Mitre saw recommendations

[GinSoakedBoy]

Been considering updating my old mitre saw for a while.

Budget is limited, and I have reduced the list down to two models that have the features I am after, at a sensible price point.


First option is the Metabo KGS54M (new model) - limited reviews on this one. Appears earlier production models may have some variable build quality issues. But that was many years ago, and users seems to rate it highly.

METABO KGS254M

240v Slide mitre saw - 254mm blade

www.howetools.co.uk

Second option is the Makita LS0816F - Tried a tested, and well rated.

MAKITA LS0816F

240v Slide compound mitre saw - 216mm blade

www.howetools.co.uk

My dilemma is that the Metabo has a bigger blade and greater cutting depth, but I havent had any first hand experience with the brand, the Makita is tried and tested, but the smaller blade comes with less cutting capacity. In terms of other features I want like positive mitre stops, soft start, trench cut and being moveable they are very similar. Had to discount the Dewalt DWS7773 as it didn't have a trench cut facility (despite being a nice and compact saw)


So short of flipping a coin, I thought I would ask others opinions / experiences with either brand or tool, and see what people would go for.


Thanks

 

[Wayners]

They both double bevel?

 

[ATTQ]

depends what you want to cut. Just seen for the makita "Max Cutting Capacity at 45° mitre 36mm" https://its.co.uk/pd/makita-ls0816f-216mm-electric-slide-compound-mitre-saw-_makls0816f.htm

I think they mean 45 degree bevel

You can cut 47mm at 45 degree with the Metabo which if you're using 2" planned timber a bit could be useful, If doing thinner stuff might not need it

 

[big-all]

general comments
i wouldnt buy a "new model" you pay a 20-30% premium for new so look for the old version it replaces that will be best value unless a known bad fault with that model

out off interest what is your old saw??

 

[mrrusty]

I've had this for a few years and can't fault it https://www.screwfix.com/p/bosch-gc...e-bevel-sliding-compound-mitre-saw-240v/18086 Only single bevel, but never found that a particular problem.

 

[GinSoakedBoy]

Thanks for the responses & suggestions.

To respond to some of the questions.

Both are single bevel (ignoring the -2 degree movement they have). Double would be nice, but not within reach price wise (or so I thought).

In terms of what I will be cutting, it varies a lot - could be timber for first fix or second fix, including decking and general wood work projects.

I agree with the view about not buying the new model, and you are right, the old model is £50 or so cheaper, but it doesn't have a few of the features on it that I would like. My old saw is a Titan sliding mitre - its done the job but no without issues (hardly surprising considering the price).

I have considered Bosch as well, seem to make nice saws but a little more than what I can afford.

Doing some further googling I found the new 305mm blade Metabo, which has double bevel. More again than what I was expecting to spend, but 305mm blade, and double bevel are pretty much unheard of at this price range for other mainline brands. Sorely tempted at this point!

Metabo KGS305M 305mm Sliding Compound Mitre Saw 240V/1600W 613305380

Largest crosscut and mitre saw of mobile M-class Precision Cut Line Robust die-cast aluminium design Ergonomic handle areas for carrying Depth guide for easy creation of grooves Quick-action clamp for secure fixing of the work piece Soft start for long service life Dust extraction via integrated...

tools4trade.co.uk

 

[mrrusty]

I have considered Bosch as well, seem to make nice saws but a little more than what I can afford.

A sliding mitre saw is an incredibly useful and versatile tool, but needs to be accurate, robust, and some, like the bosch have trench depth cut and a swing out/cleanable window over the laser (much better than trying to poke sawdust down)

Buy the best you can afford. You'll have forgotten the price long after the quality is still appreciated!

 

[opps]

A sliding mitre saw is an incredibly useful and versatile tool, but needs to be accurate, robust, and some, like the bosch have trench depth cut and a swing out/cleanable window over the laser (much better than trying to poke sawdust down)

Buy the best you can afford. You'll have forgotten the price long after the quality is still appreciated!

I have the Bosch GCM 8 SJL.

Bosch GCM 8 SJL 216mm Electric Single-Bevel Sliding Compound Mitre Saw 240V

Order online at Screwfix.com. The Bosch Professional GCM 8 SJL sliding mitre saw is a lightweight and accurate cutter. The saw's improved 2-point dust extraction facility protects you from airborne dust particles during use and it also features a laser cutting guide so you know exactly where to...

www.screwfix.com

I purchased it because of the length of cut (312mm). Although it has the trench depth setting, trench cutting is not very accurate. The arms are not rigid enough (in my opinion). The saw is OK (single bevel only) but not amazing.

At the time I did consider the Metabo recommended by the OP. I went for the Bosch because I got it for a really, really good price with the Bosch stand included.

I have a few Metabo tools, primarily drills (corded and cordless). I have been happy with each of them. All bar the cheapest were made in Germany. My only gripe with Metabo, is that they are pants at replying to emails.

 

[GinSoakedBoy]

Thanks for all the opinions. I decided to stretch the budget, and also take a plunge with the Metabo. I ended up going for the 305mm saw with the dual bevel.

Metabo KGS 305 M 305mm Double Bevel Sliding Compound Mitre Saw 240V/16

Largest crosscut and mitre saw of mobile M-class Precision Cut Line Robust die-cast aluminium design Ergonomic handle areas for carrying Depth guide for easy creation of grooves Quick-action clamp for secure fixing of the work piece Soft start for long service life Dust extraction via integrated...

tools4trade.co.uk

For the price it seems like a steal, as a similar specced Dewalt / Makita would be double, so will be interesting to get my hands on it and see how it compares from a build / accuracy perspective.

English reviews are very thin on the ground for the latest dual bevel model. Most reviews are in German, Czech or Polish but from the nods and grunts they all seem positive. There are a good number of reviews for the older model and again they all seem favourable. At this price point there will always be some sorts of compromises. Whatever its going to be a significant upgrade on my current dilapidated saw.

Will post a summary for anyone interested once it turns up and I get the chance to use it.

 

[big-all]

its worth pointing out the extra capacity can come at a high price
it can weigh perhaps 30-60% more
and the operating footprint will be far larger