A Deep Dive into the Hitachi C12RSH2 Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

A Deep Dive into the HITACHI C12RSH2 15-Amp 12-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser Marker

Hitachi – now rebranded as Metabo HPT – is a leading brand, known for the durability and quality of their power tools. The Hitachi C12RSH2 is one of Amazon’s top-selling Miter Saws, with over two hundred ratings and an average four-and-a-half-star review! This is everything you could ask for in a miter saw at an affordable price. 

Also known as a drop saw, the miter saw combines speed and accuracy to make miter joints and crosscuts. The adjustable blade of the miter saw allows for a lot of versatility when making crosscuts on projects from picture frames to crown molding.

The Hitachi C12RSH2 stands above the competition and offers powerful accuracy and guarantees a smooth cut every time. In this Hitachi c12rsh2 review, we will cut straight to the features that matter and the little details that distinguish this Hitachi from the rest.

WHO’S IT FOR?

This miter saw is for the serious woodworker that is ready to invest in a pro-level tool but who does not have a pro-level budget. Ideal for the everyday woodworker who demands accuracy and wants a tool from a brand that is trustworthy. If you are ready to ditch your discount miter saw and play in the big sandbox, this is the miter saw for you. 

The ideal customer for this miter saw is:

• Someone who wants a professional level tool but has a hobbyist budget
• A regular woodworker who values accuracy
• Someone looking for a heavy beast of a tool for crosscutting

If you have been relying on a budget brand miter saw, you will be in awe from the very first time you cut with the Hitachi C12RSH2. If you need more than the basics and want a smooth cut with complete control over the blade, this could be the miter saw for you.

This miter saw probably is not suited for: 

• The occasional woodworker.
• Someone who does not have the budget for a more serious tool
• Someone who is not looking for a professional finish. 

If you are a part-time woodworker with just a few projects on your schedule each year, this is going to be too much of an investment for you. It is also going to take up far too much space in your workshop not to be used regularly.

If you are looking for a more advanced miter saw, but you are limited on budget, you are going to want to shy away from this one. 

Granted, it is an incredible deal to have so many features at such a low price, but it is still a significant investment. If you are shopping on a budget, you are going to want to look for a less versatile tool with a little less power.

This miter saw is more refined than the cheaper brand miter saw. What makes it stand out is the effortless glide of the blade and the unusual accuracy of the laser guide – something we have yet to find in ANY other miter saw!

If you are looking for something that will just get the job done with no frills and you don’t need the precision of a pro, you don’t want to drop the money on this miter saw. 

WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THE HITACHI C12RSH2 MITER SAW

With hundreds of miter saws to choose from, this Hitachi is a solid option with all the extras you want and none of the unnecessary flash. We love that the laser guide is functional and accurate. If you have given up on laser guides completely after using cheap miter saws, you will appreciate this feature. 

You know a miter saw is a good choice when it wins best pro miter saw for the money by Pro Tool Reviews 2020 and it’s recommended by a custom carpenter of more than a decade!  

Professional woodworkers love the following features of the Hitachi C12RSH2 miter saw:

• Professional quality for a lower price tag
• Large size makes it ideal for heavy-duty jobs
• Industrial features for a hobby price

If professional carpenters trust this saw with their work, you should too. Okay, so you are not a professional carpenter…

So, when considering the normal non-professional use, this is what stands out to us: 

• Dead-on accuracy
• Adjusting the saw is easy
• The smoothness of the cuts

The accuracy of cuts from the Hitachi C12RSH2 is enough to make professional carpenters reach for this saw. You will likely need to make a few adjustments before you get those perfect cuts, but the design of this tool is very intuitive and making those adjustments is simple.

With your small adjustments made, you will quickly adapt to the vertical handle and appreciate the amount of control it gives you over the smoothness of your cuts and precision of your angled cuts.

You can thank the laser guide for that precision as well. Easily adjusted, the laser guide on the Hitachi C12RSH2 is as easy to adjust as the tool itself. Align it to the center of the blade or to either side to get a clean cut in a fraction of the time. 

It is also worth noting that this is a quiet saw compared to other models with similar capabilities. Could you use it next to a sleeping baby? No (and really, who would?), but it is not going to rattle your teeth or leave you screaming across the shop as the saw drowns out your voice. 

The miter cutting range of this saw is good – although we would like a little more room on the left. The miter range spans 0-45 degrees left and 0-57 degrees right which means that cuts on a deeper angle are going to be a problem (although it is a problem that you can work around.) 

The bevel cutting range is okay at 0-45 degrees left and right, but it could be a little better because it is not too unusual to need a bevel that comes in slightly over 45 degrees.

What makes a difference in this saw, though, is the functioning (and accurate) laser guide.

It may not sound like a major feature, but it certainly has a major impact on the accuracy of every cut. Just keep in mind that if you plan on using this saw outdoors or with your shop door open, the green-lighted laser guide isn’t going to prove much help since it’s difficult to see in brighter light.

Read Related Topic: The Bosch GTS 1031 10-Inch Portable Jobsite Table Saw Review

WHAT WE DON’T LIKE ABOUT HITACHI C12RSH2 MITER SAW

What does the Hitachi C12RSH2 have going against it? One of the biggest issues we (and a few others) found was that the buildup of dust.

Several users have said that they find the dust chute on this saw useless…and we would be inclined to agree. Without paying attention to the dust buildup, you will find your accuracy beginning to suffer. If you prefer to “power through” without the dust clean up, this may not be the best option. 

The blade on the Hitachi C12RSH2 is not ideal. Several users went on to switch out the blade for another of their preference. Even considering the blade switch out, though, those users still recommend the saw for the quality of work it produces for the price you pay. 

The weight may also pose a problem for some users – although we did not have this concern. At 59 pounds, this is a bulky and heavy tool and not one that you can take to and from work or to and from your buddy’s house.

If you want a miter saw that sits in place in your workshop, though, the weight of this tool should not be a concern. We think that it gives the saw a little more stability and the user a little more control. With this said, the weight may not be a problem for you if you usually use larger industrial saws. 

You should also consider the size of the table of this saw. If you prefer having a larger table and workspace, then you are going to be disappointed with this tool.

As a “compact tool”, the Hitachi C12RSH2 does have a smaller table space to work in. It is enough space to get the job done, but if you like to be able to see everything laid out before you, you are going to find the Hitachi table size frustrating.  

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

When you open the box of this miter saw, you will find the following items inside: 

• C12RSH2S Miter Saw
• 12-inch 60T TCT Saw Blade
• Dust Bag
• Vice Assembly
• 17mm Box Wrench 

The box comes with everything you need to get to work, although you may need to invest in a thinner saw blade if you have trouble with the blade that comes with the saw. 

The miter saw makes a great addition to any woodworker’s shop and it is well complemented by the following tools

• A drill and impact driver kit
• A grinder combo kit
• A jigsaw
• A circular saw
• A table saw
• A belt sander
• An angle grinder
• An orbital sander
• A finishing nailer

OVERVIEW OF FEATURES 

The base features of this miter saw include: 

• 15-amp motor
• Compact slide system
• Laser marking system
• Large sliding fences that raise up to 5-1/8 inches
• 0-57-degree miter angle to the right and 0-45 degrees to the left
• 0-45-degree bevel angle range right and left
• Vertical handle 

Amperage

The 15-amp motor on the Hitachi C12RSH2 is more than the average hobbyist can get by with. A 10-amp is enough for small jobs like cutting trim. That said, just because you could get by with less, does not mean that you should. If you plan on tackling any bigger jobs, a 15-amp motor will get the job done with ease.

More power means clean cuts, accurate cuts, and less time spent on larger jobs. 

Compact Slide System 

The compact slide system of the Hitachi C12RSH2 allows for the saw head to effortlessly slide on fixed rails. Why is this a good thing? It means you get more room in your shop because you no longer need the rear clearance that a sliding miter saw requires.

Laser Marking System 

The laser marking system is a feature that is notoriously garbage on most miter saws on the market. The Hitachi C12RSH2, however, breaks tradition. The laser marking system is accurate and dependable and you can trust it to replicate cuts to precision.

Sliding Fences  

The sliding fences on the Hitachi C12RSH2 can be raised up to 5-1/8 inches to allow for larger vertical cuts (up to 7-1/2 inches.) Simply rest the back of your board against the sliding fences once fixed in place to keep better control over each cut and keep the saw blade at the precise angle you choose. 

Miter Joints  

The Hitachi C12RSH2 allows for 0-57-degree miter angle cuts to the right and 0-45-degree cuts to the left for more flexibility in cuts.

Bevel Angle 

The Hitachi C12RSH2 also has a 0-45-degree bevel angle range right and left for more accurate, clean cuts no matter what project you are working on.

Vertical Handle 

The vertical handle on this miter saw may throw you off, you will either love it or hate it. We loved it. Having a vertical handle offers more comfort and control over the saw blade – although it does take a little getting used to.

COMPARISON

How does the Hitachi C12RSH2 compare to other similar miter saw models from other brands?

The answer depends on who you ask and their opinion on each item they review. 

If you are asking us, though, here are our thoughts…

Hitachi C12RSH2 Vs DeWalt DWS780 

While the DeWalt is a worthwhile tool, when comparing the two, we must go with the Hitachi. It offers a similar experience, but the Hitachi is a little smoother and it takes up much less room in your workshop compared to the DeWalt. 

Hitachi C12RSH2 Vs Makita LS1216L

The Makita is a professional’s dream, it makes short work of every project and does it all just a little bit faster. That said, you are going to wind up paying twice as much for this option compared to the Hitachi model.

For pricing alone, we must pick the Hitachi, and so should you unless you have a significant woodworking business or an unsatiable hobby. Only a professional woodworker could justify this cost of a tool like the Makita and when you get a great caliber of cut from the Hitachi for half the price, it’s ridiculous not to go with the cheaper of the two. 

Hitachi C12RSH2 vs Bosch CM8S 

The Hitachi is the slightly more expensive of these two tools, but it is also packed with far more features than the Bosch CM8S. The Bosch does not begin to compare at such a similar price point but with so few features. 

Hitachi C12RSH2 vs Ryobi TS1143L

Ryobi is a popular brand of power tool for anyone on a budget. Ryobi prices are incredibly low (less than 25% of the Hitachi), but there is no comparing the number of features available on these two saws.

The Hitachi comes loaded with features for every convenience and it comes with several accessories. In comparison, the Ryobi comes as a bare tool with no “added” features. There is also the 9-amp motor in the Ryobi which does not begin to measure up to the 15-amp motor in the Hitachi!

REVIEW SUMMARY 

Overall, the Hitachi C12RSH2 is a fantastic purchase for the price. The number of features this miter saw offers and the amount of power behind it make it a steal compared to other tools with the same caliber of features. 

The sliding fences, vertical handle, laser guide, and compact slide system give this tool a level of accuracy and control that you will never find with lighter weight or discount brand models. Not only that, but you will be hard-pressed to find these features and this amount of power for the same price point as the Hitachi C12RSH2.

If you are ready to take the plunge and spend a little more than necessary for a tool with a little more power than you need, we say go for it. It might be more than you need, but once you try it for yourself, we guarantee that you will wonder how you lived without that extra “oomph”.

FAQ:

Does this model come with a warranty?

Yes. The Hitachi C12RSH2 comes with the Metabo HPT professional 5-year warranty.

Is this miter saw compliant with new UL regulations?

The C12RSH2(S) is compliant with the new UL regulations. 

Does this product have a Prop 65 warning?

Yes, this miter saw does have a prop 65 warning.

What is the max cut capacity of this saw?

4 3/16″ x 12 1/4″ or 4 11/16″ x 10 3/16″ at 90 degrees.

How much does this miter saw weigh?

This is a hefty piece of equipment weighing in at fifty-nine pounds.

Is this a single or dual bevel miter saw? 

This is a double bevel miter saw. 

Is this a miter saw cordless?

No, This is not a cordless miter saw. 

What is the depth of the cut at 45 degrees?

At 45 degrees the depth of cut is 2.625-inches. 

What is the depth of the cut at 90 degrees? 

At 90 degrees the depth of the cut is 4.187-inches.

Does this saw have a brake? 

Yes, the Hitachi C12RSH2 does have an electric brake.

Does this saw have a soft start?

No, the Hitachi C12RSH2 does have a soft start.

Can I get replacement parts for this miter saw?

Yes, you can buy replacement parts through a variety of retailers, but it is better to call Metabo HPT directly at 800-706-7337 and have the part number you need on hand.

Is this a comfortable miter saw for left-handers?

Yes! The vertical handle on this saw makes it the perfect choice for right and left-handed woodworkers.

Does the saw have to be running for the laser guide to work?

No. The laser guide is independent of the miter saw which means that you can turn it on and off as needed whether the saw is in operation or not. 

How far is it from the front mounting holes to the back of the saw? 

This distance is 24-inches. 

Does the Hitachi C12RSH2 require a specific stand?

No. Many users of this saw have used their existing stand without having any difficulty. One user mentioned using his DeWalt stand without any problems and another user referenced his Hercules Pro stand.

It is always best to be sure that the stand that you have will fit the miter saw you are purchasing just in case your stand does not fit!

Is it possible to get a crown stop for the Hitachi C12RSH2?

Yes, you can purchase the left and the right assemblies and the stopper holders online, but it is also worth checking with Hitachi for any parts that you might need first!

Is the laser guide a single or double lined guide? 

The laser guide for this miter saw is a single line laser, although it is more accurate than any of the dual laser guide options we have used before!

Compared to DeWalt, is Hitachi a better brand?

Deciding which brand is “better” depends on the specific products that you are comparing. For example, comparing this Hitachi to the DeWalt 780, the Hitachi offers superior performance and is easier to manage saw overall.

Does the table lock on miter settings?

Yes. The table locks on each of the miter settings and angles on each side of the saw.

Will the Hitachi C12RSH2 fit in my car?

The Hitachi C12RSH2 measures 22 1/4″ tall when it is folded for transport so you should have no problems fitting it in your car. The weight of this saw is not conducive to regular travel, though. At close to sixty pounds, though, this is not a tool that you can carry around with you from job to job.