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Step 1
Consider your budget and your needs. A miter saw is the most basic design and the least expensive in cost. A compound miter saw is more versatile and more expensive, whereas a sliding compound saw is the most versatile miter saw of all, as well as the most expensive. A compound miter saw allows the saw to pivot from side to side, where a sliding compound saw allows the blade to pivot down and then slide down toward you as well.
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Step 2
Go to your local building supply store and look at all of the miter saws displayed. Take your time looking at all of them, and ask the person working there any questions you can think of. You can do your own research into which brands are better, but what is more important are the features each saw the miter saw possesses, such as safety features, and blade size.
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Step 3
Look at each saw carefully and compare blade sizes. You should get a saw with a larger blade as this will allow you to cut thicker wood.
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Step 4
Try to determine the length of cross cut the saw will be able to do. If the saw pivots like a sliding compound miter saw, this will help give you the widest cut.
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Step 5
Check to see if the saw has an electronic brake. This is an important safety feature that allows the saw to slow down very quickly.
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Step 6
Ask what the return policy will be for each miter saw, and ask to get an extended warranty for the saw. This can help save you money in the long run should something happen to the saw while you're at work and have to replace it.
