Makita LS1214 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter saw

by Makita

Product Description

Amazon.com

Makita's LS1212 was already at the top of our 12-inch slider list when we met Makita's newest, with its expanded base and greater cut capacity. Everything we loved about the 1212 carries through on this model: the smooth-as-silk slide action, the dead-on accuracy, relatively quiet operation, user-friendly electric brake and superior stability. But there's more to love on this model, including a 4-1/2" maximum cutting depth and an additional positive stop for bevel cuts at 33.9 degrees left. Those who prefer a horizontal handle might be disappointed with the vertical grip, but if your work crew includes a southpaw, it's really an advantage. The expanded work table is one of the best improvements, and though it does add a little weight, we think it's a great tradeoff. Makita's come up with an innovative pivoting fence that maneuvers easily to support your miter cuts and then moves neatly out of the way for bevel and compound operations. Like the 1212, the 1214 features the sturdy vertical vise for workpiece stability. When you squeeze the paddle trigger, you'll feel virtually no tug thanks to the soft-start mechanism, and we experienced zero vibration. Electronic speed control maintains steady power, whether you're chopping rock maple or pine, something you'll appreciate if you're cutting at the saw's full 12-1/8-inch width capacity. The base turns like a dream, and these detents won't give way to slop even after years of use. Are there any flaws? Cam-lock aficionados will say so, as you still have to turn the old-fashioned screw handle for base adjustments. And someday, we figure Makita will move the bevel lever up front, but frankly, we don't see that as a huge problem. Dust collection is about as good as it gets on a chop saw. As it stands, Makita's got a super-accurate, versatile precision machine here, ideal for the contractor and definitely up to the exacting home woodworker's standards. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste

From the Manufacturer

The most efficient and precise saw in its class, this 12-inch dual slide compound saw from Makita is packed full of versatile features. A two-pole, linear ball bearing mounted, sliding cutting head that ensures the ultimate in cutting accuracy. It performs precision bevel cutting up to 45 degrees, both left and right, and miters up to 52 degrees right. Nine positive stops at 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 22.5 degrees, 31.6 degrees, 45 degrees left or right are perfect for the most common miter cuts. A powerful 15-amp motor spins the blade at 3,200 rpm to cut easily and quickly through the hardest wood. The saw also features electronic speed control, a soft start mechanism, and an electric brake. An extra large turn base easily supports larger stock. Dual steel rails with two linear ball bearings ensures stable, accurate and vibration-free cutting. Nine positive stops 9 positive stops at 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 22.5 degrees, 31.6 degrees, 45 degrees left or right for the most common miter cuts. And, a smooth slide system allows cross cuts up to 12-1/8 inches wide. Your purchase includes a dust bag, a vertical vise, a wrench, and a high quality carbide-tipped blade for precision cuts.

FEATURES

• Powerful 15 amp motor for cutting harder woods
• Electronic speed control for consistent cuts
• Soft start mechanism for smoother and safer start-ups.
• Large turn base for a stable work area.
• 11 positive stops for improved cutting of crown molding.
• Dual steel rails with two linear ball bearings for stable, accurate and vibration-free cutting
• 3,200 rpm maximum for super fast cutting
• 9 positive stops at 0 degrees, 15 degrees, 22.5 degrees, 31.6 degrees, 45 degrees left or right for the most common miter cuts
• Precision bevel cutting up to 45 degrees left and right plus positive stop at 33.9 degrees (left only) for versatility
• Single cast base with built-in wrench storage for easy access
• Smooth easy slide system for cross cuts up to 12-1/8 inches wide
• Large turn base and adjustable pivot fence for supporting larger stock
• Large, easy to read scale for miter cuts up to 52 degrees right and 47 degrees left

What's in the Box

• 12-inch, 60-tooth Carbide-Tipped Blade (A-85472)
• Vertical vise (122571-8)
• 2 ea. Extension wing (322932-4)
• Sub-Fence (right)(192647-5)
• Dust bag (122523-9)
• Socket wrench #13 (782223-9)
• Triangular rule (762001-3)

SPECIFICATIONS

• Blade Diameter: 12"
• Arbor: 1"
• No Load Speed: 3,200 RPM
• AMPS: (120V) 15.0
• Overall Dim: (L x W x H) 20-1/2" x 28-1/2" x 27-1/2"
• Net Weight: 52.5 lbs.
• UPC Code: 088381-05645-8

Product Details

Product Manual [465kb PDF]

• Product Dimensions: 21 x 22 x 32 inches
• Shipping Weight: 72.8 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B0002VB1XC
• Item model number: LS1214
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #217,915 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

21 of 21 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great saw, December 4, 2004

By 

Kman (Bay area) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Makita LS1214 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter saw (Tools & Home Improvement)

I bought this saw for its ruggedness and ease of moving. All the other 12'' saws are very big and cumbersome to move around. I use chop saws everyday, I've got a dewalt a bosch and a makita on the job and the makita is the only that has not needed to go into the shop for repair. I found them to be very accurate and the Makita rep on the West coast is great. True it does not bevel to 60 degrees but that does'nt come up very often and there are ways to make that cut on the saw, just takes a little more time to make a jig.

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars What a deal!, January 5, 2006

By 

Mr. T (Vermont) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Makita LS1214 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter saw (Tools & Home Improvement)

I have been researching Sliding Miter saws for over a year now. They all have many good points, and each has at least some room for improvement. I ended up with this saw due to it's rugged design and it's accuracy. The fact that I caught it during Amazon special in which I received a Makita 4340FCT just made the deal all the sweeter since I had already decided upon the 1214. I am in engineering field but do woodworking and remodeling on the side with goal of building fine furnature in near future. Even though the saw does max out to 60 degrees, it is direct drive, no blade vibration or wobble and its accuracy is excellent. The Miter saw arrived within 3-4 days after purchase and this was using Super Saver Shipping just after the Holiday. Box was in perfect shape as was the saw. I am extremely pleased with both Amazon and Makita. Fit and Finish are perfect. The table turns soooo smoothly. Really no surprises since I had spent so much time researching but if your going to spend this much on a tool, you want to make sure it is the right choice off the bat. I love the tool and the cost was already a great deal before catching the Amazon Special. Overall, a home-run.

31 of 36 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Does not Miter to 60, September 13, 2004

By 

Christopher Dodge (Boston, MA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Makita LS1214 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter saw (Tools & Home Improvement)

This saw only miters right to 52 degrees, not the 60 degress as stated in the Amazon description or like the LS1212. Only the LS1212 goes to 60 degrees