Miter Saw Guidelines and How-to Information

Miter saws have evolved from basic tools that could make simple miter cuts into more complicated machines that are indispensable to all kinds of carpenters and furniture makers. Miter saws, or chopsaws as they are often called, are available in several styles, each suited to particular kinds of work. Blade sizes range from 8-1/2 in. to 15 in.

Miter Saws are one of the most popular, most widely used power tools in the tool industry today. Because of their portability, convenient capacities, and overall accuracy, a miter saw can be found in nearly every wood-shop, garage, or pickup truck. Miter saws are generally designed to produce fast, accurate crosscuts into a workpiece, typically for framing or molding applications. Note that they are only used for making crosscuts, whereas the Table Saw can be used to make ripping and crosscuts. The Miter Saw can also be used for making many different angled crosscuts (miters) as well as compound beveled crosscuts, where the blade is tilted away from vertical (bevel) while making an angled (miter) cut, typically required with crown molding.

Miter Saw 101:

  • Secure any loose fitting jewelry or clothing, tie back long hair - these can get caught in moving parts
  • Do not start the saw with wood touching the saw blade
  • Always be aware of where your fingers are in relation to the cutting blade. Keep your free hand off the cutting table
  • Do not cross the cut line of the blade with your free hand. If your left hand is on the handle, DO NOT hold the wood on the left side of the saw with your right hand
  • Never place your hands closer then 6" from the blade
  • Do not start cutting until the blade is moving at full speed
  • Do not remove jammed wood while saw is still on. Turn off power and wait until the blade completely stops.
  • Avoid unintentional starting, while checking for blade placement relative to cut line, do not keep your finger on switch
  • Do not lift the blade guard with you hands. Blade guard will raise automatically when handle is lowered
  • Do not cut over-sized pieces of wood on this saw, read your owners manual to know these limits.
Making multi-sided boxes
Number of Sides Angle Miter or Bevel
4 45°
5 36°
6 30°
7 25.7°
8 22.5°
9 20°
10 18°

As with all tools, whether it is a miter saw, a weed wacker or your golf cart, it is best operated defensively. Know the tool, know its capabilities and know yours as well.

Safe sawing!