What Is a Compound Miter Saw?

A Miter saw is a special type of saw with a blade that is connected to an arm that can pivot either to the left or right. This is what makes it possible for the saw to cut wood at a variety of angles says Miter Saw Buzz.

There are different variations of the miter saw. These include the compound miter saw, dual compound miter saw and the sliding compound meter saw.

Compound Miter Saw

This type of saw comes with a blade that can be pivoted to the right or left to create angled cuts. You can also tilt the blade to make beveled cuts. When you use the saw while making adjustments to both axes, you get what is known as a compound miter cut.

This type of saw is ideal when cutting picture frames, as well as when there is need to cut two planes at the same time.

Dual Compound Miter Saw

This type of saw functions in the same way as the compound miter saw. However, while the compound saw can only tilt its blade in one direction, the dual compound miter saw can do so in both the right and left. This means that you can make a beveled cut at any angle.

Sliding Compound Miter Saw

This is another version of the compound miter saw. While it does come with all the features that you would expect in a miter saw, you also get a sliding rail. This greatly increases the distance of cut which allows you to efficiently cut larger pieces of wood.

The miter saw comes with a few features such as:

  • Size of the blade. This could be anywhere from 8 to 12 inches in diameter. The larger the diameter of the blade, the longer the cut that it is capable of.
  • Articulated blade guards. This helps to ensure that the guard is well clear of the stock. Providing you with a clear view of the cutting line. When you lift up the saw, the guard, in turn, goes down to cover the blade.
  • Electric brakes. Works to reverse the electric charge in the motor in case you let go of the trigger. This causes the rotating blade to stop almost instantly.
  • Extensions. These allow you to connect the saw to the sides of the table which helps to provide the user with a more precise cut.