Amazon.com Review

What the Bosch 12-inch compound miter saw may lack inpopularity compared to some of its competitors, it makes up for inquality design and construction. The saw has a heavy-duty 26-inch steeltable that extends to 29 inches, and a tall sliding fence for workingwith crown molding and other large stock. While this isn't the lightest12-inch saw available, at only 43 pounds it's still plenty portable,and comes with a cushioned top handle for easy carrying to and from thetruck. Considering how solid and stable this tool is, and the amount ofmetal making up the base and table, we were actually surprised to findthat it weighs as little as it does. The 15 amp motor on this saw, intypical Bosch fashion, runs remarkably smooth and relatively quiet. Theelectric brake stops the blade quickly every time. The miter gauge onthis saw is engraved, so if the paint wears off you won't lose themarkings or need to replace the saw. This is a great feature, and theBosch saw is one of only a couple of saws on the market that includesit. It also features nine miter detents that can be easily overriddenfor micro adjustments, and we had no problem getting the table to lockin tight at a half degree off the detent.

The saw has a comfortable horizontal D-handle, with a nice wide triggerand a safety switch inset in the handle right where your thumb canreach it. This saw offers all the accuracy and cutting capacity ofother 12 inchers in a design that's easy and comfortable to use. Bestof all, it comes with the Bosch reputation for solid engineering andsmooth performance. The saw comes with a quick-action clamp, adirectional dust chute, a dust bag, a 40-tooth carbide blade, andwrenches for adjusting the fence and changing the blade. --BrianTrinen ... Read more

Features

• Tall 3-1/2" sliding fence - For easy bevel setups and increased crown molding cutting capacities
• Powerful 15 Amp motor, 3.3 max. tool HP
• Crown miting detents - 31.6° Miter and 33.9° Bevel detents for quick, accurate, crown cuts
• Large 25" aluminum base with 3-1/4" sliding extension for 28-1/4" total length - Provides extra support
• Speed-track sliding fence system - base and fence slide independently

Reviews (20)

Excellent compound miter saw
I have used the Bosch 3912B 12" for several years for woodworking. With a quality 96-tooth blade it is a very precise saw and cuts very smoothly. This saw can cut a 45 degree miter in a 4x4 board or trim
a miter to a hair.

Professionally Recommended
I talked to a lot of professional woodworkers and carpenters, before I purchased the Bosch 3912B (they all recommended the Bosch 3912B). They told me to spend a little bit more and get a quality product. I am extremely happy that I did.

Miter and compound cuts have been accurate right out of the box. Using this tool is such a pleasure, I am still impressed with the performance and the precise cuts. Bosch also offers more accessories than other brands. I really like the lock on the saw. You can release the table with little effort and reset your miter position with ease.

If you want a quality tool, get this Bosch!! It's smooth, quiet, and well worth the money.

Solid piece of equipment
Very impressive piece of machinery with positive stops at most common angles. Standard blade is not too bad either. High fence for crown molding and smooth drop action and good dust collection makes it a good buy. (...)

A construction saw, not for cabinetmakers.
I was hoping the reviews would lead to the best fixed (not sliding) miter saw, I decided to buy the 3912. I no longer buy power tools over the internet, so I bought it at a local contractor tool supplier. This gives me the option of showing the salespeople the issues that I am having if I need to return it. While I was hoping that the saw would be accurate and true right out of the box, it was nearly that. Unfortunately for how good the miter stops were there was too much runout, blade wobble, 1/32". I took it back and we tested two more 3912's all of which had the same problem. They told me to expect that from all saws in this price range. The arbor, the blade, I don't know. Haven't had the time to put a new blade, or do any crown work. So good luck if you expect to pull it out of the box and saw away.

A good, reliable investment
After putting this saw through its paces for a few weeks, I have found this miter saw has what it takes for accuracy and ease of use. Some concerns in public forums about this saw have not become evident. Set-up was simple and straight-forward - instructions were written in a helpful manner. Calibration was relatively uncomplicated (the bevel was the only adjustment I needed to make); the table of the saw is stable when anchored securely, according to the instructions, to a good strong bench; the blade spins true, and the arbor stays put; no electrical problems that others have experienced seemed to surface. A nice feature that no one has mentioned yet is the graduated fence - marks etched in the fence every half inch from the blade are handy when you need to make fast, "ballpark" cuts. The only semblance of a complaint I have is that the safety switch for the trigger takes significant pressure to activate. Erring on the side of safety, this is a small complaint. Overall, I think this is a fine tool. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Tired of transporting a bulky miter saw stand from one job siteto the next? The DeWalt DW723 may be the answer. Lightweight and rugged,the all-aluminum stand measures a mere 5-1/2 feet out of the box andweighs in at just 38 pounds. However, when fully assembled, it cansupport boards up to 16 feet long and a full 400 pounds of weight. Thekey to its strength lies in the stand's retractable legs, which locksecurely in place then tuck away when not in use, as well as its slidingcam-lock extensions, which provide a full 16 feet of length whenassembled. A carrying handle makes the stand easy to transport whenfully retracted. Just throw it in the back of your pickup and it's goodto go. Assembly is quick and easy, too. We had ours up and running in amatter of seconds. Mounting brackets adjust to fit most miter saws, makingthis the ideal workspace for the professional or do-it-yourselfer on thego. --Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Non-marring feet on tool mount won't scratch floors
• Lightweight aluminum construction (35 pounds) allows for easy transport and storage
• 5-1/2-foot beam extends to support up to 16 feet of material
• Legs provide superior support and fold for easy storage
• Work stops and supports can be repositioned quickly anywhere along the rail

Reviews (61)

Great for the Homeowner Too !!!
I'm an advanced DIY'er homeowner, and I needed a stand to go with my DW708 mitre saw. I just got tired of using makeshift supports for long boards and the extension arms are well designed and work great. When I rec'd the stand, it was dinged up pretty good in the main spine section and on a leg. I needed to call DeWalt directly. In about a week, I had the replacement parts in my hands. All in all, I was very pleased with the service and the stand.

Sweet-
I read that some folks had problems with the arms sagging with heavy lumber on them, but I went ahead and bought this thing anyway. It is awsome. I had bee using my Dewalt miter saw for two years on the floor or on a portable work table and hated it. This thing should really be packaged with the saws.
I built a huge backyard playset and cut everything from 2x4x8s to 4x4x12 with no problems. If the arms were tightened and the arms adjusters were lined up, I had a flat surface out to end to end.
I would have given 5 stars if DeWalt had thought of adding a slot to hold the arm platforms someplace on the stand itself that would make transporting and storing the unit more convenient.

worth the money
This is a pricey but well-engineered accessory for any DeWalt miter saw. Very sturdy construction with folding legs that are solid and wobble-free. The extension arms are completely adjustable for a wide variety of cutting positions. I especially like the quick release brackets that allow you to use the saw stand-alone when needed. A carrying handle makes the saw stand portable to a job site, but the weight is heavy enough that you don't want to move it often.

Great piece of equipment
I have used this stand while installing crown molding in my house. It is very stable, lightweight and stores easily once the legs are folded.

Luckily, I purchased a Dewalt mitre saw so I didn't experience the problems noted by other reviewers about the rails not fitting the saw base. Once the saw is mounted to the rails, set up is a snap and the saw really stays in place.

I am looking forward to using this stand and saw combo for a long time. I might take the advice of a previous reviewer and see if I can construct some rails for easily mounting my table saw to this stand.

Product is everything I expected, accept!
I just received my miter stand and was happy to see it, being in
the middle of a kitchen project. I am quite frankly tired of
jury rigging stands or elsewise scurrying across the floor
adjusting and making cuts. The product arrived safe and sound
via FEDEX, so previous reviews must have gotten Amazon to ship
a safer way, even with the free shipping! It all setup nicely
and I like the quick detach feature for the saw and easy
storage. I am not by no means a pro woodworker and everything
works well for me and I am sure it will stand up well to the
use I subject it to. The only reason I did not give it 5 stars
is what I read on the box, MADE IN CHINA. I was disappointed
that a company like DeWalt had also gone to offshore manufactuering.
It is giving me second thoughts on the DeWalt miter saw I was planning on buying. ... Read more

Product Description

Fastest Impact Driver in its Class (0 - 2,300 RPM), 64% Faster, 210% More Powerful than Driver-Drills The ultimate power tool for fastening applications. Makita Cordless Impact Drivers provide a level of power and performance unmatched by cordless drills. Discover for yourself why professionals are making Makita cordless impacts their new tool of choice for driving, fastening and drilling. ... Read more

Features

• Maximum tightening torque of 887 in.lbs.
• Complete with charger, (2) batteries, case.
• Powerful 12 Volt (2.6Ah) Ni-MH Batteries and built-in L.E.D. Light.
• Compact design with an overall length of only 6-5/8".
• High performance Makita motor outlasts the competition.

Features

• Miter Gauge Included
• 3HP Left Tilt 50" Premier Fence
• Free Mobile Base
• 27"x40" Cast Iron Table
• Hinged Motor Cover

Amazon.com Review

Bosch builds good saws. This 10-inch sliding compound miter saw has the smooth, easy-to-control action we demand in a slider. This saw's built burly, too--here's a slider that looks likely to survive a tumble off the back of a pickup truck (not that we tested it). The blade guard has good action and retracts well, so visibility and motion aren't restricted when cutting and there's no danger of it binding or sticking. The grip is contoured and tapered for the human hand, no matter the size--but there is a safety switch that makes this saw difficult to use left-handed. Bosch has also cleverly mounted the important wrenches and keys on the body of the saw (exactly the sort of attention to detail that makes toolhounds happy). We tip our hardhats to the good people at Bosch; they've made a great saw. --Michael Shilling ... Read more

Features

• Dual rail design - For superior accuracy
• Powerful 13.0 Amp motor, 2.8 max. tool HP
• Crown miter detents - 31.6° miter and 33.9° bevel detents for quick, accurate crown cuts
• Large 25" aluminum base with 3" extension for 28" total length - Provides extra support
• Tall 3-1/2" Fence - For easy bevel set-ups and increased crown molding cutting capacities

Reviews (67)

Great Sliding Miter Saw!
After much thought and research I decided to purchase the Bosch 10" Sliding Miter Saw. It arrived via Fedex with a couple of minor "dings" in the box, but the packing of the saw was outstanding and no damage to the saw was evident. Set-up was easy and the "factory alignment" was right on except for a slight loose allen screw on the slide bearings. The saw is not light so i would hate to lug it around to job sites with out wheels of some type. My saw will stay in the shop on the bench. The Saw cut 2x4's with ease and all cuts were clean and accurate. I have also used it to cut 5/4"x6" oak and again the saw had no difficulty. The two reasons I didn't give this saw five stars are that blade changes are a pain complicated by having to remove alot of the guard and the operating handle is mounted vertically instead of horizontally which makes it difficult to operate with your left hand. Overall I would still purchase this saw again over everthing else out there. It was/is the best value for the money.

Bosch 10" sliding compound miter saw
I've had this saw for over six months now and am extremely satisfied. It's very accurate, easy to adjust and is particularly good for cutting crown molding. The blade which comes with the saw is OK for basic stuff, but has excessive tearout. For fine work you'll need a good 80 tooth blade.It's a little awkward for a left-hander at first, but easy to adapt to. The biggest complaint is the dust extraction - the dust bag is almost useless, and hooking a vacuum to the dust port makes no difference: dust shoots straight out the back, hits the frame and disperses in a huge cloud. This makes it impossible to use in a customer's home; if it's a row house, finding a safe, convenient outdoor spot for it can be tricky. Wintertime complicates matters. One reviewer said, so what if it takes an extra hour to clean up - it's a terrific saw. Well, it is a terrific saw, but time is money.

Great saw, as good as or better than competition
Background - I traded my 10" Delta CMS so needed a new one. I settled on getting a 10" slider based on the capacity of the sliding saws. I did not want a 12" SCMS due to excessive weight and size. Plus, I don't need that capacity. I decided against a 12" regular CMS because a 10" slider can actually cut wider lengths and 10" blades are easier to find and cheaper. Yes, a 12" CMS will cut taller pieces, but I have other saws I can use in this situaton (extremely rare for me).

Positives
+ lots of metal and very little plastic which adds weight but hopefully adds to durability
+ easy to read scales
+ tall fences
+ really solid detents; yes, there is a little play if you don't lock them in, but how long does it take to turn the knob two times?
+ wide foot print which translates to sturdier operation.
+ nice stock blade that I may actually keep on the saw.
+ almost dead-on out of the box as I spent more time double checking everything than making one minor adjustment.

Negatives
- not as portable as a regular 10" CMS, or even a 12" CMS as this saw is heavy.
- handle not the most comfortable
- single bevel (but I have never had a dual bevel and will not pay $200 or even $100 more for this feature)
- extensions must be purchased seperately; these only cost about $17, but a lot of other saws have them as standard features.

Other 10" SCMS considered (and why they were not purchased)
* Bosch 4410 - about $200 more for a few extra features: front bevel controls, dual bevel, adjustable handle and a fraction more power. IMHO these were not worth $200 more.
* Porter Cable - price seemed competive and reviews were favorable. However, I had a friend who had a Delta and I didn't like it. The PC model is not the Delta, but since they are part of the same company they may be too much alike for me.
* Hitachi - Looked at this saw first hand and did not like it. There was a lot of plastic on it and it was about $90 more ($140 if I wanted the laser). Also, the foot print seemed small. I just did not have confidence in this saw.
* Makita - I was really big on this saw but could not find one to look at in person. I read a lot of mixed reviews and $450 is a lot of money to spend on something you can't touch before hand.
* Milwauke - They make a lot of great products. Their regular CMS's are great and really accurate. However, customer and magazine reviews have been mixed on this one so for the $100 higher price tag I decided to pass.
* Delta - the Delta was never really in the running due to first hand use of a friends.

Many folks have complained about dust collection. First off, show me a miter saw that gets 100% of the saw dust anyways. I made 20 cuts on 4x4's and there was a lot of saw dust on the saw, stand and ground. However, I reached back and felt the bag - it was 75% full. If this is the biggest knock on this saw, I am looking forward to all my projects.

Best for the money
Half the price of a Dewalt 12", did not need that big of saw. Came with a clamp, did not have to pay extra, all dustbags are pretty much useless, I've always got sawdust when I cut a piece of lumber, hmmm. Top value as far as I'm concerned.

Not good enough for a pro
After using this saw for 3 1/2 years I definetly have mixed feelings. the split fence on the left was not in line with the right side and in one piece with no easy fix, a constant nagging problem. But it had a good motor, and adjustability was acceptable. If you notice all my referances are in the past tense, because as of this afternoon the thing is laying in two pieces in my work van. The casting broke at the turntable. I take great care of my tools, I buy the best and expect them to work very well for a long time as have the many other Bosch tools I own. I will not buy another Bosch chop saw unless they give a pro rated discount on a new one. This saw should not have broken so easily. If you work out of a van or truck,like every other carpenter on this planet does, I can't recomend this saw, it can't stand up to normal handling. If you want absolute accuracy from the fence don't buy this saw it may be hard to fix the split fence. I hope others who have this saw have better luck than me. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Take the versatility of a fully functional dual bevel compound saw, add in a smooth operating slide, throw a 12 amp, single-phase 60 Hz motor "under the hood," and you’re got the Hitachi C10FSB 10-inch dual bevel sliding compound miter saw. This saw works effectively in both wood and aluminum sash applications. A built-in soft-start feature, electronic speed control, and a no load speed of 3,800 rpm combine to ensure clean, accurate miter, bevel, compound, slide, groove, and press cuts every time. The slide works almost effortlessly and can handle work pieces up to 3-11/32-by-12-9/32 inches or 3-9/16-by-11 inches, with press cutting capabilities for narrower work pieces up to 3-11/32 inches square. For bevel, miter, and compound cutting, the saw bevels 45 degrees right and left of center, with a miter range of 0 to 45 degrees left and 0 to 57 degrees right. Positive stops are provided at the most common miter angles, but the saw can be positioned securely at any point along the scale. For added versatility, the saw’s vice assembly mounts on either the right or left side of the base and can be raised or lowered according to the work piece height. Blades are easy to remove and install. A polyethylene V-belt protects the saw’s motor against overload.--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Hitachi exclusive 5 year warranty
• Belt-driven motor with soft start and electronic speed control
• Deflection guard that disperses chips away from operator and helps align cut lines
• Linear ball bearing slide rail system prolonged accuracy
• Positive miter locking system that holds firm at any angle

Reviews (4)

great saw
Just bought my second saw. My first one still works great, I just couldn't pass up this great price. This saw cuts strong and true. The problem of the dual bevel system was fixed in this newer version. I use this saw every day and it works great. A plus.

great saw bad amazon
This is the slide compund miter to own! I've been using this saw for years and it works flawlessly and lasts through much use and abuse. I decided to get a new one this year because the price and promotions made it hard to pass up.
HOWEVER! The saw arrived without any sign of the free extra blade, or the mail in rebate form for a free drill. when I tried to find a phone number to call to get help from amazon...I could not find one any where on their web site, or on my receipt! I submitted two e-mail help requests and got no response. Amazon has really dropped the ball on customer service!
I finally called Tool Crib (AKA AMAZON) and got a customer service number from them 800-201-7575 and am in the process of sorting out the extra blade. For the free drill you'll need to print and mail a form found through various links from the saw page. Good luck!

THE BEST SLIDER
This is an improved model of an already great tool! It was always the smoothest running and cutting saw before! Now it has easier to read markings on both bevel and table angle settings. Possitive angle notches in the table. Dual bevel and the belt drive is sooooo nice! The free blade is one of the best out there for cabinet or trim work. Buy it and you'll be hooked!We have used these Hitachi sliders since 1989 and we can't find anything close to it's quality and performance.

new and improved
all the needed improvements.i've owned the predecesor and this one has all that was missing. great saw. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

This is a rough-and-ready stand that will accommodate virtually any miter saw, but it's the oversize wheels that let you cart your saw practically anywhere--even up and down stairs--that really make it a winner. Built-in rollers support longer stock and are smooth right out of the box. The aluminum fence comes with a stop for easy duplicate cuts, and a stock-lift inhibitor keeps your cut piece from picking up after the cut. Sturdy steel legs adjust to your preferred work height, and when you're done, the stand folds quickly and easily, ready to roll. It's 84 pounds without a saw, but you'd never know it. -- Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Folds and unfolds quickly to roll on and off of job site for quick set up
• Aluminum adapter rails accommodate any manufacturer's saw
• Aluminum fence for added support of longer materials
• Adjustable steel support legs for increased stability
• Adjustable steel rollers facilitate correct alignment of longer stock

Reviews (55)

Nice-but heavy
I am a full-time contractor specializing in turn-of-the- century restorations. I recently purchased a new Bosch 10" sliding compound saw, and decided to splurge and purchase the Delta saw stand for my new saw. The saw was delivered promptly, but the box was damaged in transit. The stand seemed OK. After unpacking, I was impressed with the quality of the unit. Heavy gauge steel, nicely finished. Assembly was tedious, it took several hours, counting looking through my piles for several missing bolts and nuts. However, I like the thing. It seems very stable, and the wheels are handy. (I really haven't used it yet.) Biggest problem is its weight. The stand and saw together are over 110lbs. A bit cumbersome to load in and out of a truck each day. Even collapsed it is very awkward to move around corners, up stairs, etc. I have decided not to permanately bolt the saw to the stand, and use metal clamps for attachment once the stand is where I want it. But like I noted, overall it is a nice thing to mount your saw to.

Excellent stand with some words of caution
I bought this stand to go with the Bosch 3915 10" SCMS saw. Because of the large base of these saws, other SCMS's and I would suspect most 12" chop saws, you can't utilize the supplied support and stop. I also could not utilize the cord wrap brackets as the mounting hardware interfered with them, which isn't a big deal to me, but worth mentioning.

The build: 60-90 minutes, you'll go faster with a cordless drill with a socket attachment. This will likely also prevent you from over-torquing and breaking any fasteners.

The good: Sturdy and stable though a bit heavy with wheels and a handle for easy mobility. Outfeed supports for long boards and easily collapsible for storage. The DeWalt, even being more expensive doesn't have the flexibility for movement that this does (a major consideration if you need to move it from site to site). The stand is HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE, for anyone whose stood at a miter saw for hours and ends up with a sore back from bending over, this is a very good feature!

The bad: The afforementioned fact that some accessories won't work. I wondered during the set-up why Delta doesn't offer 2 different model stands, and offer them at less cost. If you have a saw that will fit the standard MDF mount then you can, if not you have to take that off and use different brackets. You end up with a lot of leftover parts either way. It's heavy, but that lends to the sturdiness of it so you take the bad with the good there. Some people complain about having to set up the outfeed supports each time but if you mark the posts like someone else suggested, it's a no-brainer.

There is some small room for improvement so I'm giving it 4 stars, but as with any "universal" stand there's going to be different issues for different saws.

Great Stand, But You Need To Make A Little Modification
I became interested in one of these saw stands after seeing one set up in a woodworking store. I was quite impressed with how heavy duty it seemed and particularly with the capacity of the outriggers. So I got one.

After I got it home I read some owner's comments suggesting that the enclosed hardware was crap. I have to agree. I didn't strip any of the bolts out, but it's a wonder. They're too soft, I believe. At least all the necessary hardware was included.

The only other problem has to deal with the stand's inability to be left unattended when it's folded in a semi-upright position. Some folks have suggested kickstands but I decided to work with what was already there: First, I stood the saw upright in the folded condition and let it balance on one leg, blocking the wheel so it wouldn't get away from me. Then, I drilled a hole through one of the hinges where the two flat metal plates overlap when the stand is folded. I then inserted a 5/16" bolt with a plastic handwheel through the hole. With the bolt in position, the stand can't move, even though it's sitting at about a 75 degree angle. I also painted the plastic handwheel dayglo orange so the reason for immobility would catch my eye if I got stupid one day. Now it works great!

As far as using the thing, it's great. I've got a 12" Dewalt CMS on mine. I don't regret buying the stand at all.

Too small for big saws...
This is a well made unit for the price. I have used mine for about 8 months on the jobsite, and in the shop.

The only problem I have with this stand is it is not designed to fit the big saws (12 inchs) Delta, or otherwise. You have to remove the MDF table that is used for mounting, and then reverse the setup using the provided rails. If you do not reverse the setup, the side with the wheels attachted will not close up for movement.

This unit is quite combersome with my big Delta attached, but does a good job of rolling, and is very steady when set up.

The out riggers are nice for working with long lengths of materials.

I would highly recommend this unit for the price.

Happy Customer - Easy to Use.
The only complaint I have with my stand is I bought it shortly after Delta released it and I paid too much.

It did take longer to assemble than I expected but the handbook was reasonably well written and led me through the process. This stand is well designed and full of little features you discover through use. The cord storage rack on the back is simple and adds a lot of utility to the stand. Simple spring loaded levers make setup and breakdown simple and the stand is sturdy in the setup configuration (on reasonably level surfaces). I will say that changing configuration can be a handful with my heavy 12" Delta saw on the stand; but it is one of those things you just learn to do.

I recently helped my son frame up a large storage shed on his property. He is a construction superintendent and has access to a lot of neat toys. After watching me drag the stand out of my pickup, roll it over to his slab and set it up in about one minute he just said "Cooollll". That about says it! ... Read more

Features

• Five year limited warranty on machines, parts and accessories
• 1-1/2 hp induction motor is located beneath the sander to protect it from sawdust
• 90V Permanent magnetic motor
• 80 grit abrasive sanding wrap, steel stand, integral dust chute hood
• Includes (5) 80 grit sanding wraps and (4) 120 grit sanding wrapsand

Reviews (10)

Don't understand the problems mentioned
I carefully compared this to the Performax 16-32 at a woodworking show. I had planned on Performax because a friend has the 22-44, but that's an entirely different machine (much beefier) than the 16-32. Side by side I decided on the Delta. Although it is more expensive, it is beefier (I could rack the performax arm).

It was true right out of the box. Set up and alignment is straightforward and well explained by the manual. It is on a 20 amp circuit. However, this is a sander, not a planer. Stalling, tripping, or burning problems are signs of trying to remove too much material. I suppose with 36 grit paper you could remove stock, but even then only 1/64 to 1/32 at a time.

I have noticed no meaningful vibration, the unit is very quiet, even when removing stock (can hardly hear if no stock is in the sander). Belt change is simple (would have prefered 3" belts, but the 2" work fine).

Maybe quality control is really as bad as some of the reviews indicate. Mine was better than expected.

poorly designed
This sander is EXPENSIVE but very weak in it's performance. I am truly disapointed in this sander. It looks good but the drum can't keep up with the in-feed belt if it is set for maximum run. The machine's drum binds against the wood being fed into it if there are knots or if the wood is a hard wood. I paid well over $800.00 for what I was told was a great drum sander. I tried to return it the very next day as I found out that first night how poorly this thing performs. Save your money, but a different brand if you want a machine that sands like it should. Shame on you Delta!

Pretty Satisfied
Trouble tracking the conveyor belt. Learned to live with it.
Other wise ok.

after a year I am loving it
This machine gets used as much as any in my shop. Once I figured out the limitations of the machine (feed rate and depth of cut), I have been enjoying using it. I used to pop the circuit breaker fairly often because I was asking too much of the machine.

This machine has improved my woodworking.

I find this machine to be very useful as an abrasive planer. Put a 36 grit belt on it, and it does a suprisingly good job of flattening. (Follow that with an 80 grit, and then 120 - and you'll be happy)

I found that my opinion of this machine has steadily improved over the year I have owned it, and now I can't imagine not owning it - it is a real time saver.

just what I needed
I would love to have a dual drum sander, such as grizzly's 24" model. I don't really need the extra capacity of the Delta. However after much thought (my wife calls it indecision) I decided on the 31-255. As a part time job we rehab/restore old houses which results in the need to move my entire workshop every couple of years, more often if the house doesn't have a garage or barn, so the 450lb grizzly beast was out.

I've had the delta for two weeks now and I don't know how I survived without it. Assemby took about an hour. The first time I turned on the drum I couldn't believe how quiet it was. There was no wobble or shake to it. As a sander it's great, keep in mind it's not a planer, and expect to make multiple passes.

It's worked great on cabinet doors, old barn boards and cabinet stiles and rails. However, its not so great on larger face frames a r/o sander is quicker and easier. I haven't tried any really big and heavy pieces yet but so farn snipe has not been a problem. I find that my planer and jointer have gotten less use but they are still needed from time to time

One side note -- after buying the delta it came to my attention that Sears sells a 18x36 drum sander that seems similar to the performax 16-32 for $699
available online only : ... Read more

Amazon.com

This is easily one of the most powerful hammerdrills on the market, packing 500 inch-pounds of torque and tackling the largest holes and heaviest screws. Whether you're going into studs or concrete, you'll appreciate the patented three-speed transmission that delivers an amazing 2,000 rpm at its max. In hammerdrill mode, get ready to be impressed with the speed you drill into concrete and other masonry at 34,000 blows per minute. Every inch of this tool is quality, from the 1/2-inch metal ratcheting chuck and its carbide jaws to the super-comfortable grip and beefy extended-life XRP 18-volt battery. Balance in hand is awesome, and the 360-degree auxiliary handle adjusts easily to just the right position.

The DC385 recip saw's keyless blade clamp wins points in our book for fast blade changes. And talk about fast—with its one-inch stroke length, it runs at 2,900 strokes per minute. Like the drill, it's well-balanced and feels good in hand. It's compact, lightweight and offers great cutline visibility through the pivoting shoe's open top. Plus, we like that the blade will reverse for flush and plunge cutting.

The circular saw slices into 2x4s like butter, and you can always see your cut because the blade's on the left. Bevel cuts are no sweat; the saw is easy to adjust and the scale's clear. The jig saw's got some great features, the best of which is a keyless shoe that slides back and forth for cutting flush in tight spaces. The grip is super comfortable, and we like that you can choose between two orbital settings for quick, accurate cuts in soft stock and a straight setting for metal and other hard material. You'll love the built-in dust blower that keeps your sightline clear. The floodlight's handy, too, especially with its flexible neck for illumination in just about any direction. It's a great package deal.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• DW933 variable speed jig saw accepts both universal and T-shank blades
• DW919 18-volt flexible floodlight for hands-free use
• DC988 18-volt XRP 1/2" hammerdrill/drill/driver with 500 in-lbs of maximum torque and patented 3-speed all-metal transmission
• DC390 18-volt circular saw with 6 1/2", 16-tooth carbide blade and rip fence can cut 2x4's at a 45 degree angle in a single pass
• DC385 18-volt cordless reciprocating saw with keyless blade clamp allows for quick blade change without touching blade or reciprocating shaft

Amazon.com

Power, power and more power! The 18-volt 1/2-inch hammer drill/driver's high-torque motor churns out an impressive 500 inch-pounds of torque—imagine the jobs it could tackle. We were surprised by how good it feels in hand, thanks, we think, to its neatly balanced design that places the handle toward the center of the tool. A nice touch is the ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws for a superb hold on your bit. And the all-metal, three-speed transmission is so innovative that DeWalt patented it. All we know is that this is one powerhouse of a hammer drill/driver, no matter what mode it's in. The DC385 recip saw's keyless blade clamp wins points in our book for fast blade changes. And talk about fast—with its one-inch stroke length, it runs at 2,900 strokes per minute. Like the drill, it's well balanced and feels good in hand. It's compact, lightweight and offers great cutline visibility through the pivoting shoe's open top. Plus, we like that the blade will reverse for flush and plunge cutting. The circular saw slices into 2x4s like butter, and you can always see your cut because the blade's on the left. Bevel cuts are no sweat; the saw's easy to adjust and the scale's clear. The grinder's hardworking with a nice three-position side handle. Kudos to DeWalt for the metal gear case and the longer life it'll give this grinder. We're not as impressed with the impact gun, despite its 0 to 3,000 impacts per minute and how smoothly it runs without any kickback—-it's just that we'd like to see it take more than ¼-inch hex shanks. Finally, the flashlight's neck is super flexible, shedding light in just about any direction for up to three hours. This is a great collection of tools, essential for the contractor and perfect for the skilled do-it-yourselfer.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Lightweight, 6-1/2-inch long impact driver delivers 1,170 in.-lbs. of torque for optimal power in tight quarters
• Kit also features a cut-off tool for cutting and grinding, a flexible neck flashlight and more
• 1/2-inch drill/driver/hammer-drill has 500 in.-lbs. of maximum torque for heavy-duty applications
• 6-1/2-inch circular saw cuts 2- x 4-inch stock at 45 degrees in a single pass for speedy framing, decking and more
• Reciprocating saw with keyless blade clamp for quick blade changes

Amazon.com Review

Since its invention by the ancient Egyptians, the pocket holejoint has become a favorite among modern framers and other woodworkersinterested in creating strong joints for their projects. The Kreg K2000ProPack pocket hole jig contains everything you'll need to createperfect pocket holes, all from a trusted leader in the field known forproviding quality products. This kit is designed to help woodworkersplace pocket holes in their ideal location on any surface, regardless ofthickness, and even includes project plans and detailed instructions foruse. It's a must for any woodworker who either uses pocket hole jointsor has an interest in trying them. --Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Comes in a molded carrying case
• Horizontally spaces holes at 9/16, 7/8, and 1-7/16 inches on center
• Three positions to center holes in 1/2-, 3/4-, and1-1/2-inch thick material
• Two wing supports hold wider material
• Step block and riser block included for 1/2-inch and 1-1/2-inch material

Reviews (37)

This Kreg kit is one slick setup.
I've used my Kreg kit for several months now. It sure makes a difference in the speed of assembly. I whipped up a router table in no time and a lot of other projects besides. Works great on dimensional lumber too. Used it to make the 2X4 framing for a utility building addition as well as the framing for flooring in my aluminum boat. It's great having everything all packed in the carrying case ready to go. Setup is a snap and sure cuts down on the need for lots of clamps.

Holing Wonder!
I bought one of these to make face frames for some kitchen cabinets, but it has gotten a considerable workout in addition to the original project. The kit is very complete and comes in a nice plastic case. There are actually two jigs - the large one that you will need to mount on a board and the small, one hole "Mini Jig" that just gets clamped wherever you need it.

The large jig with the wings is the most useful. It has a built-in clamp to hold the wood securely against the drilling jig. There are three separate guide holes that allow for different spacing of holes. The "wings" are two separate parts that do not connect to the main jig. You will have to screw all three pieces to a piece of 3/4" plywood to get the most use out of it. That leaves a big vacancy in the case if you leave it setup, as I do, but that makes a good place to store additional screws.

The "Mini Jig" is great for those large panels that can't be mounted in the main jig. Just clamp it where you want it and drill the holes.

Depth adjustment is easy with the guide on the "wings." Just lay the special bit in the groove with the bit's shoulder aligned with the thickness of the material you are screwing to. Slide the stop collar on the bit shaft until it is against the side of the wing and tighten. You can't make an error. It does pay to check the collar every now and then to make sure it has not slipped. If you over drill, you will be going through the face side of your work with the screws.

I use this in place of biscuits in many cases, but don't throw out the biscuit joiner yet! On long, edge-joined pieces, it is helpful to throw in a few biscuits for alignment between the screws, not gluing them if you want to make it a "knock-down" cabinet.

I used to think I was pretty slick with a drill, cutting an occasional pocket hole freehand. That just is not as precise or repeatable as the results you will get with this jig. I would highly recommend adding this outfit to your shop - you will get more and better results! Oh, and do order some extra screws - you WILL have a use for them!

Kreg Pro Pack is great!
I recently purchased the Kreg K2000 Pro Pack. I had been using a generic pocket hole jig, and after setting up and using my new Kreg jig I can say there is no comparison. The Kreg jig is a slick set up. It made it easy to drill clean pocket holes. Also, use the Kreg screws. The Kreg screws easily bore into the wood, and so far I've had no problem with wood splitting. In fact a friend who is a carpenter was impressed when I showed him a project and he learned that I didn't have to drill a pilot hole in the receiving piece of oak. He was impressed that there was no splitting. This seems to be a really nice tool set.

Save time and labor
Don't be afraid to give this joint maker a try, you will be suprised how fast and easy you can make perfect joints. I just built an entire set of kitchen cabinets using the kreg pro, and it more than paid for itself in time and labor and frustration. Very easy to use. Great tool.

great joint maker
This is great tool for making easy joints, I have used them in outdoor tables where I don't want the joints to show. I am finding more and more uses for this product every day. The set up is easy and it really make a strong joint in seconds.
I have just completed a pie safe and the inside joints were made even beter with the plugs. They seem to disapear after sanding and finishing. ... Read more

Features

• Rear and Side Water Attachments can be placed on saw to catch overspray from large tile - keeping the water in the pan
• Telescoping Rail/Cart system allows for 24" ripping capacity - 18" on diagonal
• Only 69 pounds, allows one person to transport and set up saw
• Stainless Steel Rail System is integrated into the saw frame, insuring accuracte cuts
• Plunge feature allows the user to make quick plunge cuts for electircal outlets and A/C registers

Reviews (2)

Game Changer
I have had this tile saw now almost for 2 months and I'm very pleased with it.This is exactly what the doctor ordered for my business. I do bath and kitchen remodeling and when it comes to tiling, this tile saw has changed the ball game drastically. Nowadays I jokingly call the more traditional tile saws as "dinosaws".

IMO; pros in a nutshell: Huge cutting capacity, 26" rip and 18 3/8" diagonally. Fairly light weight, 70 lbs. Smooth and accurate cutting tray. Exceptional water containment, saw can be setup inside a house with a minimal protection. Cons? Nothing major so far. Those little fastening hands on the extra trays are quite delicate and could break if handled roughly?

Luxus

What took them so long?
I have been using this saw for 2 weeks now and I had to come back to brag.I have been doing high-end remodeling for 10 years now and have come to trust nearly everything DEWALT makes.This is no exception.It has so many features that are so obvious - 45 miter cuts, plunge.Why haven't the traditional guys done this yet.The motor is strong, the rail is very tight and accurate.Ultimately I bought it because of its lightweight.I dont need to carry 150 pounds around to cut 24" tile.I think this saw is 70 pounds.I highly recommend this saw.It is truly a first class tool.

Jay ... Read more

Features

• Equipped with a Fluorescent Light for greater visibility
• Powerful 15 amp motor that handles every job easily.
• Electronic Speed Control monitors and maintains rpm under load.
• Soft Start feature for smoother and safer start-ups.
• Large turn base ensures a more stable work area.

Amazon.com Review

Routers don't get any bigger and tougher than this Hitachi workhorse. It has the solid construction, horsepower, and features we've come to expect in a top-of-the-line router. Its heft goes a long way toward eliminating vibration, working with the soft-start motor to cut out torque at startup. Despite its nearly 12 pounds, it actually handles as well as most 3-1/4-horsepower routers we've tried in freehand applications. It has a 1/2-inch collet and a wide sub-base opening, making it suitable for working with all but the very biggest panel bits. It features electronic variable speed, so the router makes clean cuts in a wide range of different materials. We found the controls to be within easy reach of the handles, and though this isn't the quietest router we've used, it comes pretty close. We like the unique eight-position handles that let the tool be adjusted to the worker rather than the other way around. While this is a topnotch plunge router, it's also an excellent choice for table mounting, and many people choose this model for exactly that reason. This is an all-around solid tool that offers more bang per buck than many competing models. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Hitachi exclusive 5 year warranty
• Powerful 15 amp motor
• Three-position side handle with easy-to-reach controls
• Electronic dial-in variable-speed control
• Multislide scale and scale index system

Reviews (55)

Great Value for a Solid Router
This is truly a Clydesdale among the industry 3HP+ router workhorses. Built like a tank, yet nimble enough to be comfortably used with the Leigh dovetail jig. The soft start is a tremendous help for this type of operation. It is a heavy but well-balanced machine, which is an asset when maximum stability is desired. The edge guide is top quality, easy to install and accurate. I used this router to plow out 3" raised panels in oak without phasing the beast. This was possible due to the variable speed settings for any sized bit. The router is also equipped with an adapter that accepts PC guide bushings. The height adjustment knob is a bit flimsy, but it works well and provides good accuracy. The only complaint I have is that the 1/4" collet will not sufficiently hold any of my 1/4" bits. I purchased an aftermarket slotted collet that does the job. The Hitachi collet simply was not ground accurately. However, now that the kit comes with the height adjustment knob, I'd say jump all over it. This is a great deal, and I'm elated with my decision to go with Hitachi's green machine. Wish I could give it 4 1/2 stars.

Good enought to get two
Two years ago I bought my first Hitachi M12V for the new router table I made. I read all tool reviews from magazines and web sites and decided that for that price and options this was the router to buy. I don't regret. I appreciate its power, variable speed, fine adjusment knob and its bright color (it brighten my workshop !!! and my pride !!!). Since I took off the handles and the springs to use it in my router table exclusively, since I wanted another router for heavy hand-held tasks, since I liked its smooth and easy locking mecanism, since the price is quite fair, I didn't hesitate to buy another one, even if the 1/4" collet takes a little more attention. After writing to The Router Workshop TV program hosts and Hitachi-Koki co. I know now that I have to align the slots of the collet and chuck and that using two wrenches brings me to a tight capture of the 1/4" router bits. On this second router I won't take off the wings (with a Dremel) that supports the brass bushing guides since I won't be using big router bits in hand-held routing operations. I'm a serious woodworker and this last is my seventh router.

Dedicated table router
After much review of 3 HP routers; I decided to purchase the Hitachi as a dedicated table router. The router arrived quickly, but the sub-base was cracked & the fine adjustment knob was broken. Amazon quickly replaced the router. At the time I placed my order, late November. Amazon.com had a $25 off Hitachi coupon, plus the $159 sale, & free shipping. A great deal for only $135!!
I have only used the router as a fixed & plunge. Very hefty, very smooth motor wind-up from 8000-25000rpm. I'm waiting for my unisaw to arrive, and to make a router table on the outfeed table. As noted by other M12V user's; If your going to use large panel bits, you'll have to remove the metal ears that are used to attach the guide bushings. Not a problem since I have other routers for fine template work. Thus far, I have been very pleased with the sound construction, ease of changing bits (1/2" & 1/4"). The router may a bit too heavy & bulky for jig/template work. But if you looking for a powerful router for your router table. This Hiitachi should be at the top of your list.

Great router
Bought this router with the idea of using it in a table exclusively. I Figured it would be too heavy for using it without a table, but I was wrong: the smooth slowstart feature and the router having no vibration makes it easily controlled.
I did end up mounting it in a table and it works great with large style and rail cutters.
I compared this against the larger DeWalt, but this one won based on price. As to performance, they are probably equal.

If you need a larger router for a good price, get this one.

Router Wins because of Comfortable Controls
Bought an expensive Dewalt router some three years ago and never became comfortable with it. I use routers solely for hand work and relegate all table usage (including panels) to my Grizzly shaper. Gave the Dewalt to a woodworking friend in gratitude for his help in moving tools to a new shop.
Saw the Hitachi on Amazon.com with their $25.00 coupon (at the time) and could not resist trying it out.
UNLIKE other reviewers, I like the tool because it is easy to operate outside of the router table. Both the on/off switch (soft start) and the depth lock are within easy reach of the right hand. It is no more heavy than any other powerful router and not as bad as some Porter Cable models I tried. I use custom side clamps set up for 1/4 and 1/2 inch bits in order to plough mortises easily (and with great accuracy). Unlike my experience with the Dewalt, I now enjoy reaching for the Hitachi (and allow me to stress I am a fan of many other Dewalt tools -- especially their large table saw and famous miter saws).
LIKE other reviewers I can attest to the following:
1. Your Hitachi might come to you with a stiff spring mechanism. Mine was so bad I had to to use a hammer to free it (and this is why I'm giving it 4, not 5 stars). I have noted that as you use the tool, sawdust builds in the channel and it requires attention. Not a killer problem, but not well done, either.
2. Half-inch router bits provide more operating security and finish quality than do their 1/4 inch counterparts. Have read this on the web and can second the comparative preference.
I do woodworking as a serious hobby. For me, it is as important that the tool be comfortable to use as it is that it produce a high-quality result. Can recommend the Hitachi in this ergonomic arena -- at the price quoted on Amazon it is a bargain. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If installing hardwood floors is in your immediate future, the Porter-Cable FCN200 two-inch flooring cleat nailer is a smart tool to consider. The nailer is designed specifically for installing tongue-and-groove hardwood flooring with L-shaped flooring cleats and a thickness of 1/2 to 25/32 inch. The nailer works on 70-100 psi of compressed air and drives cleats with accuracy and force through even the toughest woods, but without damaging even the most delicate pre-finished floor. A 45 degree angled head saves time and frustration. A mallet is included to help position flooring strips prior to nailing them into place. And a rear-load, gravity-fed magazine makes cleat loading fast and easy (though some issues with the last few cleats in the clip have been reported). The tool is solid and stable. Heavy-duty, die-cast construction ensures quality. It also gives the tool a little bulk, but it's still relatively easy to use and well worth the effort.--Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• One year warranty/30 day performance certification
• Drives standard "L" cleats from 1-1/2 to 2 inches
• Non-marring base will not damage flooring materials
• Safety trigger prevents accidental firing
• Balanced design provides better stability, keeping tool upright

Reviews (5)

Porter-Cable FCN200 2" Flooring Cleat Nailer
Excellent nailer. I have laid over 1,500 feet of flooring with 2 jambs. It takes about 45 seconds to clear a jamb using the provided tool. Also the last nail in a set from Porter Cable seems to eject about 20% of the time which is not a big deal to me. Tells me to fill up. I let someone who used a hammer nailer use this one and he could not believe how fast and how much more power he got from the floor nailer.
After using for a few days and since the 2 jambs I have not had any additional problems. Senco nails for me are better than the Porter Cable. Senco nails have a glue that keeps them together where as the Porter Cable break like staples in your pocket or pouch. Overall an excellent tool but for $400 plus what do you expect. If you are on the fence over various brands go with Porter Cable. The nails are available locally and the tool performs well.

Last cleat symptom
I read another review of the last cleat problem. I had several instances where the last cleat damaged the job before I realized what was happening, the tool also "dropped out" as many as four of the last cleats. One set of four got jammed in the mech. and was necessary to disassemble tool.I called the Porter Cable factory they said, "never heard of that problem, the tool should drive the last cleat".They did reccommend that I take it for warranty repair. I examined the pusher mechenism and could see the reason as the pusher does not go completely forward to push cleat against wall of dispenser. The pusher also hangs up at the last four or five cleats because of the latching arrangement causing the cleats to drop out. A visit to my local tool store showed the same conditions on the same model. I am using the tool to install brazilian cherry which is very hard, there is no problem in that respect it drives the cleats home every time and the tool is easy to use. I have been using Porter Cable products for 20 years and never had a problem before. If they re-design the pusher and refit the tool I will give it a 5 star rating.

Excellent
This is a great must have tool for DIY wood floors. While every company that's in the tool business seems to make a nailer (Senco, Bostitch, etc.), what sets the Porter-Cable apart is it's balance and civilized look. The look doesn't matter, but if you don't want to mar the wood floors by having a tool keel over and damage the floor, then this is the tool to get.

The "last nail" comment is a very true. If you try to drive that single last nail, unpredictable results may occur. In my case, I had to throw the piece away (actually cut it for the closet), since the last nail went in almpst parallel to the surface of the wood and skimmed the finish off the top. If the wood hadn't been there, it probably would have shot across the room.

Finally, although the pneumatic nailers save you from backbreaking hammering, the nose takes more than just a light tap. A slightly sharp wack will drive the nails perfectly. Too soft and the nails don't get driven all the way. Too hard, and I'd be afraid that the tool would get damaged.

Highly recommended.

This is a winner!
Porter-Cable's flooring nailer FCN200 is a joy to use. It's well balanced, it stays upright, gentle to pre-finished floors and very trouble free. My one caution would be not to use it down to the last nail, reload while there are a few nails left in the gun, it sometimes has "issues" with that last nail. That said, it's the tool to use for installing a hardwood floor.

Great Floor Nailer
This is an outstanding floor nailer. Very easy to use, very easy to set into place and then without hesitation, the nail is set into 3/4" oak. ... Read more

Features

• Runs on your home's fuel system - Natural gas or LP gas and automatically exercises itself once a week for 12 minutes
• 15,000/13,000 watt model with 12 circuits that is completely pre-packaged for easy installation
• System supplies back up power within 30 seconds, so you won't have to lift a finger when utility power fails
• Includes: Automatic Transfer Switch with built-in emergency load center, 30 ft. and 2 ft. pre-wired conduits, pre-wired external connection box, composite mounting pad, 1 ft. flexible fuel line and "Do-It-Yourself Instalation Guide"
• Powerful OHVI overhead valve industrial engine with pressurized lubrication and spin-on oil filter for long life

Reviews (6)

For Professional Installation Only!!
I have the 1999 model of the Generac Guardian 15kw system. This one is hooked directly into my panel and I have a subpanel hooked to the transfer switch. If you think you are going to buy a whole-house generator system such as this one you had better be a licensed electrician, pull all the permits, and have an electrical inspector (and gas inspector) licensed in your jurisdiction. You also better be licensed to plumb gas lines. If you don't, you could unknowingly risk the lives of the electric company employees and blow up your house. So many do-it-yourselfers think they know how electricity works but really have no idea--when you have the licensed electrician install this unit ask him for some horror stories.

On the bright side, this is a real generator, not a joke Home Depot portable. This generator provides two legs of 120v (240v) so it can run your entire house and several 240v appliances. Mine runs all circuits, including the hot water heater, but not the electric stove or the heat pump (a heat pump consumes 5 kw already, which brings you to the next higher Generac which is excessively cost-prohibitive.)

During Hurricane Isabel we ran our entire house for 5 days and ran an extension cord to run a neighbor's refrigerator for most of that time. We had hot water and every home comfort available to us except the electric stove and heat/AC. If you can swing the installation costs of such a unit (which easily costs more than the unit itself) by all means get this unit but if you intend to install it yourself you are a fool.

For people who don't have natural gas you will need to change out the regulator. I use propane so we needed a different orifice. Another reviewer stated that he needed a separate gas meter but I've not heard anything about that from our installer when we talked about natural gas vs. propane. If have a combination regulator and gas meter then the gas company needs to visit. If you have a separate regulator then you need to tap the line for your generator and its regulator before your house's regulator.

Everything was as advertised
I found the Guardian 15KW generator to be exactly as described in the literature. I did have to have the power company install a larger gas meter to get the required gas flow. The cost of the upgraded gas meter installation was $140. I am not an electrician but I have had previous experience with electrical wiring and I found the instructions to be very easy to follow. I was able to do the total installation except for hooking up the gas supply line from the gas meter. After the generator was installed I hired an electrician to assist me in testing the unit for proper output etc. Everything tested out according to the specifications.

There is a problem!
The manufacturer does not mention a minor detail. This generator consumes almost 200 cubic feet of natural gas per hour at 11-14" of water column pressure. This is TWICE the pressure of a residential intallation so this unit requires a seperate gas meter. Find out BEFORE you buy whether the gas company will switch out the meter and help with the piping. Your house will require two pressures, 6" for your regular appliences and furnace and 12-14" for the generator. The generator does work, but it is NOT easy to install.

Excellent Product
I would recommend the 15K Watt Generac Generator to anyone. Easy to install. I have had no problems with it. The only difficulty was the conversion from Nat Gas to Propane. It comes with the Nat Gas orifices installed. The difficulty was due to very little working room to remove the regulator. Other than that minor issue I would rate this 5 stars. You will get what you pay for and in this case you get a great product.

The Ultimate Home Security System for Your Family
We had the Generac 15kw generator installed in our new home construction about two years ago. 15 kw is adequate for emergency power for nearly any home, although larger models are available if you wanted to power everything in your house.

The generator has performed exactly as described without a hitch since our original startup. It automatically excercises itself once a week to keep the battery charged and everything working.

The current pricing on this item is outstanding--our construction schedule forced us to buy just before the big Y2K event. Prices are now around half what they were. Installation will go most smoothly with an electrician who is familiar with these systems which have been adapted for home use, so I would recommend locating the electrician before ordering. Routine maintenance is basically like servicing a car engine, can be done by nearly anyone. The nicest thing of all is that the unit is connected to our natural gas line, so we never have to worry about fuel.

This was an investment in our home I made mostly for my wife. I've never regretted it. We love it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

You've got to love combo kits, and this one might reign supreme in the contracting world. The king of recip saws, Milwaukee delivers here with their awesome cordless Hatchet Sawzall model with a six-position pivoting handle. The tool is only 13 inches long when fully pivoted, letting you cut between 16-inch on center studs, as well as between rafters and joists, with very aggressive orbital action. You'll like the super quick and easy blade changes, too. The 18-volt 6-1/2-inch circular saw easily cuts 2-by material at a 45-degree bevel in just one pass and packs plenty of power. The saw's excellent balance, all-metal upper and lower guards, and rigid aircraft aluminum shoe add durability you can feel. The soft-grip handle feels great in hand and dampens vibration. The hammer drill features reversible battery for working in tight spaces and, we think, better balance, too. The soft grip reduces pressure points and absorbs tool vibration, too--a nice feature considering the tool's got 495 inch-pounds of torque and up to 1,700 rpm. Last, the handy multiposition flashlight has a nice, strong beam and stays where you put it. Everything fits in the roomy, rugged bag–ready for transport when the work is done.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Limited Warranty
• Hammer-Drill provides up to 495 in./lbs. of torque and features an all-metal ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws for the highest grip torque on bits
• The Hatchet features a 6 position pivoting handle and an Orbital action selector for aggressive wood cutting or straight reciprocating action for metal and plastics
• Circular Saw cuts up to 145 û 2x4Æs on one charge!
• Milwaukee's exclusive reversible battery allows users to adjust balance and get into tight spaces

Reviews (18)

WOW!!!
Not sure how else to title this review. I got this set about 2 months ago. Everything has come in handy. I used the drill (hammer drill, but haven't used the hammer option yet) and circular saw to redo my deck. Used the Hatchet a little bit, but not too much.

The drill has an amazing amount of torque. I bought this set for two reasons:
1) Milwaukee name. I figure that this'll last me for the rest of my life, or well past the life of the original set of Milwaukee batteries that came with it, and
2) I looked at just about all of the competitors, and the Milwaukee driver has the most torque of them all, as far I could find. I wanted this because I was driving screws through pressure-treated 2-by lumber without pre-drilling. And this worked like a charm.

The circular saw has lots of torque as well. With some sloppy cutting (not all, just a little bit, and some of this intentional), it was difficult to slow down the blade when it began to bind. In my book that's good.

Like I said, I only used the Hatchet a little bit, but I was impressed.

And even the light came in handy this last weekend as the big east coast hurricance blew through and zapped everyone's house power.

I was impressed with the batteries. I drove upwards of 900 long screws into my deck and made lots of cuts with the circular saw over several days. I only had to recharge the batteries 3-4 times. Not too shabby. And the Milwaukee universal charger (charges all of their batteries from ~9 volts up to 18 volts) is very nice too. A little light tells you the battery status, and the quick charge (an hour, I think) was nice.

The bag is nice and big. I haven't even bothered to put the tools in there yet, but there appears to be ample room and the bag is quite heavy and will probably take a good beating.

Overall, I'm extremely happy I got this set.

Hey use your oun
I work with a contractor on a regular basis. He uses all of that yellow stuff. I needed to replace my cordless drill. I looked around at what was available and decided to get the Milwaukee set. I don't have any of the problems described above in the other reviews. The batteries hold up great. The drill works super.I even bought a second one. You can't say enough about the hatchet WOW. My problem is that boss wont leave my stuff alone. He has me checking prices for him because he wants one. Great tools

Contractor
I've had this set for about 6 months. The drill is burn't up. The lock button is in an awkward spot so you tend to lock it on when using it. The chuck is not very good, the batteries are hard to change and it is too large to fit in many spaces. The sawzall works very well but eats batteries. The circular saw is a waste of money. The blade is on the left side and it eats batteries like crazy. It is not very powerful either. The light is the best piece of the entire set. All in all I'm pretty disappointed with Milwaukee on this one. I buy Milwaukee tools exclusively because they usually last. I think the higher voltage sets are not as good as say the 12 or 14 volt sets. The batteries really are ackwardly designed. If you do any drywall they are very hard to get off because the mechanism fills with dust.

Great Kit
I've had this kit for at least a year now, and I love it. Sure, it's heavy, but it's 18v, what do you expect? The drill has loads of power, and hasn't burnt up on me yet. Nor have I accidentally locked it. My biggest complaint on it is the Hammer action on it. Of course, I was drilling through solid concrete, not masonry, which is what hammerdrills are intended for. I've used the drill and the Skilsaw the most, and I'm glad the blade's on the left side, as a right-hander and wormdrive user. It will never replace my wormdrive, but when you have to cut over your head or hundreds of feet from any power source, it's most definitely worth it.

Pulling your chain
I have owned this kit for more than two years and it is still going strong, I love it. But I have to tell you I have never seen this kit at $900.00 plus. When I first saw it three or more years ago it was only $500.00 or so dollars. Just to let you know, you can go to Home Depot or Lowes and get it for about the same price. So someone is pulling your chain. ... Read more

Features

• Anti-slip grip reduces vibration for increased comfort
• DeWalt built motor for extended durability
• Impact mechanism delivers 300 ft./lbs. of maximum torque
• Patented 1/2-inch anvil design for extended durability
• Rocker switch for easy access to forward/reverse

Reviews (1)

very good quality product
Used the DW059K cordless impact for rotating tires on a vehicle changing brackets on a farm tractor and screwing lag bolts on a garage door, still have not recharged the battery. Very flexible power tool sure beats starting up the air compresser or plugging in a corded impact wrench. Highly recommend this product and as with all the Dewalt tools that I have purchased the high quality is top notch. This cordless impact will last a long time. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

DeWalt packs it all into this 12-inch compound miter saw: the big blade, the double bevel, the double rail slide. Very impressive. Finish carpenters who want to miter crown molding (up to 5-1/4 inches) vertically and framers who demand a 12-inch crosscut capacity will love this saw's 12-inch blade. The double bevel, of course, means you flip the saw instead of the wood, a great feature for those working with long molding or in confined spaces. The saw bevels to 45 degrees both ways and has the ability to bevel up to 48 if the need arises. The double rail slide is definitely burlier than the old single rail design. Both rails slide on self-cleaning, dust-sealed bearings, too.

What really gets us is the weight and balance of this saw: it slides smoothly through cuts, bevels are easy to set, and the miter gauge swivels lightly (all of which speak to the saw's excellent design). You can miter 50 degrees left, 60 degrees right. We also appreciated the cam-lock miter gauge on this saw--the handle simply clamps down, which makes switching angles noticeably quicker than with a twist-lock miter.

DeWalt's D-handle is designed for right-handed use, but the trigger is big enough to use comfortably with your left hand if a particular cut requires it. The saw also has a depth-stop adjuster in case you have to cut a quick dado or two at the job site. The easy-to-read stainless-steel miter scale, with 11 positive stops allows you to lock in the most common angles quickly and, thanks to the cam-lock miter, it's also easy to dial in precise cuts just over or under the positive stop--a feature finish carpenters, in particular, will love. The electric blade stops the blade quickly, which saves time and makes work safer. The saw doesn't have a safety switch--which is fine by us, since some safety switches can be downright dangerous--but it's something to consider if you're doing residential or remodeling work where children might stumble across your tools. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• 11 positive stops for quick setup of common cut angles
• Bevels 45 degree left or right with ability to bevel to 48 degrees
• Miters 50 degrees to the left and 60 degrees to the right
• Dual vertical rails offer better view of stainless-steel miter scale
• Horizontal handle for easier operation

Reviews (105)

An Invaluable Tool
I have owned and used this saw daily for 3 years and I have never been disappointed. It was specifically purchased for the construction of a 12' x 17' storage shed and was used to cut everything from 2 x 4's and window trim right up to a laminated 4 x 12 beam. Mitre cuts, cross cuts and compound mitres in all materials is a breeze, but invest in the proper blades for the job and keep them sharp (goes without saying but I never cease to be amazed).

My saw is used primarily in a shop environment and mainly as a replacement for a radial arm saw (cross-cuts 8/4 hard maple like a hot knife through soft butter), honestly I cannot imagine working without it. I had heard from other trades that the saw "goes out of adjustment frequently" and I must admit I have had this problem on job sites. The primary issue is the saws weight and awkwardness in moving it around. The four screws used to secure the adjustable platen to the saw base do loosen up with use and just picking this Mother up can effect the saws precision. The good news is it's not a major ordeal to re-set the alignment and a little bit of lock-tite prevents the set screws from wiggling loose. Although the saw can be placed on a work-mate (barely), I would recommend the DeWalt stand (the adjustable material supports alone make it worth the money). And if DeWalt would just put adjustable legs or feet on this stand it would be a perfect solution both in the shop and on-site. Yes the saw throws dust everywhere (which is more of a problem in a client's house than in the shop or outside), but a vacuum hook-up greatly helps and in reality every mitre saw does the same.

Don't be intimidated by the price or the size of the saw and use care when moving it around, you will not regret making this purchase. Highly recommended.

Love that Yellow!
Because I am not a professional carpenter the price for this tool was always out of my reach and never on sale. Thanks to a Home Depot $100 rebate card deal I finally made the move. It was my first "Dewalt yellow" and this saw has definitely lived up to all my expectations. I just completed a ornate picket fence from scratch and this saw made it almost effortless. Whoever at Dewalt engineered this saw (and stand which is also fabulous)really hit the mark. Since I bought this saw I have also purchased other Dewalt tools and have been very happy.

Question/Answer
1. Is it easy to use.... very
2. is it solid enough to cut big wood like 4x4...definitely
3. Is it accurate.....very
4. Should I get the stand for it....yes
5. Is it worth the money..... yes..every penny
6. Is there anything that could be changed in it's design...I challenge Dewalt to add a laser line retrofit.

Great Saw -- Buy it Someplace else
This is a great saw, and they've improved the dust collection -- my only complaint with an older model. Buying it from Amazon/toolcrib, however, is a nuisance. Trying to get presales support was useless, with conflicting information or tech people just reading me things from the web site. More importantly, the delivery time they gave me was a window of more than two weeks, and it took nearly 3 weeks to get the thing. AND, it arrived BROKEN. Fortunately, Dewalt is sending me a new one, but clearly someone had dropped this saw along the way since the lockdown pin was bent and the handle housing was broken. I bought from amazon only because they had a (...) when I bought the saw, but the price they quoted changed from day to day on the web site.

Fence needs occasional adjustment
Bought this tool 5 years ago and it has worked great since then.
However, now the fence seems to be out of square.
Does anyone know where I can get documentation on how to adjust or calibrate it?
The manual is long gone.

Apparently, this is a recurring problem with this tool.
But I don't want to take it in to the shop everytime it needs adjustment.

Stop Complaining
Just a note to everyone out there that is thinking of buying a slide miter saw. This is the one. Yes it is heavy. Yes the slide could be smoother like the Makita. Yes it could include more wothless accesories that no real carpenter would use. But it is still the best OVERALL miter saw available.. Hitachi sucks because of the low fence. Unless you are cutting 1X stock flat on the table all day long the fence is worthless. And unless you are one of the three peole in the world that actually likes a vertical handle, then that too is worthless. Makita makes a nice saw, but the assymetrical fence is a pain, becauase you can cut a handrail on the left side of the fence, but on the right side the farthest protruding part of the handrail(6010 profile anyway) is above the fence, which means that the peice you are cutting is supported on one side but not on the other. I will state that I have not used either of the new Bosch double bevel slides, but they seem like they are good, with one notable exception. Every saw on the market(including some Dewalt offerings) have that stupid twist knob miter lock. I have gotten so comfortable with the cam lock that I will never own or even use a miter saw without one. At one point, I was toying with the idea of buying a Makita 12" slide and putting a Dewalt fence on it, but the idea of not having the cam lock stopped that idea in its tracks( at least until I can find a way to incorporate that too!) That said, I am finally going to purchase a new saw, as my old 708 has served me faithfully for the past 5 years but she is a little long in the tooth, shaft bearings are wobbling, table thrust washers are sloppy, etc. Wonder what saw is going to replace it? Darn tootin', another 708. Enough said.

P.S. Last reveiw of this item was in '01 or so, if your'e keepin' track. My trade is stairbuilng and handrailing, with a little trin on the side, so if you are picky about cut quality(which is good, byt the way) you will be better off listening to me than a framer(no offense to those boys, for framing is an art not unlike mine) or a home owner cutting up some P.T. decking.
P.S.S. Those of you who make some crosscuts in an occasional board or whack together some casing for your own house should certainly let the rest of us know in your reviews, so that we can weigh your input with its actual worth. To be truthful, these people would be better served with a B & D or Craftsman miter saw( no slide, no bevel) and use the left over money for flowers for your yard. ... Read more

Features

• DC410-6,500 RPM, 5/8"-11 spindle, ball bearing construction
• Type 1 (cut-off) and Type 27 (offset center) guards included
• DC988-DEWALT built motor for 500 in-lbs of maximun torque
• XRP Extended run-time batteries for long run-time and life
• DC988 - Patented 3-speed transmission: 0-450/0-1,450/0-2,000

Reviews (1)

Good Combo Hammer Drill and Cutoff Tool
I bought this kit mainly for the cutoff grinder tool.I have been using the cutoff tool as a grinder and it works great.This is for a field application were I needed cordless and this has lived up to my expectations.The battery life is good, the wieght and feel of the tool is great, and it is easy to use. Power for a cordless 4 1/2" grinder is excellent, you can lean pretty hard on it before it stalls, but remember it is cordless.The drill works well however I havn't used it enough to comment.Dewalt cordless tools are not cheap, however a good value. The reason for 4 not 5 stars is I want to see how long it lasts. ... Read more