Hello, everyone -
I am in the market for a 12" SCMS and could use some advice with the purchase. I have already read every post I could find on the subject and was looking for more recent opinions (there are some newer saws out).
I'm looking for a saw that will really be a "jack of all trades". I will be using it for deck framing in the immediate future, followed by molding and trim work and some furniture work. I won't be transporting it around too much, so size is not that much of a concern. (I do plan on mounting it on Ridgid's MSUV, though, so I can wheel it around the house and store it easily when my workshop reverts back to a garage ;)
I have done a whole bunch of research and have narrowed it down to three models, each with a distinct set of advantages:
- Ridgid MS1290LZ Pros: Big capacity, decent price, I like the big turntable, seems to have above-average dust collection capabilities, laser-guide, has all the miter and bevel detents I could want, good detent-override mechanism, good bevel lock mechanism. Cons: This sucker is huge. Dimensionally, this saw is probably 50% larger than the other two I am looking at. Comes with a so-so (60-tooth) blade. Quality of Ridgid's newer tools?
- Makita LS1212 Pros: Compact design. Both sliders use linear bearings (most SCMSes use a nylon bushing on one). Flip-up fence feature.
- Bosch 4412 Pros: Great ergonomics (bevel & miter locks up front, multi-position handle, etc.). Nice extra features like the table extensions, stock-stops, etc. I have had great luck w/ Bosch in the past (router & jigsaw). Decent 80-tooth blade. Cons: 0 more than the other two. Several people have mentioned non-flat tables and/or fences.
If you have experience with any of these saws, I would love to hear your thoughts!
Thanks.
- Josh