Techniques for Using a Miter Saw

Miter Saw Types

• The simple miter saw has a power saw mounted on a table with guide rails. You can pivot the saw to make cuts at various angles. The compound saw allows the saw to be tilted to one side. The sliding compound saw puts the power saw on rails so it can be moved back and forth for longer cuts. The maximum cut for the simple and compound saws are 10 inches.

Safety Precautions

• Use eye and ear protection and don't let any part of your body near the spinning blade. Get in the habit of starting the saw immediately before making the cut and turning it off immediately after. Don't reach under the blade while it's spinning. Don't walk away while the saw is running. Unplug the saw when you change blades.

The Process

• Consult the plans for the project and set the angle first. Practice a cut on a piece of salvage wood to make sure it's correct. Lock the wood securely into place and mark a line where the cut will be. Before you start the saw, walk to the other side. Lift the guard and look down the blade to make sure it will come down on the line. Power saws can jerk and whine before they reach working speed, so turn on the saw and wait. Lower the saw into the wood. Let the saw stop spinning completely before raising it from the wood.

Limitations and Solutions

• If the cut is too wide for the saw, use two separate cuts. Add an extension table beyond the saw table if the piece is too long to handle confidently. You get the best cuts with a sharp saw blade with a minimum of 60 teeth.