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I bought and returned an abrasive cutting saw one month prior to purchasing this unit(the abrasive saw performed poorly). In comparison, the Makita LC1230 cuts 3 x faster, much more accurately, and does not heat or discolor the steel. It is everything I hoped it would be.
This saw is simply excellent and the price is unbelievable.I use it for all kinds of non-ferrous metal, ABS pipe, even complicated extruded forms like Seiki Screen Systems blinds with the mesh screen attached cut cleanly without ripping the screen out.First and foremost this dry cut saw comes with a $125 blade. Get Milwaukee's 6180-20 Abrasive Saw for cutting hardened metals, rebar etc. Kudos to Makita for always giving you a decent blade with their tools (sharp, lots of carbide for resharpening many times) that you can also buy again later. Too many mfgrs these days sell you an average factory blade that is only shipped with each saw.Pros:- Powerful motor- Good ergonomics (handle, pull-out lever for adjusting vise)- Face of vise is machined flat- Vertical spring won't fight you.- Thick, heavy duty base is aluminum (you'll appreciate that when you have an accident and the blade deflects into the base)Areas for improvement:- Pin lock instead of the chain would be better although I've never had the chain detach during transport.- D-shaped handle would be a little more modern but I've never found the pistol grip awkward.I looked at many saws before deciding upon this one such as Milwaukee 6190-20 (2nd preference), Ridgid 614 (twice as expensive), Porter Cable 1410 (14"), Dewalt 872 (cheap pressed base), Hitachi CD14F (14" again).5 out of 5 stars.PS. Excellent design like the 6190-20. No other abrasive saw comes close under $200.
Well, after doing all my research I bought this saw.No regrets at all. I am electrical contractor and I have always wanted a metal cutting chop saw, but I could not justify the cost. I always just used a portable bandsaw or sawzall. Like most makita tools its well made and superbly engineered. I use it for cutting larger conduits and unistrut in the field.It is a little heavy and awkward at times but it is a pure pleasure to use.
I have one of these saws at work it is fantastic it cuts quick clean and with out heat. You can grab the metal with your bare hand as you take it out of the vise. The blade last for ever it seems and when you do need to replace it is able to be resharpened. I would rate this as one of best tols I've ever purchased.
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