Makita LS1216L Miter Saw Review – Is This The Best Saw For You?

SPECS

Type: Sliding Dual Bevel Compound
Right miter: 60°
Left miter: 52°
Right bevel: 45°
Left bevel: 45°
Blade size: 12“
Motor:  15 AMPs
RPMs: 3,200
Weight: 58.6 lbs

Makita has been producing industry-leading power tools for more than fifty years.  They are well known for making long-lasting professional-quality tools.  Makita has continued this legacy of dependable performance with the sleek and high-performing LS1216L.

This miter saw has been stamped with Makita’s DXT (Deep and Exact Cutting Technology) branding.  Makita defines DXT as “a series of features that give Makita miter saws more cutting capacity and out-of-the-box accuracy for superior cutting performance”.  The LS1216L is for anyone who wants a smooth and powerful miter saw engineered for effortless accuracy.

Our Makita LS1216L Review

Cut Quality

The Makita LS1216L is made for accuracy.  Fortunately for users, this versatile saw also boasts a wide cut range.  The LS1216L can deliver a crosscut on boards as wide as 15″ at 90°.  It’s 8″ (vertically nested) crown molding cut capacity is among the largest in it’s class.  The direct drive motor, patented 4-Steel Rail Sliding System, and 6 linear ball bearings are all designed to provide smooth and precise cuts.

Ease of Use

Makita has engineered this saw to deliver near effortless accuracy.  Aside from the cutting capacity, power, and stability mentioned in the previous section, Makita has included a number of features that contribute to a positively simple user experience.

The 5-1/2″ high sliding fence system allows for upper and lower fence adjustment which is useful for woodworkers who need to make a variety of cuts.  Both the miter and bevel ranges on this saw are solid.  It miters up to 52° left and 0° to 60° right, with positive stops at 0°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, and 45° (left and right) along the way.  Beveling is also made simple with a range of 0° to 45° (left and right) and positive stops at 0°, 22.5°, 33.9°, and 45° (left and right).  Not to mention the, easy to adjust, dual rear-handle bevel lock.

Making a clean cut is easy with the LS1216L due to the see-through blade guard system.  Changing the blade is easy as well because of the one-step blade change process design.  Makita also included a built-in laser for increased precision.

Durability

Makita products are generally made to last, and there are multiple aspects of this saw engineered for longevity.

First off the Makita LS1216L has a 15 AMP direct gear box motor.  This motor design means you won’t have the issues and need for maintenance that often comes with belt-drive motors.  Smooth cuts are ensured by a soft start feature as well as Electronic Speed Control.

You can count on this miter saw to do the job when the job needs to be done.

Service

Makita backs up their reputation with an industry standard warranty.  This one year warranty will cover you if anything is wrong with the manufacturing.  Getting your machine serviced shouldn’t be a problem, as Makita has service centers all across the United States.  You can find more information about Makita’s warranties on their website.

Included in the box:

• 12″ 60T Micro-Polished Miter Saw Blade
• Vertical Vise
• Dust Bag
• Triangular Rule
• Blade Wrench
• Socket Wrench

See what questions other shoppers have about this miter saw.

Overall Value

The Makita LS1216L is a great choice if you’re looking for a durable and accurate 12″ miter saw.  It’s cost falls on the high side of the spectrum, however so does it’s performance.

Our Verdict

This is a miter saw from a well known—and well loved—power tool brand with great reviews across a number of sellers’ websites.

The LS1216L is perfect for everything from precision woodworking to projects that require cutting large materials.  This versatility is one of the reasons this saw is favored by a wide range of craftsmen.  Whether you’re a professional woodworker or a D.I.Y. carpentry hobbyist, this is one of the most useful miter saws in it’s class. If you’re considering a purchase, please take a look at Amazon’s price on the Makita LS1216L today.  Or you can always compare and contrast some of the best miter saws available with our comparison chart.