| Miter-Saw Basics |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-612 |
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A miter-saw is one of the most basic tools in the workshop, but there are several types and they range in price from $10 to several hundred. Brad Staggs shows a variety of miters and miter-saws, and offers some suggestions for using them.
- Miter-saws are used for making angled miter-cuts (figure A) used in door-frames, window-casing, molding and picture-frames. They also have many applications in furniture-making and advanced woodworking.
- A plastic miter-box (figure B) is one of the least expensive types. The box has slots aligned for making angled cuts, and typically comes with a saw included.
- A wood miter-box (figure C) works the same way. The one in our demonstration has a slightly larger box, suitable for cutting crown-molding.
- A metal-frame miter-saw (figure D) is slightly more expensive, but is more durable, and typically is more adjustable.
- If you'll be making miter cuts frequently, you should invest in a power miter-saw. A basic model (figure E) swings left-to-right for adjusting to varying cuts along one plane. This is suitable for most ordinary applications.
- For greater flexibility, a compound miter-saw (figure F) adjusts along two planes -- tilt and side-to-side. They range in price from $300 and upward.
- Compound miter-saws are used for cutting crown molding which must be cut at angles on two separate faces (figure G) to meet at the junction of two walls as well as the junction between wall and ceiling.
- Safety Alert: Power tools can be extremely dangerous if not used properly. Always follow safety precautions and wear eye protection when using power saws or any power tools.
RESOURCES :
HGTV's Complete Fix-It
Author: HGTV
The Complete Manual of Woodworking
Author: Albert Jackson
Publisher: Knopf
ISBN: 0679766111
The Small Wood Shop (The Best of Fine Woodworking)
Author: Helen Albert (Editor)
Publisher: Taunton Press
ISBN: 1561580619
Advanced Woodworking
Model: 0783539126
Author: Editors of Time Life Books
1998
Time-Life Books Inc.
Website: www.timelife.com
Setting Up Your Own Woodworking Shop
Model: 0806983140
Author: Bill Stankus
Sterling Publishing Co. Inc.
Website: www.sterlingpub.com
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