The Hitachi C8FB is a relic and was replaced by the C8FB2 in the 1990′s. I have ‘the original’ 8-1/2″ sliding compound miter saw.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Description: (by Hitachi)
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In 1988, Hitachi developed the first sliding compound miter saw, the C8FB, to combine the capacity of a radial arm saw and the convenience of a miter saw.  Today, Hitachi continues the tradition of innovation and engineering with new features in addition to classic quality.

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Experience: I was there when Hitachi developed that first compound miter saw and I used it for my career for almost 20 years. The Hitachi that now sits in my shop storage due to a bad bearing doesn’t look anything like today’s laser equipped, lighted 12″ compound miter saws. It vaguely resembles the new C8FSE available in stores today but it’s lightweight in comparison and still accurate after a million cuts.
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Comments: As new compound miter saws came onto the market I stuck with my Hitachi for years. After 15 years of service without a single maintenance issue I retired my C8FB for the Bosch 3915. The only comment that comes to mind is what good are 10ths? Most pitch cuts are a fraction of 12. I think it was a language barrier thing and I’m not sure if it’s been corrected on the current model, 8FSEw. I doubt many are thinking of buying an 8″ saw these days but application specific, this is still a strong contender 20 years after it’s inception.

Links:
Hitachi C8FB2 at Hitachi.us (Product Data)

Hitachi C8FSE 8-1/2-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw at Amazon