The Makita LS1013 has been a favorite for both professionals and the determined do-it-yourself crowd. Owners of this sliding compound miter saw have commented about how the LS1013’s 13 amp motor operates with a solid, smooth power. It easily cuts though many different types of wood, giving it a reputation for versatility.

The 70 toothed blade [A-93550] can cut up to 45 degrees (left) and 52 degrees (right) at 3,700 RPM.

Thanks to its soft-start motor, one doesn’t need to use sandpaper to finish the cut surface. As with many power tools, there are some things to watch with the Makita LS1013. Some have mentioned how the auxiliary fence [150710-0] needs to be flipped away during bevel cutting, which can be dangerous. Remember to move the fence out to avoid possible injury.

Keep in mind that over time and/or constant wear, a problem with the electric brake of the LS1013 could develop. You may see the blade run for several seconds after letting up on the switch. This can usually be solved for under $7.00 by replacing the carbon brushes (CB-154).

The Makita LS1013 is still one of the most purchased saws in the tool market. Other companies have miter saws that cost much less, but the LS1013 is a work horse that is well worth the cost. This compound miter saw is fairly compact at about 25” x 30”, and it weighs under 50 lbs. The carbide-tipped 10” blade cuts effectively, and the adjustable pivoting fence helps out with those bigger projects. Accessories consist of an extension wing, vertical vise, and a triangular rule. The dust bag effectively keeps your workplace clean by catching substantially more debris than most competing models.

According to the Woodworkers Journal (June, 2008), the Makita LS1013 unit is not far behind the performance of Germany’s Festool Kapex. The Makita unit can run as high as $800 to purchase—About $1,000 less than the Kapex. Like all smart investments, take care of it and it will take care of you for many years to come.

From time to time we like to share with our readers the good and bad about specific power tools. Sometimes manufacturers get it completely right and sometimes manufacturers get it completely wrong. We feel that the DW705 is a great saw. Here is what we like about it:

The DeWalt DW705 Heavy-Duty 12” Compound Miter Saw is a power saw with precision cutting. At nearly $300 retail, it is a little more expensive than some other brands. We think it is well worth the extra cost – it’s an investment that will give you precise and consistent cuts for years. With a 15 Amp motor and 4000 RPM, you are sure to have the power you need.

The 12” blade (part# DW3123) gives you more versatility in cutting than the 10” blade. The cut capacity of the saw miters 48 degrees to the left and right with solid detents at 15, 22.5, 30, 45, and 0 degrees both directions. The detents make it very easy to cut quickly at commonly used angles. The secondary angle does not have detents, but we’ve found it to be easily adjustable. It bevels 48 degrees to the left and 3 degrees to the right.

The DW705 comes fully assembled right out of the box, and it includes a 12” diameter saw blade, a blade wrench in a wrench pocket, a side table extension kit and dust bag. The horizontal trigger caught us off guard at first, but after using it for a while, we found we preferred it to the vertical trigger.

Some find the DW705 heavy at 40 lbs, while others find it to be light for a miter saw. The addition of a workbench will certainly add to the weight and bulk when moving. This saw has an oversized “D” handle. For you lefties out there who find standard tool features limiting, it gives a big surface to hold onto, and you may find it more comfortable than the pistol grip.

The electric brake stops the blade the moment your finger leaves the trigger, so there is little wasted time getting the saw ready to go again. While there is a retractable blade safety cover to help prevent accidents, there is no extra safety button on the tool, so be careful when working with it.

The most common problem we’ve found is the electric brake. If you are having problems, the brushes (147097-05) or switch (391926-00) are cheap and easy to replace. If that doesn’t fix the problem, cleaning the commutator on the armature may help. The connection between the brushes and the commutator must be good for the brake to work.

Bearings and gears do wear out occasionally as well, so make sure you keep an eye on those to make sure your saw stays in top condition.

The DW705 a high-end tool that’s easy to use for the average DIYer while being tough enough for the contractor, and it has continually impressed us.