MITER SAWS
MITER SAWS
Visit www.americanwoodworker.com for a complete list of manufacturers, models and costs.
American Woodworker 2003 TOOL BUYER’S GUIDE 69
“left-hand friendly.”We recommend trying both to see what’s
comfortable for you.
Blade Size and Tooth Count
A 10-in. blade is the way to go. Bigger blades yield modest
capacity increases for a big price. For carpenters who need to
cut 45-degree angles on a 2x8,the bigger blades may be worth
the extra cost.Also pay attention to the tooth count of the blade
that comes with the saw.A 40-tooth, 10-in.combination blade
is great when you’re framing walls, but not so good for fram-
ing photos. Plan on spending another $50 if you need to buy a
high-tooth-count blade for your saw.
Quick-Acting Hold-Downs
Some saws come with hold-downs to aid in cutting large stock.
Quick-acting hold-downs are best.They work like toggle clamps
so it’s a snap to secure material to the saw.Hold-downs that work
on a screw thread,like a C-clamp, are more poky.
Two-Way Bevel Setting
If you’re considering a compound miter saw, go for one that
bevels both left and right. It’s something no tablesaw or radial-
arm saw offers and, because you can work from either side of
the saw, it makes it much easier to do compound cutting. An
easy-to-read bevel indicator is also important.
To Next Page
Loading...
