CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 Miter Saw Review
Miter saws are a staple in any woodworking or carpentry workshop and the CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 Miter Saw is a recent addition to the market that promises a combination of precision, portability and power. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at this sliding miter saw, examining its features, pros, cons and comparing it to other similar Miter Saw’s on the market.
Key Features
Powerful Motor: The CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 boasts a robust 20V MAX Brushless motor that provides ample power for cutting through various materials, including hardwood and softwood, making it versatile for a wide range of projects.
Compact and Lightweight Design: This miter saw is designed with portability in mind. Weighing in at only 22.3 pounds, it’s one of the lightest miter saws available, making it easy to transport from job site to job site. Its compact size is perfect for professionals who need to work in tight spaces.
Precise Cutting: The miter saw features a 7-1/4 inch blade with 24 teeth that provides clean, precise cuts. Its bevel capacity ranges from 0 to 45 degrees left and it offers 9 positive miter stops, ensuring you can make accurate cuts at various angles.
Battery Powered: The CMCS714M1 is part of CRAFTSMAN’s 20V MAX cordless system, so you can use the same battery and charger for multiple tools, reducing the need for extra batteries and saving you money in the long run.
LED Work Light: This miter saw is equipped with a built in LED work light that illuminates the cutting area, improving visibility and accuracy, especially in low light conditions.
Dust Collection System: It comes with a dust bag to help keep your workspace clean. While it’s not as effective as a shop vac, it does make a noticeable difference in reducing airborne dust particles.
Performance
The performance of the CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 Miter Saw is truly commendable. Its 20V MAX Brushless motor delivers ample power to effortlessly cut through a variety of materials, ensuring precision in every cut.
The compact and lightweight design not only makes it easy to transport but also enhances maneuverability in tight workspaces. Its ability to make accurate cuts at different angles with the help of positive miter stops is a standout feature. The built in LED work light is a practical addition, improving visibility, especially in low light conditions.
While the dust collection system may not be perfect, it significantly reduces airborne dust, maintaining a cleaner workspace. The cordless convenience of being part of the 20V MAX system ensures that you can rely on a single battery for multiple tools, saving both money and space. Overall, the performance of the CMCS714M1 excels in its class, making it a valuable tool for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Pros
Portability: The standout feature of the CMCS714M1 is its lightweight and compact design, making it easy to transport and maneuver on the job site. This is a significant advantage for professionals who need to move from one location to another frequently.
Powerful Motor: Despite its small size, the miter saw doesn’t compromise on power. The 20V MAX Brushless motor is more than capable of tackling a variety of materials and it runs smoothly without excessive noise.
Precise Cuts: The miter saw’s ability to make precise cuts at different angles is excellent. The positive miter stops are a real time saver, ensuring you get accurate results every time.
Battery Powered Convenience: Being part of the 20V MAX cordless system means that you can use the same battery for other CRAFTSMAN tools, reducing the need for multiple battery packs. This is both a money saving and space saving benefit.
LED Work Light: The built in LED light is a feature that may seem minor, but it greatly enhances visibility, especially when working in dimly lit areas or during early morning or late evening jobs.
Dust Collection: While not perfect, the dust collection system is a valuable addition. It helps to keep your work area cleaner, improving both visibility and air quality.
Cons
Limited Cutting Capacity: The 7-1/4 inch blade, while suitable for many tasks, may not be adequate for larger projects or thicker materials. This limitation can be a drawback for professional woodworkers who often work with larger stock.
Battery Life: Like all cordless tools, the battery life is a limitation. Depending on the intensity of use, you may need to have spare batteries on hand. While it’s part of the 20V MAX system, the battery may need recharging more frequently with heavy use.
Dust Collection Effectiveness: While the dust collection system is a helpful feature, it’s not as efficient as a dedicated dust collection system with a shop vac. This is a common issue with many miter saws, but it’s worth noting for those who prioritize a dust free workspace.
Comparison
CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 vs DeWalt DWS779 12″
The DeWalt DWS779 is a larger and more powerful miter saw, with a 12 inch blade and a 15 amp motor. It offers greater cutting capacity and is suitable for larger projects. However, it is significantly heavier and less portable than the CMCS714M1. It also lacks the cordless convenience of the CRAFTSMAN.
CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 vs Makita LS1019L 10″ Dual Bevel
The Makita LS1019L is a compact and precise miter saw with a 10 inch blade. It offers dual bevel capability, which is a feature the CRAFTSMAN lacks. The Makita is more comparable in terms of size and portability. However, it’s not cordless and requires a power source.
CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 vs Hitachi C10FCG 10″
The Hitachi C10FCG is a budget friendly option with a 10 inch blade. It’s lightweight and portable, making it similar to the CRAFTSMAN in terms of size and weight. However, it’s corded and lacks the advanced features of the CRAFTSMAN, such as the LED work light and dust collection system.
Conclusion
The CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 Miter Saw is an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts who prioritize portability and versatility. Its compact and lightweight design, combined with a powerful 20V MAX Brushless motor, make it a valuable addition to any job site. The precise cutting capabilities, battery powered convenience, LED work light and dust collection system add to its appeal.
While it may not be suitable for larger projects due to its limited cutting capacity and battery life, it excels in smaller scale tasks. Comparing it to other miter saws on the market, it offers a unique combination of portability and power, especially for those already invested in CRAFTSMAN’s 20V MAX cordless system.
In conclusion, if you need a reliable, portable miter saw for your woodworking or carpentry needs, the CRAFTSMAN CMCS714M1 is a compelling choice that balances performance and convenience effectively.
