Power Tools
Best Sliding Compound Miter Saw for Woodworking
Choosing the right sliding compound miter saw does not have to be tedious. Whether you intend to set up your workstation in your garage or basement, or you already have a workshop and are looking to purchase a sliding compound miter saw, don't fret!
A sliding compound miter saw is essential for all woodworkers regardless of their skill level. We have reviewed the four best sliding compound miter saws, including a budget option if you don't want to break the bank.
Here they are:
Best Overall: DeWalt DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw
DeWalt is among the top power tool manufacturers globally, and it's no surprise that one of their products made its way to this review. This sliding miter saw is efficiently constructed; it's a highly sturdy compound miter saw with a 12-inch blade that effortlessly slides through various materials.
What's more, it features ten stops that facilitate swift and accurate cuts. Again, the sliding fence can hold a workpiece of 6.75 inches, while the transparent blade guard offers a clear view of the workpiece.
The DWS779 allows you to make compound, bevel, miter, and crosscuts. Plus, the sliding fences are somewhat rough; this way, the material won't slide when cutting. The cam-lock handle and accurate miter guarantee precise miter angles.
DeWalt DWS779 Pros and Cons
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Even though this power tool doesn't come with a laser accessory, it is our top pick due to its affordability, versatility, and durability. Besides, it is highly functional and comes with a warranty for three years. Lastly, it has a speed of 8000 RPM thanks to its potent 15Amp motor.
Runner Up: Bosch GCM12SD Sliding compound miter saw
The Bosch GCM12SD power tool is no joke either. If you're looking for an expensive alternative for the DWS779, then this is the way to go.
First, it sports arms as opposed to the typical rails for cutting your workpiece to perfection. The two horizontal and vertical arms allow for a hassle-free session. Second, the ambidextrous handle is ideal for both left and right-handed individuals.
The tension modification feature effortlessly helps you transition from the usual rail sliding compound miter saws to Bosch GCM12SD's arms. It also offers a speed of 3800 rpm, which is significantly less than the DWS779, but it will get most jobs done.
Bosch GCM12SD Pros and Cons
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Overall, the Bosch GCM12SD is a durable, uniquely-designed, and efficient sliding compound miter saw ideal for professional woodworkers.
Best Value: Makita LS1040 sliding compound miter saw
This review would not be complete without a product from Makita. They have been manufacturing high-quality power tools, and the LS1040 is no exception.
This sliding compound miter saw is powerful, convenient, and precise enough to handle many woodworking tasks. It also has a 15 Amp motor, providing an impressive 4600 rpm. Again, the speed control maintains a consistent speed when working, while the soft-start tech provides a decent start-up which boosts its performance.
Furthermore, this power tool has a dual pole compound arm for making bevel cuts of 45 degrees. It allows for miter adjustments of 0 to 52 degrees towards the right and 0 to 45 for the left side. Again, the base is made of aluminum, ensuring durability and precision.
Moreover, the Makita LS1040 features a fluorescent light which comes in handy if you're working in dimly-lit conditions. Weighing only 27.3 lbs, the LS1040 is on the lightweight side, thus making it highly portable.
Makita LS1040 Pros and Cons
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Overall, this 10-inch sliding compound miter saw is ideal for professionals due to its high rpm, durability, and power.
Best Budget: Metabo C10FCH2S HPT
Hitachi switched its power tools` name to Metabo, so this product is from Hitachi.
If you're on a budget, we've got you covered with the C10FCH2S. The best thing is that it doesn't sacrifice quality, even though it's a budget option. It is a lightweight, and all-purpose compound miter saw ideal for your DIY tasks, a small workshop, and situations where you need to access tight spaces.
Every carpenter is looking to make precise cuts, as it makes your workpiece look neat and professional. This Hitachi miter saw features a huge revolving flip fence that'll move 4 inches higher compared to other miter saws, thus making precise cuts.
Again, it has compact construction so that it won't consume much space. It weighs 26.5 lbs, making it the lightest sliding compound miter saw so far.
That said, it has a powerful 15-amp motor and a 10-inch blade for normal tasks. Its speed stands at 5000 pm, which is impressive for a budget-friendly option. The miter adjustment has legible detents, though it might help if you checked other placements on the detents if you are cutting several times.
Metabo C10FCH2S HPT Pros and Cons
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What's more, it can make miter angles of up to 52 degrees on both the left and right sides. Plus, the blade can be adjusted to make bevel cuts to the left, up to 45 degrees.
Conclusion
As a woodworker, you understand how essential it is to have a sliding compound miter saw in your workshop. It offers accuracy and versatility in different projects; thus, you should have the best one.
You can go for the Metabo miter saw or DeWalt if you're on a budget. And while the Bosch and Makita options are quite expensive but worth it. Do not forget to consider power, cutting ability, dust collection, and blade when buying the best sliding compound miter saw for woodworking.
