Sliding Compound Miter Saws Northampton MA

Source: TOOLS OF THE TRADE Magazine
Publication date: July 1, 2002

By Steve Veroneau

Before sliding compound miter saws landed on the jobsite, I remember cutting compound angles in wide stock with my circular saw. I'd use it for cutting stair risers and skirt boards, large baseboard, and exterior cornice pieces.

Now with the huge cut capacity on the new generation of sliders, I can produce a better, more finished product faster than ever. We use sliding compound miter saws to cut blocking, cornice, trim, crown, and stair parts.

I tested 11 saws for accuracy and cut capacity, and compared their toughness and mobility. But what's really important to me is their ease of use and comfort; that's where I found a world of difference.

These saws come in three different blade diameters: 8-1/2, 10, and 12 inches. In the 8-1/2-inch category, I tested the Hitachi C8FB2 and the Tradesman 8336. The 10-inch saws include the Bosch 3915, Delta Sidekick 36-240, Hitachi C10FS, Makita LS1013, Milwaukee Magnum 6497-6, and Porter-Cable 3807. The 12-inch entrants are the DeWalt DW708, Hitachi C12FSA, and Makita LS1212.

Test Criteria

A sliding compound miter saw must perform lots of functions and work in multiple positions. The adjustments have to work well. The guard can't get hung up or obstruct the cut line. And for best control and performance, a good saw should start smoothly and cut powerfully. It also doesn't hurt if the tool is easy to pack up and move from job to job.

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