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Makita Chain Mortiser, more specifically the 7104L 12A Chain Mortiser from Makita Corporation, is one of the bestsellers of the Japanese brand. Makita Corporation is a hundred years old company with a global footprint. Known for its diverse range of power tools, Makita has been a pioneer in many specialty tools including chain cutting tools.
Specs
Makita Chain Mortiser is powered by a 12 amp motor operating at 3,200 rpm. It weighs 37.4 lbs. Meant primarily to cut holes and to notch through thick wood, the chain mortiser can achieve clean cuts. The mortiser is an engineering marvel with adjustable knob and vise, a sliding rear clamp which can be adjusted to the required width, a clamp tension lever to offer a firm grip, the plunge depth can be adjusted in increments of 1/8 of an inch and there is an indication plate to control the cutting line.
The Makita Chain Mortiser allows readjustment of the chain, the horizontal chain lever allows you to widen the holes, there is a tension adjustment cover with a snap feature, the twin steel rails are protected by a plastic boot and the carbon brushes are accessible for maintenance. There is a carrying handle integrated into the mortiser to facilitate portability. It is anyway light enough for its size. The cutter chain measures 18.25 mm in width. There is a sharpening holder, wrench and 100 cc of oil supply. The maximum chain speed is 1,100 feet/minute.
Application Review
The first thing to marvel at is the engineering but the most rewarding attribute of the Makita Chain Mortiser is its durability. All the components are of premium quality and the tool can easily last two decades if not longer. You will have to deal with frequent adjustments given the block of timber you are working on and you must also readjust the tension to ensure the chain is at its optimum best while operating. However, these kinds of adjustments are not uncommon with any such chain cutting tools. In fact, the adjustments required by the Makita Chain Mortiser are less frequent and relatively minor when you compare similar mortisers from other manufacturers.
The mortiser is reasonably noisy which can be a bummer for some but it is safe and reliable. You need proactive adjustments if you wish to avoid the curvature at the bottom of the hole or carved wood. This is unavoidable due to the curvature of the chain at the end. However, Makita Chain Mortiser achieves cleaner cuts and smoother slots compared to the likes of Mafell.