Miter Saw Basics & Information

Humans are creative beings, and have been known to build a few things in their time. Since the first spark of inspiration hit men and women, they have searched for easier, faster, better ways to realize their ideas and solve their problems.

It is reckoned that in the Stone Age the first tools were born, and by extension, machines and technology. Though the basic principles behind altering physical matter haven't changed much, some amazing advances have been made in tool technology. For instance, with the advent of consumer power tools, mankind has the ability to increase productivity and complete more projects in less time.

A miter saw used to refer either to a large unpowered backsaw or metal frame saw with replaceable blades suspended on rollers in a metal guide that allowed making accurate crosscuts and miter cuts. These types of miter saws are still sold, the Nobex brand being notable. Today, they are generally used in picture framing but have largely been displaced by the power tool in carpentry and joinery operations.

"Hi! This is Bobby Hester on behalf of expertvillage.com. In this clip, we will be demonstrating the basic functions of a miter saw. A miter saw allows you to make perfectly accurate straight miter and bevel cuts time and time again. A straight cut is a perfectly square cut, every setting on the saw set to zero. Most miter saws allow you to adjust your miter from zero to 45 degrees in either direction. A bevel of most miter saws also allow you to adjust from zero to 45 degrees. A compound miter is a combination of miter and bevel cuts. This is especially useful when you are cutting crown molding. Also this particular model is a compound slide miter saw, which gives me much more room, I can cut much larger material with the saw."