Mitre saws
With a mitre saw you can make crosscuts, mitre cuts, bevel cuts and compound cuts. Compound mitre saws can make bevel cuts to one side (left or right); dual-compound saws cut in both directions. There are also both compound and dual-compound sliding mitre saws. These have rails that enable the saw head to slide front to back across the wood, providing a much greater width of cut.
Mitre saws have blades that range from 7-1/4" to 14". Larger blades will deliver wider and deeper cuts. Choose a saw that will enable you to cut the maximum size of stock you typically use. A typical 7-1/4" sliding mitre saw will deliver a 9-1/2" crosscut, while an equivalent 12" saw will deliver a 13-1/2" crosscut. Mitre ranges are generally around 60° while bevel ranges are around 48°.
Cordless mitre saws are smaller and lighter than corded saws and deliver enough power to run a full day in most workshops. Most saws have mounting holes on the base for securing the saw to a work surface, making the saw safer to use and helping to reduce vibration. There are also aftermarket saw stands that provide the benefit of extendable material supports for cutting long stock.
Cut-line indicators make it easier to position stock for cutting. LED lights positioned above the blade cast an exact shadow line where the blade cuts the wood, and they’re more accurate than laser lights. Soft-start motors prevent the saw from jumping about when you pull the trigger. A blade brake quickly stops the blade from rotating. Removable tall fences provide better material support. Some saws have the bevel adjustment knob at the back of the saw, making it awkward to reach. Side- or frontmounted knobs are more convenient.
Types: Compound, dual-compound, sliding
Power source: 120V corded;
18V and higher cordless
Blade diameters: 7-1/4", 8-1/4", 8-1/2", 10", 12", 14"
Price: $150 - $1,300