The Hitachi C12FDH is a 15-amp, 12-inch dual-bevelled miter saw that works for a variety of cutting jobs. It is well-loved by professional carpenters and amateur woodworkers alike.
The C12FDH tends to get glowing reviews, but I was curious to find out if it is really as good as I have heard. So I did my research, and have come up with this Hitachi C12FDH review.
In this post, I will be reviewing the Hitachi C12FDH Dual Bevel Miter Saw in detail. Read on to find out if it lives up to all the hype.
Contents
Hitachi C12FDH Overview
The Hitachi C12FDH is a mitered saw, which means it is designed to stay in one place and cut down on an object, instead of length-wise. It is powerful, but also versatile, so you can use it for a diverse range of tasks.
The saw’s power comes from a 15-amp motor, which delivers up to 4,000 rotations per minute.
That’s powerful enough to smoothly cut through hardwood, molding and aluminum sashes.
As a double-mitered compound saw, the blade can turn both right and left, allowing you to bevel in both directions. More specifically, it bevels up to 48 degrees in either direction.
An integrated laser marker helps you cut and bevel accurately by marking where the cut will be before you bring the saw down. The combination of power and accuracy is what has made this Hitachi so popular with DIY woodworkers.
It also comes with a variety of special features, including a dust bag and a holder assembly, which makes it easier to hold and move around while you are working.
As a Hitachi product, this double-mitered table saw is backed by a one-month warranty.
Hitachi C12FDH Dual Bevel Miter Saw Features
Build and Design
Like all Hitachi table saws, the C12FDH has a pivoting aluminum fence for added stability while you are cutting. The fence is about 5 inches tall and pivots to adjust your cut.
It also has an elastomer handle on the countertop of the saw shield and is actually a unique, ergonomic feature of the saw. The handle gives you a firm hold by helping to reduce vibrations and jittering.
Aside from the handle, the rest of the C12FDH is made of durable metal, and the blade is carbide. It is built to last through long-term heavy use. Despite that, the table saw is relatively lightweight and easy to transport when you need to.
The Hitachi C12FDH definitely has a high-quality design and better than a lot of comparable table saws.
However, it doesn’t stand up to the test of time compared to some others. My biggest concern is with the bevel.
Over time, as the parts of table saw wear down, beveling will become less and less precise.
If you want to find out about the top-rated miter saw stand you can read the complete review by clicking here.
Accuracy
A lot of sliding compound miter saw reviews praise the Hitachi C12FDH for its accuracy, and it’s clear to see why.
First of all, the integrated laser light helps you make an accurate cut without any guesswork. The light is bright, easy to move and clearly marks where the saw will come down so you can see exactly what you are doing.
The pivoting fence also adds to the overall accuracy of the saw. The bevel function is easy to handle and has a wide range of movement.
All of those things considered, there are some areas where the accuracy of the C12FDH could be improved: the laser light, for example, is only effective while you are working indoors, and has some trouble at close range.
There are nine pre-set miter stops that allow you to cut at a precise angle and this is a great feature, but other saws have more than nine.
Overall, I think the C12FDH is fairly accurate for its design and price range, but there are other saws that have slightly better accuracy.
Who is it for?
The Hitachi C12FDH is not a tool for professional design. Even though it is accurate, it will not be quite accurate enough for a professional woodworker who needs intricate precision every time.
This is the perfect home tool for a DIY enthusiast. It is very user-friendly, so you don’t need to have a lot of woodworking experience to be able to operate it.
At the same time, it is complex enough for someone who wants to work on more sensitive, complicated projects.
Some examples of what you can do with this power tool include trimming, cabinet making, molding, cutting down sideboard or aluminum sashes, or working on creative woodworking projects.
What you cannot do with the Hitachi C12FDH: cut large, tall pieces of lumber or high stacks of lumber all at once (the under-blade capacity is only 7 inches).
Hitachi C12FDH vs. DeWalt DW715
To really put the quality of the C12FDH to the test, I decided to pit it against a similar table saw model, the DeWalt DW715, in terms of power, design and accuracy. Here’s what I found:
When it comes to durability, the DeWalt wins out. It has a steel-reinforced bevel that won’t wear down over time, and the base of the saw is more compatible than the C12FDH’s base with different fences and tools. It also has a wider base, to support larger pieces of lumber and a much higher under-blade capacity.
In terms of precision, though, the Hitachi saw definitely has the upper hand. The laser light and smooth double bevel provide a better, more accurate cut than the DeWalt. Neither saw is great for professional-standard detailing, but as a fairly accurate DIY tool, the Hitachi C12FDH is definitely better.
Performance and overall usability also go to the Hitachi C12FDH. It is easier to maneuver than the DeWalt and has a higher-powered motor to cut more smoothly through tougher materials. The DeWalt can cut larger stock (or more things at one time), but the Hitachi will always cut more smoothly and accurately. It is also quieter during operation, as well as lighter, and easier to move around.
One last thing to consider between the two saws is the price and the Hitachi is slightly more expensive than the DeWalt, but you pay more for better quality and precision.
All in all, given a choice between the two, I would pick the Hitachi C12FDH.
What We Like:
What We Didn’t Like:
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Height of an Object the C12FDH Can Cut Through?
The under-blade capacity is 7 inches, so you should be able to cut through anything that height or shorter. However, the aluminum fence is only about 5 inches tall. Anything taller than that will not be fully supported by the fence while you are cutting, which could impact your accuracy.
Does the Table Saw Come With Extension Wings?
No, but long extension wings can be added. There are mounting holes on either side of the base for additional attachments.
Is the Laser Light Fixed in One Place?
No, the laser marker is adjustable. It can be swiveled for more accurate cutting and just beware that the swivel is a little sensitive, so you may have a hard time moving it exactly as you want.
Final Verdict
So, does the Hitachi C12FDH really live up to the hype?
In my opinion, yes. This is a great table saw for precise, double-beveled cutting. It may not be up to professional carpentry standards, but as an affordable DIY tool, the Hitachi C12FDH has everything you could need. It’s durable, lightweight, easy to use, and will allow you to craft tidy beveled designs.
A few things you should keep in mind before purchasing the Hitachi: It is accurate, but the accuracy of the bevel will lessen over time as it gets older and is used more.
It also has a relatively low under-blade capacity, so you won’t be able to cut huge loads at one time with it. The laser marking light is a huge help for precise cutting, but it will only work if you are working indoors, out of direct sunlight.
I hope this Hitachi 12 miter saw review has been helpful. All things considered, this is a double-mitered table saw that I would definitely recommend for home and DIY use.
