Go to a construction site at any moment and you're probably going to see at least one miter saw in use. More often than not, it will be a bright yellow saw. Because DeWalt is, without a doubt, the most popular brand among contractors.

Have you ever wondered why that's true? Is it because they're the only ones that can do the job? Or are they better than all the rest?

The answer to those last two questions is a resounding "NO". But a guy who spent $600-700 on his miter saw isn't going to tell another it's not the best. So the person who asks about it goes out and buys one, too.

Introducing The Latest Generation Of Makita Miter Saws

Just so you know there could be a better alternative to the DeWalt, let's look at Makita's new generation of sliding compound miters, the 12" LS1216L and the 10" LS1016L.

Both Makita models are equipped with an independent laser guide you turn on to set up your cut before hitting the trigger (with the DeWalt models it's an add-on)
The LS1216L can handle crown molding up to 8" nested vertically (compared to 6-5/8" on the 12" DeWalt DW718) and baseboard up to 6-1/2"
Makita's 10" LS1016L can cut baseboard up to 4-3/4" vertically and crown molding up to 6-5/8"
Both Makita models have a powerful 15 amp motor, electronically controlled so the speed doesn't vary, even when it's working hard
Cross cutting at 90 degrees the 12" LS1216L will handle up to 15" and the 10" LS1016L up to 12"
Both the 10" and 12" models have innovative adjustable, split fences. Both top and bottom sections slide inward and outward to give more support, even on bevel cuts
The sliding system uses four round rails riding on ball bearings to keep the movement smooth and rigid, while saving space
Each model has seven positive bevel stops and nine miter stops
You get more features and cutting capacity with the Makita LS1216L for about the same price as the DeWalt DW718

Both of these dual bevel sliding compound miter saws are typical of Makita tools, built with quality, durability and ease of use in mind. One buyer/reviewer of one of these saws said after using it, "Best saw I've ever used." Another wrote that he was changing all his power tools to Makita. Hmm, not a bad idea.

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