Lowe’s has launched a new Bosch sliding miter saw, EXCM341-305GD, featuring a 12″ blade and their iconic space-saving gliding mechanism.
According to Bosch “paid partner” ads and posts I’ve seen online, the new gliding miter saw is an upgrade and will presumably replace the GCM12SD model miter saw.
It’s not clear to me how the new Expert saw differs from their existing model. I reached out to Bosch 2 weeks ago, and they have not yet provided any information or details.
As with some other Bosch “Expert” branded tools, the new Bosch Expert gliding miter saw has a new black finish over the aluminum surfaces.
Given that the finish is on all would-be silver surfaces except for the miter saw fence and table surfaces, I’m guessing it’s decorative for “Expert” differentiation.
The Bosch EXCM341-305GD has their familiar pivot mechanism, which saves space behind the saw.
The motor mount is different – it was moved from the left side of the blade to the right, and offset with an angle.
Bosch gliding miter saws are all very weighty. According to Lowe’s, the saw weighs 55 lbs, which is 10 lbs lighter than the GCM12SD. It’s not clear to me where the weight savings are coming from.
It seems they moved some of the user controls to the rear of the saw, namely the bevel adjustment lever.
Front-access controls are convenient, but I suppose that’s one area where they were able to cut down on weight.
There’s no mention of dust collection efficiency.
Price: $729
Bosch EXCM341-305GD Miter Saw Specifications
- 12″ blade size
- 4000 RPM max speed
- Miter range: 52° left, 60° right
- Bevel range: 47° left/right
- Weighs 55 lbs
Discussion
I think it’s fair to assume that Bosch will also be launching a 10″ version to replace their GCM10SD miter saw.
It’s exiting to see that Bosch is updating their flagship gliding miter saw.
At the least, from Lowe’s product listing we can tell that it’s appreciably lighter than the old model, and that they moved the bevel lock to the rear of the saw. You also get a new black finish on most metal surfaces.
Bosch and Lowe’s seem to have a new partnership where the retailer gets first dibs or perhaps exclusivity on new releases. It’s unclear if this will only apply to Bosch corded power tools, or if they have an arrangement for 18V cordless power tools and accessories as well.
