SCMS Models

[ryan feasel]

I've seen numerous posts comparing the Kapex and Bosch Glide for smaller footprint SCMS's. I thought the Kapex was the only company to make a forward rail SCMS. I have since run across this Hitcahi ($499 at my Lowes), https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hitachi-10-in-15-Amp-Dual-Bevel-Sliding-Laser-Compound-Miter-Saw/1000615717, and this Makita, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Makita-15-Amp-12-in-Dual-Bevel-Sliding-Compound-Miter-Saw-with-Laser-LS1219L/304303362, both with forward facing rails. Are these 2 saws that inferior to the Bosch as to not even be considered when space is a primary consideration? I'm looking into purchasing a SCMS and the footprint of the tool is a primary consideration. The Kapex is a non-starter. I really thought that only left the Delta Cruzer and Bosch Glide until I ran across the Hitachi and Makita. Anyone have any experience with the Hitachi and/or Makita? Thanks.

[Greg Parrish]

Regarding the Makita. I did 10” version.
https://sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?270717-Makita-LS1019L-Makita-LS1219L-or-Bosch-GCM12SD-Miter-Saws&p=2884012#post2884012

[Steve Rozmiarek]

I don't buy into the front rail superiority perspective. The single benefit being that it can sit closer to the wall? Yes it can by a few inches, but you are still going to have a saw that requires real estate behind it. There is no way to build a radial saw without the need for space behind the saw.

The downside of the top rails system is that the extra weight of the rails are now mounted higher and the weight of them in motion has more dynamic effect on a cut. Of course these saws have more potential to deflect than the rear rails do.

Plus side for them is that they all seem to have better dust collection, but pretty much all dust collection is getting better, so...

Bottom line for my $.02, I've never regretted a Makita SCMS, I'd buy this one if I was in the market.

[ryan feasel]

Thank you!

[Bryan Lisowski]

I have the 12" version of the Hitachi and it cuts perfect with new blade and did take up a lot less space than my older Bosch 10" SCMS. However I pulled out of the shop because I think SCMS takes up to much dedicated room in a small shop (10x18).

[Jim Andrew]

I was searching miter saws, and found there is a Dewalt model slider that has huge improved dust collection. The new generation of SCMS are priced so high, I decided to buy a few new parts for my old Makita.

[Art Mann]

When I upgraded from the Hitachi 10 inch slider to the Bosch 12 inch Glide SCMS, I recovered more than "a few inches" in depth. I am pleased with that aspect of the upgrade.