Basics & Matchups
How to Square a Miter Saw
How to square a miter saw: check the blade to the fence and table, adjust the stops and bevel, and test with a square before you make a cut.
Find the miter saw that fits your trim, deck and shop jobs
Plain comparisons of compound, sliding and cordless miter saws from DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, Skil and Metabo HPT, plus the blades and add-ons that go with them. Start with the type of saw you are weighing.
Latest guides
Basics & MatchupsHow to Secure a Miter Saw
Learn how to secure a miter saw to a workbench or stand with clamps and bolts, plus how to keep the base flat and the whole setup from shifting during cuts.
- Basics & Matchups
How to Adjust a Miter Saw
Learn how to adjust a miter saw for square cuts, including the miter detent, bevel stop and fence settings you check first.
Basics & MatchupsCan a Miter Saw Cut Aluminum?
Yes, a miter saw can cut aluminum if it has the right blade and you go slow. Learn blade choice, safety gear and clean-cut setup.
- Basics & Matchups
How to Use a Miter Saw Protractor
Learn how to use a miter saw protractor to read inside and outside corners, set miter and bevel angles, and cut trim that closes tightly.
- Basics & Matchups
How to Set Up a Miter Saw
Learn how to set up a miter saw safely: pick a flat bench, bolt it down, square the blade to the fence, and check every angle before you cut.
Basics & MatchupsHow to Make a Miter Saw Fence
Learn how to make a miter saw fence: a straight board set square to the blade gives repeatable cuts, plus support tables for long stock.
- Basics & Matchups
How to Build a Miter Saw Table
Learn how to build a miter saw table with a flat deck, matching fence and sturdy legs, so your saw sits level and cuts stay square.
Basics & MatchupsHow Does a Sliding Miter Saw Work?
How does a sliding miter saw work? Its rails slide the blade forward through wide stock, so you can crosscut boards a fixed saw can't reach.