In a workshop, the miter saw is one of the handiest tools to have. It is the only tool that allows you to make miter cuts and accurate crosscuts. While it is helpful, shopping for it is not as easy as you’d like it to be. You will have to do deep research and find out all you can about the miter saws in the market to ensure that what you buy is nothing short of the best.

What makes miter saws standout from the rest of the cutting tools?

While some tools can create angled cuts, miter saws are the best because they have a higher precision. Their blade is made such that it allows you to fine-tune the reductions enabling you to get the perfect results you want. They also tend to be more stable in hand. This is why you need to choose the best because some tend to be more accurate and stable than others.

Even so, it is important to note that miter saws cannot make rip lumbers. For such tasks, you will need to get a table saw. Cutting an extensive stock will not be possible with this device either. However, there are tricks that you can employ such as sliding arms that will ensure you increase your cutting reach.  The maximum crosscut with a miter saw is about 14-16 inches, and its maximum thickness is 6-3/4 inches. So while they are great, they are not perfect.

1. DEWALT DWS779 12″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw – Top Pick!

Experience the difference in the way you work by investing in this DEWALT miter saw. It has unique and exceptional features that will guarantee you professionalism in your work. This miter saw is designed to cut through sharp angles without missing a spot. It can easily bend to the right or left up to 60 and degrees respectively.

The saw as a tall sliding fence that supports your material for accurate cutting. This miter saw will ensure to deliver exactly what you are looking for with no much effort. It has a lightweight construction style that makes it portable and easy to navigate.

Unlike other saws, you will enjoy using it at a low electric consumption. However, that does not indicate that it will slow the working process. The saw runs at a high speed to ensure it saves you time and energy. The aluminum metal is also strong and will guarantee you years of service with the same miter saw.

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Pros

• Durable construction material
• User-friendly design
• Reliable for sharp angles and bends

Cons

• Slightly expensive compared to others on the market

2. Bosch GCM12SD 120-Volt 12-Inch DB Glide Miter Saw

Let your cutting be an interesting activity by using this Bosch glide miter saw. Apart from giving you accurate cutting with smooth performance, the saw also saves you up to 12-inch working space making it perfect for small space owners.

Unlike other saws, it does not use the traditional rail setup, which makes it easy to use even in small areas. The saw ensures to provide smooth and accurate cutting to give you exactly what you want without wasting your materials.

Additionally, with this Bosch miter saw, you will have the privilege of cutting up to 47 degrees angle cuts to the right or left. All the adjustments and lock levers of this tool are located up front. Therefore, making the controls of the saw easy and straightforward for every user.

It operates with low power but the cutting results are tremendous.

During the cutting process, it is easy to see your material sliding either to the left or right. However, with the quick release square lock fences, aligned at 90 degrees, you will experience accurate material alignment without further adjustments.

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Pros

• User-friendly
• High-precision square lock fence
• Up to 12 inches space saving
• Ergonomic handle for comfortable use
• Up front bevel control

Cons

• It does not adjust to the angles perfectly
• The fence is slightly off to either side

3. Hitachi C10FCH2 15-Amp 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw with Laser Marker

Prober material alignment takes your cutting experiences to the professional level by investing in this mite saw. It has an aggressive design that specifically means business. The saw is equipped with a laser maker that guarantees accuracy in all your cuttings. It also has numerous features that enhance both the functionality and form of the saw.

With at least 10” of a saw blade, you will have the ability to cut through anything even for a longer period. Unlike other saws on the market, it has a pivoting flip fence to ensure proper material alignment.

The saw also comes with a dust bag to keep your working environment clean during and after working hours. Although it operates at low voltage, the company has designed a comfortable vibration reducing handle to ensure that the user enjoys the smooth cutting flow. Additionally, this tool is lightweight measuring at only 26.5lbs, this makes it easy to navigate and switch positions depending on where your material is.

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Pros

• Affordable
• Vibration reducing ergonomic handle
• User-friendly
• Durable construction
• Pivoting flip fence

Cons

• The company does not cover major parts of the saw in their warranty

4. DEWALT DW715 15-Amp 12-Inch Single-Bevel Compound Miter Saw

If you are mainly in the cutting business, you require having a reliable tool that will repeatedly deliver quality results. This is what you get with this DEWALT 12-inch single bevel compound miter saw. It has 11-positive stops that ensure you get in place every time you are cutting. You can adjust and cut your material even at angles from 0-48 degrees to the left.

Additionally, when looking for great versatility, the miter saw capacity can be adjusted from 0-50 degrees left and right. The cam lock miter handle ensures that the user is comfortable and does not experience great vibration of the saw. It has an easy to slide detent override that guarantees smooth cutting with accurate results.

With this miter saw, your cutting adventure will be beyond limitations as you will be able to cut across anything with a high speed. The saw has a 12” blade diameter providing you with the required power for any cutting experiences.

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Pros

• Easy to use
• Comfortable cam lock handle
• 11-positive stops
• High angle cutting ability

Cons

• The dust bag does not hold the dust in place as it should

5. Bosch 4310 10-Inch Dual Bevel Slide Miter Saw

Give your cutting adventure a professional touch by adding an extra blade with outstanding features. Bosch 4310 10” dual bevel will ensure it eliminates all the cutting hustles for the smooth and reliable experience. The adjustability of this saw makes it easy for you to cut through all types of angles without strain or missing the points. Its suitable for highly precise cutting. If you are a perfectionist, then this miter saw will make your work interesting and comfortable. The motor runs at low power but that does not hold it back from a high performance at a convenient speed. When cutting, it has the ability to give you frequent stops for accurate angle cutting in all directions. Additionally, this saw has a comfortable and adjustable handle that will smoothly move in your hands regardless of how long you work.

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Pros

• Easy to use
• Adjustable handles
• Electric brake for accurate cuts
• Spindle lock for easy blade change

Cons

• It’s slightly expensive compared to others on the market

6. Hitachi C10FCG 15-Amp 10″ Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw

This Hitachi C10FCG 15 miter saw has a lightweight design that makes it suitable for transportation. Therefore, if your work involves numerous trips back and forth, it becomes the best option and wi8ll not strain you. The saw is also offering bevel options that give you up to 45 degrees cutting range to either side. It also features precision cutting for accurate and clean angle cuts. With this saw, nothing will stop you from getting the cuts you require regardless of how tough the material is. It operates at a high and controller speed to ensure that you can manage to cut bulk materials within a limited time. Additionally, the saw does not require high voltage power to get it rolling. Therefore, its suitable even for people with low electricity supply. If all you are looking for is versatility, precision, and reliability in your cutting job?  You will have it all with the Hitachi miter saw.

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Pros

• Affordable
• Convenient transportation
• Durable design
• Easy to use
• Provides accuracy in cutting

Cons

• Does not have replacement parts

7. DEWALT DW717 10-Inch Double-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Crown molding and baseboards cuttings are very critical and not all saw can help you achieve them perfectly. However, this 10” DEWALT double bevel sliding compound miter saw will deliver exactly that. The design of the saw matches perfectly with its performance. It provides you with accuracy in all your cutting requirements. When using this saw, you will be comfortable as it takes through its cause. It has a high power motor that ensures high operating speed. This miter saw also has tall fencing and compact sliding rails to keep you comfortable while cutting through long materials. With this saw, you can rest in between cuts and still manage to get the same perfect cuts. When using this miter saw, you will enjoy an easy to adjust cam-lock handle that keeps your hands comfortable for long. It allows you to cut through sharp angles of up to 60 degrees and 52 degrees left and right respectively for added versatility.

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Pros

• Easy to use
• Adjustable cam-lock handle
• Powerful and high-speed motor
• Accommodative fencing
• Highly portable design

Cons

• The dust bag is placed too far from the blade
• It can easily break down especially when on work

8. DEWALT DWS780 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Looking for a miter saw that will deliver quality cutting for either base or crown molding? You have it all by investing in this saw. It has a strategic design that keeps your cutting job as professional as you would require. The material construction is stainless to guarantee the durability of the saw despite the dangers you encounter while working. The stainless steel is also lightweight making this product portable. With this miter saw, you will enjoy hustle free operations as it can easily rotate up to 49 degrees from both sides with numerous stops and still provide quality and accurate cuts. It has high power motor that guarantees convenient cutting speed for all materials. In other words, you will not strain to have your angles cut and it will also not take the whole day to get the job done. The material is also lightweight making this product portable.

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Pros

• Easy to use
• Stainless steel material for durability
• Precise cutting with numerous stops
• Adjustable bevel

Cons

• The vacuum plastic easily breaks and affects the accuracy of the saw

9. Hitachi C10FCE2 15-Amp 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw

Hitachi not only provides you with quality products but also guarantees that you get accurate cuts all the time. You will not have to struggle when you want to cut angles as the miter saw has the ability to cut up to 45 degrees from both sides. If accuracy and precision are the main mission of your work, you will have it all in plenty including smooth cuts. The best thing about this miter saw it that it features an ergonomic handle that feels comfortable as you work. It has a lightweight design that makes it suitable for transportation. Therefore, if your job involves traveling, you will not be worried about the saw’s portability. Additionally, this product comes with a dust bag to ensure that you are safe from choking and your working place is comfortable and clean. It works at a high speed to ensure you can handle a bigger cutting project within a short period.

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Pros

• Ergonomic, comfortable handle
• Easy to use
• Adjustable bevel levels
• Durable construction
• 5-year warranty

Cons

• Slightly expensive compared to others on the market
• Some bolts are not fixed tightly

10. DEWALT DW713 15 Amp 10-Inch Compound Miter Saw

Woodcutting business is very rewarding especially if you find the tools for the job. Whether you are a professional in the industry or you are thinking of starting the job, this miter saw should be among the top things you require. It has all the features you require to give you ample working hours. The saw allows you to cut through various angles up to 45 degrees both right and left. It has a large fence that accommodates big materials and will ensure your cutting is accurate. The saw has adjustable features that guarantee all the cutting are precise and does not disappoint. It has an easy to carry design thanks to its lightweight design. The enter miter saw unit weighs a capacity of 35 pounds, for easy portability. For accuracy and improved efficiency, this saw has at least 11 positive stops; this makes it easy to adjust and control for better results. It works with low power voltage but it has the speed you need to work extra within a short time.

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Pros

• Easy to use
• Adjustable miter detent plate features
• Precise cutting up to 45 degrees right, and left
• Lightweight material construction

Cons

• Slightly expensive compared to others on the market

Types of miter saws

There are numerous types of miter saws on the market. Along with these varieties, there are also blade varieties that you have to consider. These make the saw you buy versatile and able to handle more tasks.  The real struggle is to choose a miter saw that can manage most jobs and accomplish them on time. Always find systems that suit your needs. They are classified according to the bevel options and functionality. There are four miter saw categories to choose from.

Basic miter

This is the most basic miter saw the design in the market. Mostly because it does not have any bevel options in it.  It only offers two styles of cutting, the miter cuts, and the crosscuts.  While it may be an essential machine, you get a lot of benefits from it. It is also easier to handle is perfect for beginners. It is an excellent choice because it produces faster more accurate cuts that manual handsaws.

The basic miter saw is also lightweight and affordable. This makes it easy and convenient for .you to move them from one place to another during your projects. Compared to other miter saws, these have a very affordable price.

Compound miter saws

A compound cut features not only a miter cut which is angled but also a bevel cut which is a sloped cut. You can either choose to have single or dual bevel options when selecting the best compound miter saw. You will be able to also do crosscuts, miter cuts, compound cuts and bevel cuts. Its versatility is one of its most considerable advantages. You also have the option of choosing how far you want your saw to tilt. While some only tilt to one side, there are others that tilt at angles of up to 50 degrees. Dual compound miter saws enable you to cut both left and right without having to move the pieces you are working on.

Cordless miter saw

This one allows you to choose between single, dual and no bevel options. It is the type of saw you need if you are going to do compound cuts, miter cuts, crosscuts and bevel cuts. It is especially helpful if you do not have a power source in your workshop and do not need to work with the cord holding you back.

The cordless miter saw makes things notably easier for people whose power source is not close. All you will need to carry are a set of fully charged batteries. The models available are 18V and 24V.

The sliding compound miter saw

These are often available in either dual or single bevel options. One of the benefits of this kind of miter saw id the versatility it offers you. With it, you can make bevel cuts, necessary cuts, and compound cuts. It also allows you to make cuts either to the right or left without moving your workpiece. Its greatest advantage is that you can make wider cuts through the workpieces.

What are miter saws used for?

While their functionality is often limited, mite saws can make two and sometimes three types of cuts.

Crosscuts

These are straight-angled cuts that allow you to perform across a workpiece which is parallel to the edges. This is often as simple as cutting the end of a 2X4 board and making it a 2X3. These are often the most basic cuts that can be made using other saws. Unlike other saws, making this cut with a miter saw is straightforward and easy. All you have to do is drop the blade of the saw on your workpiece, and you will get a precise cut easily and fast. Most methods require you to guide the blade through the piece.

Miter Cuts

These are the cuts that gave this saw its name. They refer to angled cuts that are made through a piece of wood. Crosscuts run parallel to the sided of your workpiece while miter cuts run diagonally at any angle you choose. The blade itself has not angled it is just that its direction when it comes to cutting is. There are guides on the base of the miter saw allows you to position your piece at the angle that you need to cut before you place the blade on the workpiece. The fact that you can do it without maneuvering the blade makes it a great work tool.

Bevel Cuts

A beveled cut is defined as a cut that is angled through the workpiece. It does not go beyond it. If your workpiece if laying flat on a surface, this bevel cuts will cut it downwards in the middle of the piece at an angle of 45 degrees. Once the cut has been made, you can slide the pieces back together so that they overlap each other where the cut was made. By doing this, they should fit perfectly together.

Miter saw care and maintenance

The fact is that in your workshop, the miter saw is probably not the most robust tool to have. It requires minimal maintenance. However if well kept and cleaned correctly, it will serve you for a longer time and prevent other issues from coming up. Here are a few tips you can use to maintain your miter saw.

• One of the first things you need to do is clean off the sawdust you may have in your work area. If you have an air compressor, it is a great tool to help your blood off this dust. However, you may also make use of a shop rag.
• After cleaning your work area, you need to clean your blade. Use your hand to rotate and do away with any debris that may be on it. You can then use a metallic brush to remove all the dust. After removing the debris, ensure that you have applied enough oil on the blades. For this, you have to look at your buyer’s manual.
• If your blades are blunt and dull, get your blade sharpener and follow the instructions to ensure you get it right.
• After that, lubricate any moving parts that seem stiff. It is also critical to check for any loose bolts and nuts after use. This will help prevent accidents. You also need to make sure your power cord is intact after use.

What to look for when choosing a miter saw

Getting the right miter saw is critical. However, it is essential to make sure that you get the right one. The right miter saw will give your accurate, precise and over cuts that every person is looking for. Here are a few tips you need to look out for to ensure that you get the right miter saw for your workshop.

Blades

You have to ensure that you choose the right blade. It will determine the height and depth of the cuts you make. Miter saws have 8, 10 and 12-inch blades. You also have to consider the styles of the cuts you make regularly. Some blades will work of different materials such as wood, steel, and aluminum. The more the teeth the blade has, the more excellent the cuts you will get. For wood,  the miter will come with a middle for the range.

The miter

The point of buying a miter saw, to begin with, is to get miter cuts. These cuts are angled. In many cases, the saw comes presently to adjust to various angles that people are more likely to cut in. However, you have to know which side the saw will move towards. Sometimes, the miter saw is designed to only move towards one direction. If you want one that moves in both directions, you can get it. However, it is advised to get one that faces the side you make your miter cuts to make it easier to use and more efficient.

Slide

Using a sliding action to make cuts is better for making greater width cuts. Just like with the blade size, you have to check the specs of the saw you are about to buy to see the capacities of the cuts you will be able to make. You may not need to slide it often if you plan to be cutting the dado. For this cuts, the capacity that is required will be less. If you are cutting fencing posts, for instance, you will require a bigger blade and a much bigger width. For such tasks, a sliding miter saw is necessary.

Bevel

With bevels, your saw will allow you to make two cuts at the same time. It means that the saw head will tilt and rotate on the saw table.  There are single and double beveled saws which mean that they can tilt to the right and the left. It makes work more comfortable for you as you will not require you to move the workpiece. This action allows you to make complex angled cuts and to perform tasks like furniture making and crown molding easy. For sliding saws, you need to be careful about the brand you choose to buy from. This is because sliding cuts with bevels are more likely to lose their alignment and cause problems.

Other features

There are other features that you need to think about. For instance, lights come in very handy when you are working in the dark or during harsh weather conditions. Other are some miter saws that come with inbuilt lasers. In most cases, the saw will come with adjustable rear fences, workpiece clamps, and extension arms. These features work great to support your wood and keep your hands free and the blade out of your way.

Some miter saws require you to vary their speed. This allows you to choose a speed that best suits the material you are working on.

Accessories

There are numerous accessories to consider. When selecting a blade, the brand and packaging will tell you the type of cuts you will be making. Ensure that you have chosen the right blade diameter so that you get the right size bore. You may also need to select a stand to make your work easier if you’re sawing onto the job site.