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Sliding Miter Saw

3K views 18 replies 18 participants last post by  JoeLyddon 
#1 ·
Sliding Miter Saw

I need your help! I am getting ready to purchase a Sliding Miter Saw. What is the best. I need accurate 45 degree cuts so I am looking at the Dewalt, Maketa, Milwaukee, Hitachi, and Ridgid.

Any thougths?

Even reconditioned or used.

Thanks
Greg Dahl
www.oregonburls.com
541-450-9499
 
#2 ·
I have had the Bosch 10" sliding miter saw for about 2 1/2 years mow and have been extremely satisfied with it. I find it to be extremely accurate and I especially like the fact that all of the adjustment controls are located up front on the saw. I had to reach around the back of the saw for the adjustments on my old dewalt slider.
I like the new model Bosch GCM12SD even more. it has a different sliding ard that pivots and requires less space behind the saw.

http://www.boschtools.com/Innovation/Pages/GCM12SD-Glide-Miter-Saw.aspx
 
#3 ·
Those are all good saws. I own the Hitachi and it's a Cadillac…I also like the Makita very much. There is no doubt that you will enjoy owning either one of them, they both operate as smooth as silk. In my opinion those two are a step above the other brands you mentioned.

As above the Bosch saw is also one of the top three. I didn't see it listed in your post so I didn't say anything about it but in my opinion Greg is absolutely correct. The Makita, Hitachi and Bosch to me are a step above the other good brands you mentioned.
 
#4 ·
Greg, I bought my Hitachi several years ago and it has served me well. But any of the saws that you are looking at should do the job. I agree with Greg's link to the new Bosch. It does look like it would be an interesting saw to own and would be well worth the money.

But, to be honest, I use my slider largely for trim work and cutting rough lumber. I have it set dead-on for 45s but I would rather use my table saw and incra miter guage or table saw sled for cutting 45s, if the work piece will fit on the saw.
 
#7 ·
I have been using the Dewalt 12" SCMS for about 10 years. Not as ergonomic as the new front control models but it has been accurate and reliable.
I did do the initial setup adjustment and have adjusted it a couple of time since. (Hauling it around to job sites is a little hard on it.)
I seldom use the compound feature as even for crown I cut it the simple way - setting the crown upside down at the correct angle. I seem to always get a better cut with less strain on the tool - irregardless of the brand of saw. I primarily bought the slider for the width of cut and not the compound miter feature.
It is probably time for brushes and maybe a new drive belt but it still seems to be running perfectly!
A lot of remodel work and fine woodworking under it's belt. LOL

That said - if I was going to buy a new one I would probably look first at the new Bosh because of the space saving design and I know they make good tools.
Festool is rated very well although I don't know if I could justify the price. (I have one of their ROA sanders that is the best I have ever used, I got it at a very good price on an introductory deal.)
A lot depends on your particular needs and budget of course.
 
#8 ·
I have used all of the brands. All of them have their plus' and minus'. I have a good friend with a cabinet shop that has standardized on three - Bosch, Makita, Dewalt. All of them are pretty much the same as far as accuracy. I like my Bosch best as I think the front loaded adjustments are just a mite easier to use. I haven't used the new model Bosch, but I liked the video and reviews. My buddy says the same thing…though for the jobsite most of his folks like the makita as it is more portable - the Bosch for it's ease and the Dewalt for it's durability (He says they go out in that order). The Bosch saws are more stout and run a bit heavier…same with the Dewalts. Of course you didn't mention the Festool….even though it has a stiff price…it is the most accurate in the field….My friend says that when they guys are at the shop they will line up to use the Festool - they only have one and it stays in the shop….the cuts are so close you hardly have to shoot them or plane them, just barely sand to fit.
 
#10 ·
I have the Hitachi 12" slider. I have only owned 2 previous so this one is a real step up for me.
I have no problems with the accuracy and the saw goes up tight agianst the wall with the slider mechanism moving forawrd instead of back as in other models.
Don't think you could go too far wrong with any of the top of the line models out there now.
 
#11 ·
Hey Greg I have owned a Bosch, Dewalt , and Ridgid and used a Makita
I like my Bosch best for it's up front controls but the Dewalt and Ridgid work well too. These are all heavy saws but the Ridgid is the heaviest and has the biggest foot print. If you don't have to move them around much the Rigid is great it's what I use for my shop chop saw and carry my Bosch in my truck. I used the Dewalt for 7 years and it was a work horse.The Makita I used I didn't care for it's controls. As far as accurate I don't feel most sliding compounds saws are as accurate as a upgraded miter gauge on your table saw . The only one I've heard that are suppose to be dead on are Festools at a cool $1200.
 
#14 ·
Greg - my old B&D took a dump this year so I needed a replacement. Low on $ at the time and my brother-in-law had a new 10" Ryobi he needed sell so I got it. Not the best but for $100 I can live with it as my chopping don't need to be that critical. NOW, with that said, an engineer friend of my needed a new one and RESEARCHED THEM TO DEATH. He finally purchased the 10" Bosch and just like the LJ's above, he sings it's praises. I think you're on the right track and have it narrowed down to 3 very good ones.
 
#15 ·
I have a 12" Rigid sliding compound and it is very accurate. I used to use one like it at work and like it very much and it is easy to use, set will cut to 60 degrees. By the way we were using it to cut aluminum stock with blades designed to cut aluminum. Cuts like a hot knife through butter. You will not be disappointed with this one.

Erwin, Jacksonville, FL
 
#16 ·
Greg:

I'm in the same boat but have decide on the Makita 10" LS1016. It's about $600 CND. I see you didn't mention it in your List but I believe it's one of the Best out there.
Toy Construction set toy Lego Toy block Font

As Greg & Tom ave mentioned Bosch has a new 12" Axial Glide Dual Bevel, Model SCM12SD that works Flat to the wall. It Retails at about $800CND. Peronally I prefer a 10" Mitre saw.
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I did a bit of an Info thing on it in "Forums" if you'd like to have a look.http://lumberjocks.com/topics/21122

Rick
 

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#17 ·
I also like both of those saws Rick. I'm afraid I am going to go off for the $800.00 price tag for that new Bosch slider that is able to set against the wall. I must resist..
 
#18 ·
I've had a craftsman 15amp 10" sliding (on sale for $180) for 2.5yrs, with it fully extended, if I apply too much lateral force, it will flex ~1/32, but most sliding miter saws will do this. If I bought one today, I'd buy the Hitachi C12RSH ~$450…use a HF coupon %20 off @ Lowes ~$360. Great reviews, side sliding rails, good handle position, & 5yr warranty.
Good Luck….my miter saw is my most used tool…from wood hobby work to home mods.
 
#19 ·
Yes! That new Bosch is the "cat's meow"... it has a hefty price tag too… but you get a GOOD TOOL!
 
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