Now that Hitachi has made a complete conversion to Metabo HPT, they’re rolling out the 12-inch line as a mark of significant improvements. The difference in price tag and brand transition is also an indicator of a massive milestone in terms of features and functionality.
To understand the direction Hitachi is taking, it’s important to appreciate their philosophy on the miter tool side. It’s all about power first and performance second. If you follow their miter saws, you’ll know that they rarely stay on the market for long without some upgrades.
While this can be confusing to new buyers, we’ve made it more comfortable in this Hitachi 12 sliding miter saw review to navigate 3 of their existing sliding miter saw brands. Just pay attention to the features and purposes highlighted in this discussion.
Quick Details of Hitachi 12 Sliding Miter Saw Review
Budget friendly
Metabo HPT C10FSBS Sliding Compound Miter Saw
| Warranty | 5 Years |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Motor | 12 Amp |
| Size | 10 inch |
| Max Miter | 57 degrees |
| RPM | 3800 |
Our Best Pick
Hitachi C12FDH Double Bevel Sliding Miter Saw
| Warranty | 5 Years |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Motor | 15 Amp |
| Size | 12 inch |
| Max Miter | 52 degrees |
| RPM | 4000 |
OVERALL Great
Hitachi C12RSH2 Sliding Compound Miter Saw
| Warranty | 5 Years |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Motor | 15 Amp |
| Size | 12 inch |
| Max Miter | 57 degrees |
| RPM | 4200 |
1. Hitachi C12FDH 12-Inch Dual Compound Miter Saw
This miter saw is an ideal tool for woodworkers and trims carpenters looking for accuracy and reliability in a single pack. It features a liable blade position, laser guide technology, and cutting precision. Besides, a splinter guard reduces tear-out for smooth cuts while the saw blade allows for vertical cutting of the crown molding.
For most trim and finish carpentry, the C12FDH offers both miter and crosscuts for multiple workpieces such as aluminum sashes, decorative panels, plywood, hardboard, crown molding and more. It may not live to professional carpentry expectations, but you can’t defame with its performance; the saw got everything you could need.
Expert Opinion
By William Palmer, Chicago USA,
“Hitachi 12 is a great saw at a low price. As a carpenter, I’ve tried dozens of great brands, but for my budget, the C12FDH meets all my home needs. With the help of a belt-drive, the machine runs smoothly and precisely. I noticed some people giving it three stars for broken packaging. Rating a saw for a shipping error is bad. It’s like saying that William was a bad person because his pants were ripped. One aspect is not related to the other.”
What Makes It Different?
Hitachi C12FDH is user-friendly and highly versatile. With a positive miter that is activated using a thumb, the saw allows for better miter adjustments at the most common angles ranging from 0-52 degrees. This way, you can easily change the cutting angles to make miters in trim and crown molding.
Besides, a bevel scale runs from 0-48 degrees to allow material to stay securely tight while you flip the saw head. Once the material is securely in place, an adjustment control is used to make an accurate angle without the saw’s head affecting precision. Additionally, the saw features a unique large base that prevents material from warping.
Difference Things People Love
- High cutting capacity
- It’s easy to maneuver
- Accurate, affordable, precise cutting
- Compact and durable
- Powerful motor
Difference Things People don’t Love
- Noisy
- Some faults with laser light
- Limited pre-set miter stops
Most Needed Technical Features
- 15-AMP motor running at 4,000 RPM for tough cutting jobs
- Crosscut capacity at 90 degrees, 3-1/2 x 5-1/2 in. or 2-3/4 x 8 inches.
- A micro miter adjustment control ranging from 0-52 degrees left and right for the accurate miter. Bevel scale between 0-48 degrees left and right.
- Laser marker technology for perfect cuts
- 5-1/8-inch tall pivoting aluminum fence for extra support. It cuts up to 2-5/16-inches high and 5-21/32 deep.
- Built-in clamping system to hold workpiece secure
- Measures 46.3 x 24.6 x 27 inches and weighs 46.3 pound
Hitachi C12FDH vs. DeWalt DW715. Which Saw is the Best?
Who wins in the competition between the stylish and capable Hitachi and the sharp and straightforward DW715? Both miter saws run on a 15-AMP motor delivering 4000RPM. However, the DW715 produces a maximum of 1600 watts of power, while the Hitachi C12FDH gives 1950 watts. For this reason, the Hitachi better handles demanding cutting projects without bogging down. Also, its dual bevel ability is a counterbalance to the DeWalt cutting capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the maximum height of a material the saw can cut through?
A: With a 7-inch under-blade capacity, the saw cuts through anything up to that height.
Q: Does the table saw come with extension wings?
A: Not included. However, they can be added on the mounting holes.
Q: Is the laser light fixed in one place?
A: It’s adjustable.
2. Hitachi C12RSH2 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw
The double beveling miter comes with some street cred and some big shoes to seal. The C12RSH2 is the subsequent duplication of Metabo HPT’s trendy model C12RSH that got outdated. With vertical handles and slight adjustments controls, the product managed to gain a loyal following of woodworkers. This makes it ideal for both first-time users and professional woodworkers.
Also, the design is user-friendly with positive stops and a laser maker for precision and durability. A Carbon brush access allows for easy replacement of the blade and gives extra stability to the saw.
Expert Opinion
By Wild Billy B, Ontario, Canada
“Being a forensic engineer, I’m competent to review this. Hitachi C12RSH2 is an excellent saw that I consider an upgrade for my Festool Kapex. From its decent castings to its superior design, the tool eats through the hardwood I cut daily. As most people say, the saw should have come with an extended casting where the set screw comes into contact. However, this machine won’t disappoint those looking for a truly quality piece with decent power. It does really well for its price tag.
What Makes It Different?
The unique thing about the C12RSH2 model is the compact slide system. It works smoothly, requires zero clearance and the adjustments are simple to execute. Its fixed rail also allows the saw head to glide smoothly, thus preventing the need for rear approval like many saws.
Difference Things People Love
- User-friendly and fast setup
- Smooth and accurate cuts
- Better handling
- Low vibrations
- Durable steel table.
- High speed
Difference Things People don’t Love
- Bulky and not portable
- Difficult to achieve full bevels in both directions
- Laser guide tends to fade behind the guard during cutting
Most Needed Technical Features
- 5-1/8 tall sliding fences for additional cutting capacity. Cuts up to 7-1/2 inch crown molding
- Compact slide system.
- Laser cutting technology increases cutting precision.
- Maximum cutting capacity 2-3/4 x 12-1/4 inch at 45 degrees. Crosscut 4-3/16 x 12-1/4 inch at 90-degree bevel.
- Powerful 15 Amp that delivers 1520 watts
- 0-45 degree bevel angle range to the left and 0-57 degree miter angle to the right
- Measures 25 x 35 x 28 inches and weighs 59 pounds.
Hitachi C12RSH2 VS DeWalt DWS780
Regarding features, both saws match up well. Both tools have a quality build to handle complex and massive compound cuts. But, a point goes to DeWalt in terms of performance. The CR12RSH2 is ideal for people working on tight spaces or narrow benches that require zero-clearance. The DWS780 has enough capacity to handle large stock, so it’s ideal for woodworkers looking to cut large inventory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hitachi C12RSH2 designed for wood or aluminum cutting?
A: It works best on wood. Still you can cut aluminum if you put on the right blade.
Q: Does the saw allow you to index the blade height for doing lap joints?
A: Definitely yes. The saw comes with a flexible depth stop.
Q: Can you use this saw with the Dewalt Stand?
A: Almost all stands can be adjusted to fit any size saw.
Q: Can the table lock on any of the miter settings?
A: Yes, the table can be secured at every angle.
3. Metabo HPT C10FSBS 10″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw
This is one of the quality builds and the most precise compound saw I had the chance to review. Integrated with innovative features and technology, Metabo HPT 10-is designed to make your work-load more comfortable, lighter and efficient. It is one perfect premium miter saw for any demanding task. White on the black miter scale makes it easy to read measurements as the splinter guard system ensures user’s safety. The dust collector attachment is exceptionally efficient. Besides, the saw features a unique ability for zero clearance through fixed rails.
Expert Opinion
By Nate Cougill, United States of America
“I’ve used almost all Hitachi for over a decade. The Japanese made C10fs, C10fsh, and an 8-1/2″ too. However, the C10FSBS is a Chinese variant with legit quality and design. The soft start and stop are excellent. With a perfectly straight edge, there is less deflection in the carriage. All the detents play a crucial role. Clearly defined and easy to read the miter scale. To be frank, the mounting holes don’t fix in the Dewalt stands. Good sliding miter saw!
What Makes It Different?
What makes the C10FSBS stand out of the rest is its simple design and fantastic look. The model features a large base meant to endure pressure exacted when working on it. This gives it a more significant footprint with better stability and a stable working position.
The base is exceptionally made from iron-casting and discreetly designed holes for mounting to allow for minimal working space while preventing dangerous risks.
Difference Things People Love
- Easy to understand Laser guide
- Compact and lightweight
- Makes effortless smooth cuts
- Excellent stock blade for finish work
- Adjustable speed settings
- Powerful amperage
- Extensive cutting capacity
Difference Things People don’t Love
- Rigid for beginners
- No dust port
- Saw blades run the throat pale at full bevels
Most Needed Technical Features
- 12 AMP(120V) motor delivers 3800RPM
- Linear ball bearing slide system
- Max cutting capacities (H x W) 2-3/4 x 8-5/8 inch, compound cuts. 1-3/8 x 7-1/2 inch at 45 degree bevel. Cross cut at 0-degrees, 90 x 280mm. Miter cut at 45 degree, 3-9/16 x 7-1/2 inch.
- Soft-start function
- 0- 45 Degree bevel angle range, to the right and left for fast flipping of the saw. Positive miter stops at 0-52 degrees right and left.
- Electric brake, that’s stops spinning of the blade within 3 seconds.
- Measures 35.1 x 17.4 x 20.1 inches and weighs 54.9 pounds.
Hitachi C10FSBS VS Makita LS1221
Both Hitachi and Makita are known for their reliability, precision, and strength. Now when it comes bevel, the C10FSBS takes the price as it allows woodworkers to cut material at different angles simultaneously. For durability, the LS 1221 is a perfect example of a miter saw meant to last for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can u hook up a vacuum to the dust collector?
A: Nothing even in the manual guide indicates so.
Q: Where is this saw made from?
A: The C10FSBS is a Chinese variant
Q: Does the saw have a depth stop?
A: No it does not.
Q: Does it come with a laser maker?
A: Since it comes with a variety of options, you can choose one with or without a laser guide.
Conclusion
These Hitachi machines are for all people who deal with wood cutting and who want smart and precise cut pieces of wood. They are also the most appropriate tool for contractors and workshops. For them to produce quality work, they need these tools that make precise cuts. Just visit our Hitachi 12 sliding miter saw review and learn more about these tools.