/circular-saw-cutting/rip-cut/KMA2400.html Kreg KMA2685 Rip-Cut Circular Saw Guide – Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/Kreg-KMA2685-Circular-Saw-Guide/dp/B073PFYN4T Kreg 24 in. Rip-Cut Aluminum Circular Saw Guide KMA2685 – Home Depot – https://www.homedepot.com/p/Kreg-24-in-Rip-Cut-Aluminum-Circular-Saw-Guide-KMA2685/302781709 Circular Saw Edge Guide Rip-Cut (KMA2685-INT) – Kreg – https://www.kregtool.com/en/products/cutting/circular-saw-cutting/circular-saw-edge-guide-rip-cut/KMA2685-INT.html Kreg KMA2685 24" Rip-Cut Aluminum Circular Saw Guide – Burns Tools – https://www.burnstools.com/kma2685-kreg-rip-cut Kreg Circular Saw Guides – https://www.kregtool.com/shop/cutting/circular-saw-cutting Kreg Rip-Cut Circular Saw Guide (Legacy Model) – https://www.kregtool.com/support/faqs-product-info/discontinued-products/rip-cut/KMA2685.html Kreg Rip-Cut Circular Saw Guide (KMA2400) – US Tool & Fastener – https://www.ustoolandfastener.com/kreg-rip-cut-circular-saw-guide-kma2400 Rip-Cut Owner’s Manual – Kreg – https://www.kregtool.com/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-RefArchSharedLibrary/default/dwe0d89333/manuals/KMA2685_OM.pdf