ZCI proves my Bosch "knuckle" SMCS sucks

[smorgasbord]

While the ZCI mostly exists to stop thin pieces from falling through, it also gives you an idea of how bad your miter saw really is. I haven't done any bevel cuts, and here's what my insert looks like compared to a pretty fresh one:

[attachimg=1]

Closeup:
[attachimg=2]

Older one at the left, obviously - but even the "new" one shows signs of the blade not tracking 100%. So, there definitely is some flex in the head and so I need to be careful on hand/arm pressure and alignment to get decently consistent results. No way I'm going to get some wide board to 5-cut tolerances on this thing.

 

[luvmytoolz]

Wow, looks like it might be better suited cutting framing and weatherboards?

 

[Michael Kellough]

“ I need to be careful on hand/arm pressure and alignment to get decently consistent results.”

This is why the Kapex handle is vertical and inline with the blade.

 

[ChuckM]

I do agree that the vertical handle and in line motion can make a difference. This is my ZCI, replaced at least 10 months ago, and the saw has been used in several projects including many many square and angled cuts since (can't remember if bevel cuts were made). It has also been used for cross cutting numerous ends after rough lumber was thickness-planed.

[attachimg=1]

 

[smorgasbord]

Just to be clear, the nominal width of the kerf is abou the same, it looks wider since the distance from the camera is different. It's the variations that I'm talking about.