Amazon.com Review

Riding on a horizontal double-rail system, Makita's 10-inch dual sliding compound miter saw is one smooth operator. Both rails are self-cleaning and slide on linear ball bearings. The horizontal rail design also seems to give this saw some extra stability, a feature we appreciate, especially in a saw that bevels to 45 degrees both ways. Makita's saw has a vertical grip design with a thumb-activated safety switch and a paddle trigger, and while the vertical design might be slightly less ergonomic than the horizontal D-handle, it does allow you to use the saw comfortably with either hand. Plus, the paddle grip makes squeezing the trigger easy no matter how you're holding the handle.

The saw crosscuts a two-by-twelve at 90 degrees and also has the depth capacity to cut four-by-four material--a feature deck builders, in particular, demand. The saw's table is large, too, giving you plenty of workspace for making wider crosscuts. The saw's nine positive stops make it easy to lock in common miters. The miter lock on this saw has a screw handle that is a little more time-consuming than recently popular cam-lock design. We really like the soft start and electric brake, however; they're user-friendly features that make a big difference, especially when a job requires a lot of constant, repetitive cuts. The pivot fence adjusts for supporting large stock and flips back for bevel cuts. The saw also has a well-designed work clamp that lets you make precision cuts on small pieces without having to get your fingers too close to the blade. Like most sliders, this saw features a depth-stop mechanism in case you have to make a few quick dado cuts on a job site. And, for home shop users, this saw also gives you the added option of a release safety button that pulls out and locks the saw off. --Jon Groebner ... Read more

Features

• Dual rails for stability
• Bevels 45 degrees left and right for versatility
• Miters 0 to 47 degrees left, and 0 to 52 degrees right
• Adjustable sliding fence supports larger stock
• 13-amp motor with soft start for smooth performance

Reviews (63)

Best Tool In The Shop!
I have been woodworking for the past 25 years and have a substantial investment in tools. I've used an 8.5" SCMS for 10 years and spent the past year shopping all the new larger sliders on the market. My purchase of the Makita LS1013 was based on precision, quality, ergonomics and value. Of the 30+ top brand power tools in my shop, the 1013 has it all! The one word that comes to mind is "SMOOTH"! The glide of the sliding rails, the ease of the miter table swing and bevel adjustment, the solidity of the saw head and blade guard in the cut and the smooth but powerful and quiet motor all give the feeling of a machine with precision and finesse. Don't get me wrong. This tool is solid and very well built. I know it will last for many years to come. The miter and bevel settings were square right out of the box and the blade run out was a negligible .001". I was ready to purchase a Forrest Chopmaster blade but found the stock 64-tooth carbide blade gave a "glass-like" finished edge with no tear-out on several types of wood. The supplied accessories and the add on accessories are great and give the saw the features to perform all the task I'll ever need. Overall, the saw "feels" right. A lot of thought must have gone into the design and final production of this unit and in my opinion, there's not really any competition out there in the SCMS market!! Although I haven't yet performed any crown molding projects with it, I'm confident that it will be up to the task. Makita has a real winner here. It'll be hard to better it in the future!

very, very picky
I own the LS1013 and it is a great saw. I'm a carpenter and furniture builder with strict tolerances. Out of the box, my saw was set up with no needed adjustments. The angles were dead on, with minimal runout. A couple of bothersome points; the blade guard can get in the way when sliding inwards cutting mouldings and base, also the stops do have some play in them. The dust bag is pretty worthless in my opinion. I like how it has a stop at 31.6 for cutting crown moulding. Many don't offer this feature. The LS1013 slides effortlessly, the soft start is great and doesn't kick hard when you release the trigger. The blade is excellent (makita makes great blades). A friend of mine is a chairmaker who often writes articles for fine woodworking magazine. He also owns an LS1013. Great saw for the money, and haven't had any problems yet. If your looking for an accurate dual bevel sliding saw for $500 this is the best 10" saw on the market.

If I had a second chance ...
I just got the Hitachi C10FSH a week ago, everything is good ecept the noise. I don't know what went wrong in design process,
this saw is only 12amp but the noise is much louder than the DeWALT 708 and MAKITA LS1212 they are both 15amp. My ex boss have 2 MAKITAS they works really good. I stopped at the local store to take a close look at the MAKITA LS1013, it is a good saw,it has everything the Hitachi does, it is Made in America.You'll get a 14.4-volt cordless drill/driver kit free after mail-in rebate when you purchase this miter saw. The reason I didn't give it a 5 star rate because it isn't belt drive which the other reviewer said that the motor touch the work piece when you make right bevel, I don't know it is true or not, you'd better take a look yourself. If I had a second chance , this saw would be my choice.

Doesn't hold up.
I'm a contractor who demands a lot from my tools. I've owned the Makita LS1013 for 3+ years and am in the market for a new saw. I really liked the saw's features when I first purchased it, but I had to bring it in to a Makita repair shop within the first year. Ever since it has been on the road to ruin. I've had it worked on five times having had the miter locking mechanism replaced twice, the safety switch replaced twice (it falls out and gets lost - I now have a screw in its place), the fence replaced once (now needing its second replacement), switch replaced; miter bearing track under the table replaced twice (again the aluminum against steel thing); etc....

Positives of the saw: Tilted Motor (convenient & powerful), self cleaning sliders, wide base.

Negatives: Miter locking mechanism is a threaded steel rod going into aluminum housing which quickly strips (I'm on #3); aluminum fence warps (I'm on #2 and now need #3 - I think this is due to seasonal temperature changes it experiences in the back of my pick-up truck); rear bevel lock requires clearance deeper than the table; slop in the miter angle detents (they wear out).

I would recommend this saw to cabinetmakers, picture framers and those who have a shop set-up. For people like me who need a saw to hold up from job-site to job-site, this isn't your saw. Beware of too many features and too much aluminum, it just means there is more to go wrong. I'd gladly trade in the weight of a cast iron base and fence saw like they used to make because they hold up. For now, I'm going back to the Hitachi (not the version with the laser).

Keep in mind, power tools made today are priced low because they are considered disposable. I suppose 3 years of everyday use might be considered a decent life span against the money it has allowed me to make. Still, I'd prefer fewer features for longevity and toughness.

Simply Put: It is the Best Compound Slider Out There Period
I am annoyed at those who would let 6 different people use a saw that don't have the foggiest notion of how it works, then get critical of it when it breaks. This saw has a dual release on the front to set the miters. One is a lever that is spring loaded and easily moves aside in order to not click into the detents at 90 or 45 degrees for example. (So you can set it at 90.5 and not have it fall into the 90 degree detent) The other release is a large knob that screws in to tighten, and screws out to release. If you leave it tightened in and force the saw to change it's setting, you are for sure scoring, stripping, and breaking the setting mechanism.

Pertaining to the fence; With any tool you use, like a router, or a saw, you have to be careful to start the tool spinning fast before you enter it into the work. Have you ever experienced the run away router that was touching the work when you started it up? Well the same holds true of the Makita saw. Once or twice on my LS1212, I rushed into the cut before the blade was spinning, and the power took the piece and tried to force it through the fence. Spin first, plunge second. After that happened twice, I had to realign the fence. When someone does this on a regular basis, and then has to take the saw back for a replacement fence, it's the operators fault, not the saw. The fence is thick aluminum. Humidity has no effect on it whatsoever.
The adjusting lever for the bevel is located on the back of the slider, and of course it extends beyond the back of the stand.
I guess I am venting, because some have chosen to abuse this stellar piece of equipment, then return it trashed, and then try to convince others that the saw is at fault. I had to say something. So enough of the confusion, let's talk about the beauty of this saw.
The LS1013 is a brute workhorse, while at the same time an unbelievably perfectly accurate fine tool. Consider what Popular Woodworking had to say about it. "We can't recommend this tool enough. It's won every award this magazine gives out, and has earned a permanent place in our shop because it's tough and accurate."
Workbench Magazine gave its brother the LS1212 their editors choice award. Here is some of what they said about it. "Makita LS1212 proved to be the superior saw in this test on almost every count. It is compact, powerful, and dead on accurate. The saw made perfect bevels, miters, and compound cuts using only the factory detents for setup."
In ToolsOfTheTrade.com Tool test for sliding compound miter saws, without going into all of the elaborate criteria they used for each and every aspect of DSCMiters, they said in their Winners section; "Without a doubt, my overall favorite saw is the 10-inch Makita LS1013. The company's engineers really thought the design of this model through.
Personally I own the Makita LS1212 and it is a cornerstone of my shop. I used the Bosch Digital Protractor, which measures in tenths of a degree (equal to 3600 dots in a circle, no matter how small the circle) and measured the results in terms of accuracy right out of the box. This is it: The saw was dead on accurate, whether it was cutting a miter, a bevel or a compound miter-bevel cut, and wasn't off by even one-tenth of a degree. It is so quiet and smooth, I smile every time I use it.
Think of the engineering: Getting a saw to bevel both ways is a problem because when you tilt it to the right to bevel, the motor would normally get in the way. Some manufacturers put the motor at the back of the saw, and run belts to it. What Makita did, was still keep a direct drive by simply tilting the motor upwards at a 45 degree arc. Direct drive gives you the maximum amount of power, and zero vibration.
I could go on for hours about this saw. It comes with a blade that is such high quality, their is no need for an expensive replacement. It creates a glass smooth surface. With the dual bevel capability, and the Bosch digital protractor, you measure the real corner angle of the wall, (they are rarely a perfect 90) and it calculates the miter and bevel settings for cutting crown moldings. You lay the molding FLAT on the Makita, and cut a perfect crown the first time. No having to run up and down the ladder to keep tweaking it in.
Some may complain that the dust bag doesn't work very well. I throw my arms up in frustration hearing that also. How do you get a saw that is cutting forty million different angle combinations, and get it to throw all those shavings into a little throat. Production shops have a large collector behind their saws to catch all of the dust. It is amazing that the bag does the job that it does. Mine fills up with dust, but sure it doesn't get it all, none of them do.
I did a ton of research before buying my saw. I could tell you about the cheap plastic used in some of the competition. I could tell you about the saws that don't cut accurately, even on a simply 90 degree miter. Or the ones that cut the miter accurately, but falls short on the accuracy of the bevels. The ones that throw small pieces of wood flying at a 100 miles per hour, but I would rather just tell you that the Makita sliders are Simply the Best Compound Slider Out There. With the special going on right now, makes this a no brainer. I am so crazy about the Makita sliders that I ordered the LS1013 for portable use, even though I already have the LS1212 on a stand in my shop. Some reviews rate the 1013 higher than the 1212, due to a larger platform-work surface. It also has the crown detent, which the 1212 does not have. I love them both, now that I have been using them. Highly recommended. Triple AAA plus 5 stars. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Hitachi’s redo of the well-built C10FS took a great saw and made it better. Laser cutting line? Done. Taller fence? Done. More legible scales? Done. The soft-start, belt-driven, 12-amp motor reduces vibration, and you get the same impeccably smooth ride on the slide that its predecessor offered, thanks to Hitachi’s linear ball-bearing system. At a mere 44 pounds, it’s a great contractor saw for job site work, trimming studs, crown molding, plywood, decorative veneer and hardboard, even aluminum sash materials--and unlike other saws, it bevels left and right. This Hitachi is dead-on accurate every time, with a smooth action and comfortable, secure grip. Our favorite update to this saw is undoubtedly the laser cutting line--who wouldn’t want that? It’s a little spendy for the average home woodworking hobbyist, but with tools, you really do get what you pay for.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Hitachi exclusive 5 year warranty
• New laser cut guide delivers highly accurate cuts
• New high flip fence design for extra support
• Frontal bevel scale makes reading angles easy
• Soft-start, belt-driven, 12-amp motor reduces vibration for superior results

Reviews (30)

HITACHI C 10FSH
I am an amatuer wood worker. I thorughly researched all the competing saws including Makita, Bosch, PC, and Delta. My father in-law has owned the 8 1/2" Hitachi sliding miter saw for over 10 years and attests to Hitachi's reliability. The 10 inch saw gives greater capacity and flexibility. The Hitachi saw was delievered in perfect adjustment. It is smooth and powerful. The laser line makes aligning cuts a pleasure (especially for far sighted individuals) and is a definite time saver. The standard 40-toothed blade leaves such smooth cuts that I haven't needed to use the bonus 72-toothed blade that was included. My criticisms are the table could be bigger, the power cord should be longer and there should be an adapter to easily hook it up to a vaccum system. This is an extremely well made tool that will not disappoint.

Solid, accurate, repeatable. Love this saw.
I am a garage woodworker and I wanted precision cross cuts for cabinetmaking. I have had the Hitachi for six months and use it a lot.

The saw starts soft and cuts beautifully with the enclosed blade. The angles are true out of the box -- this is not a saw that requires much assembly or permits much adjustment. The laser feature is point 'n shoot simple.

I hook this saw up to my shop DC. I was not crazy about the bag dust collector (it's not awful, but it is a bag to clean up). I attached a 2.5" DC fitting with a bit of surgery and duct tape. Works fine and is reasonably clean. I clamp the saw to my workbench and fold the saw for storage underneath when not in use. Setup is well under a minute.

BTW, if you are training kids to work wood, this is a terrific first powersaw. The laser ensures precise cuts and as a slider, it is far easier to control than most power saws. My 11 year old uses it safely with supervision.

My other power tools are DeWalt and Bosch, but Hitachi invented compound sliders and I have no regrets about choosing this one.

Motor is small - Noise is loud
I bought this saw after read all review on Amazon web site. The saw arrived almost two weeks later. UPS dropped it in very good shape. I didn't use it yet, I just gave it a test and these are what I found: like other review , the saw is good except the noise.
This saw has 12Amp motor but the noise is much louder than some 15Amp motor saws.The bevel stops at 33.9 degree is corect but at 30 degree on mine is at 29 degree but I don't know how to adjust it. If Hitachi fix those prolems it would be a five star miter saw.

other reviews right on - a great saw with some minor flaws
Bought the C10FSH as an upgrade to the DW703. Would say that
the other reviews are right on the money. Saw was set up
properly right out of the box, and makes fine and accurate
miter and bevel cuts. Very solid, no slop. Soft start is
excellent.

Before you buy, you should be aware of the following shortcomings:
*the safety switch takes some getting used to. To me, it is a pain.
*the laser does in fact have about 1/64" of run-out. It is
correct at the fence side of the cut. Since this problem
has been mentioned by so many reviewers, I have to assume that
Hitachi considers this a feature. To me, it is no big deal.
*My biggest beef is that there is no vernier on the miter
table. On the DW, it is very easy to change the miter angle
in accurate 1/4 degree increments. Not so w/ Hitachi.

All in all, I got what I expected.

Good but not great. It could and should be.
The major feature of this saw is that it can make both a right and left bevel cut since the motor is up out of the way. That is the reason for the belt drive. However, the laser guide is only on one side of the kerf which negates most of the advantage of having a laser. The competition has solved this by having two laser lines, one on each side of the kerf or by having a line that is a big as the kerf.
My saw, which I have had for over a year now, the laser line is off about 1/64th at the end of the extended line. It can be set for the exact mark at the inside of a cut but will be off at the outside mark by 1/64th. In other words the kerf and the laser do not track exactly.
Otherwise, this saw has performed very well. It would be simple for Hitachi to make an upgrade for the laser and give instructions on how to correct the misalignment. I was unable to get anyone to even listen to me when I called the national office. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Bosch's 10-inch Worksite table saw might just be the best of the current bunch. Benchtop table saws--which weigh 60 to 100 pounds and are light enough for one person to carry from the truck to the job site--have increased in popularity in recent years. They set up easily on a workbench or sawhorses and generally feature stable components that make them great for pros and serious hobbyists alike. Although at 60 pounds the Bosch is lighter than any other saw in its class, this saw is no lightweight. It sports a die-cast undercarriage and powerful 4.4-horsepower, 15 amp motor--burly components that make it a serious, albeit slight, contender. Conveniently, the Bosch comes ready to use right out of the box; we were making cuts about 10 minutes after the UPS delivery. Plus, it's the only benchtop table saw with an arbor lock, so mounting the blade is a one-wrench affair (less chance for busted knuckles). The wrench--like all those that come with Bosch tools--is forged, rather than stamped, and so there are no sharp edges that dig into your hand during blade changes. It's a small detail, but one that matters and one that's typical of the attention to detail paid by Bosch engineers.

A flip of the paddle-style on/off switch initiates the soft-start electronics, which ramp the blade up to speed quickly without any disturbing jolt. The electronic feedback, popular on many saws today, keeps the blade turning at a constant speed, no matter what the load. The fence is the heart of any table saw and we found Bosch's to be a beauty. It's well machined and locks securely and accurately to the table. The cam-lock handle is padded, seats flush, and feels good to use. Like the comparable DeWalt saw, the Bosch features an extendable fence that makes it easy to rip four-by-eight panel material. It feels solid and slides smoothly, and the scales are easy to read. (There's even a built-in magnifying glass to cut down on the squint factor.) As with all the new Bosch tools, wrenches and removable items store nicely onboard the saw. The fence snaps into a holder on the side of the saw and stays put, and the miter gauge slides into a slot on the front of the tool--yet another small detail that we appreciate. The bottom line? The Bosch is a powerful saw that handles big stock without bogging down. --Mark McDonald ... Read more

Features

• 4.4-horsepower 15 amp motor delivers excellent power
• Soft-start technology ensures smoother start-ups and quieter performance
• Precision rip fence with Square-Lock technology delivers precise cuts every time
• Response system senses torque demand and instantly delivers more power to the blade
• Large tabletop measures 29 by 21-1/2 inches (width by length)

Reviews (98)

The Will to Power
This is truly a magnificent benchtop table saw, well-deserved of the awards it has won. I spent hours browsing on-line reviews to determine which portable table saw to purchase, and the Bosch topped every list. The folding stand is excellent quality, very sturdy, and allows for drop-in mounting of the table saw. Despite the light weight of the saw, there is no need to bolt the unit to the stand for a sturdy, rock-solid fit. The rear outfeed was designed with two grooves on the back end (as shown in the picture) that accept 1 x 2's, allowing you to extend the rear outfeed to virtually any length!

Of most importance with this saw is its exceptional power. With the stock blade, I was able to rip through Armstrong laminate flooring like butter. This is a task my Dewalt 705S miter has an extreme time with, even with a laminate-specialized blade (though it's a different style of cut).

Thanks to the soft-start and electronic feedback, the table saw doesn't need to constantly run at full power. This provides a very quiet operation, and is much safer than many other portable saws on the market -- I'm sure this even extends the motor life. Soft-start is a key feature when working on my 15-amp circuits. Unlike my miter, the Bosch doesn't blow my circuit-breaker when I turn it on.

Tool storage is excellent -- there's even room to store extra blades on the unit. The only storage Bosch neglected to include was a blade-guard storage.

I can't begin to describe how excellent this unit is.

Precise, workhorse of a table saw
The Bosch 4000K Table Saw is incredibly engineered to provide for precise saw operation with great portable power. I am a very serious do-it-yourselfer (translated, contractors have rejected bids on some projects I ended up doing solo). I replaced an under powered and grossly inaccurate Delta table saw with the Bosch and am nothing but pleased. It has enough power to rip a 2x4x10 all the way without bogging down. Most of all, the rip fence is perfectly aligned. The built in dust collector port and blade, rip fence, and miter saw storage are a real plus too. The stand is very stable. When equipped with the outfeed and side tables, the Bosch 4000K can handle just about any cutting job you throw to it. And best of all, it is very light weight and built to be moved. Overall, an outstanding product.

PS -- I am a DeWalt lover at heart, but their saw simply won't run with the Bosch. It is of lesser power and prone to accuracy issues. Check it out and you can see the same problems.

Zip-a-dee do saw
Nice tool, especially considering the size, weight and price. Strong, quiet motor... Smooth, accurate adjustment... Well thought out in every aspect, and a pleasure to use. Typical Bosch.

4.4 horsepower? I don't think so.
If one horsepower is about 750 watts at 100% efficiency, then how can a 15 amp saw produce anything more than about two horsepower?

Great Saw with a few idiosyncrasies
As others have stated, this saw is arguably the best small/benchtop tablesaw on the market. The motor is strong and quiet. The soft start feature is nice, especially since it keeps the saw from jerking on uneven surfaces (often noted on outdoor jobsites) and helps prepare your ears for the noise when working inside. The cabinet and stand seem sturdy and are well thought out (including hand grips and tool/blade/accessory storage). On the flip side, thought the saw has a textured aluminum table that scratches easily and needs cleaned of saw dust frequently. The dust port is marginally effective (I have a 5.5hp wet/dry hooked to it on the jobsite and still sweep often). Blade changing isn't difficult, but takes a little practice - 10" blades must be worked into place. While the saw runs an 8" stacked dado with ease, the arbor setup could be better (read: longer, truer, etc.) as I cannot seem to get a flat bottom dado (with Frued SD508). The side and rear extensions are very nice to have, although the side extension is not flush in height with the table surface (strange?). Lastly, machine setup is difficult (or at least for me). The table is fixed, so blade to miter slot alignment is done by moving the motor/blade mechanism which is more than touchy. The fence clamps by rear to front tension and is very hard, though not impossible, to lineup with the miter slot (repeatably). Other settings are as expected - basically problem free.

This is a great tool and will not dissapoint if you are patient enough to get it setup well - as with any tablesaw purchase, consider decent setup tools (e.g. precision square, 45deg block, and TS-Aligner). ... Read more

Features

• Large machined aluminum tabletop (29 by 21-1/2 inches) easily handles bigger stock
• Powerful 15 amp, 4.4-horsepower max tool output has the power to tackle any material
• Precision rip fence with patented Square-Lock technology provides accuracy with every cut
• Soft-start for quieter, smoother startups
• Constant Response circuitry constantly monitors torque demand and instantly delivers additional power, plus protects against overload

Features

• Out Feed support provides added material support for large work pieces for both out feed and side suport
• Exclusive, telescoping fence delivers 24-1/2" rip capacity without sacrificing portability
• Rack and pinion design makes fence adjustments fast, smooth and accurate ensuring that the fence is always parallel to the blade
• Telescoping rails retract within the saw top for easy portability, Features a 15.0 Amp high-torque motor with the power to cut pressure-treated lumber and hardwoods
• Features a heavy-duty internal motor mechanism which stabilizes the arbor, keeping vibration to a minimum

Reviews (1)

THIS IS A GOOD ONE!
I've owned this saw for about 5 years.I use it on the job & at home.The out feed bars work very well even sawing a 4X8 sheet but make sure you use another feed table out about 4 feet.The ease of adjustments are really good.Up, down and saw angle are very easy to move.Use some WD-40 on the outfeed bars once a year.Although the saw is rather heavy the stand is light and very stable and the saw is easy to put on.There's plenty of power, the switch is in a good spot, the exhaust port works well and all in all this is a great tool!It's worth the price.Good luck. ... Read more

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

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

• 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

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

Amazon.com Review

Hitachi's' 8-1/2-inch sliding compound miter saw is a tried-and-true favorite with professionals, who value its solid construction and reliable accuracy. It has a 9-1/2 amp motor with an electric brake, 11 positive miter stops, and 4 positive stops on the bevel gauge. We like the big wide table, the hefty base construction, and the embossed numbers and markers of the miter gauge. While the sliding fence is clearly designed with easy adjustment in mind, it's less durable than we would like to see and not too tall. The blade guard operates smoothly and doesn't obstruct the visibility of the work--an improvement over previous versions that had a tendency to hang up. This saw was among the first sliding compound miter saws out, and its solid, reliable design hasn't changed much or lost popularity, even after several years on the market and a lot more competition. Due to its solid construction, it remains accurate after a long time on the job, making it a consistent favorite with professional trim carpenters and everyone else whose work depends on exactitude. People who want the accuracy this saw offers but need more thickness capacity and the convenience of a double-bevel saw may want to consider Hitachi's 10-inch sliding compound miter saw. --Brian Trinen ... Read more

Features

• Hitachi exclusive 5 year warranty
• Ball-bearing slide system
• Locking swivel head for bevel cutting
• Spindle lock for quick blade changes
• Bevel and miter detents for crown molding cuts

Reviews (20)

Lay it Down
I've owned this saw for over 5 years now and will most likely grab another one for the crew. It doesn't get anymore percise than this unit.We work on exclusive homes on a daily basis that are loaded with sizeable moldings.A little clue to those who try and cut everything standing up, LAY IT DOWN. You can be much more accurate with your molding laying on a flat serface,specificaly large crowns and baseboards.So my advise to Bobby from Boulder is to learn how to use that exspensive saw you speak so pourly of or just work with 3" moldings for the rest of your days.

Great saw- beware though of wrong info above from manufactur
As the owner of a trim carpentry business with 5 employees, I have to admit this saw is the most versatile I have found. Each employee has one entrusted to him, and I have tried the other brands and even own the new 10" Hitachi dual-beveling saw. The point that needs to be made is that the description at this time from the manufacturer says that this saw bevels both directions- which it does not. It miters both directions, but only bevels to the left. The larger ten inch Hitachi bevels both ways, and it a nice saw to own also. The beauty of this saw, though, it that it lasts practically forever, is lightweight, and versatile. We cut up to 24" shelving by cutting one direction, then flipping it over and finishing the cut. We cut miles of crown flat with it using compound mitre and bevel cuts, and it's not a big deal to flip your piece around.(Most of the time, we use a crown that you can flip over and cut due a flat profile instead of handling the long length again) Buy this saw, you will enjoy it.

SOO CLOSE!
Hitachi has come soo close to perfection with this saw. It's small blade, high power motor, and well designed slide mechanism make this saw cut more consistently high quality cuts than any other saw on the market! But, this saw also has some serious weaknesses. 1) Only tilts in one direction. 2) Fence is too short( all cuts must be done flat.) 3. Fence is too soft. becomes bent after relatively short period of constant use. plastic fence pieces break and are tooo flexible. can be remedied by attaching hardwood to fence but this limits the clamp. 4) smaller capacity.

while I say this is the best on the market I have not tried the latest 10" sliders to enter the market.

PLEASE NOTE THAT EVEN WITH THESE DRAWBACKS IF YOU MUST HAVE A SAW TO DO FINISH WORK THIS IS IT. THIS SAW MAKES THE DeWalt SEEM LIKE A TOY!

HITACHI DUST BAG
JUST RECENTLEY STARTED USING THE HITACHI 81/2 SLIDING SAW AND SO FAR IT HAS BEEN VERY GOOD, JUST A COUPLE OF IMPROVEMENTS I WOULD LIKE TO SEE, ONE IS THE 45 DEGREE DETENTS NEED TO BE MORE PRONOUNCED ALSO THE DUST CATCHER NEEDS TO BE IMPROVED I TRIED TO SEAL ALL THE PLACES IT THROWS OUT THE SAW DUST WITH LIMITED SUCESS

Need replacement parts
I own a C8FB that I bought in 1991. Love the saw, it still cuts as good as the day I purchased it. The problem I have is I need a few replacement parts (blade guard, blade insert,etc.)and don't know where to get them. Can anybody help me out? ... Read more

Features

• 4-position stroke control for working with a variety of thicknesses
• Powerful 6.4 amp motor for fast, smooth cutting
• Variable speed trigger for optimal cutting control
• Precision control design for laser straight cutting
• One-Touch Blade Change for less downtime and more productivity

Reviews (7)

No such issues
I bought this saw back in March and have used it quite a bit. My purchase was an upgrade from my old B&D and the difference is night and day. I have not noticed any issue with heat buildup and I have used it to cut through 1.5" thick plywood and 2x4s without issue. Highly recommended.

outstanding quality
I had purchased the metabo top of the line jig saw. It was the most difficult jig saw I ever used. I ended up going back to my 30 year old sears. Finally, I returned it and purchased the 1590. I can not tell you the difference. In quality, in use, the blade changing system is so far superior and the guides are fantastic. The blade is clearly visible and is kept clean by the blower. I did not notice the unit getting hot as was mentioned in one review. If you are serious about your equipment, just buy this jig saw, none can compare.

What a DISAPPOINTMENT!!!!
I owned the 1587 model from Bosch, but sold it to my brother to "upgrade" to the newer model with the simpler blade ejection and the updated blade clamping system. What a mistake!!! As one other reviewer stated, this saw gets very, very hot to the touch. I ran the 1587 next to this model side by side for 1 minute just to see if that reviewer was correct. The 1587 warmed up then cooled itself down with the design of the vents. The 1590 warmed itself up and just kept on getting hotter. At about the 45 second mark, you could no longer hold onto the front of the jigsaw. I love Bosch tools, but this tool has a major design flaw in the way it cools itself. I am now buying the 1584 barrel grip from Bosch. I can't wait to get back to a quality design from a quality company. Bosch can do much better than this product.

very smooth jigsaw
I have had this saw for a few weeks now and am very happy with how smooth it cuts everything. I used it to trim off an overhang on a kitchen counter and it made a very smooth cut through both the laminate and particle board underneath. Also, I have used it to make some cut-outs in the plywood for a sub-floor and the cuts are very smooth. The blower works very well so that you can easily follow your cut line.

This saw is rather heavy for a jigsaw but the weight helps to absorb any vibration. The price and weight are both high but if you want a smooth and powerful jigsaw take a look at this one.

Fast and Accurate
I make a lot of custom furniture as well as perform trim carpentry that requires me to cut molding around brick and rock. I've found the 1590EVSK easy to handle with plenty of strength to consume maple and oak effortlessly. The oscillating blade is a wonderful feature and you can't beat the blade installation and removal.
While it could be considered pricy, if you plan on using a jig saw on a consistent basis this is absolutely one to to put at the top of your list to consider. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

Known as one of the few quality saws still made in America,what really sets the Powermatic 66 apart from the competition is about200 pounds of solid vibration-reducing cast iron. The weight of thismachine makes it the smoothest-running tool in its class. A 40-pound,single-piece, cast-iron trunnion reduces vibration from the3-horsepower motor. Combine this with the 28-by-38-inch cast-irontabletop and you have one beefy machine weighing in at just under 600pounds. The unique belt-drive system distributes torque moreefficiently with less wasted energy going to heat. Staying cool means alonger motor life and less wasted electricity. The Powermatic 66 has aconvenient, hinged front access door and a 4-inch dust collection portfor easy connection to standard dust collectors. The 50-inch Accu-Fencehas an interior spring that applies constant pressure when not lockeddown, which takes the slop out of fence movement, improving accuracyand the speed of fence adjustments. It also has replaceable sides witheasy-access screws. Users can adjust the sides so close to the tabletopthat laminates will not slip underneath. The Powermatic 66 is theclassic choice for professional cabinetry and furniture shops, as wellas for hobbyists who spend more time in the shop than on the couch.--Nancy Gleason ... Read more

Features

• Includes $292 worth of free options: dado insert, motor cover, extension table, and legs
• Heavy cast-iron trunnion reduce vibration and ensure smoother cuts
• High-efficiency 3VX drive-belt system delivers torque more efficiently and generates less heat
• Left-tilting blade prevents binding during bevel cutting, reducing the risk of kickback
• Award-winning Accu-Fence system creates an easy-gliding, precision fence

Reviews (16)

Rolls Royce of Cabinet Saws
I purchased my 66 in August of 1997. It has been used heavily for the cabinet work in our new log home as well as several other furniture projects. I made the cabinets from hickory and the 66 sliced through this like soft butter. I compared the 66 to the Delta and the Jet. I preferred the left tilt, and the small access door on the front was a nice feature. The Powermatic just seemed to be an all around solid machine. I've not regretted the extra expense for one second. If you want a serious table saw, this baby has what it takes.

Mixed bag
I received the saw and all 7 boxes. Driver was very helpful in delivering directly to shop. From one of the previous reviews I read here, I had put together the mobile base (bought separately) first and was able to move the saw base from the pallet to the mobile base. This is definitely the way to go.

First the good. I had always heard that the Powermatic 66 was the "best". I was impressed by the fit and finish of the saws that I had seen. I still feel that the finish on the top is the best anywhere. The packaging provided good protection. The extension wings went on easily and were easy to align properly. I got the wood extension table and it arrived intact without problem.

Now the not so good. Installing the front rail for the accufence, the instruction manual has you ensure exactly 2 27/32" from table to front rail and that this dimension is critical. However, after attaching the rail to table, it was not possible to achieve this "critical" dimension. Contacting Powermatic by phone(don't try the URL address provided, it doesn't work), they informed me that as long as the offset is consistent from table to rail that acceptable performance can be achieved (i.e., 2 14/16 or 2 13/16 was OK as long as this was consistent along the length of the table. (So much for critical). Not having this info initially cost me a couple hours unnecessary setup time. I also had difficulty getting the guide bar to be a consistent length from the table to the bar. The Powermatic rep(different individual) I contacted assured me that this had never been a problem before. (so I must be making it up?). I started removing mounting bolts from the underneath of the guide bar and found that one of the holes was offset enough to prevent the guide bar from being paralell. Once removed, it was possible to properly align the guide bar.

Once the fence was set up, I attempted to adjust for paralell. I spent a lot of time and was never satisfied with results, but the dimensions from the infeed and outfeed side of blade to the fence were equal or the outfeed was a hair greater. I never got a smooth cut. I assumed that the blade I was using was at fault, and bought a Forrest blade (very nice). I tried again and got better results but still not what I expected. There was always a gap between the wood and the fence on the outfeed side or I would get binding if adjusted the outfeed side further in.

I decided to invest in a rather expensive precision gauge to measure for exact paralell. What I found is that the accufence side plate which is UHMW plastic is concave, going in approximately 8 mils at the center of the cut. I am still working on getting this right, I ought to be able to shim it.

In summary, when the saw is up and running, it is very smooth and powerful. Very heavy arbor, low vibration, excellent lift and tilt mechanisms. The surface finish is excellent, but the fit of the fence was disappointing to say the least. I suspect this will be an excellent tool when finally adjusted. I had an inexpensive craftsman before and required a lot of adjustment and aftermarket add ons to make it work smoothly. I didn't expect the same from Powermatic. I am convinced top quality tools are worth the expense, but I expect top quality. I can recommend the HTC mobile base and the Forrest blade that I bought for this tablesaw, but the verdict on the saw itself is questionable.

Worth spending $400-$600 more
Purchased saw from local dealer paid $50.00 more than online. Couldn't wait shipping time from onlinesale. Fit and finnish excellent, better than Jet, Delta, General and everyone else. You will spend $400 - $600 more over the competitions best, you will never be satisfied untill you own a Powermatic-Bottom line, DO NOT SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS. Stock fence with UWOM poly sides is good for zero clearance cuts, but for short stock use a Besiemere with laminite sides. I would recomend this saw to anyone who demands the best and appreciates quality workmanship.

Excellent Machine.... Better save up though.
There is not much to say about this saw that hasn't already been said 1 million times. It's the best out there, but you pay for it. I examined many shops, garages, and woodworking stores before finally investing in the Powermatic, but I would not change anything now that I have it. The fit and finish is perfect, the power is ample, and the cuts are amazing. Combine this machine with a Forrest woodworker II and you're ready for just about anything. It took me a while to get the machine all set-up and the tolerances dialed in, but careful setup leads to successful production. All items arived in good shape, and went together as planned. I used a dial gauge mounted on a miter-gauge insert for all my alignment which was priceless. I measured the arbor flange runout at less that 0.001" at the outer rim of the flange. The only complaint I have is the price.

Unfortunate experience
I had many problems with this saw because of defective parts. The fence rail was bent, the table top was not flat (out 5/32" from side to side). The material on the side of the fence was cupped. Powermatic service did replace all these parts but this isn't where the problems ended. After set up finally was complete,I powered the saw up and a great deal of vibration occurred. Come to find out when the machine was manufactured the set screw on the drive pulley for the blade was missing.So the pulley was drifting on the shaft. Easy fix but by this time I thinkin' lemon. I could write a 100 pages of adjustments and problems I have had with this thing but I will spare you all the details. Just to let you know a little background on myself is I'm a mechanical engineer and have a great deal of understanding when it comes to equipment. This is not what I had expected from Powermatic ... Read more

Amazon.com

This top-of-the-line 10-inch diamond blade wet saw produces precise, chip-free cuts on all tile, ceramic, marble, and slate. The 115-volt motor develops a peak 1-1/2 horsepower. Better yet, working with big tile is a breeze: this unit cuts a 20-inch tile lengthwise and a 14-inch tile diagonally. The locking blade shaft makes blade-changing a snap. A fully integrated, precision guide bar guarantees smooth travel, while the 10-inch blade gets you a 3-3/4-inch maximum depth of cut, and the professionally engineered high-torque AC 12.8 GE motor and Micro-V belt drive make sure this unit is going to last. The heavy-duty stand is sturdy and dependable, too. In short, this is a beautiful saw package for the exacting professional.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Water pump and 10" tile blade are included
• Powerful 115V, 1-1/2 hp GE motor
• Features a shaft lock for safe, easy blade changes
• Cutting depth capacity of 3-1/4
• Can rip cut a full 18" tile while diagonally cutting a 14" tile

Reviews (1)

"Outstanding Tile Saw"
The MK-100 10" 1 1/2HP Tile Saw is an excellant saw for the money. I researched many different brands and sizes of Tile saws. I wanted one that could cut a variety of different types of tile and the ability to diaginaly cut twelve inches. I talked with an MK service rep and he said the MK 100, their newest saw, was basically the same saw as the 101. It does have a different motor and there is no cover over the slide assembly. The MK-100 will cut 12" floor tile in about three seconds. The saw sounds the same as the 101, basically the same machine, just two or three hundred dollars less expensive. The saw comes with a very good instruction booklet and everything needed to cut tile. The Diamond blade could be better, but you can easily replace it when it becomes dull.

I highly recommend this versatile saw to anyone that wants a great saw , at a great price. ... Read more

Features

• Five year limited warranty on machines, parts and accessories
• Includes left tilt, 3 HP single phase motor for powerful cutting
• 50" Biesemeyer commercial fence system
• Carbide tipped 50 tooth ATB&R saw blade, right extension table, adjustable steel support legs
• Two cast iron extension wings, standard insert, miter gage, motor cover and 4" dust connector

Reviews (11)

Top of the line
I bought the 3HP, left tilt Unisaw with 50" Biesemeyer fence, and I'm delighted with it. I had some questions on adjustments, and their tech support personnel were great - prompt and well-informed. The Southern accent was just a nice bonus for this displaced southerner (I work for Yankees, but that doesn't mean I have to like it :).

In contrast with another reviewer, I can't get mine to act up at all. It handles everything I've thrown at it as though I'm asking it to cut 3 sheets of paper, ho-hum. And that includes some long-ish cuts in 2 1/2" thick oak. No thick maple yet, but that's on the docket soon.

There was a warning on the assembly instructions about attaching the extension table legs in a different place if you were using a mobile base. I ignored the instructions and had to remount the legs in the right place (doh!), so be sure you pay attention there.

I waited a while to get this Unisaw, and figure it's the one piece of shop gear I'll never need to replace. Maybe I'll update it in 20 years with the latest laser-guided fence doohickeys or whatever is new then, but the saw and motor will easily outlast me. And I'm not too old or decrepit yet!

Delta Saw
Saw was delivered without difficulty. Package was in good shape. Assembly was not as easy. Extension wings were not labeled left or right, but they were not too hard to level. The splitter assembly was easy but the plastic blade guard is a real pain to work with. It is in the way of everything you want to do on the table surface. The motor cover is very nice but the holding screw is all the way at the bottom so you have to lay on your stomach to see it and get it out.
The Biesemeyer Fence is very well made. However it came without 2 packages of hardware and mounting screws so I had to call and have them sent. That took another 10 days to mount the fence system.
Overall I am very pleased with the saw. I expected a little more QA on the packaging with all needed parts but sometimes it happens.

Excellent product, weak customer service
I purchased my Delta unisaw several months ago and it is everything that I had expected and more. Works like a charm, flat table, easy to assemble, and accessory items mate perfectly. I read a lot of reviews, spoke to a lot of people, and Delta was highly recommended. I was a bit concerned about the overheating and wiring issues some reviewers were having, but this saw runs perfectly. I think some of the reported wiring problems must be a result of not clearly understanding or following directions.

I had a few minor problems during setup (a few missing parts and a minor problem with the sub-base) and had reason to work with Delta customer service, both in Tennesee and the local service center in Ontario, CA. I was not very impressed, as many of the answers I received were wrong or poorly thought out. People on the phone usually were not well informed on the product and had to ask someone else before getting an answer back to me. I tried using email, and the responses were very late and of poor quality (contrast with Grizzly customer service........quick responses to email, couteous and helpful). Over the phone I would often get different answers depending on who I spoke with.

One Amazon reviewer recently mentioned the z-brackets that were missing from his Biesemeyer extension table. He was told that it was the result of a misprint in the manual. I also was missing the angle bracket and z-bracket. After weeks of going in circles with Delta cusomter service, they sent me three of each. So, they do exist and they actually can help for fine leveling adjustment of the extension table. I also did not get the hollow handle for the miter guage, as they shipped a solid metal handle. (It is not really important as I have gone to an Incra miter guage) but I asked them to send me the correct handle. Well, they shipped me three handles (the wrong handles, the same one I already had) but they also shipped me three caps (in a separate bag) that are made for the hollow handle that I had asked them to send. So, it all went in the trash.

If the saw lives up to expectations, I will never have to deal with Delta customer service again. Let's hope.

As I mentioned earlier, I also purchased accessory items (mobile base, outfeed table, t-square blade guard)...and all arrived in good shape, installed easily according to assembly directions, and work well.

Nightmare! I don't know what to do!
I ordered a Delta Saw ( 5 hp version) on March 13, 2004. I received 3 boxes out of 4 on March 29. The freight company told me that they left the other box ( Biesmeyer) in Kansas. I called the freight company today and they told me they could not locate the package. They told me to get in touch with Amazon. Amazon doesn't respond to my e-mails. In the meantime my orders are getting cancelled. What a nightmare!
I heard a lot of good things about this saw. I wish I could use it and write a nice review about it.

Everything I Was Hoping For
I held off for a long time in buying this saw. I looked at as many other alternatives as I could find and I researched everything I could get a hold of. I wanted to be sure I was getting the best for the money and that I was going to have the saw for a long time. The Jet was very appealing but when I called about 13 cabinet shops everyone agreed that the Delta was a better machine. Just to note though, they all thought the Jet was an excellent option if couldn't afford the Delta.

So it came down to value. When you consider that one of the free tools Delta is offering is the mobile base (Which works incredibly well) and it comes with a free, high quality, blade the price is very reasonable.

The assembly was so simple that I am very confused by other reviewers that had problems. I did need someone to hold the extension wings while I bolted them on. But other than that I did it myself with a very big smile on the whole time.

I don't' need to mention the performance nobody ever questions it. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

When it comes to cutting intricate curves, DeWalt's 20-inch scroll saw delivers precision operation quietly and easily. In fact, everything about the saw is designed for convenience. The on/off switch and speed control, as well as the flexible dust-blowing arm, sit on the upper portion of the front arm, inches away from where you're working, so you don't have to reach around the tool to make adjustments. The wide, teardrop-shaped cast-iron table provides plenty of support for materials and bevels 45 degrees each way, great for tackling tricky inlays and shadow boxes. DeWalt placed the pivot points right up front, rather than in the back, which seems to reduce blade vibration. As with many DeWalt saws, this scroll saw doesn't require tools to change the cutting blades, which means it takes you less time and effort to make those drop-in cuts. --Justin Paul ... Read more

Features

• Tool-free blade changing
• Double parallel-link arm design dramatically reduces vibration and noise
• On-off switch, electronic variable speed located on the front upper arm
• Oversize, cast iron table, bevels 45 degree left & right
• 2-inch depth of cut, 400/1750 SPM

Reviews (15)

Great designed saw
The DeWalt saw is designed and manufactured by Sommervile Design in Canada. They make the Excaliber Scroll saw. The Dewalt Saw is very much like the excaliber in that it has very low vibration and having a very smooth operation. I had a dewalt but had to move up to the excaliber because of the work i produced, unless you use a scroll saw for 6 - 12 hours per day, buy this saw. The only problem I had was the motor could not take the beating i gave it, i cut 3/4 to 1 1/2 thickness wood all the time, althought the saw handled that thickness with ease, it could not keep my pace. If your a hobbiest cutting moderately its a GREAT saw. It has a quick release for the blade and you can change blades in seconds, the blade tension is right there in front, the top arm lifts for getting work on and off the table. Fairly quiet operation. Don't waste your money on the light, its not bright at all and does not help. Assembly is a snap upon getting the saw, just put the table on and your ready to go. I have used everything out there, besides the Excaliber, the dewalt is the next best thing. Whats nice about the dewalt, it has the same design as the excaliber in that like other saws that have the full top and lower arms that ofcourse move up and down, the dewalt like the excaliber has only tips of the arms move, the tips that move are only about 4" long, less moving thus less vibration. Inside the top and bottom arms there is a flat rod that move back and forth that moves the tips up and down. When you get your new dewalt and you see how smooth, quiet, and just about no vibration, imagine a saw twice to 3 times better that the dewalt and you have the Excaliber. I think one of the reasons why the Excaliber can take what i dish out is that it is belt driven, this ofcouse increases the power and the strain on the motor, if the dewalt goes belt driven I'll get another one.

A superior saw for the money.
I took my time before making this purchase. I not only read all the reviews but had an opportunity to check out the saw at a wood show. This saw replaces a Delta scroll saw that I bought 10 years ago. I wanted a saw that was easy to use, with very little vibration. This machine fit the bill. There's hardly any vibration at all. It's one of the quietest tools in my shop. Blade changes and tensioning couldn't be any easier. The electronic speed control is a plus. The saw arrived from Amazon.com in excellent condition. The only assembly was attaching the table. In less than 10 minutes I was scrolling Christmas ornaments. The quality out of the box was excellent. I've put about a hundred hours on the saw so far and I have to say that it is addicting. It was a surprise to find that this tool was not made in China or Taiwan, it's made in Canada. Form and Fit are perfect. I've tried very hard to find something negative to say about this saw and have failed. It's a well made tool, a pleasure to use and I'm looking forward to many years of use.

Wow, what an upgrade!
I originally had a R***i from[local store], purchased because I'd had good luck with all the other R***i tools I have. This was my first scroll saw, learning curve and all that. The light quit, then the upper blade holder broke from the mighty twisting of my feeble arthritic grip, I suppose. Took it back. Now being familiar with scroll saw problems, particularly pierceing cuts / blade handeling, vibration, etc, did more research, decided on the DeWalt design. Great price and shipping time here at Amazon. The DeWalt saw? What a sweet machine this is! Smooth as silk, no vibration compared to other designs until the speed is near the max,quieter than the wife's sewing machine, the table / blade zeroed right out of the box. I'll be happily sawing for years to come on this baby. I will agree with the others though, on the hold down foot, it's the one weak point of the design. Most fretwork guys abandon them anyhow. (Not a reccomended practice.) Some have the scars to prove it!

Great saw with one exception
I recently upgraded from a craftsman to the Dewalt. I have been happy with the almost vibration free operation, easy blade changes, and large 20" bed. The only problem I have had is the hold down foot. Dewalt uses a large hold down foot that is constructed of a bent rod that attaches to one side of the upper saw arm. The attachment of the foot is not very solid. The foot interfears with the view of your work piece and tends to fall down into the cutouts when doing fretwork. This causes your work piece to bind up and then suddenly jump free as you apply more preasure to move the piece. It can be frustrating when working on an intricate piece. Also, the size of the foot makes cutting small pieces almost impossible without removing it all togehter. My old Craftsman had a small V shaped hold down foot that worked very well. If Dewalt would fix this one problem, they would have a great saw.

dewalt dw788 dream machine
I bought this item as a Christmas gift for myself, after the short time it took me to assemble the stand & put the light fixture on , I started to do some delicate inside cuts with this dream machine.Believe me I emailed, called, sent in for information on all the saws I could find, I am glad I bought the dewalt 788 saw. I have no connections with this company, I am just a hobbiest who found a new toy with nothing but joy, for the money you cant go wrong, you'll be impressed with the size of the table to the lack of vibration. ... Read more