Hello folks…I want to start by saying I appreciate the advice I receive in these forums, and the new tools too.
My current question is regarding the Makita LS1013 dual bevel SCMS. Amazon.com has a sale for $395, and I believe that is before an additional $25 off, plus free shipping. Is this a good tool? Accurate? Durable? Dependable? My bosses have the Hitachi saws, and they are nice, but this is $50-100 cheaper. I don’t abuse my tools, because I am too poor a tool junkie to keep replacing tools. I buy tools to last, and treat them to last. Thanks in advance.
Young, poor, and eager to learn
Edited 4/4/2005 1:15 am ET by SBerruezo
Replies
By all means get it. It is one of the great dependable saws, and that's a great price. I happen to have a Dewalt that I've had for many years, and I'm just used to it, but I have used the Makita saw that you're talking about several times and it really is a superior saw. The only thing I would want is a higher fence for crown work, but you can easily clamp on a piece of plywood for that.
Great saw, great price! And it should come with a very good blade.
I looked long and hard at the Hitachis and Makitas and bought the Makita a couple years ago. It was an excellent choice.
oldfred
I have had the LS1013 four five or six years and have been very happy with it. I use it for cutting framing and trim. It has been very smooth and very accurate.
Some of the newer models by other Manufactures have some nice features like up front bevel indicators and locks, and lasers - but I can't attest to their durability or accuracy.
As someone else stated, the LS1013 does have kind of a short fence, but that has not been much of a problem for me as I don't do much crown and could make a jig if I needed to.
I know the 1013 was pretty much the saw of choice a few years back when anyone asked about sliders on this forum. Now it seems a little more spread out accross Bosch, Hitachi, Makita, and Dewalt. The 1013 is still a good solid saw - If you like the way it feels - go for it - You should be happy for many years to come.
Buy it!
I own the LS 1212 (12" slider) and have been more then impressed with it. I am starting another crew and will probably supply them with the 1013 (I figure I dont need two 12" saws). Makita make great products and I have nopt been dissapointed with any of their products that I have owned.
Ben