Makita LS1219L Miter Saw Review: Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Saw with Laser
If you are a professional woodworker, carpenter or simply an avid DIYer, you know the importance of having the right tools in your workshop. One of the most essential tools for such work is a miter saw. It is a versatile tool that can help you make precise angled cuts, making it ideal for all kinds of cutting tasks, from framing to furniture making. In this review, we will be taking a closer look at the Makita LS1219L 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser, a top-of-the-line saw that promises to deliver accurate and smooth cuts every time.
Product Description
The Makita LS1219L 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser is a powerful and versatile tool for any woodworking enthusiast. With its unique 2-steel rail sliding system design, it offers a single slide-glide operation, allowing for a reduced saw footprint that can operate flush against a wall.
This miter saw has an increased capacity for up to 8" Crown molding (vertically nested), 6-3/4" baseboard (vertical), and 15" crosscuts at 90 degrees, making it perfect for tackling a wide range of woodworking projects. The in-front bevel lock provides convenient operation, while the dual dust collection ports ensure excellent dust extraction performance.
One of the most innovative features of this miter saw is its direct drive motor and guard system, which is engineered for increased vertical cutting capacity of up to 6-3/4". This means that the LS1219L can handle even the most challenging cuts with ease.
The Makita LS1219L also comes equipped with a laser guide system that ensures more precise cuts, reducing the need for rework. Additionally, the saw has a soft start feature that ensures smooth and safe startup, while the electric brake provides added safety.
This miter saw has received outstanding customer reviews, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 296 ratings. Customers have praised its accuracy, power, and ease of use. The Makita LS1219L is an excellent investment for woodworking enthusiasts who demand precision, accuracy, and versatility in their tools.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Accuracy: The Makita LS1219L 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser is extremely accurate and precise. It has a strong motor and good slide extension ability, which results in highly accurate cuts. The laser guide is a great addition, although it seems to be off by a tad bit.
- Robust and Durable: Made by a trusted brand, Makita, this miter saw is built to last. It is robust and well-built, and users have reviewed the saw to be very reliable. The saw is designed with a high-quality blade material made of high-speed steel, making it durable and long-lasting.
- Ease of Use: The saw is easy to use, even for beginners. The guides coulissants glide very well, and the dust collection system is excellent. It also has a zero clearance feature that helps make precise cuts.
Cons
- Price: The Makita LS1219L is not cheap, and it is one of the most expensive miter saws in the market. It is priced midway between something comparable like a Festool and whatever one could find at a local hardware store, which may make it unaffordable to some buyers.
- Non-Intuitive: Some buyers have reported that the saw feels awkward and non-intuitive to use, especially if they have been using a different brand of miter saw before. It may take some time to get used to the saw's features and functionalities.
- Weight: The saw is quite heavy, weighing around 90 pounds. This weight may make it difficult to move around, especially for those who need to carry it to different job sites.
Customer Reviews
When it comes to the Makita LS1219L 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser, buyers seem to be pleased with their purchase. With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 296 ratings, this saw is definitely making a positive impression on its users.
One reviewer, who is a full-time builder of 20 years, stated that they have owned and used a variety of miter saws over the years, but this Makita is the best saw they've ever owned.
Another reviewer praised the saw for its accuracy and slide extension ability, but did mention that the laser seems to be off a tad.
One reviewer mentioned that the saw is not cheap, but it is a great saw.
Overall, the reviews seem to indicate that the Makita LS1219L is a strong and precise saw that is worth the investment.
Conclusion
The Makita LS1219L 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser is a high-quality power tool designed to make your woodworking projects easier and more efficient. With its unique 2-steel rail sliding system, increased capacity for up to 8" Crown molding, and in-front bevel lock, this saw offers excellent performance and convenience in one package.
One of the biggest advantages of this saw is its direct drive motor and guard system, which is engineered for increased vertical cutting capacity. Also, the dual dust collection ports provide excellent dust extraction performance, making cleanup much easier.
However, some users may find this saw awkward and non-intuitive, especially if they have used other brands for many years. Also, the price point may be a bit high for some buyers, but it's well worth the investment for those who value quality and performance.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality miter saw with excellent performance and convenience features, the Makita LS1219L is definitely worth considering. It's a great investment for professional builders and DIY enthusiasts alike, and it's sure to make your woodworking projects easier and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Makita LS1219L 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser easy to use?
Yes, the Makita LS1219L is easy to use. It has a large and easy-to-read bevel scale, and its dual laser indicates the cut line on both sides of the blade. The saw also has a soft start feature that gradually increases the speed of the blade, reducing start-up torque.
Is the Makita LS1219L accurate?
Yes, the Makita LS1219L is very accurate. It has a direct drive motor that delivers smooth and consistent power, and its linear ball bearing system ensures accurate cuts every time. The saw's large cutting capacity also allows you to make precise cuts on larger pieces of material.
What is the power source of the Makita LS1219L?
The Makita LS1219L is a corded saw, which means it uses electricity as its power source. This allows for consistent and powerful performance, as well as reduced maintenance compared to battery-powered tools.
What is the blade material of the Makita LS1219L?
The blade material of the Makita LS1219L is high-speed steel. This material is known for its durability and ability to stay sharper for longer periods of time, which means you can make more cuts before needing to replace the blade.
How does the Makita LS1219L compare to other miter saws?
The Makita LS1219L is a high-quality miter saw that offers a large cutting capacity, accurate cuts, and a range of features that make it easy to use. It is comparable to other high-end miter saws, such as the Festool Kapex KS 120 REB, but at a more affordable price point.
Is the dust collection system effective?
Yes, the dust collection system on the Makita LS1219L is very effective. It has a dust port that connects to a vacuum, which helps to keep your workspace clean and free of debris. The saw also has a built-in dust blower that clears the cut line of sawdust, ensuring a clear view of your workpiece.
