Basic and additional trimming options
All devices are equipped with a soft start, which allows you to block the mechanism during wheel replacement, and accordingly stop the engine. All models of miter saws are protected against electric breakdown of the body.
The classic version of miter saws does not include electronic components. However, there are models, usually metal miter saws, which are equipped with an electronic speed control function. Thanks to this function, more precise control over the work process is provided. It also becomes possible to set up equipment for cutting various materials.
A miter saw with a defined saw blade can be used to cut skirting boards and laminate flooring
Helpful advice! For cutting hard wood, it is advisable to use a saw with electronic engine speed control.
New models are released, in which it is possible to set a certain stable speed. This is useful when you need to complete several workpieces in a short time. Indeed, with strong pressure, the speed of the device decreases. At this time, thanks to the electronic controller, a certain speed range is set, which allows you to get a smooth and fast cut.
Another useful but expensive feature that adds to the cost of the tool is laser aiming. Its power supply can be carried out from the mains or from the battery. In the first case, a switch is located next to the handle on the tool body. The beam creates a cutting line, which is especially valuable for an inexperienced craftsman who has not developed intuitive skills for cutting with a miter saw. The trimmer can also be equipped with a powerful LED light behind the blade. When you turn it on, the shadow from the disc falls on the workpiece, forming a kind of backlight.
Some miter saw models are equipped with a laser pointer for precise material cutting
The tool generates a large amount of wood dust and sawdust. In order to exclude their spread throughout the room, some models are equipped with a branch pipe for connecting a vacuum cleaner, through which debris is removed directly from the place of its formation. In modern models, the table top is expanded by 50 cm or more, which allows you to work with long products, such as laminate.
Which miter saw is better to buy
A large assortment of equipment in this category forces you to carefully study individual details when comparing different models. Which miter saw is better to buy will become clear after specifying the following features:
- rotation of the working module about the vertical axis allows you to arbitrarily change the cutting angle;
- for sawing wide workpieces (moving horizontally), the broaching mechanism is useful;
- equipping with an upper table expands the functionality of the equipment;
- asynchronous motors are distinguished by economical power consumption, relatively lower noise level;
- collector motors are smaller and more powerful, but to maintain performance, you will have to regularly install new brushes;
- a gear reducer provides a reliable rigid bunch of shafts;
- the use of a belt drive reduces costs, reduces vibrations;
- to solve most household (professional) tasks, the power of the power unit of 1.2 (1.6) kW is sufficient;
- at high blade speed (> 4,500 rpm) improves cut quality;
- efficient dust removal system simplifies operation and maintenance, preserves the health of the user;
- the laser makes it easier to move the tool along a certain line;
- backlight provides good visibility;
- smooth start-up algorithm prevents mechanical damage;
- automatic maintenance of the set speed makes it easy to create even cuts.
The presented rating of the best miter saws that are suitable for professional work and at home is recommended to be assessed taking into account the intended purpose. For the correct choice of the optimal option, the composition and volume of technological operations, the need to process certain blanks, taking into account the dimensions and materials, are checked. They also check the ease of transport of the saw, dimensions, and other additional characteristics.
Criterias of choice
The feasibility of purchasing a combined model depends on the complexity and amount of work that is planned to be performed. The purchase of such a product must be technically and financially justified, otherwise there is a possibility that an expensive high-tech device, after a repair or construction of a bathhouse, will be idle unnecessarily. You can also refuse to buy a device if high cutting accuracy is not so important. For rough work, a conventional circular saw is quite suitable, which costs much less than the combined options.
It is also necessary to take into account the weight of the future model. Typically, a power tool of this category weighs from 15 to 28 kg, and therefore it is better to purchase an easier option if you plan to regularly move the model around the workshop or the surrounding area.
If the saw is chosen for professional work, then you need to pay attention to the availability of additional options. Of course, they do not have a significant effect on the operation of the tool, but, of course, they can simplify the use and increase safety
These functions include: a laser rangefinder tape measure, a backlight, a working shaft speed regulator and a soft start button.
Design features and purpose
The tool is based on a miter model, and the saw blade acts as the main working element. The design includes a metal bed, a turntable and a guide mechanism. The latter provides free movement of the working disk over the surface of the working table, and the rotary table serves for angular movement of the workpieces to the desired angle. The device also includes a tool head, which is adjusted to a given cutting angle by means of a measuring scale. The working unit consists of a particularly robust housing with a built-in electric motor, on the shaft of which a saw blade is installed.
Some models of combination saws are equipped with a broaching mechanism that allows you to reliably fix and cut especially large workpieces. The device control buttons are located on a common panel, which makes it easy to control the operation of the saw blade and, if necessary, adjust it. As an option, many devices are equipped with a set of working discs with different diameters, sizes and pitch of teeth.
The scope of application of combined trimming models is quite wide. Their help is indispensable when installing skirting boards, window openings and door frames, as well as in the production of lining and the arrangement of wooden floors.
Manufacturers rating
Market overview of miter saw manufacturers suggests that the most popular are the Japanese brands Makita and Hitachi, the German Bosch and Metabo, as well as the Russian company Corvette. If we compare the reliability of the models, then in the first place are the devices, the frame of which is made of aluminum or magnesium alloy, but the weight of the device does not exceed 15 kilograms, like that of Bosch. In general, the devices of this German company are distinguished by their mobility and durability.Makita saws are distinguished by the presence of an additional support from the rods, which greatly increases the convenience of using it. The tool is characterized by precise and accurate cuts, as well as a long service life without the slightest damage. The units are equipped with a protective cover made of transparent plastic to protect the master.
On Metabo models, the tilt of the saw blade can be changed, in addition, the device has swings. Devices of this brand are very easy to use. "Corvette" is characterized by the presence of a laser pointer, longitudinal broach and the ability to increase the size of the cut up to 43 centimeters. When a small desktop design with small parameters is required without additional functions, the Chinese brand MAC Allister or Hammer is quite suitable.
For how to use the miter saw correctly, see the following video.