After using a 7-1/4 inch miter saw for many years, I was looking forward to getting a new bigger 12 inch model that would make more precise cuts on the trim work I needed for our living room remodel.
On a recent stop at Lowe’s, I found this Hitachi C12RSH2 Compound Miter Saw that was on sale for a very good price, and also included the stand as a bonus as well.
What Are The Key Features The Hitachi C12RSH2 Compound Miter Saw?
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15 Amp Motor Handles Bigger Wood
One of the areas that attracted me to this particular model was that I kept hearing others mention how powerful the motor is and how it cuts through bigger wood with relative ease.
I liked knowing that it would cut bigger pieces than just your standard trim sizes.
I’ve used this saw to cut through everything from 2×4’s to 4×4 posts and much more. It’s never bogged down or given me fits.
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Compact Slide System
I’ve got this saw set up in my tool shed and there’s not a lot of extra room as you can imagine.
The fact that Hitachi built this model to slide along its fixed rails and eliminate the need for rear clearance is a real plus.
It’s one of those features you really can’t appreciate it until you actually use it.
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Laser Guide
Having an accurate, out of the box, laser guide that actually works as intended is another plus for this saw.
I’ve never had to adjust it since it was set up out of the box. You can’t ask for more than that.
And… it doesn’t require batteries to operate. It uses the electric power to the saw.
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Positive Stops On Miter And Bevel Scales
Hitachi set up positive stops and indicators on both the miter and bevel scales to help make things easier for you.
They work very well for the most part.
You can quickly make adjustments at different angles without having to be concerned on hitting just the right angle adjustment that will provide for accurate cuts.
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Vibration Free Handle
I know, how can you list the handle as an important feature?
You can when it provides a nice soft grip that doesn’t slip and eliminates most all of the vibrations that get a bit uncomfortable after a while.
If you’ve used a miter saw in the past without this type of handle grip then you know firsthand how it can affect your hands after repeated use.
What It Will Not Do
The one area that I wish Hitachi had included would be the swing out depth stop.
I’ve heard this mentioned by others as well, especially the pros who use this type of saw on a regular basis.
For the weekend handyman it will not likely be an issue though.
Pros
- Works well right out of the box without the need for adjustments
- Heavier well-built saw
- Compact slide works great in tighter spaces
- Laser is accurate
- Goes through wood like a hot knife through butter
- Included stand is heavy-duty and works as advertised
Cons
- No swing out depth stop
- Lack of micro adjustments
Bottom Line – Does It Live Up To Its Promises?
All in all, the Hitachi C12RSH2 has been an impressive tool in the shop.
It’s been used on many different projects and has never let me down yet.
Unless you’re a pro who needs the added micro adjustments or swing out depth stop, this power tool is going to do the job for you.