I've been very satisfied with my Makita track saw but wanted an easy-fast way to get guaranteed square cuts or the occasional angle without tedious measuring and marking. So i was delighted when I received this. It fits the Makita track securely and it is very well made. The locking screw is solid and hold the guide firmly. But then I discovered there are no detents for common angles like 90, 45 or 22.5.
The markings are clear and easy to read, but without precise and secure detents they cannot possibly provide great accuracy over the 55 inch length of the track. So that means, you have to adjust this angle guide for every series of cuts. Luckily, that is not difficult or time consuming.
I use a LARGE plastic drafting square for angles like 45, 30 or 60 degrees. For 90 degree angles, use us a reliable steel framing square. That's plenty accurate enough, but I still find myself double-checking critical cuts through measurement.
So, I would have given this accessory FIVE stars IF they had detents at those important common angles. As it is, the guide attaches quickly and works great. Since I primarily use the track saw ( and hence this guide) for 90 degree angles, I just keep it set for 90 degrees after adjusting it once.
Mafell and Festool angle guides both have detents. How could Makita have missed this crucial feature?
Another gripe is there are no written instructions. They just have a single sheet of picto-grams that do little to explain anything. Maybe I got a return and they lost the instructions...
Oh well... If I wasn't so cheap. I would have bought the Mafell and just been done with it. Maybe after the last of four kids is through college I'll start investing in Mafell tools... or take a trip to Hawaii.... hmmm.
| Manufacturer | Makita |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 196664-7 |
| Item Weight | 2.31 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 8 x 4 inches |
| Item model number | 196664-7 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | One Size |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Thickness | 10 Centimeters |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Number Of Pieces | 1 |
| Usage | Commercial/Residential |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
