If you found this video useful, don't forget to press the *LIKE* button. It really helps me out! Like the look of the workbench? Watch me make it here: th-cam.com/video/FXKYwM0f5WU/w-d-xo.html&t
Very useful video I haven't really found a video of yours I don't like you are a very informative person , the one thing I wonder is would the saw move as much when it it locked while it is fully extended I don't think it would because of weight distribution , it's like what they tell you to do if your on thin ice lay out flat and span out your weight , in the saws case that should take a lot off of the pivot point . I think you helped me make up my mind though on the miter saw I am going to buy . Thank you for all your videos .
Bought this for my friend for his birthday, and he loves it. Father-in-law was a little jealous, even. :) Built solid, but light enough to move around for projects. Easy to use th-cam.com/users/postUgkxPeGkHOMe05FySypTOvYumxMn-xi39oRe and makes great precision cuts. Doesn't come with a laser mount, but the fence is straight as an arrow and if you measure carefully, it's not a problem. Can handle dimensional lumber with ease, but of course, there's a limit to how thick. Handled a 4x4" post without a problem, but 4x6" we had to flip and cut twice. Only thing we've noticed is make sure to tighten the nut that holds the saw blade when you take it out of the box and maybe check up on it occasionally. For some, this is probably a no-brainer, but we neglected to do this and a few months in, found the motor running but the blade spinning at about half speed or less. Tightened the nut, and problem was solved. Very happy with this purchase. Dewalt makes sturdy stuff.
Right now I have a Companion miter saw. Probably never heard of it, but it’s a good miter saw for working outside, and where extreme accuracy is necessary. But for 20 years it has served me well. But I need a miter saw for my shop. What I need is maximum use of space.
Finally after 2 years of waiting since seeing your review, I have purchased this saw! Currently on offer on Amazon for £638. Still, that's triple the price of the Dewalt saw I am replacing. I hope I don't have buyer's remorse, bit very excited to try it
@@rafaelbezerra8048 First impressions are that I really like it. Initially was disappointed that out-of the box it wasn't calibrated properly and also that it was possible to deflect it sideways when cutting. But now I have calibrated it and make a conscious effort to avoid any sideways pressure the cuts are completely accurate. Also it is extremely powerful. Cuts through wood like it isn't even there.
@@ksp1278 I'm really glad to hear that. I'm kind of torn as I start building my 1st small workshop (3.5m x 4.5m). I do have a Mafell plunge saw and now trying to decide if my next investment should be a mitre saw like this one or a job site table saw 🤔 I would love to hear your opinion :) thanks
@@rafaelbezerra8048 I would choose table saw over mitre saw. It is much more versatile. You can do crosscuts with a table saw, especially if you make a crosscut jig. Or you can do crosscuts with your plunge saw. My workshop is to be my garage. It is a similar area to yours (2.7×5.7m). I haven't yet sorted it out, but I know I want a mitre station so before I build that I needed to get the mitre saw that the workshop furniture will fit around. I am just a hobbyist, so I expect the tools I buy to last me practically forever. The tablesaw I got is a Dewalt DWE7491. I have had it many years now, and no complaints. Also had a Dewalt DW777 mitre saw, and that was OK too, but I wanted larger cut capacity.
@@ksp1278 thanks man you defo helped me do my decision as I was back and forward with Mitre saw or table saw. I did some research yesterday on the table saws and I was between the Dewalt DWE7492 or Bosch GTS 10XC but I believe I go for Dewalt :) As a hobbyist, I prefer to wait and save so I can invest in tools that I know will last me forever as you mentioned as well. as someone once said, "Buy once, cry once".
I bought this saw last year and put it on a stand. It works great and the zero clearance is great for my small shop. I do keep a dust cover on it all the time to help with dust collection (Rousseau 5000) which helps a lot. This is the best miter saw I have ever owned (and I have 4 sitting in my garage right now).
Good review mate. I've had this saw for years and I always like watching reviews to see if anything has been updated. Your brief description on how to adjust the alignment was excellent. I've seen a few reviews where they completely mangle the description. Well done.
I have had one of these for a couple of years and it’s friggen’ awesome but my laser was never quite right which is annoying. It is heavy though but I love the cuts it gives. Highly recommend
Great video Matt. I’m actually having trouble finding this model. I keep coming across the GCM12 SD. It a great one just doesn’t have a laser or shadow line. For that price you would think it would. That’s my only this like.
Excellent review and very likable personality. About to upgrade my old 10” Dewalt. Down to the 12” Bosch or the Delta. Leaning toward the Bosch. Thanks and looking forward to more of your videos.
Mine might be an updated model. It doesn't have the miter indent button, it instead has a hook that you can latch in the upper position once you pull the miter release upwards. There's no guard release, only a thumb lock for the switch on the bottom of the handle. It also has a Bosch Expert for wood blue sawblade as stock, which I am very happy with. (already bought a spare). No dust bag with mine, could've used it on some of my other tools... The only other difference I have noticed so far, is that the fence is notched for the clamp, so you can bring the body of the clamp further down without messing with the screw a lot. Bevel still seems to move if I force it after being locked, although I haven't noticed that issue until you pointed it out. I agree on it being heavy, which wouldn't be the biggest issue if it weren't for the horrible centre of gravity. Mine is bolted down snug, so hopefully it won't be a problem. It says 2019/1 on the label
You're the first one I see that mentions this. I just bought mine second hand , and I thought the mitre indent button was missing. Also the guard lock is a terrible idea. Very dangerous. What can happen, and it has. If you release the guard to lower the saw to line up a cut before starting the saw. You go into a memory reflex. You release the guard you lower it and you automatically press the go switch. And it scares the shit outa me. At least with my model you can lower it to line up a cut and then you have to go through 2 motions to start the saw. I love it. I have been meaning to get this saw for a long time.
@@JayDee-xj9lu I still have it although I barely use it. The saw blade isn't paralell with the slide on mine, and it looks like there is no way to adjust it. Works great as a chop saw, but any wider cuts get messed up just enough that it isn't suitable for furniture projects. I only noticed it well after the return period, and spent weeks agonising over it. I now own a cordless Festool Kapex, which is a million times nicer saw. Miter detent lock has no play, it has a shadow line instead of the lasers, and the trenching feature is a lot better also. Wish I had bought the larger Festool KS120 to begin with. It's almost double the price of the Bosch, but if I'm spending this kind of money I expect the tool to work as advertised. I've seen others on forums with the same issue and Bosch customer service doesn't seem to care much.
Few Qs if you don't mind - What is the depth of this from the back to the front of the *base*? And how much does the front stick out if its set to 50degrees etc (ie. you've "parked" it out of the way after using it).
Bought this saw a year ago +/- at $600.00 U.S. in my shop it is a dream. Loaned it to our installers and it is a bit heavy for field use. The handle on yours is different than mine, maybe the US/UK being the difference. Love the saw.
Just picked the newest version of this saw up. They have updated the weight (still feels solid, but it's only 65lbs rather than 88lbs) and the trigger safety. Mine didn't come with a laser, a quick release clamp, or the blade guard release (not complaining there).
Tips. Very important if you would like to saw with precision. (avoid torsion as much as possible)! Always choose a Miter saw with a handle positioned in a vertical line above the saw blade. Everything must be aligned, slide rails, handle, and saw blade,it is much better this way the blade will not tilt. Because there is some torsion in the aluminum housing . And choose an engine with softstart on it to prevent wear of the gear and worm shaft. It is very important that everything is aligned. Here are some examples to show how the handle must be positioned above the blade. Bosch gcm 800 sj / Bosch gcm 8 sjl / Evolution rage 3 / FESTOOL KS 60 / HITACHI C12RSH2 / FESTOOL KS 60 E KAPEX / Metabo KGSV 72 Xact (This also is the case with the Miter saw without the slide rails). If you want you can test it yourself at home if there is torsion in the aluminum housing. Step-1. First you make a saw cut from +-5 mm deep in to a flat piece of wood about +- 20 mm thick. To this with the normal handle positioned on the right side of the Miter saw. Step-2. Then repeat this by pushing the saw blade down with your hand (finger) on the aluminum protective cover were the saw blade is cased in. Just now only do this without the running engine. Step-3. Now you can see if the saw blade will be positioned in or next to the saw cut. If the saw blade is (+- 0,2 / 0,5 mm) next to the saw cut then there is torsion in the aluminum housing. Step-4. therefor it is much better to choose a Miter saw with the handle positioned vertical in line above the saw blade. Conclusion: how further away the handle is from the saw blade how more chance of torsion in the aluminum housing.(don't go for that).
It’s funny all the videos I have seen on the exact same saw all have different features on them compared to mine. Like yours has a GAURD disengage lever plus a laser switch and the handle is different also. I just bought mine last week. 😳😳
This is one of the only new tools that I have purchased. I really like it. But mine didn't come with a laser sight or a decent blade. Maybe there are different models internationally, but I saw that the laser sight was about $70 CAD, and I paid another $90 for a decent blade.
Great review. I have hade my eye on this saw for some time because I have other Bosch products and I definitely like the articulating arm feature. Thanks for posting
Interesting to see the differences between the Europe and US versions of this saw. Mine doesn't have the laser, guard release or a quick release clamp. I'd really love the damn clamp. Our version sucks a ton.
Was gonna say the Same thing.and mine is not accurate at all as far as 45s go made a picture frame and 3of the 4 miters were spot on but the 4th is a 16th off tried to do everything the manual sd but still not accurate and cant fond any videos on it
This Bosch miter saw is different from US models. I bought one last year to replace my 10 year old same model. No built in laser and no trigger bar to press before cutting. I did add a third party laser that runs on batteries and lights when it spins. The batteries usually die within a year, depending on frequency of use. Otherwise I really like my Bosch miter saw. Adjusting for 90 degree cuts is easy but adjusting the miter tilt is tough and hard to get perfect. Dust control is not good and Bosch should provide a bigger dust boot. I had to modify mine and then built a box around the saw, connected to my dust collector with two 4" ports.
Excellent reveiw Mr Estlea even if it was 4 years ago.I have been looing into the Bosch GCM 12 for a while now thinking of changing it out for my Evolution but I have read some reviews lately on the standard of workmanship not being the usual German standard have you experienced anything like that and what do you mean by undercut, thanks Matt enjoy your vids immensely
ABSOLUTLY LOVED THIS VIDEO! I've seen a lot of your work before and trust your opinion. After watching this I know this is the saw I want. I'm now looking for a table saw for around the same price. Do you have a similer video/review or any recommendations on what table saw i should look at
Good review. Can anyone tell me the measurement from the fence to the far back of the saw. How much room has to be left for the saw to make beveled and mitered cuts? What is the height from bottom to the table where you put the cutting material? It would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers mate! I just checked for you. The fence to the far back is 332mm when set to 90 degrees. Although you’re looking at about 500mm if you set both the bevel and mitre to the left at 45 degrees. This is due to the motor. Height from the bottom to the table is about 95mm. Hope that helps :)
It's funny what you say about the handle. I had a go on one of these in the store and disliked the handle , finding it awkward. I am used to festool and Makita ones with the handle the other way round, just more natural to the hand, think of how you grip a saw, a hammer etc. Otherwise it seems good.
@@MattEstlea Thanks for replying, I have been enjoying watching your videos. Trying to choose a new mitre saw is proving tricky! Keep up the good work, your videos are excellent quality and 'no nonsense' which is great.
Question - you mentioned that the bevel mechanism isn't as good as the gcm 12 model that is below this one, but they looked the same to me. What's different? I'm in the market for one and definitely want a good bevel mechanism. Thanks!
Great review, have had one for a couple of years now and it is awesome. My main complaint is the weight, I'd also like to see some "fine adjustment options nobs thingies" like there is on the Kapex. But then I quite often tend to cut angles like 27.1 degrees and so on.
I'm with you there. The incremental adjustment knob for bevel on the Kapex 120 is genius. Why other companies haven't done their own take I've no idea. Same for the Festool quick clamp too - a proper quick clamp. Should be a standard accessory on mitre saws. I ended up doctoring a Festool clamp to fit my Bosch GCM saws.
Saludos Matte Estlea excelente máquina,, gracias por compartir video, pregunta de cuánto es el voltaje, talvez es de 110_127,vlts o es de 220vlts,,y el origen de fabricación??,, si me responde en español por favor
i got one in 2013 with the wheeled stand. i use it on site all the time, its been a great saw. Iv only had the same gripes you have. Like you say the blade that comes with it is really really good quality, kept for best work. For site work the stand is a must, back breaking to slug about.
Hello, I'm French and I do not understand English very well but I understand that you know the GCM 12 gdl and Makita ls1219l Your opinion interests me because I'm thinking about the two machines could you tell me your advice on one or the other of these two machines thank you very much
@@jacksney299 Hi there my personal opinion on the bosch is probably harsh as I have used makita tools for years however I do find the bosch cumbersome and heavy and not as accurate as the makita, saying that if your saw isn't going to get knocked around in the back of a van it would be easy to keep both machines calibrated and precise. my advice is go and try a few cuts on each saw but for me the makita feels more sturdy and gives me more confidence in the cut. but please you make your own mind up and let me know your thoughts also
Wait, when you were talking about the bevel lock you said, “It would be nice to see the lock updated to something like the GCM-12, the model below this” I thought you were reviewing the GCM-12, the title of the video is “Bosch GCM-12 Axial Glide Review”. Am I trippin or did I hear you wrong or is the actual name of the saw GCM-12 Axial Glide and there’s a separate saw called GCM-12 or what?
You do not have a portable gravity-rise wheeled stand. i intend to buy this saw with the stand to make it easy to move out of the way, as I to have a small shop. I wonder what your opinion of this stand is, it also allows you to cut bigger timbers.
The gravity rise stand is amazing. It makes it effortless to move the saw and is definitely worth getting if you're taking it on site. I don't need it as the saw is permanently in the workshop though.
does any of you own it as a job site saw? how do you handle it? is it that heavy to move it from job to job? I'd like to buy it as I am a carpenter but I don't know if I can manage the whole weight problem... Thanks.
Its quite heavy but it’s not necessarily the weight that is the problem. It’s mainly the placement of the handle combined with the weight of the saw that makes it difficult to manoeuvre. Tends to hit your shins quite a lot! Have a look at the Gravity Rise stand you can get with the saw. It makes it effortless to move. :)
I have a festool ks120 and ks60 and they have the ability to be locked at 60 degrees so that you can carry it making it easier as it becomes more narrow. But they are still heavy, and when carrying through tight spaces are a little tiring, and you always bump them and worry about alignment.
Wow, watching this makes me wonder if they have slightly different models in the UK. I bought mine just about the same time as this video came out, but it doesn't have a guard release, the handle has buttons on the left AND right side (so you can pull with either hand) and definitely doesn't have a laser (and there's no aftermarket lasers that really work with it). Everything else looks pretty similar though. I'm totally surprised that they didn't include a laser in the American market version because so many reviews tend to mention that it would have been a nice addition; presumably it adds very little to the cost.
Interestingly, there is no laser system available on their saws in the US market. This is why I have not bought their product and foolish on their part because I'm the sort that would go all out Bosch after buying one of their products. Currently I use Hitachi but need to upgrade!
Thanks for this review, I have to say this is the best review I have seen on TH-cam, so well explained and straight to the point. Can I ask, until now I have thought this saw lacked a lazer guide, I also note the adjustable hold down clamp, are these standard items now? In particular the lazer because that was one of the big downsides to this saw. Also, does it have an induction motor, ie brushless?
Was there a response to the question about a laser guide? I do not see it referenced in the user manual at all. If it's not standard, what products were used to get the lines on both sides of the blade?
It sounds like you're referring to the US version, the GCM 12 SD. That has the standard hold down clamp and doesn't have a laser or soft start. The GCM 12 GDL (this review) is the model that has the laser, adjustable clamp, and soft start.
Nice review. thank you. I have got this machine and used it for a bit. is true that is amazing. I like that is heavy and with with the bosch stand is easy to carry.
@@jadesharrocks Indeed, though you should know you can add a light to this saw really, really easily which gives you an even better cut indicator than a laser. Look it up on the youtubes. Gives you a shadow line, which obviously is always absolutely perfect.
As a fellow Amazingstoker, I just wanted to point out that your Instagram link in the description is wrong, as it has an F on the end of it. Other than that, a great review!
I've priced some Festool items in Germany and the U.S., and there isn't much difference. It gets even worse when factoring in the currency exchange rate.
Mike K I checked this specific saw vs the Festool Kapex on Amazon UK and price was pretty similar. I live in the US, and own an older version of the same Bosch Saw, it’s a good Saw, and nice in my small shop, but I would have the Kapex if the price was closer and not close to 3 times as much
I wish my experience with this saw was as good :( My blade is out of alignment to the axial glide mechanism so it won't cut a straight line, hopefully Bosch can fix it or adjust it as there are no instructions on doing it yourself. Love my Bosch track saw though!!!!!
I feel ripped off. The US version doesn't offer any type of laser or shadow line option. I feel like paying over 700$ should at least get you that feature. Luckily I've been using saws for over 20 years without them but this saw is a little harder to line up your cut when your trying to cut miters because of the matte finish on the blade guard. Also, our version has this huge, very awkward thumb lever you have to slide over to unlock the trigger. This is quite difficult because of the width of the handle. Especially if you have arthritis and carpal tunnel like I do. I had to zip tie mine into the unlocked position and then fill it with ca glue to make it permanently unlocked. Some people might say that's unsafe but I've been running DeWalt miter saws my entire life all day long. Probably cut enough crown and base board to reach from California to new York, and DeWalt has never had one of those locks on any of their corded saws. I still have 10 fingers and 10 toes
If you found this video useful, don't forget to press the *LIKE* button. It really helps me out!
Like the look of the workbench? Watch me make it here: th-cam.com/video/FXKYwM0f5WU/w-d-xo.html&t
Very useful video I haven't really found a video of yours I don't like you are a very informative person , the one thing I wonder is would the saw move as much when it it locked while it is fully extended I don't think it would because of weight distribution , it's like what they tell you to do if your on thin ice lay out flat and span out your weight , in the saws case that should take a lot off of the pivot point . I think you helped me make up my mind though on the miter saw I am going to buy . Thank you for all your videos .
Video was informative
Bought this for my friend for his birthday, and he loves it. Father-in-law was a little jealous, even. :)
Built solid, but light enough to move around for projects. Easy to use th-cam.com/users/postUgkxPeGkHOMe05FySypTOvYumxMn-xi39oRe and makes great precision cuts. Doesn't come with a laser mount, but the fence is straight as an arrow and if you measure carefully, it's not a problem. Can handle dimensional lumber with ease, but of course, there's a limit to how thick. Handled a 4x4" post without a problem, but 4x6" we had to flip and cut twice. Only thing we've noticed is make sure to tighten the nut that holds the saw blade when you take it out of the box and maybe check up on it occasionally. For some, this is probably a no-brainer, but we neglected to do this and a few months in, found the motor running but the blade spinning at about half speed or less. Tightened the nut, and problem was solved. Very happy with this purchase. Dewalt makes sturdy stuff.
Right now I have a Companion miter saw. Probably never heard of it, but it’s a good miter saw for working outside, and where extreme accuracy is necessary. But for 20 years it has served me well. But I need a miter saw for my shop. What I need is maximum use of space.
Finally after 2 years of waiting since seeing your review, I have purchased this saw! Currently on offer on Amazon for £638. Still, that's triple the price of the Dewalt saw I am replacing. I hope I don't have buyer's remorse, bit very excited to try it
Hey @ksp1278 please let me know your thoughts after using it as I'm also looking to get on soon :)
@@rafaelbezerra8048 First impressions are that I really like it. Initially was disappointed that out-of the box it wasn't calibrated properly and also that it was possible to deflect it sideways when cutting. But now I have calibrated it and make a conscious effort to avoid any sideways pressure the cuts are completely accurate. Also it is extremely powerful. Cuts through wood like it isn't even there.
@@ksp1278 I'm really glad to hear that. I'm kind of torn as I start building my 1st small workshop (3.5m x 4.5m).
I do have a Mafell plunge saw and now trying to decide if my next investment should be a mitre saw like this one or a job site table saw 🤔
I would love to hear your opinion :)
thanks
@@rafaelbezerra8048 I would choose table saw over mitre saw. It is much more versatile. You can do crosscuts with a table saw, especially if you make a crosscut jig. Or you can do crosscuts with your plunge saw. My workshop is to be my garage. It is a similar area to yours (2.7×5.7m). I haven't yet sorted it out, but I know I want a mitre station so before I build that I needed to get the mitre saw that the workshop furniture will fit around. I am just a hobbyist, so I expect the tools I buy to last me practically forever. The tablesaw I got is a Dewalt DWE7491. I have had it many years now, and no complaints. Also had a Dewalt DW777 mitre saw, and that was OK too, but I wanted larger cut capacity.
@@ksp1278 thanks man you defo helped me do my decision as I was back and forward with Mitre saw or table saw.
I did some research yesterday on the table saws and I was between the Dewalt DWE7492 or Bosch GTS 10XC but I believe I go for Dewalt :)
As a hobbyist, I prefer to wait and save so I can invest in tools that I know will last me forever as you mentioned as well. as someone once said, "Buy once, cry once".
Struggling between Bosch and Makita 12inch miter saw, I placed the order for Bosch after watching your review!
I bought this saw last year and put it on a stand. It works great and the zero clearance is great for my small shop. I do keep a dust cover on it all the time to help with dust collection (Rousseau 5000) which helps a lot. This is the best miter saw I have ever owned (and I have 4 sitting in my garage right now).
4? I would have thought you mitre sold some by now...
Good review mate. I've had this saw for years and I always like watching reviews to see if anything has been updated. Your brief description on how to adjust the alignment was excellent. I've seen a few reviews where they completely mangle the description. Well done.
For the first ten minutes of this video I couldn't stop watching it! Very good editing job👍👍👍👍
Best mitre saw on the market in my eyes, Dans dust extraction upgrade is great but generally it’s pretty good tool 👍👍👍
I have had one of these for a couple of years and it’s friggen’ awesome but my laser was never quite right which is annoying. It is heavy though but I love the cuts it gives. Highly recommend
Great video Matt. I’m actually having trouble finding this model. I keep coming across the GCM12 SD. It a great one just doesn’t have a laser or shadow line. For that price you would think it would. That’s my only this like.
Appreciate your true pro/con analysis.
Just got one! Absolutely love everything about it! I did change the dust collection!
Excellent review and very likable personality. About to upgrade my old 10” Dewalt. Down to the 12” Bosch or the Delta. Leaning toward the Bosch. Thanks and looking forward to more of your videos.
Mine might be an updated model. It doesn't have the miter indent button, it instead has a hook that you can latch in the upper position once you pull the miter release upwards. There's no guard release, only a thumb lock for the switch on the bottom of the handle.
It also has a Bosch Expert for wood blue sawblade as stock, which I am very happy with. (already bought a spare). No dust bag with mine, could've used it on some of my other tools...
The only other difference I have noticed so far, is that the fence is notched for the clamp, so you can bring the body of the clamp further down without messing with the screw a lot.
Bevel still seems to move if I force it after being locked, although I haven't noticed that issue until you pointed it out.
I agree on it being heavy, which wouldn't be the biggest issue if it weren't for the horrible centre of gravity. Mine is bolted down snug, so hopefully it won't be a problem.
It says 2019/1 on the label
You're the first one I see that mentions this. I just bought mine second hand , and I thought the mitre indent button was missing. Also the guard lock is a terrible idea. Very dangerous. What can happen, and it has. If you release the guard to lower the saw to line up a cut before starting the saw. You go into a memory reflex. You release the guard you lower it and you automatically press the go switch. And it scares the shit outa me. At least with my model you can lower it to line up a cut and then you have to go through 2 motions to start the saw. I love it. I have been meaning to get this saw for a long time.
@@JayDee-xj9lu I still have it although I barely use it. The saw blade isn't paralell with the slide on mine, and it looks like there is no way to adjust it. Works great as a chop saw, but any wider cuts get messed up just enough that it isn't suitable for furniture projects. I only noticed it well after the return period, and spent weeks agonising over it.
I now own a cordless Festool Kapex, which is a million times nicer saw. Miter detent lock has no play, it has a shadow line instead of the lasers, and the trenching feature is a lot better also. Wish I had bought the larger Festool KS120 to begin with. It's almost double the price of the Bosch, but if I'm spending this kind of money I expect the tool to work as advertised. I've seen others on forums with the same issue and Bosch customer service doesn't seem to care much.
Great job on the video. I saw the saw for the first time at HD this afternoon, and I'll get it as soon I as I redo my shop.
Few Qs if you don't mind - What is the depth of this from the back to the front of the *base*? And how much does the front stick out if its set to 50degrees etc (ie. you've "parked" it out of the way after using it).
Bought this saw a year ago +/- at $600.00 U.S. in my shop it is a dream. Loaned it to our installers and it is a bit heavy for field use. The handle on yours is different than mine, maybe the US/UK being the difference. Love the saw.
Great review! Thanks. Now that it has been a couple of years do you still recommend this saw?
Just picked the newest version of this saw up. They have updated the weight (still feels solid, but it's only 65lbs rather than 88lbs) and the trigger safety. Mine didn't come with a laser, a quick release clamp, or the blade guard release (not complaining there).
How do you see the las1219l Makit against this saw? I want to buy it, but I will choose between these two saws. Could I make a comparison test?
Thanks Matt! Appreciate the review.. I'm in the market and you just finalized my decision. Bosch for the win!
You will love it! Enjoy mate!
I’ve owned this saw for 2 years, had no idea how to adjust the detents or how to properly do the blade change. Thanks for the review
Tips.
Very important if you would like to saw with precision. (avoid torsion as much as possible)!
Always choose a Miter saw with a handle positioned in a vertical line above the saw blade.
Everything must be aligned, slide rails, handle, and saw blade,it is much better this way the blade will not tilt.
Because there is some torsion in the aluminum housing .
And choose an engine with softstart on it to prevent wear of the gear and worm shaft.
It is very important that everything is aligned.
Here are some examples to show how the handle must be positioned above the blade.
Bosch gcm 800 sj / Bosch gcm 8 sjl / Evolution rage 3 / FESTOOL KS 60 / HITACHI C12RSH2 / FESTOOL KS 60 E KAPEX / Metabo KGSV 72 Xact
(This also is the case with the Miter saw without the slide rails).
If you want you can test it yourself at home if there is torsion in the aluminum housing.
Step-1. First you make a saw cut from +-5 mm deep in to a flat piece of wood about +- 20 mm thick. To this with the normal handle positioned on the right side of the Miter saw.
Step-2. Then repeat this by pushing the saw blade down with your hand (finger) on the aluminum protective cover were the saw blade is cased in. Just now only do this without the running engine.
Step-3. Now you can see if the saw blade will be positioned in or next to the saw cut. If the saw blade is (+- 0,2 / 0,5 mm) next to the saw cut then there is torsion in the aluminum housing.
Step-4. therefor it is much better to choose a Miter saw with the handle positioned vertical in line above the saw blade.
Conclusion: how further away the handle is from the saw blade how more chance of torsion in the aluminum housing.(don't go for that).
It’s funny all the videos I have seen on the exact same saw all have different features on them compared to mine. Like yours has a GAURD disengage lever plus a laser switch and the handle is different also. I just bought mine last week. 😳😳
This is one of the only new tools that I have purchased. I really like it.
But mine didn't come with a laser sight or a decent blade. Maybe there are different models internationally, but I saw that the laser sight was about $70 CAD, and I paid another $90 for a decent blade.
Interesting saw!! I do like the space saving behind it.
It's a beaut isnt it?
Just got one and it's so good, you'll only know if you buy one.
Thanks very much for this complete review, Matt ! Keep it up
Great review. I have hade my eye on this saw for some time because I have other Bosch products and I definitely like the articulating arm feature. Thanks for posting
Cheers Jeff, you wont be disappointed I assure you!
Interesting to see the differences between the Europe and US versions of this saw. Mine doesn't have the laser, guard release or a quick release clamp. I'd really love the damn clamp. Our version sucks a ton.
Was gonna say the Same thing.and mine is not accurate at all as far as 45s go made a picture frame and 3of the 4 miters were spot on but the 4th is a 16th off tried to do everything the manual sd but still not accurate and cant fond any videos on it
Want one, have done since it appeared on the market. Can't afford it 🙁
Great review Matt.
This Bosch miter saw is different from US models. I bought one last year to replace my 10 year old same model. No built in laser and no trigger bar to press before cutting. I did add a third party laser that runs on batteries and lights when it spins. The batteries usually die within a year, depending on frequency of use. Otherwise I really like my Bosch miter saw. Adjusting for 90 degree cuts is easy but adjusting the miter tilt is tough and hard to get perfect. Dust control is not good and Bosch should provide a bigger dust boot. I had to modify mine and then built a box around the saw, connected to my dust collector with two 4" ports.
yeah that left hand thread.... i didn’t know that on my saw and i tightened so hard i needed to barrow an impact wrench to get it off..
Loose is always with the teeth, and of course it's same with router bits. Cant go wrong if you take your cue from the cutters. Cheers!
Matt, do the plastic detents for locking in mitre cuts cause you concern as to their longevity? Ideally, I'd like to see them made out of steel.
Congrats for the 50k subs mr woodworking john snow :D
!!! I now know why Matt seems familar! Thank you!
I just got the 36v Makita... kind of wish I had got a Bosch. Though the Makita is a nice saw once you iron out the bugs.
Excellent reveiw Mr Estlea even if it was 4 years ago.I have been looing into the Bosch GCM 12 for a while now thinking of changing it out for my Evolution but I have read some reviews lately on the standard of workmanship not being the usual German standard have you experienced anything like that and what do you mean by undercut, thanks Matt enjoy your vids immensely
ABSOLUTLY LOVED THIS VIDEO! I've seen a lot of your work before and trust your opinion. After watching this I know this is the saw I want. I'm now looking for a table saw for around the same price. Do you have a similer video/review or any recommendations on what table saw i should look at
Good review. Can anyone tell me the measurement from the fence to the far back of the saw. How much room has to be left for the saw to make beveled and mitered cuts? What is the height from bottom to the table where you put the cutting material? It would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers mate! I just checked for you. The fence to the far back is 332mm when set to 90 degrees. Although you’re looking at about 500mm if you set both the bevel and mitre to the left at 45 degrees. This is due to the motor. Height from the bottom to the table is about 95mm. Hope that helps :)
@@MattEstlea Thank you, very much! Helps tons.
It's funny what you say about the handle. I had a go on one of these in the store and disliked the handle , finding it awkward. I am used to festool and Makita ones with the handle the other way round, just more natural to the hand, think of how you grip a saw, a hammer etc. Otherwise it seems good.
All comes down to personal preference and what you’re used to I guess! Good that you managed to get into a store and try it out at least!
@@MattEstlea Thanks for replying, I have been enjoying watching your videos. Trying to choose a new mitre saw is proving tricky! Keep up the good work, your videos are excellent quality and 'no nonsense' which is great.
I got used to mine rather quickly. It's a more natural motion to me and worth the change.
Hi! i was looking for build an station for this, can you tell me the closed base dimensions?
i really wanna look at your workshop,really awesome video
What is laser setup ? Or where you get from ?
Hi Matt, I'm thinking about buying a new miter saw, I'm thinking to choose between this GCM12 GDL new, or a 2nd hand Graule ZS 170 N.
Suggestions?
Question - you mentioned that the bevel mechanism isn't as good as the gcm 12 model that is below this one, but they looked the same to me. What's different? I'm in the market for one and definitely want a good bevel mechanism. Thanks!
I'm in doubt between this bosh or makita 12 ", what I like about makita is the straight beltless motor. seems to be great
Great review, have had one for a couple of years now and it is awesome. My main complaint is the weight, I'd also like to see some "fine adjustment options nobs thingies" like there is on the Kapex. But then I quite often tend to cut angles like 27.1 degrees and so on.
I'm with you there. The incremental adjustment knob for bevel on the Kapex 120 is genius. Why other companies haven't done their own take I've no idea. Same for the Festool quick clamp too - a proper quick clamp. Should be a standard accessory on mitre saws. I ended up doctoring a Festool clamp to fit my Bosch GCM saws.
Not seeing anyone selling the Bosche GCM 12 with the rails. Got a link? The Bosch home page does not list it either.
what's the distance from the fence to the back of the saw?
Saludos Matte Estlea excelente máquina,, gracias por compartir video, pregunta de cuánto es el voltaje, talvez es de 110_127,vlts o es de 220vlts,,y el origen de fabricación??,, si me responde en español por favor
Can we get a review of Matt Estlea?
Did your saw come with a laser or was that an add on?
Great review Matt, Cheers Paul
What is the width across the base? I found a measurement of 1100mm online but that feels wider than it looks.
I wonder how I can get one of those models shipped to the US it's funny how we can't get them over here
Does this saw have the function to set a fixed depth of cut, so if for example you wanted to cut a channel?
yep, the screw is on the right side of the saw
Nice review
i got one in 2013 with the wheeled stand. i use it on site all the time, its been a great saw. Iv only had the same gripes you have. Like you say the blade that comes with it is really really good quality, kept for best work.
For site work the stand is a must, back breaking to slug about.
thanks for the review Matt! thats the same setup I've been planning g on getting!
The right bevel turn Knub in my bosh miter saw does not want to move. Is there some kind of release to allow it to turn?
You need to slightly angle the bevel to the left so that you can turn the knob, then with the knob turned, you are free the bevel to the right.
@@michaelross7759 thank you, it works
How does this saw do on fine trim and small mouldings?
It’s got a fine negative rake blade supplied with it so it’ll work beautifully. Might just need to pull the saw down carefully to prevent it snagging.
Tried this saw but much preferred the Makita LS1219L far better build quality and easier to move around
Hello, I'm French and I do not understand English very well but I understand that you know the GCM 12 gdl and Makita ls1219l Your opinion interests me because I'm thinking about the two machines could you tell me your advice on one or the other of these two machines thank you very much
@@jacksney299 Hi there
my personal opinion on the bosch is probably harsh as I have used makita tools for years however I do find the bosch cumbersome and heavy and not as accurate as the makita, saying that if your saw isn't going to get knocked around in the back of a van it would be easy to keep both machines calibrated and precise. my advice is go and try a few cuts on each saw but for me the makita feels more sturdy and gives me more confidence in the cut. but please you make your own mind up and let me know your thoughts also
Wait, when you were talking about the bevel lock you said, “It would be nice to see the lock updated to something like the GCM-12, the model below this” I thought you were reviewing the GCM-12, the title of the video is “Bosch GCM-12 Axial Glide Review”. Am I trippin or did I hear you wrong or is the actual name of the saw GCM-12 Axial Glide and there’s a separate saw called GCM-12 or what?
You do not have a portable gravity-rise wheeled stand. i intend to buy this saw with the stand to make it easy to move out of the way, as I to have a small shop. I wonder what your opinion of this stand is, it also allows you to cut bigger timbers.
The gravity rise stand is amazing. It makes it effortless to move the saw and is definitely worth getting if you're taking it on site. I don't need it as the saw is permanently in the workshop though.
I'm in love with that Roubo workbench..!!
So much so that you've even made it your profile picture?!
does any of you own it as a job site saw? how do you handle it? is it that heavy to move it from job to job? I'd like to buy it as I am a carpenter but I don't know if I can manage the whole weight problem... Thanks.
Its quite heavy but it’s not necessarily the weight that is the problem. It’s mainly the placement of the handle combined with the weight of the saw that makes it difficult to manoeuvre. Tends to hit your shins quite a lot! Have a look at the Gravity Rise stand you can get with the saw. It makes it effortless to move. :)
I have a festool ks120 and ks60 and they have the ability to be locked at 60 degrees so that you can carry it making it easier as it becomes more narrow. But they are still heavy, and when carrying through tight spaces are a little tiring, and you always bump them and worry about alignment.
I use mine with the gravity stand. It's bulky but works great with the stand.
just bought one...cant seem to get a square cut ;(
wade saunders send it back and get a Kapex
Really terrific review
Wow, watching this makes me wonder if they have slightly different models in the UK. I bought mine just about the same time as this video came out, but it doesn't have a guard release, the handle has buttons on the left AND right side (so you can pull with either hand) and definitely doesn't have a laser (and there's no aftermarket lasers that really work with it). Everything else looks pretty similar though. I'm totally surprised that they didn't include a laser in the American market version because so many reviews tend to mention that it would have been a nice addition; presumably it adds very little to the cost.
The GCM 12 GDL (this review) is the model that has the laser, adjustable clamp, and soft start. The US version does not.
Interestingly, there is no laser system available on their saws in the US market. This is why I have not bought their product and foolish on their part because I'm the sort that would go all out Bosch after buying one of their products. Currently I use Hitachi but need to upgrade!
You mentioned Brian. Missed the rest.
Thank you it's informative
Thanks for this review, I have to say this is the best review I have seen on TH-cam, so well explained and straight to the point.
Can I ask, until now I have thought this saw lacked a lazer guide, I also note the adjustable hold down clamp, are these standard items now? In particular the lazer because that was one of the big downsides to this saw. Also, does it have an induction motor, ie brushless?
Was there a response to the question about a laser guide? I do not see it referenced in the user manual at all. If it's not standard, what products were used to get the lines on both sides of the blade?
It sounds like you're referring to the US version, the GCM 12 SD. That has the standard hold down clamp and doesn't have a laser or soft start. The GCM 12 GDL (this review) is the model that has the laser, adjustable clamp, and soft start.
Great job Matt...Cheers 👍
Nice review. thank you. I have got this machine and used it for a bit. is true that is amazing. I like that is heavy and with with the bosch stand is easy to carry.
That stand is amazing isn't it? I love to demo it while at Axminster.
Haha the way you're talking and explaining reminds me a bit of Gordon Ramsey^^. Hope you will become the Gordon Ramsey of carpentry! Nice review!
Great review
Matt, Did that saw come standard with the laser ?????
It does in Europe I think. Think it also comes with the clamp as standard.
@@whirled_peas Thanks Sam
@@whirled_peas I wish it did in the States!!
@@jadesharrocks Indeed, though you should know you can add a light to this saw really, really easily which gives you an even better cut indicator than a laser. Look it up on the youtubes. Gives you a shadow line, which obviously is always absolutely perfect.
@@whirled_peas I found that last night, already ordered the light.
I just got the new one and it don’t have the lasers 🙈
Thanks man!
I played with one at local tool store and when the blade was out at its farthest point the amount of movement left and right was terrible!
Most saws do at 16 inches out. Flex is unavoidable.
Excellent review!
Looks like a very cool saw 🤙🏻
good review. Can't imagine using a mitre saw in the corner of a room though! ;-)
As a fellow Amazingstoker, I just wanted to point out that your Instagram link in the description is wrong, as it has an F on the end of it. Other than that, a great review!
Love the video
Good review dude!
Surprised you didn’t get the Festool, I would think in Europe the price difference isn’t as big as in the US.
I've priced some Festool items in Germany and the U.S., and there isn't much difference. It gets even worse when factoring in the currency exchange rate.
Mike K I checked this specific saw vs the Festool Kapex on Amazon UK and price was pretty similar. I live in the US, and own an older version of the same Bosch Saw, it’s a good Saw, and nice in my small shop, but I would have the Kapex if the price was closer and not close to 3 times as much
I wish my experience with this saw was as good :( My blade is out of alignment to the axial glide mechanism so it won't cut a straight line, hopefully Bosch can fix it or adjust it as there are no instructions on doing it yourself. Love my Bosch track saw though!!!!!
Thanks Matt.
Would of been great to see a mitre and bevel cut.... otherwise great review 👌
Whoa... wait a sec. I purchased this saw based on this review, but there's no laser option for it in N.America. WTF?
Thank You !
Was this a sponsored video? Didn't they send you it? Looks like a great saw, I would just like to know...
Yep they sent it to me. But, I was very clear with Bosch that the review was going to be completely honest.
great vids
I feel ripped off. The US version doesn't offer any type of laser or shadow line option. I feel like paying over 700$ should at least get you that feature. Luckily I've been using saws for over 20 years without them but this saw is a little harder to line up your cut when your trying to cut miters because of the matte finish on the blade guard. Also, our version has this huge, very awkward thumb lever you have to slide over to unlock the trigger. This is quite difficult because of the width of the handle. Especially if you have arthritis and carpal tunnel like I do. I had to zip tie mine into the unlocked position and then fill it with ca glue to make it permanently unlocked. Some people might say that's unsafe but I've been running DeWalt miter saws my entire life all day long. Probably cut enough crown and base board to reach from California to new York, and DeWalt has never had one of those locks on any of their corded saws. I still have 10 fingers and 10 toes
I love when it rubs along the entire length. 14:51
Is the part number for this saw GCM12SD?
GCM12 GDL. The GCM12SD is the same size but doesn't have the articulated arm on the back.
I like the DeWalt 12' slider.