When I was looking into buying a saw a some time ago my favorite was and still is the MAfell. But I was not willing to spend that much money. So the other choices where Makita and a worm drive Bosch with BIGFOOT attachment. I opted for the slightly pricier Bosch (15amp and $50 more than the Makita) because it does have a heavier and wider base than the Makita cuts a full 6x6 and has a 75 degree tilting range. Handling and balance is good. Only thing I do not like about it are the cam locks. I always brake my fingers on those to get them loose. But it is a good compromise for the money.