I used to use American tools like Sears Craftsman and Skill Saws for 20 years. The problem is that the motors are not well made. They last well, but they start up with a jerk which is not a great thing, you have to wait a second and let them calm down to use them. If you are in the middle of a board or piece of plywood then you have to try to hold them so they don't jerk a knoch out of the board. Also they are loud and noisy. I use a head set so the noise does not effect my thinking - consentration about what I am doing. This Makita has better winding on the motor and better brushes so is purrs to life and you don't have to worry about it jerking in your hand. It is also quite. It feels balanced and is simple to cut with, of course the blade you use is everything. The aluminum housing is great too, it is a snap to line up a cut and keep it lined up through the board. But this saw or the Bosche would be my pick. I am a contractor in Florida.