I bought the latest model 120 REB back in April, and it’s been used extensively since. From sitting in the workshop for lengthy periods cutting all kinds of timber, from small trim right up to the large heavy stuff. It’s also seen plenty of site use, again from trimming, to cutting roof joists, trusses and stud work.
It got a fair bit of attention when on site earlier on being a new model but, I’ve seen quite a few now on various sites.
When I first bought it, I didn’t like the sound of the motor but, many Festool motors sound a bit odd to me, so I didn’t worry about it, and have got used to it now.
Also the vertical designed handle/grip seemed a little awkward initially but, again I got used to it.
The base now has built in extensions which do come in handy at times but, it means the angle finder is now stored at the rear of the base, instead if the side. Not a big deal but, the angle finder can come loose in transport. Mine was rattling around in the box when delivered. Not really a problem once you’re aware of this.
Mine is the UG set, and I have found the cart and extensions to be a godsend. I can set up, and pack away in no time at all, and despite reading on here that the extensions are flimsy or wobbly, I have found the complete opposite. They are sturdy, take long and heavy pieces of timber, and when the measure rules are calibrated, they are extremely accurate, and using the stops to measure is so quick.
My saw out of the box was cutting plumb and square, and the lasers were spot on but, not quite to how I like them, but they adjusted quickly and easily.
The table angle adjustments and locking are rock solid, probably the best of any saw I’ve ever used, and I’ve used a good few.
I absolutely love the bevel adjustment, and locking. The saw was obviously designed with ease of use, and precision in mind, something the Germans excel at.
Dust extraction, at first seemed to be not as good as I’d heard with a CTM and 27mm hose. I then hooked it up to a short 36mm hose, and adjusted my technique to a recommendation from other owners. This made a big difference, and since, when in the workshop it’s often connected to the main extractor, and there’s hardly any dust at all.
So far, my experiences with this saw have been positive, and I like it a lot. I have other nice mitre saws which although costing a lot less, are also very nice but, the Kapex is now my favourite, it just has those extra touches not found on other saws.
Yes, it is expensive but, that is soon forgiven once you start using it.
I would recommend this saw to anybody, from a hobbyist or DIY fan, to a carpenter joiner, general builders, right up to precision cabinet makers and woodworkers. It will cope with anything and everything.
Quite possibly the king of mitre saws. [thumbs up] [wink]
