How to choose a mitre saw

A 7 ¼” saw

The smallest saw is 7 ¼”, which will cut to a depth of 2”. These lightweight models are very portable and handy for smaller projects.

A 10” saw

Next are the 10” mitre saws, which cut to a depth of 3 ½”. This is the most common size for homeowners, because this mitre saw can handle common projects such as decks, fences and renovations. Table saws also use the same size blade, so you can use your blades on both tools.

A 12” saw

A 12” mitre saw gives you the most versatility, since it cuts larger sized boards. It’s ideal for finishing work, such as crown mouldings or baseboards, but it is the heaviest saw and requires the most space for storage.

Positive stops

Positive stops, which are pre-marked notches that let you lock in the wood for common angles, allow you to make accurate cuts quickly and easily. 

Laser guide

A laser guide projects a sharp line onto the surface you’re cutting, helping you make accurate cuts without having to mark them manually.  

Dust collection

Look for a good dust collection feature that helps keep your workspace clean and safe. Some models can be attached to a wet/dry vac. Dust collection reduces the amount of dust and particles that accumulate inside the machine, helping to prolong the machine life.

Soft start

A soft start feature will manage the intensity of motor start-up, offering you more refined performance and minimizing the chance of tripping a circuit breaker.