Makita LS1214F 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Fluorescent Light

by Makita

Product Description

Amazon.com

Here’s a formidable contender in the compound miter saw market with all the features you want in a high-end saw, plus one.

We had high expectations for this saw, and we were not disappointed. Cutting is smooth, quiet, accurate and completely free of vibration, and the soft start is a nice feature. The 15-amp motor delivers 3,200 rpm, and electronic speed control maintains consistency under different loads.

A common miter saw beef for us is a hard-to-read scale, but this one’s large, clear and easy on the eyes, which we really appreciate. There are nine positive stops: 0 degrees, and left and right at 15, 22.5, 31.6 and 45 degrees, and bevels can be set from 0 to 45 degrees left and right. Capacities are great, too – in the upright and center position, the saw will cut workpieces up to 4-1/2 inches high and 12-1/8 inches wide. A 45-degree left bevel still lets you cut stock 2-5/8 inches high and 12 inches wide, accommodating even the widest trim and moldings. The only thing we’d change on this model is moving the rear bevel lever up front, but it’s not a big detractor. It does take a little muscle to set a bevel angle, but again, it’s not much of a mark against a saw that performs so beautifully.

We like the vertical clamp on this saw; it’s quick to adjust and holds like a champ. Even the dust collection system, usually a notch above ineffective on most miter saws, is impressive, keeping the cutting line surprisingly clean. The thing we found coolest about this saw is a small detail, but one you don’t see often: a built-in fluorescent light. It illuminates the workpiece cut line exactly where you want it, and it’s always right at your fingertips. Makita says the bulb will last some 2,000 hours, but we didn’t stick around to check that out. Take care, though, as the bulb does get quite warm.

There are a lot of compound miters on the market, but this one is definitely at the head of the class. Contractors and exacting woodworkers will love it.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

Product Description

Includes 12-in Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw w/ Light - LS1214F-R, 12-in x 70-Tooth Carbide-Tipped Blade - A-94443, Vertical Vise - 122571-8, (2) Extension Wings - 192673-4, Sub-Fence (Right) - 153898-5, Dust Bag - 122523-9, Socket Wrench #13 - 782223-9, Triangular Rule - 762001-3, Operating Manual

Product Details

Product Manual [465kb PDF]

• Product Dimensions: 21 x 22 x 32 inches ; 75 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 72.6 pounds
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues.
• ASIN: B0002VB1ZK
• California residents: Click here for Proposition 65 warning.
• Item model number: LS1214F
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (19 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #156,435 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

45 of 49 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Powerful and Accurate, December 28, 2004

By 

D. Wilmes (St Charles, IL) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Makita LS1214F 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Fluorescent Light (Tools & Home Improvement)

After checking out several 12" compound miter saws at a local tool house I ended up buying the Makita LS1214F from Amazon. I was originally looking for a unit with a Laser light but was informed that the fluorescent light on the Makita saw would light up the work surface better and was actually easier on your eyes than the laser (especially if you were making a lot of cuts). The carbide-tipped blade that came with the saw is awesome and I found the miters to be "dead-on". I'm also impressed with the dual slide rails and how smooth they ride. This saw is solid and powerful and the oversized base makes it easier to cut larger crown molding. I don't have much need for a 12" cutting capacity right now but I'm sure I'll be glad I have it when the time comes. This is by far the best saw I've ever had and would recommend it totally.

68 of 79 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Better than the rest..., April 21, 2005

By 

Scott Peterman "Scott P." (Santa Cruz, CA.) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Makita LS1214F 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Fluorescent Light (Tools & Home Improvement)

I am a contractor of 25+ years and have tried pretty much every saw out there. Every saw has its strong point... but the new Makita has more than most. It does have a couple areas which could be improved, but overall, it is the best 12" compound slider out there. I currently use this Makita, the DeWalt 12" slider, and the Ridgid 12" slider. I have tested the Bosch, and Hitachi also. All have their strong points, but in the end this saw is the winner! (In my opinion.) I do every aspect of construction being a remodel contractor, but specialize in fine finish. Again, you won't be disappointed if you choose this saw.

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Makita saw a great buy!, July 22, 2005

By 

J. Johnson - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Makita LS1214F 15 Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Fluorescent Light (Tools & Home Improvement)

The Makita saw is great. We are in the construction business; and have had them before and will stick with them. We thought the light would be in the way, but it turned out to be a great feature. The only drawback is a guide that sticks. Still, it is superior to other saws we've had. We own another Makita; and only after ten years has it needed any replacement parts.