Speaking of power tools, the brand name Bosch is usually taken for both quality and elegance. Not only that, but they are also well known for durability, good design, and delivery, amidst others.
It’s no surprise to have one of their best in review today and it is no other but Bosch GCM12SD.
It is a 12-inches dual-bevel miter saw that comes with a unique feature called axial glide system.
This is something some traditional sliding miter saws lack and that is why the Bosch GCM12SD is referred to as innovation at its finest!
This power tool has got to be one of your best options for a high-end miter saw.
Read on as we tell you more about this amazing miter saw.
More...
The Bosch GCM12SD Review - The Most Detailed Review
1. Build and Construction
With the emergence of sliding miter saws as one of many types of saws available in recent years, nothing much has changed as regards the design of entries put out by various companies.
The same principle has been forever applied; having the saw slide back and forth on a pair of rails extending from the back of the saw.
However, there is a major drawback with this design. The back of the saw needs a considerable clearance to accommodate the rails.
Bosch has provided a new design that is revolutionary, to get rid of this problem. This Bosch GCM12SD miter saw comes with hinged arms that don’t extend out behind the saw. This is different from the other types of miter saws sliding on the two rails.
The axial glide system allows you to achieve wider crosscuts and better alignment while also being compact.
Consequently, this saves you a valuable amount of workspace of about 12 inches, offering an unmatched smoothness of cuts.
With 65-pounds of weight, the Bosch GCM12SD miter saw is surprisingly lightweight. Also, a carrying handle is included on each side and the top with ambidextrous trigger.
2. Features and Benefits
Even though the smooth Axial-Glide sliding system is a feature that makes this product stands out, there are other features that are also impressive.
To make an informed decision as to whether Bosch GCM12SD is for you or not, we will take a look at the other features below.
This power miter saw undoubtedly has a lot to live up to.
a. Performance
The first attention catcher of the Bosch GCM12SD is the impressive motor. The 15-amp, 3,800 rpm motor is not only powerful but also durable, and it is responsible for delivering very clean cuts.
The powerful motor is one you can count on when it comes to those heavy-duty works that may lead to early breakdown. Overheating is another typical motor engine problem, but not with the GCM12SD motor.
This can go all day long without you being bothered about the condition of the motor and need for time to rest or cool it off.
b. The Cut
The axial glide system ensures the saw delivers a cut that is smooth and large in a tight space. This offers a super smooth and accurate cut ever.
The issue faced most times with sliding miter saws is the rail wear which can sometimes lead to slightly inaccurate cuts, and you will need a whole lot of time recalibrating the system.
The Bosch GCM12SD caters for this shortcoming with a smooth cutting action that is second to none.
The Bosch GCM12SD comes with a huge cutting capacity of 11cm by 30.5cm.
The miter saw is most recommendable also for construction works as the combination of both its powerful motor and the cutting capacity enables you to take on a large number of timber works. The GCM12SD is definitely at the top end cutting capacity for a miter saw.
Cutting versatility is as well something worth talking about.
You can easily achieve those tight angle cuts that you so desire, with 47-degrees double bevel setting, 52-degrees miter settings left, and 60-degrees right.
Another fascinating feature is the upfront bevel control which means no more reaching behind the saw to make the necessary adjustments.
With a fast push angle setting button included, you can achieve several smooth cuts at different angles quickly.
The saw comes with a 6½ inches vertical baseboard or crown molding capacity and a horizontal capacity of 14 inches for baseboard or 10½ inches for crown molding. The saw is able to cut up to 4½ inches thick stock (14 inches wide) at 90 degrees or 2¾ inch stick (again, 14 inches wide) at 45 degrees.
The saw possesses adjustable bevel detents at 0, 33.9 and 45 degrees (left or right) and miter detents at 0, 15, 31.6, 22.5, 45 and 60 (right).
c. Safety
Safety is one of the major concerns of any manufacturer. It is not impossible that you might have other tools running alongside this powerful miter saw in your workshop or workspace.
Like always, Bosch puts serious thought into ensuring the safety of her customers or the users generally.
Starting with the substantial blade cover, this helps to keep the fast-spinning blade away from the operator; to prevent any hazardous contact whatsoever.
With the left or right-handed users in mind, the super comfortable handle can be locked into four different positions.
With an easy to use spindle lock, you can easily and quickly change blades on the Bosch GCM12SD. The ergonomic, ambidextrous trigger handle design with a soft grip provides the operator comfort for all-day use.
Additionally, an integral bag is supplied with this miter saw. This makes dust collection easy and well-managed because it can collect debris.
You can also connect it to an external dust extraction system which will help to deal with collecting work dust on a large scale. It encourages a clean and healthy working environment.
- Miter and bevel controls are located on the front of the saw
- Built-in stock supports
- No clearance for sliding system needed and can be fixated against a wall
- Compact axial glide sliding system is incredibly smooth
- Quick-Release Square Lock Fences
- Dual-purpose handle for both left and right-handed users
- Reasonable noise level
- Equipped with an automatic electric brake to stop the saw within 5 seconds
- Includes a well-written operator’s manual
- A one-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- Pricey compared to other miter saws
- Some assembly required
Comparison of Bosch GCM12SD With Other Sliding Saws
Quite a number of reviews have been put up as regards the weight of the Bosch GCM12SD, and this is in no wise to say otherwise.
It is important to note that a common fact known with sliding miter saws is the heavyweight, but the question is, have you compared it other miter saws regarding this aspect? And if you have observed very well, you will notice the amazing difference.
Another myth is that the Bosch GCM12SD Miter Saw is not accurate.
I don’t think you should expect power tools to work right away as soon as they are unpacked without having to adjust one or the other.
Most of the miter saws require a little customization and setup of your desire. All you probably need is a little time to get to know the adjustments and controls.
Also, there is this assumption that Bosch miter saws are generally noisy.
This is apparently a wrong assumption as the miter saw is a belt-driven miter saw, and this means there is no gear clash. The friction is at a minimum, hence, producing less noise. Besides, it is advisable to wear headgear while at work for safety purpose.
Lastly, the claim that deep cuts are not possible with this sliding miter saw is a fallacy.
Some folks believe that anything beyond 4½ inches cut is a myth for a sliding miter saw, but that’s so not true.
Meanwhile, the Bosch GCM12SD delivers up to 6½ inches depth of cut without so much stress. In fact, the presence of the Axial Glide system allows for free range of motion.
I bet if you can find your way around and improvise, you will get those sweet deep cuts.
- AXIAL GLIDE SYSTEM: patented glide system allows wider cross cuts and better alignment while also being compact, saving you 12 inches of valuable work space
- CAPACITY: expanded cutting capacity, 14 inch horizontal capacity nominal 6 1/2 inch vertical capacity against the fence base 6 1/2 inch crown capacity against the fence 45 spring
- ADJUSTABLE: provides easy adjustments with a large, easy-to-read uniform bevel and stainless steel miter scales with marked detentes and roof pitch angles; Bevel detents: 0, 33.9 degree, 45 degree...
- PRECISION: square lock quick release fences lock fence 90 degree to the table and requires no adjustment, 1 touch lock/unlock to slide fence for added support
- EASE OF USE: upfront bevel controls all metal bevel lock lever and range selector located upfront for quick and easy bevel settings without reaching behind the saw
FAQs
Who is the Bosch GCM12SD best for?
This model is designed for use by both professionals and DIYers with serious cutting needs.
It’s good enough for general purpose use and more than you will ever need as a user either on a job site or in your workshop.
What size saw blade for Bosch GCM12SD miter saw?
It all comes down to the work and the power you need to complete the project.
Generally, this Bosch miter saw works best with the 12-inch blade since it’ll give you more power with each cut. On the other hand, you can use a 10-inch blade, but the effect won’t be the same.
However, 12-inch blades are more expensive, and the Bosch GCM12SD miter saw is as expensive already as it is, so downsizing to a smaller blade might not be the worst thing in the world.
Bosch GCM12SD vs. DeWalt DWS780 - which is better?
They are both excellent miter saws in their own regard.
In terms of performance, they both work quite well, and they’re probably equal in terms of the speed and efficiency at which they get the job done.
However, they come from different manufacturers, so there are bound to be some differences that affect their overall score.
The Bosch model has a relatively fine motor in comparison with the competition, but it’s blown away by the Dewalt DWS780’s 15-Volt motor that delivers 3,800 RPMs.
On the other hand, the Bosch model is more compact and more user-friendly in terms of ergonomics and features that make your job much easier.
Overall, we’d have to give a bit of an edge to the Dewalt model, but it’s ultimately the user’s preference.
How durable is Bosch GCM12SD?
Durability is something you should be least worried about when it comes to Bosch products, specifically the GCM12SD model.
Its design enables it to withstand severe work punishment and still ensures a good lifespan.
How does the Bosch GCM12SD bevel lever?
It is a straightforward process, and it takes two to three minutes if you have all the equipment.
Namely, the first thing you’ll have to do is to release the pressure lever that’s located on the front of the machine, just in front of the gauge and the blade.
Once you do that, it’s time to go behind the machine and bring some equipment.
You’ll need an Allen wrench and a drill driver.
First, you’ll unscrew two main screws with the drill that loosen up the blade, and then you’ll use the wrench to unscrew the bolt that holds the blade to the machine.
When you’re done with that, you’ll notice another screw that’s used to zero-bevel the blade. The locations of all of these screws are in the manuals, and there’s no way you’ll confuse them.
When you level it perfectly, you can manually move the blade away and then bring it back just to see if the alignment is correct. If it is, you’ll screw back the bolts and finish the job.
Take Away
Take my word for it; you should go for the Bosch GCM12SD if you need it.
Having shown you that the downside is minimal to what you get, a couple of things to hold on to are the space-saving feature, large cuts with speed and absolute accuracy offered by this model.
It is worth your investment and offers a promising user’s satisfaction.
Thanks for reading the review!
- AXIAL GLIDE SYSTEM: patented glide system allows wider cross cuts and better alignment while also being compact, saving you 12 inches of valuable work space
- CAPACITY: expanded cutting capacity, 14 inch horizontal capacity nominal 6 1/2 inch vertical capacity against the fence base 6 1/2 inch crown capacity against the fence 45 spring
- ADJUSTABLE: provides easy adjustments with a large, easy-to-read uniform bevel and stainless steel miter scales with marked detentes and roof pitch angles; Bevel detents: 0, 33.9 degree, 45 degree...
- PRECISION: square lock quick release fences lock fence 90 degree to the table and requires no adjustment, 1 touch lock/unlock to slide fence for added support
- EASE OF USE: upfront bevel controls all metal bevel lock lever and range selector located upfront for quick and easy bevel settings without reaching behind the saw