Compound Miter Saws: A Guide to Different Types and Uses

Compound miter saws are tools used for making angled cuts, usually to materials like wood and PVC. This power saw gets its name from the type of cut it produces: a “miter” cut is an angled cut that isn’t 90 degrees.

Compound miter saws can also make bevel cuts that are angled to the face of the material you work with. Some saws are capable of making two cuts at once, while others can make very long cuts. Some can do all of the above and more. Each of these features makes a miter saw a valuable tool to keep nearby at all times. 

To help you make your decision about which compound miter saw will get the job done, we prepared this guide that highlights different types of miter saws, as well as benefits and common uses for each.

A compound miter saw is an adaptable woodworking tool used to make a variety of angled cuts. Miter saw blades pivot and tilt for angled and beveled cuts, respectively, while some models are also capable of sliding to make longer cuts. Cuts that can be made by compound miter saws include:

• Miter cut: an angled cut across the width
• Bevel cut: a non-square cut that’s relative to the face
• Compound cut: a combination of miter and bevel cuts
• Crosscut: a standard, flat cut across the width

These durable tools are capable of cutting through many different materials, depending on the saw blade that’s in use. Commonly cut materials include wood and plastic, but often miter saws are used to trim and shape ferrous and non-ferrous metals, laminates, and more.

Common uses for compound miter saws include making cuts to:

• Molding
• Framing
• Trimming

A compound miter saw is a sturdy and reliable companion on the job: the saw is typically stationary on a bench or table and is most portable in smaller size variations. A miter saw stand is an essential companion to any compound miter saw and gives you greater control over the cuts you make.

Different types of compound miter saws are used to complete various cutting tasks. The type of miter saw you require depends on the type and length of cut you need to make.

The types of miter saws that are specialized for unique purposes are:

• Compound miter saws
• Sliding compound miter saws
• Dual bevel compound miter saws

It’s important to note that while a compound miter saw is different from a regular miter saw, most miter saws available for purchase are compound by nature. This means that they can tilt to perform beveled cuts.

Compound Miter Saw

A compound miter saw is the standard for miter saws on the market. This versatile saw is capable of making angled miter and bevel cuts to materials like wood, plastic, and metal.

These tools are durable pieces of machinery, but it’s important to maintain your miter saw properly to ensure a long, useful life.

Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Sliding compound miter saws feature adjustable slide capabilities that can greatly increase cut length compared to other miter saws. Instead of cutting a 2x8 wooden board, a sliding feature could double your cutting capacity. Sliding miter saws can also add dual bevel functionality for more efficiency when making bevel cuts.

Since sliding saws make longer cuts than traditional miter saws, sharpen and maintain your saw blade to prolong its life. If you need to replace a miter saw blade that’s reached the end of its useful life, we’ve got you covered.

Dual Bevel Compound Miter Saw

Dual bevel compound miter saws increase the versatility of miter saws by introducing a dual-tilt feature. Rather than tilt in a single direction like a typical compound miter saw, the dual bevel variety allows you to make quick, matching bevel cuts in one motion, saving you valuable time.

When deciding on the right miter saw for your needs, remember that a dual bevel compound miter saw is a more advanced machine and is more difficult to operate than other miter saws because of its added features. Check out our guide on how to use a compound miter saw to brush up on your knowledge.

Blade size is an important consideration when selecting a miter saw. The diameter of the blade you use will affect the total length of the cuts you can make. You also have a choice between a crosscut blade to make cuts in wood or a combination blade to saw through metal or other materials.

Though several options are available, the most common blade sizes for miter saws are below:

While the size of your compound miter saw blade will impact the length of the cuts you can make, there are more optional features that widen the array of tasks a compound miter saw can accomplish.

Optional features are available on today’s compound miter saws that change their capabilities. These features can also make miter saws even easier and safer to use. Browse all of our power saw accessories to get the most use out of your miter saw.

Powerful Motors

A miter saw’s cutting power is measured in amps. For tougher or more rigorous jobs, you’ll need a greater amp output from your saw. Typical output for miter saws is 15 amps in corded and cordless variations, though 12- and 20-amp options are available.

Electric Brakes

Electric brakes can bring a compound miter saw blade to a halt in a fraction of the time that it takes a blade that slows by friction alone. To do this, the flow of electricity to the blade is reversed.

Blade Guards

Miter saw blade guards keep the saw blade covered when the saw is raised, while dust guards keep hazardous materials away from you while you’re working. Make sure your miter saw has a blade guard to reduce accidents and spotlight job safety.

Extension Wings

Saw extension wings give you added support for making extra-long cuts. The wings also function as stops that securely lock your cutting material into place, providing a little peace of mind for creating accurate cuts.

Stops

Stops lock your compound miter saw blade into preset angles (positive stops) or heights (depth stops). This speeds up jobs that require multiple cuts at the same angle.

Tech Upgrades

Useful technology can boost your efficiency on a miter saw with the right upgrades. Some saws feature laser beam guides to assist cutting, while others use digital displays to centralize controls and settings.

Compound miter saws are highly customizable tools that can help you accomplish many different carpentry and cutting tasks.

Deciding on the right power tools can be simple as long as you consider your needs. A well-equipped professional is a valuable resource for clients in the market for skilled work. You can trust Zoro to keep you stocked with the right tools and up to date with the industry resources that you need to succeed.

Sources: Pro Tool Reviews | Popular Mechanics | The Tool Scout

Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.