Thread: Makita LS1214 vs LS1212

Anyone have one of the new LS1214L with the laser?

Is it worth the extra $50 over the LS1214B?

When I was looking around the "laser" guided models were not available at as significant a discount as the regular models. Also, IMHO the "laser" is a bit of a gimmick, probably useful in a limited number of applications only. Those mainly being quick cutting for non-repeated angles.

I looked at it this way: in order for the "laser" to be useful as a guide it has to be aligned correctly with the blade and the blade itself has to be correctly aligned to the detents and calibration on the table. So, if you use the "laser" you are actually incorporating a third element that can potentially be "out".

Now, of course this is only in reference to my own mode of working. When I'm using my saw I tend to measure and then measure again and then test cut with scrap before committing to the final cut. You may work differently so this may not apply to you.

I cant say i would have a real use for a laser - nothing can beat putting the blade down, positioning it next to your mark and cutting for accuracy

Thanks Horaldic. I think you are right, just another thing that can be out of alignment and go wrong.

So what about the 1214 vs the 1214B? Is the dust collector on the B that much better than the 1214 with just the bag?

Originally Posted by mac_man_luke

picked up one from bunnings for $940 after price match

Ditto when I saw the Father's Day catalogue from a competior. I got my LS 1214 from Bunnings for $899.10.

Their normal price was $1120. I ain't a gonna pay that just for hobby use.

It sure is a fine machine, though!


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BrentonSpear:

In my considerations I looked at all the major manufacturers and noted that Makita had one of the poorer dust/chip collection methods "out of the box" with the bag on the LS1214. The Festool is way ahead in this area and I'd say each of the other premium brands does at least a little better than Makita in this area.

In every other major area of my comparison I found the Makita to be superior to all except the Festool and I couldn't justify the price premium for the Kapex.

I was prepared to overlook the afterthought nature of LS1214 dust collection partly because it clearly wasn't meant to be a permanent solution. The machine is designed to be connected to some sort of vacuum system and it is appropriately fitted for this.

I have a big, old B&D industrial vacuum cleaner, in the "dustbin" style and I hook this up to all my big cutting tools when I use them indoors. I also wear good quality 3M disposable masks. I'd recommend anyone looking to use this machine do something similar. Even with my setup there is obvious dust in the air and some chips get left behind.

As to the blue device on the LS1214B, I couldn't see how this would do anything to improve dust and chip collection over and above a good vacuum system. In fact I thought it was likely to restrict flow.

In short: if you have a half-decent shop vac hook this up, wear a mask and that will probably be the best you can do without forking out for a Kapex.

Thanks again Horaldic.

I think that the 1214 will do me just fine.

Brenton