Miter Saw

When it comes to miter saws, and power tools in general, Makita and DeWalt are two of the best brands currently out there. In this review we will look at two particular models in detail – one from each of these two brands. For Makita it is their 12 inch cordless miter saw, the XSL08PT; and for DeWalt it is their sliding compound miter saw, the DWS779.

We will delve into each of the miter saw’s main functions and features, and based on these state which one is the best and should be purchased. So without further delay, let us get straight into the first power tool, the Makita XSLO8PT.

Makita XSL08PT Miter Saw

If you are in the market for a cordless Makita miter saw then the XSL08PT is their best model. It is their flagship power tool that has plenty of capacity, helping you to get lots of work accomplished. Even with all this capacity it is super portable and measures up well against other similar models.

Thanks to its direct driver gearbox, the Makita’s cutting blade can be used on the back side to further increase its vertical cutting capacity. This is particularly useful when working with crown molding and baseboard.

When using the saw there is no wobble from the cutting blade. Straight from out of the box the bevel is perfectly aligned and ready to use. The cutting blade can be ever so slightly off and does require some minor adjustment to correct it. However, it is a simple process so do this and is something that is pretty much expected from all new power tools.

Both the detents and the mitres engage really well on the XSL08PT. After little use the miter plate is prone to becoming worn, which demonstrates that it may not be built from the highest quality materials. With the miter you can make cuts at an angle of up to 60 degrees in each direction. Its positive miter stops are at 60, 45, 31.6, 22.5, 15, and 0 degrees.

The Makita can make bevel cuts at angles between 0 and 48 degrees in each direction. With the lock for this sitting at the front of the power tool it means there is no need for you to reach right round the back to make any adjustments.

Check out the price of the Makita XSL08PT

A laser cutting guide comes built in to this model as standard and is perfectly aligned with the left hand side of the cutting blade. Using an adjustment dial you can easily make changes to the laser without the need to use a tool. It can be attached to a Makita dust extractor, that it is compatible with, to collect all of the dust and debris generated by the miter saw.

Specifications

•     A 12 inch cutting blade
•     A brushless motor
•     A direct drive gearbox
•     A laser cutting guide
•     Cordless
•     A total weight of 69 pounds

Pros

•     Super portable
•     No wobble form the cutting blade
•     Bevel lock on front of power tool

Cons

•     Miter plate prone to quickly showing signs of wear

DeWalt DWS779 Miter Saw

This miter saw can be used by both professional tradesmen and home DIYers. This is thanks to the DWS779 being very easy to use, whilst producing highly precise and smooth cuts. It also comes packed with a range of useful functions and features which means it can be used for a variety of different applications.

Out of the box the DeWalt does require some simple assembly. However, its user manual is easy to follow and covers everything so there should be no issues when putting all the different parts together.

One of these is that the cutting blade can be tilted in either direction. This means you can make cuts without the need to constantly calibrate or adjust anything. With a specially designed back fence, the miter saw can cut as much as 2 x 12 dimensional work pieces at 45 degrees, and 2 x 16 dimensional work pieces at 90 degrees.

Check out the price of the DeWalt DWS779

Although the 15 amp motor is powerful, it does not vibrate to the level you would expect. This means it does not become uncomfortable to use after long periods. However, the lack of any cushioning on the grip handle does not aid extended use of the DWS779.

The DeWalt does come with some ability to collect dust, however it is far from being adequate. The only dust collection accessory that is provided with this power tool is a simple dust bag. This is easy to connect but collects very little. For working indoors where it is important to keep your work space clean and tidy, this may not be the miter saw for those conditions.

It comes with all the usual safety features and functions you would expect from any DeWalt power tool. The clear cutting blade guard means you are able to constantly view, and thus, control all of your cuts. We advise that you do not make any alterations to this as it could result in serious injury.

Specifications

•     A 15 amp motor
•     Corded
•     A total weight of 67 pounds

Pros

•     Very easy to use
•     Can make cuts without the need to constantly calibrate or adjust anything

Cons

•     No cushion on the grip handle
•     Poor dust collection capability

Conclusion

So we have taken a look at two of the best models of miter saw currently out there from two of the biggest power tool brands. What is clear from this is that either one would make an adequate addition to the toolbox of any home DIYer and professional tradesmen alike.

However, thanks to its large cutting capacity, the fact that it is highly versatile, and its handy laser cutting guide, the Makita XSL08PT is our favourite of these two miter saws and is probably up there with the most versatile one we have ever used. We would definitely recommend it for purchase.

Check out the price of the Makita XSL08PT

If you are looking for a DeWalt DWS780 miter saw review then you are in the right place. We have taken an in depth look at the power tool to provide you with some honest feedback, detailing what we like about it, what we do not like about it, and how it benefits the user.

What comes in the box?

The DWS780 comes packaged in a transparent box meaning you can see exactly what you will be getting if you make a purchase. Inside the box there is the miter saw itself, along with a single dust bag, a single carbide cutting blade, a single blade wrench, and a single vertical clamp.

What is good about the DeWalt DWS780?

This power tool has been specifically designed for making precision cuts, so lends itself perfectly to heavy duty work, such as cutting through thick timber, as well as more delicate woodworking jobs.  It is pretty lightweight (56 pounds) which means it is also portable and easy to transport. This makes it the ideal miter saw for professional tradesmen who have to travel from job to job.

Check out the price of the DeWalt DWS780

The DWS780 is predominantly used for making accurate cuts and so it comes equipped with an LED light as part of a cross cut alignment system. This does not need re-calibration, which is a handy feature. The power tool makes very smooth cuts and so no sanding is required afterwards, saving both time and effort. Compared to other miter saws currently available on the market, the DeWalt is a lot more durable.

This is thanks to the tough metal plates that it is made out of which are capable of enduring the hardest of work. It is powered by a strong 15 amp motor that can generate up to 3,800 RPM.

The DWS780 can make beveled cuts at a wide range of angles with the adjustment for these being both accurate and easy to make. The miter saw’s handle has a cam lock. From right out of the box it is perfectly aligned so can be used straight away. The DeWalt definitely comes with lots of positive points.

What is bad about the DeWalt DWS780?

As is the case with most other miter saws currently available on the market, the dust collection feature on this model is poor. The bag fails to catch any of the dust or debris that is kicked out meaning it goes all over your work space instead. This can be both annoying and dangerous, particularly when working indoors. The power tool itself is also prone to getting clogged up with dust and debris.

To combat this problem with the dust and debris the DWS780 does have the facility for a vacuum cleaner to be attached to it so that the mess is instantly sucked up rather than going all over your work space. The clamp that comes in the box with the DeWalt not very well made at all and really struggles to keep your work piece in place. However, if you do go out and buy another one, or use your own, do be aware that there is no surface on the miter saw to attach it to.

The miter saw is not made in the USA and is, instead, made in Mexico. However, even with these few bad points it is still a great power tool and comes with a limited 3 year warranty.

Specifications

•   A carbide cutting blade
•   A total weight of 56 pounds
•   A 15 amp motor
•   Up to 3,800 RPM

Pros

•   Specifically designed for making precision cuts
•   Portable and easy to transport
•   Makes very smooth cuts
•   More durable than other models
•   Makes beveled cuts at a wide range of angles
•   Can be used straight away

Cons

•   Dust collection feature is poor
•   Prone to getting clogged up with dust
•   Clamp is not very well made
•   Not made in the USA

The DeWalt DWS780 vs the DeWalt DWS782

The DWS70 is a power tool that perfectly lends itself to precision woodworking. It is also very easy to use and is super portable. In comparison to this, the DWS782 is another excellent miter saw from DeWalt that probably makes superior cuts to the DWS780. This is because it slides much easier and makes cuts in difficult positions.

However, unlike the DWS780, the DWS782 does not have an LED light. This is one of, if not the main reason, why most people go for the DWS780 instead when deciding between the two models. This is despite the fact that the DWS780 is also significantly more expensive.

Both of these miter saws are quality power tools by DeWalt though and neither one will leave you feeling disappointed. It really and simply comes down to your own personal preference and what it is you want, and expect, from a miter saw.

Conclusion

So after reviewing the DeWalt DWS780, the question we need to ask is if we think this miter saw is worth your hard earner cash. Our response is yes, it most definitely is. It is one of the best miter saws currently available on the market as it comes with a whole range of cool functions and features that will make your woodworking life much easier, even if you are just a recreational DIYer.

For those out there that want their work to be highly accurate whilst making precise and clean cuts then this power tool is the one for you. However, if you cannot handle a dirty work space then you may want to look at another model with better dust collecting capabilities as this one creates lots of mess. As is the case with most of these decisions, it really comes down to what you personally want. From a miter saw.

On the whole this would make a good buy and is backed up by many positive reviews across the Internet.

Check out the price of the DeWalt DWS780

With any DeWalt power tool you know what you will be getting is a high quality product. This is particularly true of all their compound miter saws. As well as offering the latest and best miter saws with all the features and functions you would ever want and need.

DeWalt do also offer models that take a more ‘no frills’ approach and are more reasonably priced, but will still do a job as well.

And this is exactly what the DeWalt DW715 15 Amp 12 Inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw is. It does not come with any of the ultra modern functions and features, but what it does come with is a power, sturdiness, versatility and a compact, lightweight design.

It is easily able to function both in the home, where it is occasionally used for light jobs, as well as on a busy work sites, where it will be put to some serious use.

DeWalt DW715 Dimensions

It performs on the highest level, whilst being compact enough to take up minimal space and being light enough to be easily moved around, thanks to it weighing 42 pounds and coming equipped with a convenient carrying handle. The weight is well distributed throughout the miter saw, which means it is not awkward or difficult to carry and, again, lends itself to easily being moved around or transported.

The DW715 is powered by a very strong 15 amp motor that generates a 4,000 RPM no load speed. With such high power, cutting moldings, framing and all other cutting tasks are very smooth and easy to perform. As standard, the miter saw comes with a cutting blade wrench, a carbide cutting blade and a bag for dust collection.

12 Inch Miter Saw Blade

The metal detent plate that comes with this particular model has 11 positive stops which aid fast set up. This lets your work keep flowing as you do not have to stop and constantly readjust. The same is true with miter angles thanks to its cam lock handle which allows for the detent to be overridden. This feature allows the operator to adjust the setting of the miter with the cutting blade falling into any of the miter detents.

Check out the price of the DeWalt DW715

Its miter capacity is relatively wide and so enhances the DW715’s versatility further. Both to the right and to the left, it ranges from 0 – 52 degrees. The miter saw has been designed with a tall fence that is capable of supporting crown molding that is over 5 inch, nested vertically, and base molding that is over 6 inch vertically placed up to the fence.

The fence can be quickly and easily slid out of the way when you are making bevel cuts. In regards to bevel cuts, this particular DeWalt model can make precise and clean bevel cuts, at 45 degrees, through lumber that is as big as 2 x 8 inch. These cuts can be made at a range of between 0 – 3 degrees to the right, and 0 – 48 degrees to the left. This gives you the capacity to tackle bigger jobs as and when required.

It has several metal bevel stops between 0 – 48 degrees, which further enhance the miter saws versatility and allows you to quickly and easily access common angles to make bevel cuts.

Pros

•         High quality build
•         Easy to move around
•         Smoothing cutting action
•         No need to constantly readjust
•         Highly versatile
•         Can make precise and clean bevel cuts

Cons

•         Common accessories are not included
•         Dust bag not very effective

Specifications

•         A 12 inch cutting blade
•         A 15 amp motor
•         Up to 4,000 RPM
•         A maximum cutting capacity of 4 x 6 inch at 90 degrees
•         A maximum cutting capacity of 2 x 8 inch at 45degrees
•         A total weight of 42 pounds

Check out the price of the DeWalt DW715

What we Like in the DW715 Model

The main thing to appreciate with the DeWalt DW715 15 amp 12 inch compound miter saw is its ability to bridge a gap from the less powerful and smaller models to the larger ones which lend themselves to more heavy use and on larger work pieces. Its wide miter capacity is also worth some appreciation. The DW715 is massively versatile in that it can make cuts between a range of 0 – 50 degrees, both to the right and to the left.

We also like lightweight design of the miter saw as it is very easy to pack up and move around from job to job. The carrying handle is a nice touch and, again, makes transporting the DW715 that bit easier – something you appreciate at the end of a long day. The feel of the miter saws angle adjustment is very solid thanks to its detents.

Its mechanism for locking the angles is sturdy and adjustments can be made seamlessly, meaning you do not have to keep stopping and starting adjusting your work piece. It has a very wide bevel cut capacity and any adjustments to the angles can easily be made.

When using the DW715 everything feels nice, smooth and stable. You always feel in control. The DW715 is also very reasonably priced for a miter saw of its quality.

Conclusion

Our DW715 DeWalt review has shown that this is a great miter saw that sits somewhere in between the more basic ones and the high end ones. This makes it great for home DIYers and professional tradesmen alike. It is a bit of a step up from the more basic miter saws which are generally less powerful, smaller and only slightly cheaper.

This review has also compounded our view that DeWalt most definitely have a commitment to developing and manufacturing high quality miter saws that have all the right features and user conveniences.

What you are getting with the DW715, for the price, is a miter saw that looks like and performs like one that is twice its price. If you appreciate a more basic miter saw, that comes with basic features but is capable of generating plenty of power and boasts a wide cutting range, then this one is for you.

Check out the price of the DeWalt DW715

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Do you require various angled cuts? Then the Hitachi C10FCG 10″ single bevel compound miter saw, powered by a 15 amp motor, is the miter saw to do the job. According to Hitachi, this miter saw is able to make cuts and numerous different degrees of angle, and can do so without leaving boards broken or scrapes and marks on any of your cuts.

It is an industrious miter saw with the impressive ability to tilt both left and right to an angle of as much as 52 degrees. In comparison to other similar miter saws, the C10FCG is very lightweight and weighs in at just 24 pounds. These are all impressive facts, but how does this model of miter saw hold up when looking at other similar models currently available on the market?

You can check the following review on some other great chop saws at:
https://toolsbros.com/best-chop-saw-reviews/

Design

When it comes to good looking power tools, Hitachi are not known for their pleasant and eye catching designs. The C10FCG has a rather simple design but does still manage to look like every other miter saw currently available on the market. However, what it does lack in its design, it more than makes up for with its features and functionality.

It has a lightweight build, weighing in at only 24 pounds, that has been designed with professional tradesmen in mind as it can easily be picked up and moved around site, or put into the back of a work van and transported.

It has been designed to cut any and all types of wood. With this miter saw you can cut through large pieces of lumber (up to 4-inch x 6 inch), to hardwoods, trim molding, baseboard, and even rails and stiles.

However, the blade that comes as standard is not designed for cutting other materials. If you are wanting to cut through metal, we recommend you swap it out for a specialist blade designed for cutting through metal. Its table is very reliable, strong and sturdy to handle the more tough cuts you will make. This is necessary given the C10FCG’s powerful 15 amp motor and the fact that it is so lightweight.

Finally, it has been designed in a way to handle debris and dust rather well. There is a port on the rear of the miter saw where you can attach a vacuum cleaner and it sucks up any pieces of debris and dust coming off the cutting blade. Although this does not get every single piece, it does help to minimise the clean up job after use.

Check out the price of the Hitachi C10FCG

Specifications

When buying direct from the manufacturer you have the shipping option of having the miter saw delivered by the next working day – great for when you are in a rush. At the touch of a button you can angle the miter from a range of 0 to 52 degrees, enabling you to make whatever kind of bevel or angled cut you want. Its arm has great flexibility, with the ability to tilt to both the left and to the right, making it perfect for cutting floor or ceiling trim, or even wood at a certain angle.

The C10FCG is a lightweight miter saw, compared to other similar models currently available on the market. It weighs in at just 24 pounds. It is actually one of the lightest available and so it makes moving it or transporting it a breeze. Its vice clamp is particularly strong, providing the operator with a hands free experience when cutting through boards or other larger work pieces.

There is a guiding system on the miter saw’s tilt lets you see what angle it is currently at, by providing the exact level of degrees and how far to the right or to the left you are tilting. This takes any guess work out of it or the need to do any sort or measuring. Like all Hitachi power tools it comes with a two year warranty. 

Check out the price of the Hitachi C10FCG

Pros

•         The miter saw can go to both the right and to the left when making bevel cuts.
•         Its miter has a range of 0 through to as much as 52 degrees.
•         The miter can be adjusted with a couple of buttons that are located near your thumb.
•         It has a really large table to work on.
•         It has a horizontal handle on the top (rather than vertical).
•         Can make clean cut.

Cons

•         The instruction manual is poorly written and difficult to follow.
•         It has an aluminium body which is not as robust as a steel one would be.
•         Does not come with a laser guide as standard.
•         The build quality and sturdiness of the fence is not the best.

Conclusion

The Hitachi C10FCG 15 amp 10 in. compound miter saw is a basic looking, yet highly powered tool that will more than definitely get your job done. When looking at its price, and considering the price of other similar models, then it is absolutely worth every penny. It is not massively expensive and the shipping costs, when buying direct from the manufacturer, are reasonable.

The Hitachi C10FCG 15 amp 10″ single bevel compound miter saw has great flexibility in being able to perform cuts at a variety of different angles and without any sort of fuss or hassle. Its range for the miter, which are between 0 and an impressive 52 degrees, provides you with the capability to make any sort of angled bevel cut you would want.

Overall, it is a really good power tool that would make a sound addition to the tool collection of any self respecting home DIYer or professional tradesman.

Disclaimer

Although we do recommend purchasing this particular model, it is worth bearing in mind that it is a budget miter saw and that it does not quite have the build quality or range of features and functions that some tradesmen would want or require.

You should always look at what type of jobs you need a miter saw for before deciding if a model is for you and making a purchase.

Check out the price of the Hitachi C10FCG

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We’re comparing the DeWalt dws779 vs dws780 miter saws to judge functions and features with the aim of providing our recommendation as to which one is best.

Boasting features from both radial arm and chop saws, miter saws combine them to produce a cutting tool that has greater portability than the radial arm saw and greater capability of the chop saw.

This combination of functions enables the operator to leave their work piece stationary and instead move the miter saw across it to make a range of bevels, cuts and miters. Miter saws are the perfect tools for experienced tradesmen, including those working with trim molding.

They also lend themselves to home DIYers that require the ability to cut vertically at 90 degrees and to work with trim molding.

It is only when working with seriously detailed crown molding that a miter saws usefulness and quality shines through as they have the capability to produce highly precise compound miter and bevels.

Differences Between the Dewalt Dws779 vs Dws780

Now let us take a close look at the differences between the DWS780 vs DWS779, which at first sight are practically identical…apart from one thing.

This is the cutline LED work light, which is DeWalt’s alternative to a laser cut marking mechanism. A super bright LED displays a shadow as a marker for were the blade will cut. Accessory lights can be purchased online an attached to miter saws to provide this same function.

DeWalt promote this as superior to a laser guided systems that are not always accurately aligned as they can often be knocked out of alignment.

Other than this, every function and feature of these two saws is exactly the same. You can even compare their respective sets of instruction manuals to see that their specifications are identical.

Further to this, we examined the illustrations of the features of each sliding compound miter saw and they, again, were identical – other than replacing ‘DWS779’ with ‘DWS780’ and including a small section on the cutline LED work light.

It is also true that the size of the work piece each of the DeWalt compound sliding miter saws can cut is also the same, further compounding their similarity.

With both of the miter saws a cutting blade, a wrench for the cutting blade, a work piece clamp and a DW7053 dust bag are included.

They are both well built miter saws and are capable of withstanding some serious work.

 

A Comparison Between Dewalt Miter Saws Models

Let us have a look in more detail at the features of each, as well their pros and cons in comparison to one another.

Dewalt DWS779 Miter Saw Review

This a sliding compound miter saw with a 12 inch cutting blade. The cutting blade that comes as standard is generally fine for more basic jobs but may not offer the quality of cut that most professional tradesmen require.

The DWS779 has an adjustable detent plate that has 10 positive angle stops that aid improved productivity ensure greater accuracy of each and every cut.

Its motor is a powerful 15 amps which has the capability of generating up to 3,800 RPM and delivers both extended durability and power.

The DWS779’s design of the back fence is exclusive and can cut up to a 2 x 16 inch work piece at an angle of 90 degrees and a 2 x 12 inch work piece at an angle of 45 degrees.

The miter saw has two steel horizontal rails with a clamp to hold down your work piece to provide a precise and accurate cut.

Its dust collection function is super effective in collecting more than 75% of all dust and debris generated.

Pros

•         Less expensive than the DWS780

Cons

•         Heavier than the DWS780
•         No system to mark cuts

Check the price of the Dewalt DWS779 here

Dewalt DWS780 Miter Saw Review

The DWS780 is also a sliding compound miter saw with a 12 inch cutting blade and boasts an innovative belt driven gearbox design to increase its cutting capacity vertically.

Again the standard cutting blade is pretty basic and if you are an experienced tradesman working on jobs that require high quality cuts then you may need to replace it.

It too has a high powered 15 amp motor that is capable of generating up to 3,800 RPM and delivers both extended durability and power.

The miter saw is armed with an XPS integrated positioning system that provides the operator with an adjustment free cutting line indicator for precise cross cuts.

The quick released setting for bevel stops gives the operator greater accuracy when making bevel cuts and make changing the angles of the bevel (up to 49 degrees both left and right) quick and easy.

It comes with a long double slide fence that provides maximum support when working with larger work pieces at a variety of different angles.

The DWS780 lightweight and compact design makes it perfect for moving around the work site and transporting to different jobs.

Pros

•         Lighter than the DWS779
•         A cutline LED work light

Cons

•         More expensive than the DWS779

Check the price of the Dewalt DWS780 here

Dewalt User Reviews

We’ve researched what others, including users, think and have said about these mitre saws so that you do not have to.

On the whole it is very positive, with both being highly ranked by the vast majority of tradesmen and DIYers who have experience of using them.

This is not a huge surprise given DeWalt’s reputation for manufacturing great quality tools.

One of the positives mentioned was the fact that they are ready to use from straight out of the box with no adjustment needed for accuracy of the cutting blade. Users talk about being able to immediately put the miter saws to use.

Although this is the case, we do recommend that you always check to accuracy of the cutting blade before use – especially when working with highly expensive crown molding.

The two saws have marking gauges that are highly durable and visible, and even have positive detents which make setting up the saws for making the more common made angled cuts very simple.

Users also commented on the saws ability to double bevel which allows them to keep their work piece in place whilst moving the saw. This provides the operator with an increased level of accuracy as they do not have to readjust and clamp down the work piece multiple time when work on it.

Both of the DeWalt miter saws power were also complimented by users. They both have a 15 amp motor that is belt driven to provide the necessary power to cut through the toughest of work pieces.

However, there are some negatives that came up with users. The main gripe amongst those who had experience of using these miter saws was their dust collecting abilities.

Contrary to what DeWalt boast (that they collect more than 75% of all dust and debris generated), many users deemed the bag system that come with each of the miter saws not to be very effective.

Our experience does suggest that this is a problem for many power tool manufacturers and you will be hard pressed to find a dust collection system on any type of saw that is fully effective.

Another issue was warped fences. We advise that you always check the miter saws fences before using either one. This is also true of the base; it should always be checked to make sure that it is square before use.

Alternative Miter Saws to DWS779 & DWS780

With these couple of issues in mind, here are some of the best miter saws that are also high quality and worth your consideration:

·         Hitachi C10FCG 15-Amp 10″ Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw

·         Delta 26-2250 12″ Dual Bevel Sliding Cruzer Miter Saw

·         Makita LS1018L 240 V 10-inch Slide Compound Mitre Saw with Laser

Dewalt DWS779 vs DWS780: Verdict

With these two DeWalt miter saws being so similar (they are practically the same saw), it is a pretty easy decision to answer which miter saw is best – it is the DSW779.

This is solely due to the fact that the DWS779 is the cheaper of the two miter saws.

Although the DWS780 does come with the cutline LED work light, which is a useful feature, it does not warrant the difference in price between the two miter saws.

The DSW779 has all the power you would ever need for most jobs on a worksite or in the home, as well as providing the level of accuracy required to tackle the most complex of cuts in a variety of materials.

It is with these considerations that the DeWalt DSW779 is the worthy winner and is our recommendation for purchase over the DeWalt DSW780.

Check the price of the Dewalt DWS779 here