Makita LS1018
Makita LS1018 10" Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw User Manual
Model: LS1018 | Brand: Makita
Product Overview
The Makita 10” Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw (model LS1018) is engineered for large cutting capacity and precision. It is designed for professional contractors who rely on their miter saws daily. This saw offers portability, accuracy, and powerful performance for demanding jobs.
Key Features:
- Powerful 13.0 AMP direct drive motor requires less maintenance and delivers 4,300 RPM.
- Miters 0° - 47° left and 0° - 60° right, with positive stops at 0°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, 45° (left and right).
- Cuts up to 12” at 90° and 8-1/2” at 45°.
- Linear ball bearing system engineered to deliver "dead-on" accurate cuts.
- Rear handle bevel lock is easily accessible and adjusts 0° - 45° (left and right) with positive stops at 0°, 45° (left and right).

Figure 1: The Makita LS1018 10-inch Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw, showcasing its compact design and key components.
Setup and Assembly
Before operating the miter saw, ensure it is properly assembled and secured. Always refer to the detailed instructions in the official PDF user manual for specific assembly steps and safety warnings.
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage.
- Mounting: Securely mount the miter saw to a stable workbench or miter saw stand using appropriate fasteners. Ensure the saw is level and does not wobble during operation.
- Blade Installation: Follow the instructions for safely installing the 10-inch saw blade. Ensure the blade is clean, sharp, and correctly oriented for cutting.
- Dust Bag/Collection Setup: Attach the dust bag or connect to a compatible dust extraction system for efficient sawdust collection.
- Initial Adjustments: Check and calibrate the miter and bevel angles to ensure accuracy. Verify that all moving parts operate smoothly.

Figure 2: A user preparing the Makita LS1018 miter saw for operation, demonstrating proper positioning on a stable surface.
Operating Instructions
The Makita LS1018 is designed for precise cutting of various materials, primarily wood. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask during operation.
Basic Operation:
- Power On: Connect the saw to a suitable power outlet. The 13.0 AMP direct drive motor provides smooth start-ups and consistent power.
- Material Placement: Place the workpiece firmly against the fence and the miter table. Use the material clamp to secure smaller pieces.
- Cutting: Depress the trigger to start the blade. Allow the blade to reach full speed before slowly lowering it through the material. Maintain a steady, controlled motion.
- Blade Guard: The transparent blade guard automatically retracts during cutting, providing visibility and protection.
Miter and Bevel Cuts:
- Miter Angle Adjustment: To adjust the miter angle, loosen the miter lock handle and rotate the turntable to the desired angle (0° to 47° left, 0° to 60° right). Secure the lock handle.
- Bevel Angle Adjustment: For bevel cuts, loosen the rear handle bevel lock and tilt the saw head to the required angle (0° to 45° left and right). Tighten the lock securely before cutting.

Figure 3: A detailed view of the saw blade and transparent guard, highlighting safety features during operation.

Figure 4: Demonstrating the cutting action of the Makita LS1018 on a wooden board, showing the saw's capacity.

Figure 5: A user adjusting the miter angle, illustrating the ease of setting precise cuts.

Figure 6: A user adjusting the bevel angle, showing the flexibility for various cutting requirements.
Official Product Video:
Video 1: An official overview of the Makita LS1018 10-Inch Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw, demonstrating its portability, accuracy, capacity, and power features. This video highlights key operational aspects and benefits of the saw.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Makita LS1018 miter saw. Always disconnect the saw from the power source before performing any maintenance.
- Cleaning: After each use, clear sawdust and debris from the saw, especially around the blade, guard, and sliding rails. Use compressed air or a soft brush.
- Blade Inspection: Regularly inspect the saw blade for sharpness, damage, or missing teeth. Replace dull or damaged blades promptly.
- Lubrication: Apply a light coat of machine oil to the sliding rails to ensure smooth operation.
- Fastener Check: Periodically check all screws, bolts, and nuts for tightness. Tighten any loose fasteners to prevent vibration and ensure accuracy.
- Carbon Brushes: Refer to the full user manual for instructions on inspecting and replacing carbon brushes, typically after extended use.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Makita LS1018, consult this section for common problems and solutions. For more complex issues, refer to the full user manual or contact Makita customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Saw does not start | No power supply; Faulty switch; Tripped circuit breaker | Check power connection; Inspect power cord; Reset circuit breaker; Contact service if switch is faulty. |
| Inaccurate cuts | Blade dull or damaged; Miter/bevel angles misaligned; Loose fence or table | Replace blade; Calibrate angles using a square; Tighten fence and table fasteners. |
| Excessive vibration or noise | Loose blade; Damaged bearings; Unsecured workpiece | Tighten blade arbor nut; Inspect bearings (contact service); Secure workpiece firmly. |
| Poor dust collection | Dust bag full or clogged; Dust port obstructed | Empty and clean dust bag; Clear any obstructions from the dust port. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Makita |
| Model Number | LS1018 |
| Item Weight | 43.7 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 20.5"L x 26.5"W x 14"H |
| Power Source | Corded Electric (13.0 AMP direct drive motor) |
| Speed | 4300 RPM |
| Blade Length | 10 Inches |
| Cutting Capacity (90°) | Up to 12 inches |
| Cutting Capacity (45°) | Up to 8-1/2 inches |
| Miter Range | 0° - 47° Left, 0° - 60° Right |
| Bevel Range | 0° - 45° Left, 0° - 45° Right |
| Special Feature | Electric Brake, Soft Start |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
Warranty and Support
The Makita LS1018 10" Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw comes with a 1-Year Limited Warranty. For detailed warranty information, claims, or technical support, please refer to the official Makita documentation or contact their customer service.
- Official User Guide (PDF): Download User Guide
- Official User Manual (PDF): Download User Manual
- Visit the Makita Store: Makita Official Store