Festool KAPEX KS 120 v. Makita LS1214

[Dengue]

I am interested in learning from fellow forumites which is the better SCMS, and why?

regards,
Jill

[blackhole]

That question is also on my mind.

Is the kapex repeatedly accurate? I am starting to get a bit frustrated with the sometimes square other times not of the big makita.

[Horaldic]

This isn't really a case of comparing apples with apples. The Kapex costs more than twice as much as the LS1214. If they were the same price I'd have opted for the Kapex, it is a very well put together piece of equipment. Although it doesn't have the cutting capacity of the LS1214 it does look and feel superior. However, when I was looking at spending my own money on a machine I couldn't agree the Kapex was twice as good as the Makita.

I havn't found any accuracy issues with my Makita and I have a friend who has used one extensively for years through all sorts of abuse and he continues to sing its praises. Of course there can always be faulty items manufactured or metals that respond unexpectedly to wear. Bearings do wear out, blades warp, feet on stands get wobbly and sometimes our technique needs a bit of brushing up.

[LGS]

There are several features on the Kapex that I find useful, which are not present on the LS1214. Also, it does have the cutting capacity of the LS1214.

1. The ability to cut mitres and bevels greater than 45 degrees.
2. A handle for adjusting bevel angle which allows greater accuracy
3. Laser guide which allows brilliant accuracy for both bevels and mitres
4. Lighter weight, so its easier to move.
5. Excellent dust extraction
6. The saw can sit on a bench against a wall without problem, where the Makita needs space behind it. All the more space because you need to be able to remove the dust bag.
7. Adjustable speed for different materials, which is also useful when using thin stock.
10" blade rather than a 12" blade.
8. Standard 60 tooth blade gives extremely good results on timber up to 305mm wide or on 90 x 90mm squares and there is power to spare.
9. The Kapex generates at least half the noise of the Makita.

I think there is more but that's a start.

Yes, it is expensive, but you get value for money, particularly if you are using it in a small shop.

Regards,

Rob

[corbs]

...
6. The saw can sit on a bench against a wall without problem, where the Makita needs space behind it. All the more space because you need to be able to remove the dust bag....

When I got my Bosche the Festool wasn't on the radar but LGS's point above is a big seller for me. The Bosche needs a lot of room behind it for the dust bag and sliding rails. Noting that the KS120 isn't far off the price of my new tablesaw its a fair way down the list but the Bosche will get me to it and when it comes time for a new SCMS, the KS120 or its equivalent at the time will be on the top of my list.

I know Bosche wasn't on your list of two but its what I have now... should have got a Makita though

Corbs

[snapman007]

Hitachi have a 12" that looks to be a similar design to the Kapex in that it doesn't require any room behind it. Trade Tools currently have it for $939 with a bonus pack.

[Dengue]

Hitachi have a 12" that looks to be a similar design to the Kapex in that it doesn't require any room behind it. Trade Tools currently have it for $939 with a bonus pack.

Can you please provide a model number? I couldn't find it anywhere online

regards,
Jill

[blackhole]

I think it was this one

http://www.hitachi-powertools.com.au...Product=C12RSH

I thought the festool fans would have been more passionate in this thread, maybe they are not that good.

[blackhole]

It is probably that no one owns a kapex.

I want to cut melamine shelves to length and have them clean and square, will a kapex (or the hitachi) do this?

[snapman007]

The one blackhole mentioned. The main body & basic design are similar. Would be intersted to hear from anyone that has the Hitachi

[snapman007]

When money is not a consideration I will be getting a kapex. Hope I live to 237.

[blackhole]

Hope I live to 237.

By then saws will not have laser guides but rather cut with lasers.

[Dengue]

Get real, by then there will be no timber.

Here in Townsville there is no decent timber for furniture making available anywhere, unless you want construction grade pine studs and ply

Jill