Makita LS1221 12-inch Compound Miter saw Kit

Cheap Makita LS1221 12-inch Compound Miter saw Kit Review

UPDATE ****** ******

Of course, it had to happen. I wrote the original review below based on the Makita saw, I bought a number of years and a second that I bought for my workplace. I recently took another job and because of my experience with those saws, I bought another for the new store. Unfortunately, the saw came out of alignment. This does not happen often, but sometimes an issue at this price point. We have dedicated their efforts to align correctly but no matter howwe tried to adjust the fence, the saw can cut at 90 degrees. Our mechanic thinks it is due to oscillating blade caused by improper machining of the arbor. Even after putting an expensive, high-quality blade on it, it remains unclear. I guess it's a question of the draw, however, I can not recommend the precision saw to use more.

I'll tell you now, I have tried all the other saws on the market: miter, and sliding compound miter miter joint in all sizes,and this saw is the best. I think the sliding saws are more expensive and more likely to run out of alignment and bogged down in heavy materials. They also need dedicated workstations that make them as heavy as the radial arm saw you are likely to be replaced. The 10 "compound miter saws, while more affordable, the lack of cutting capacity and, frankly, does not receive the design and construction attention as the larger saws are. The 12" saws Mixed tabs are in the middle. (And in the middle, thevalue is always the best). They get attention to the construction and design because they are the contractor, they have a decent cutting ability, and they are robust, but portable. I chose one out of every other 12 "saws because it has a zero-clearance throat plate (a must to remove detachable), excellent miter detents, and a strong engine. It also comes with extensions of actions (which actually work) as standard equipment. The blade upgrade is top notch. I even bought a second for the LS1220professional shop where I work. If you'll pay much, report!

Makita LS1221 12-inch Compound Miter saw Kit Feature

• 12-inch compound miter saw kit; easily handles a 4 x 6 at 90-degrees
• 15 amp motor delivers 4,000 rpm; horizontal D-handle; positive stops at 9 settings
• Carbide-tipped blade; fiber-reinforced polycarbonate and aluminum coating
• Includes vise, blade, 2 extension wings, socket wrench, dust bag
• 24 by 26-1/2 by 23-7/8-inches; 36.4-pounds; 1-year warranty

Makita LS1221 12-inch Compound Miter saw Kit Specifications

Why buy a compound miter saw? While a standard miter swings left or right at varying angles of the centerline, a compound miter also swings on a bevel, allowing you to cut a bevel and an angle simultaneously. This is invaluable if you are working on projects that require compound cuts, such as crown molding.

As compound miters go, it's hard to do better than the Makita. At just over 36 pounds, this is among the lightest of the 12-inch miters, yet it doesn't feel flimsy at all. The swing arm is substantial, and I was able to make accurate cuts easily over and over again. The 4-1/2-inch fence is not as high as other models (fences for 12-inch saws typically average around 5 inches), but is perfectly fine for most applications.

This is one quiet machine, which is great if you're going to be using it all day, and the horizontal, D-style handle is comfortable to use right- or left-handed (although, like most compound miters, the LS1221 bevels only in one direction).

On the down-side, the miter and bevel scales are a little difficult to read compared to other models. But given the overall quality, portability, accuracy, and the sturdy construction, this is indeed a minor complaint.--Josh Dettweiler

What's in the Box
Carbide-tipped blade, vertical vise, two extension wings, socket wrench #13,dust bag, elbow

Makita LS1221 12-inch Compound Miter saw Kit Overview

Makita LS1221 12" Compound Miter Saw



*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Mar 13, 2010 19:30:48