Light is faster than sound. That explains why some people appear bright until they open their mouths!

Hitachi C8FSE Sliding Compound Mitre Saw - product review/recommendation

There is such a range of sliding bevel saws available and I’ve already had one of the cheap Chinese ones from Homebase. This died in no time, firstly with rubbish carbon brushes and then the motor died after very little use. Ok, it was cheap. I bought another, exactly the same, from Screwfix, but all the teeth chipped off cutting wooden flooring so I took it back and bought the Hitachi C8FSE.

It only has a 1050 watt motor that is really quite small, but it has one hell of a kick when the motor start and is more than powerful enough for my DIY applications. I already have a 10” Hitachi circular saw that I have oned for over 10 years so I knew that Hitachi makes good products and decided that the small motor (compared to 1800 watt + on many saws) It has a long sliding capacity of 312mm.

The C8FSHE model has the laser alignment feature but I’m trying to see if I can add this to the saw.

I purchased the saw from D&M tools at Twickenham and got a really good deal at £229 including a free 60 tooth blade. I’ve seen it at £349!

I’m really impressed by this saw and the price is reasonable, with many saws costing up to £600.

•      9.5 Amp motor, rugged power for the toughest cutting jobs
•      57 Degree mitre angle, to the right for ultra flexibility with 45 Degree mitre angle to the left
•     47 Degree bevel angle range to the left and 5 Degree bevel angle to the right with adjustable stops for compound cutting applications
•     Class leading lightweight design at only 31 lbs for easy manoeuvrability and portability
•     11 positive stops on mitre index, for easy to read measurements and quick setting
•     Linear ball bearing slide system, for superior accuracy and control
•      Electric brake feature halts the rotation of the blade within seconds preventing unintended cuts
•     Carbon brush access, allows user to replace brush as needed to greatly prolong the life of the tool
•     Dust collector attachment, to minimize airborne particles
•     Debris deflection guard, safely diverts debris away from the work area
•     Depth adjustment guide makes quick adjustments for applications requiring a half lap and dado joints

Includes

   * 216mm (8-1/2”) TCT Saw Blade

   * Dust Bag

   * Vise Ass’y

   * Box Wrench (10mm)

   * Sub Fence

Reviewed 9th January 2010