Hello everybody… I want to start with saying how much I appreciate all the advice I get.
My current question is about the Makita LS1013. Amazon.com has it on sale for $395, and I think that’s before a $25 tool discount of tools over $199. This seems really cheap for a dual bevel SCMS, and much more within my grasp. Is this a good saw? Is it accurate, dependable, durable? I try to take very good care of my tools, and don’t abuse them, but it’s nice to think that they can take the abuse. My bosses have the Hitachi saws, and I like them alright, but they are another $50-100. Any advice? Thanks in advance.
Young, poor, and eager to learn
Replies
You'll get every sort of response. All of the saws of this quality are excellent, and you can't go far wrong buying on price.
I have an LS1013 and have no reservations about recommending it. Good, solid, accurate, easily set-up (but mine worked prefectly 'out of the box'), easy to make fine adjustments. I do fine work - small pieces of wood, going straight from the saw to glue-up - and enjoy using this saw.
Go for it!
Malcolm
Edited 4/4/2005 1:27 am ET by kiwimac
I love mine, but I bought it when it was $100 more expensive, you won't regret buying this saw, especially at that price.
Over the past year or so, in SCMS category the three saws you hear most about around here are the Makita, the Hitachi and the Bosch.
The framers seem to prefer the Bosch, mainly I think, because all the controls are up front. The wwing crowd seems to prefer the Makita, primarily because of its accuracy -- and the fact it comes equipped with a really good blade.
I would guess these two saws have captured the lion's share of the market in the past few years. But now, Hitachi seems to be making a serious run in the segment -- mainly targeting the Makita -- and everyone who has bought one seems to like it a lot.
Makita has countered with a rebate, which I think makes theirs a best buy right now.
I have had a Makita for maybe 6-7 years, and I can tell you it is a terrific saw, and a real steal at the price you mention.
My only caveat would be that the fence may need some adjusting now and again -- particularly if you are using the Makita as a job site saw. This is not a serious problem, since the fence is easy enough to adjust. But the rigors of moving it around, and using it for cutting 2 X 12's seem to throw the fence out enough that it has to be adjusted when you return to any work that requires really high precision. On the other hand, this may be true of all SCMS -- I just don't know.
In sum I would not hesitate to buy another Makita 1013 -- particularly at that price.
Another vote for the 1013. I've had mine for about six months and my biggest problem is trying to find shop space to set it up permanently - it's far too handy for occasional use. - lol
I got a DeWalt portable stand for it and use that at job sites, but I want to build a cabinet/stand for the shop.
When I got mine, the rebate was a 14.4v cordless drill. It took a few weeks to get here, but there's always room for another cordless drill. - lol
SBerruezo ,
I bought mine about 6 years or so ago and think it is one of the most accurate machines I own . I only own a few Makita machines and have never been a huge fan but with my old 2040 15" planer and the 1013 saw I am a believer . I use the 1013 less then any other tool in my shop but when I do , it is a pleasure to use. I think I paid about $550.00 and don't regret a penny of that .
good luck dusty
I have that model and have been pleased. Be advised that the new trend on saw is "lasers" to locate the cut. So if you need the latest & greatest (or eyesight may be fading in the next few years), maybe consider one of those.
I know this thread is a bit old, but has anyone had any experience with the Bosch 4410L compared to the Makita?Thanks!
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