If you want to cut perfect miters and bevels without the hassle of trying to line up a blade, then a compound miter saw is for you. A powerful motor enables it to produce the precision cuts you need like a hot knife cutting through butter.
The Makita LS1018 is one of the best miter saws you can buy for its price. It has plenty of power and a laser to help you make precise cuts.
1. Power
There’s no better tool for woodworkers than a miter saw. They can handle all kinds of different projects, including cutting wood, reclaimed wood, metals, plastics, electrical conduit, plexiglass, and composite materials.
While there are many different types of miter saws, the best option will depend on what you’re looking to accomplish and your power tool budget. For example, if you’re working on smaller projects with a small budget, you’ll want to look for a lightweight, cordless model that’s easy to carry around your shop.
If you’re a serious woodworker, though, you’ll probably want to invest in a dual-bevel compound miter saw. These machines tilt the blade arm to both sides — allowing you to make complex bevel cuts without lifting and turning the work piece.
2. Rigidity
A miter saw is a powerful tool that can be used for many different projects. However, it is important to choose a saw that is built to be tough and sturdy enough for all your needs.
A good compound miter saw will have a strong frame that supports the blade and is well-balanced to ensure a smooth, quiet operation. It should also be equipped with a safety switch to protect the user from potential injuries.
It should also have a padded nonslip grip to prevent hand fatigue and hand slippage during use. Some models also come with flip fences to allow the user to lock a stop and then quickly change between two or more lengths.
A good miter saw should also be able to make accurate cuts and be easy to set up. Some models will even have a laser guide to help the user position the cut line and ensure accuracy.
3. Blade
The blade on a miter saw is an important component of the tool. It helps it cut through woods, drywall and other materials easily and accurately. It also protects the motor from the heat and vibration of use.
A good blade is crucial for producing clean, smooth cuts, and one with a higher tooth count is particularly helpful for fine woodworking projects. Choosing the best blade is a matter of research and careful analysis.
There are many different kinds of blades available. Some are specifically designed to make a specific type of cut, such as bevel cuts or crosscuts. Others are more general-purpose and are capable of making a wide range of cuts.
4. Motor
The motor in a miter saw is the heart of its power and performance. It needs to be durable and powerful enough to rip through a large amount of wood, if it’s going to cut accurately.
A good motor should have a lot of torque and be quiet while running. This allows you to work without worrying about the noise affecting your quality of work.
Another important feature to look for is whether it has a blade brake. This will stop the blade before you raise it or remove it from the workpiece.
This is a great option for anyone looking to get the most out of their miter saw. It’s affordable, lightweight and has all the features you need to carry out your most complex cuts on the jobsite.
5. Design
The best miter saw 2021 has a simple design with a dual post pivoting arm and a spring-loaded lock to keep the saw secure after you set it. This model also features a soft start technology to make sure you won’t feel any recoil on the blade when it starts to spin.
This saw offers a wide range of bevel cuts and angles up to 45 degrees left or right, as well as a 52-degree cut on the opposite side of the blade. It has a five-year warranty for your peace of mind.
There are four main types of compound miter saws – single compound, dual compound, sliding double-bevel, and non-sliding. Each has its benefits and advantages, so you need to decide which one will be most useful for you.
