Which miter saw to choose with broaching: rating, budget models

Often during repairs you have to deal with the fact that individual parts need to be connected using an oblique connection (or as they say “in the miter”).
This is most relevant in the manufacture of lining, baseboards, windows and door frames, and when laying floors. In such cases, miter saws come to the rescue because they cut materials at a given angle. By its design, a miter saw is a circular sawing electric tool, which is characterized by high speed, reliability and accuracy in performing the intended cutting work. They are used for working and finishing parts made of wood, laminate, plastic, aluminum and some other non-ferrous metals. Such a tool is most widely used in finishing and carpentry work, and installation production.

The modern equipment market is represented by a large range of sawing power tools: panel saws, miter saws, circular saws and universal saws with different functionality.

Purpose and principle of operation of a miter saw

This type of tool is essential when working with wood. A miter saw will help you make a perfectly even cut of the workpiece material at different angles. It is with such a unit that an inclined cut is made.

A multi-tool is especially useful for fine finishing. With its help, you can prepare door trim and other elements that require precise cutting. The unit is also used in furniture production.

A high-quality model of a miter saw can also replace a sawing machine. Its design consists of a circular saw, a base plate, a protective casing, a control handle, and stops. The broach is adjusted using guides. When not in use, the saw is covered by the casing body by locking the spindle.

We make our own cutting machine from a grinder with a broach

The grinder, whose true name is angle grinder, is a hand-held universal tool. But keep in mind that an appeal with an angle grinder requires a good eye and a steady hand. If a disk gets stuck in the material at one moment, it will not only move the cut to the side, but it can also fly apart, and this is very dangerous.

But stationary sawing machines are quite huge and powerful. It will be very difficult to drag them to the work site.

The attachment will help you combine the advantages of an angle grinder and the immobility of circular saws - this is a small-sized device that makes it possible to firmly attach an angle grinder and use it in a circular or miter saw.

How to choose a miter saw

Which miter saw to choose depends on the purpose for which it is required. By design, there are two main types:

Saw with one function. A simple option that performs only one function - a miter saw. Such models are very light and will cost less.
Combined. A universal option that combines the functions of a trimmer and a circular saw. Combined models have a special sawing table. Due to the additional elements, a combination miter saw will cost more. And such a machine weighs more.

After determining the design, you need to select the unit according to the main characteristic - power. The performance and reliability of the tool depends on it. Experts advise taking into account the requirements for the machine:

For a home, a device with a power of 1.3 kW will be sufficient;
for constant operation you will need an option with 2.2 kW or more.

The design of the miter saw provides the ability to rotate the work surface. The standard indicator of this characteristic is a rotation of 40-55 degrees. In some models the table can be rotated in both directions.

Circular cutting

When it is difficult to purchase such an instrument due to lack of money, you can make it yourself.

Thickened sheet of metal.
Steel corners for pressing (use an old bed).

The welder is used to cut holes in a steel sheet, and its ends are treated with ratfil.

A particularly powerful electric motor is not required to use the tool; 0.9 kW is enough. It is mounted on the base with an additional spring that performs a stabilizing task. To rotate the unit, you need to attach a handle; in the end, you will be able to achieve gradual movement of the saw. The following properties:

0.2 m – diameter of the cutting disc;
1500 rpm – rotation speed.

This will allow you to easily process wood up to 0.07 m wide using a homemade tool. Take care of customizable stands and supports. For pendulum risers, take a channel attached to a metal base. As a result, our tool will become stronger and heavier, but thanks to it, cross-cutting work will be performed with ease. You can take a three-phase electric motor (2.3 kW) and a plate swinging on hinges.

Place the belt on the motor pulley. The pendulum can be fixed to the base of the frame material. For comfortable work with wood, the diameter of the saw should be 0.42 m, and the rotation speed should be from 2800 rpm. We cut a slot for the disk.

As we see, a high-quality instrument can not only be purchased, but also made with your own hands. Here's what we got:

Design features that you need to pay attention to when choosing

There are several more characteristics, after studying which it will be easier to choose the right version of the miter saw:

Speed of revolutions. Some models have the ability to adjust engine speed. This allows you to optimally configure the machine to work with materials of different hardness.
Cutting depth. To make a deeper cut, you need a unit with a large sawing disk. In appliances for domestic use, a disk with a diameter of 20 cm is usually installed, in professional equipment - 25 cm.
Width of the groove for the disk. A groove is a special place where the disc goes. The quality of work depends on the width of the groove. If it is no more than 10 mm, then the cut will be of high quality, with a minimum amount of chips and sawdust.
Sole quality. The stability of the miter saw depends on this structural element. Experts advise paying attention to options with a cast sole, which is stable and not damaged. It is also important that it is not too thin.
Width of broach. The length that the saw can pass through the workpiece material. Everything is simple here: the wider the broach, the wider the workpieces can be processed on the machine. You need to choose taking into account what materials will be processed: for skirting boards, a saw with a broach of up to 100 mm is enough; if the products are larger, then a machine will be required with a larger broach.
Rotary saw design. The miter saw design has guides that allow you to adjust the angle of inclination when cutting. For professional devices, the tilt angle is up to 57°, for simpler options – 45°.
Weight. The mobility of the unit largely depends on it. The less it weighs, the easier it is to take it for field work to sites.

Knowing the basic characteristics will allow you to choose a miter saw with a broach according to your requirements.

Main selection criteria

Before you start choosing a miter saw, you need to know which design elements and parameters you should pay priority attention to. Let us consider the main criteria for choosing a good “trimming” in more detail.

engine's type

Modern pendulum saws can use three types of electric motors. Each design solution has its pros and cons:

Asynchronous motor. It is distinguished by reliability, efficiency and low noise level. However, this solution also has one serious drawback: low power and rotor speed with significant weight. This is why most manufacturers do not equip household models with asynchronous power plants;
Commutator motor. It has an ideal ratio of power to weight and size indicators. Such power plants have a simpler control system and speed stabilization. The rotational speed of the commutator motor shaft can easily exceed 10 thousand rpm. There were some drawbacks: limited brush life, high noise levels, overheating of the armature windings under increased loads;
Brushless motor. It is a kind of symbiosis of collector and asynchronous technology. In such a motor, the weakest link, which is the brushes, is replaced with an electronic unit. Such power plants incorporate all the advantages of classical technologies: high power with low weight, noiselessness, low maintenance, high reliability. The only drawback of crosscut saws with a brushless motor is their high cost, which is more than compensated by the long service life of the tool.

Asynchronous motor Brushless motor

Gearbox type

When choosing a suitable miter saw, you should definitely pay attention to the design of the gearbox - the second most important element of the cutting unit of any miter saw. This element is the connecting link between the power unit and the saw blade. This tool uses two types of gearboxes:

with gear transmission;
belt drive.

Gear Drive Miter Saw Belt Drive Miter Saw

The gearbox gears are reliable and durable. They transmit torque from the motor rotor to the saw blade spindle without slipping. However, if the gear fails (tooth breakage due to excessive load), the entire gearbox will need to be replaced, or an expensive repair of this unit will be required.

Belt drive also has a lot of disadvantages: it is possible for the belt to slip on the shafts and wear out quite quickly due to the high coefficient of friction. However, manufacturers of pendulum saws widely use belt gearboxes in their products. Thanks to this design, manufacturers were able to reduce bearing wear caused by vibration, which is partially smoothed out by the belt drive. A belt that has fallen off is easy to put back in place; you can simply replace it yourself if it becomes critically worn. In addition, when the disk jams, the belt will slip on the shafts, which will save the motor windings from overheating and expensive components from destruction.

Saw blades

When answering the question of which model of miter saw is best to buy, you should decide on its purpose and operating conditions. In other words, any disc will do for working with wood. If you intend to use trimming for processing various materials, a very important point is the correctly selected equipment, which varies:

Outer diameter. Depending on the model, saw blades with a diameter of 210, 250 and 305 mm can be used in cross-cutting machines. Circles of smaller and larger diameters are quite rare, since they are intended for specialized equipment, which is extremely rarely available for sale;
A landing hole, the diameter of which can be 25 or 30 mm;
Material. Saw boards can be monolithic or carbide. The first ones are made of high-carbon steel, which tends to “shrink” quickly. You can sharpen such a disc yourself without using specialized equipment. The carbide cutting tool is equipped with pobedit tips that hold an edge perfectly;

Monolithic (left) and carbide (right) disc
Thickness. Thin discs have a relatively short service life, but provide a finer cut. They are most often used when processing valuable wood species. Thicker equipment is characterized by a longer service life and cutting width;
Geometry and number of teeth. The larger the tooth, the rougher the cutting line will be. The trapezoidal tooth is suitable for processing chipboard and aluminum. The concave shape is used on equipment intended for cutting laminate flooring. The “set” tooth is excellent for sawing fiberboard, MDF, and plywood.

In addition, miter saw blades differ in tooth angle. Equipment with a tooth positioned at a positive angle is recommended for sawing along the grain. A tooth with a negative angle will give a clean cut when cutting wood and its derivatives crosswise.

Positive tooth inclination

Power and number of revolutions

The motor power in cross-cut saws, depending on the model, can vary from 0.8 to 2.5 kW. Low-power models are often used for short-term work with small-diameter equipment. Maximum power is typical for a professional tool, which, with the appropriate equipment, can cope with almost any material. The optimal power for household trimming is 1.5-1.8 kW.

Optimal power - 1.5-1.8 kW

The number of revolutions of the saw blade affects the quality of the cut and the performance of the device. For most modern models, this parameter ranges from 3200 to 6 thousand rpm.

Important! The best models of miter saws are equipped with a system for adjusting the rotation speed of the equipment.

Dimensions

How to choose the optimal weight and dimensions of a wood miter saw? You should know that there is a relationship between the power of equipment and its weight and size indicators. The higher the power of the model and the larger the diameter of the equipment, the larger the dimensions and weight of the tool. That is why you should not chase heavy-duty models if you do not intend to use the tool for professional purposes.

Additional features and security

Manufacturers are constantly trying to make the miter saw more convenient and versatile. Some models may have the following additional features:

Adjustable table width. Allows you to configure the machine to work with dimensional workpiece materials.
Precise angle adjustment. Special fixing elements in the design allow you to quickly adjust the saw to work with the most common angles.
Speed adjustment. You can reduce or increase the speed.
Additional clamping devices.
Stands. They will help you conveniently set up a workplace on the floor.

The miter saw safety system consists of the following elements and functions:

A casing that completely covers the disk when turned off;
electrodynamic brake for a smooth stop of the motor when turned off;
blocking operation when replacing the saw blade;
protection against breakdown of the housing;
automatic stop of the machine in emergency situations.

Also, do not forget about the safety of the master himself who works with a miter saw. Safety glasses, gloves and thick fabric clothing are required.

Metabo KGS 305 M

The KGS 305 M from Metabo is equipped with a powerful drive for greater cutting depth. The saw belongs to the highest performance class of this category.

The large saw blade with a diameter of 30.5 cm has a cutting speed of 60 meters per second and is therefore suitable for processing all wood and wood materials.
The cutting head can swivel 47 degrees from 90 degrees in either direction, but it can only tilt to the left, so flexibility is a bit limited.

The saw weighs less than 20 kg and represents a good compromise between sufficient stability and portability.

Rating of the best manufacturers of miter saws

In addition to the main operational characteristics, when choosing, it is important to pay attention to the manufacturer’s brand. It is better to trust well-known companies that produce high-quality tools, even if they cost a little more.

Bosch, Germany. The best miter saws are made by this brand. The company is mainly focused on the premium segment. High-quality materials, wide functionality, compact dimensions are the main characteristics.
Makita, Japan. Will please the buyer with a wide assortment. In the Makita catalog you can find both simple trimmers for home use and quite professional models.
Metabo, Germany. They produce professional electric miter saws. High build quality and durability at the highest level. The range includes models with saw diameters from 21 to 31 cm.
Hammer Flex, Czech Republic/Germany. The cross cutting machines from this company are notable for their compact size and high power at the same time. They are used not only for woodworking, but also for cutting soft metals, such as aluminum.
DeWalt, USA. Miter saws for perfectly clean work. Most models are equipped with a dust collection system. The build quality is high, and the warranty service is especially worth noting.
Caliber, Russia. Large dusty discs and structural strength allow miter saws from the Caliber brand to work with materials of different hardness. The crosscut machine is equipped with a compact table, which is firmly fixed at the workplace with clamps.
Zubr, Russia. Powerful power units and large discs will allow you to overcome any difficulties when cutting. Also, the tools of the Zubr company have an affordable price.

Einhell TH-MS 2112

Compared to most miter saws from other manufacturers, the price of the Einhell TH-MS 2112 saw is very attractive. Due to its compactness and low weight, the saw is especially suitable for home use. Screw clamps guarantee high stability during operation.

A minor minus is a small dust bag and the sudden start of the saw. Finding the ideal saw blade setting can take some time.

Budget models

If you need a cross-cutting machine with a broach for domestic use, then it is better to choose an inexpensive model that will help you cope with most simple tasks.

Hammer STL1400/210

Main characteristics:

Power: 1400 W;
Weight: 6.3 kg;
Depth of cut at an angle of 45/90° – 30/55 mm;
The cutting width at an angle of 45/90° is 83/120 mm.

Quite powerful option for its size. Suitable for working with wood and aluminum profiles. Convenient adjustment of cutting angles and stability of the machine thanks to the durable aluminum base. Possible to rotate in both directions.

Caliber PTE-1750/255

Main characteristics:

Power: 1750 W;
Weight: 13.6 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 70/70 mm;
Cutting width 45/90° – 85/120 mm.

A larger option, but with impressive power. The miter saw Caliber PTE-1750/255 copes with cutting not only wood, but also plastic and aluminum. The only drawback is that the cut is quite wide.

Metabo KS 216 M Lasercut

Main characteristics:

Power: 1100 W;
Weight: 9.4 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 45/60 mm;
Cutting width 45/90° – 80/120 mm.

A classic saw for the home. Compact, medium weight and low power. It is a little noisy, but the build quality is very high.

Metabo KS 216 M

The saw is robustly constructed: cast aluminum, yet very lightweight and can be carried safely with one hand - it has a transport lock. Easily handles any wood, surface-treated boards and plastic.

Thanks to the built-in laser, the cut line is displayed as accurately as possible. Extending the table on the sides makes it easy to process longer workpieces.

The saw blade is very easy to change - thanks to the spindle lock, there is no need to remove the blade guard. The delivery also includes a carbide saw blade with alternating 40 teeth.

Middle price segment

In the middle category are tools that do not have maximum performance, but are capable of performing most standard jobs.

Makita LS1040F

Specifications:

Power: 1650 W;
Weight: 17.45 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 69/93 mm;
Cutting width 45/90° – 67/135 mm.

This model is already a level higher. The Makita LS1040F miter saw is equipped with a transparent casing and reliable and convenient fixing elements. The dust collector works efficiently and leaves the workplace clean.

Bosch PCM 8S

Specifications:

Power: 1200 W;
Weight: 11.4 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 40/65 mm;
Cutting width 45/90° – 85/120 mm.

In general, the products of the German company Bosch are more represented in the top segment, but the PCM 8 S model is good for those who are looking for something in the middle. The most well-thought-out design is convenient to use. The dimensions will allow you to easily transport the saw to the place of work.

BISON ZPTK-255-1800

Specifications:

Power: 1800 W;
Weight: 15 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 75/75 mm;
Cutting width 45/90° – 120/130 mm.

One of the best models in the line of the Russian company Zubr. The high power of the saw will allow you to conveniently work with wood of different hardnesses.

Ryobi EMS 254L

A miter saw that stands out with its compact design. The device is complex and suitable for use in various areas of home and professional cutting.

This saw has almost pinpoint precision. The controls are easy to use and their layout is extremely intuitive.
It has 2 LEDs to illuminate the work area, adjustable speed for maximum use when working with different materials.

The forward movement system allows the machine to be close to the wall (space saving), the wide side table extension is convenient for long beams, the turntable can be adjusted 50° on both sides.

Premium models

For professional work you will need the appropriate tools. The ranking presents the best of the best options for miter saws.

MAKITA LS1216

Equipment characteristics:

Power: 1655 W;
Weight: 26.1 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 107/107 mm;
Cutting width 45/90° – 255/363 mm.

Professional cross-cutting machine used in many enterprises. Convenient tilt and angle adjustment, as well as a wide cut allow you to work with workpieces of different sizes. In the LS1216 model, safety is also thought out to the maximum: smooth starting, braking, transparent protective cover.

DeWALT DW717XPS

Equipment characteristics:

Power: 1675 W;
Weight: 24 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 56/89 mm;
The maximum cutting width is 302 mm.

A high-quality option from an American manufacturer. The characteristics of the unit are similar to the previous version from Makita. Reviews from owners speak of the high quality of the engine, it runs smoothly, does not heat up even at maximum speed and lasts a long time.

BOSCH GCM 12 GDL Professional

Equipment characteristics:

Power: 2000 W;
Weight: 39.6 kg;
Cutting depth 45/90° – 51/104 mm;
Cutting width 45/90° – 240/341 mm.

A real professional machine. This miter saw costs a lot, but it can easily cope with tasks of any complexity.

Having familiarized yourself with the main technical characteristics, popular manufacturers and models of miter saws, the choice will be easy to make. The main thing is that the machine meets the performance requirements and is convenient to use.

Brand prestige

The best choice would be a model from a well-known domestic or foreign brand. A domestically produced house miter saw is identical in performance and reliability to imported analogues, but is more affordable in cost and level of self-service.

The purchase of an expensive professional-grade tool is justified under the condition of intensive use in the construction or furniture business.

The cost of the professional level model is compensated by:

high performance and wide functionality;
increased accuracy of sawing works of different levels of complexity;
possibility of continuous work throughout the entire work shift.

On the domestic market, professional-grade saws are represented by products from the brands Bosch, Makita, Metabo, Dewalt and a number of other manufacturers. If all other conditions are met, priority should be given to the European-assembled model.