Makita LS0815FL or Bosch GCM 8 SJL?

transatlantic · 17 Aug 2016

They're both about the same price.

Makita :

1400W
Max. Cross Cut 305 x 65mm

Bosch :

1600W
Max. Cross Cut 312 x 70mm

Not fussed on the extra cutting capacity. I'm more interested in accuracy and build quality. Thoughts?

Bill Derr · 17 Aug 2016

I have the Bosch and have used it quite a lot - my opinion is it's a well built and accurate tool.

I too considered the Makita but decided to go for the Bosch due to the extra power and cutting capacity, plus it's a brand I trust to earn my living with as I now have 12 different blue Bosch tools and they have all been superb.

flh801978 · 17 Aug 2016

I have the Bosch and I have used it well ...many hours of accurate cutting both wood and alloy sections
The back fence broke but I was able to repair this
The laser broke too but not to bothered about it
I can wholeheartedly recommend it and with the stand gsm2600 I think is the model

YorkshireMartin · 17 Aug 2016

I have the Bosch too and it's a good saw. Accurate on chop cuts, almost spot on at mitres. Bevels aren't brilliant but useable depending on your needs. Stock blade isn't awful, but a decent blade like a Freud makes it into a beast. There is breakout on the underside regardless of blade. It's not terrible, but a false table will be needed in addition to a sacrificial fence if you really can't tolerate breakout at all for your project.

Dust extraction is so so, worth extending the ports. I just use a bit of gaffer tape and replace it periodically.

It is heavy though, so whilst it has a carry handle, not sure I'd want to lug it all over sites.

RossJarvis · 17 Aug 2016

I have the Makita, it really is disappointing. I gave a long rant about this a while ago, but principally mine has a very poorly made fence meaning accurate cuts are impossible and the detentes for the preset angles have too much slack.

I could not possibly recommend it.

banjerbill · 18 Aug 2016

I have the Bosch which is an excellent machine. I have mounted it on a stand next to an awful Rage 3 which I use for rough cutting on treated timber, firewood etc. and keep the Bosch for "proper" woodworking.

Bill