The compound miter saw is considered to be one of the most accurate tools that you can use for make crosscuts. This will work perfectly for square, angled or beveled cuts and the advantage is that this is one of those tools that allows you to make angled and beveled cuts at the same time. For all the complex compound cuts that require precision, you will need to use these tools. With the best sliding compound miter saw, you should be able to cut crown molding as well as other materials. All you need to pay attention to is the features on the saw.
With the compound miter saw, there are so many cuts that you can achieve. All you need to do is ensure that you know how to use it. In this article, I will take you through the most critical elements that will show you how to use a compound miter.
How do you use a compound miter saw safely?
Here are some of the guidelines for using this tool:
Step 1: Choose the Right Compound
There are different types of projects that can be handled with a miter saw. However, each project will require a different size of the tools. As such, before you can attempt making any cuts, you should ask yourself if you have the right size of the compound miter saw. The scale of the project will determine the saw that corresponds to it. In the choice of the right, saw means that you will also be focusing on the power of the machine.
For most projects, a compound miter saw with 12 to 15 amps should be ideal. However, if you have bigger projects, you will need to pick a model with a higher ampere rating. In the choice of the miter saw, you should read and fully understand the instruction manual. This makes it easier for you to understand the features and how they work, for different tasks.
With the choice of the compound miter saw done, you need to set up the work area. Ensure that you have a table and the area has adequate lighting. This is the preparation that you will need before you can commence the cutting process.
Step 2: Alight Blade with Marked Lines
For any type of cut that you are making, you would need to mark the measurements. Mark with a pencil and place the blade in the cutting line that you have marked. This needs to happen before you can turn on the saw. If you are pleased with the alignment, you should remove the blade guard from the miter saw.
Turn on the saw and allow the blade to spin to the full speed and this is the point at which you will make contact with the workpiece. Allow the saw to cut gently, following the line that you have marked. This should not be a difficult process as all you need to do is move the saw and slide back and forth. Following this motion, you should be able to achieve a clean and accurate cut.
Ensure that you have a steady hand as this is the only way that you will have a straight cut. Maintain a solid grip on the saw such that the blade will not be shaky when you are doing this cut. You should not worry so much if you are not accurate, at the first touch, with time you will become better. The alignment of the blade becomes easier when you keep doing it frequently. The most important thing is to ensure that you are following the right procedure when doing this.
Step 3: Use the Angle Knob to Make Miter
To be able to make a perfect angled cut, you need to adjust the knob on the mite saw. This is the only way that you will match to the desired specifications. This is an essential measure that allows the machine to move according to your directions. If you wish to do this, you should tune the angle knob. This is done by loosening the blade first and then twisting it to match the desired angle.
Once the angle has been set, you should tighten the blade and lock it so that it does not waver from the angle. There are some experts who recommend adding an extra 2 degrees as a safety measure in case the blade moves.
Using an external angle reference is another imperative measure that can be taken to make this easier. As such, even if the angled miter does not work, you will have a reference point. A block that has already been cut in the way that you want can be a great option to use. This is a great way to ensure that there is uniformity on all the pieces that will be cut in the angle.
Step 4: Let the Blade Stop Completely
When you have moved to the end of the cut line, there is a temptation to lift the saw right away. However, this may affect the cuts that you will have. It is advisable to allow the blade to stop running completely, as this is the only way that you can be sure that the cutting process is complete. This is also a safety measure that prevents any accidental cuts from happening and guarantees you a smooth finish. Never pull out the blade abruptly as this will compromise the smoothness of the cut.
The other concern whey you should let the blade stop is the wood chips that are produced. This may end up flying into your eyes and it is quite dangerous. It does not take too much of your time to wait for the blade to come to a complete stop. Only lift the saw when the blade has completely stopped turning.
Compound Miter Saw Safety Tips
The compound miter saw carries tons of praises on its effectiveness and versatile features. However, this is a powerful tool and if the right precautions are not observed, it can really cause serious injuries. Here are some safety measures that you should observe when using a compound miter saw:
- Be sure to read and understand the instruction manual before attempting to make any cuts with your saw.
- When you finish making a cut, allow the blade to come to a complete stop before you can lift it.
- Always ensure that you have the right compound miter saw for the specific task, so as to get incredible results.
- Inspect your workpiece so as to take out any objects that may affect the performance of the blade when making cuts.
- In the event of making any adjustments, allow the blade to stop turning and then disconnect the saw from power.
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Final Recommendation
The compound miter saw is an excellent and powerful machine to have for all your woodwork projects. However, you will only enjoy the experience if you can learn how to use it in the right way. I have shared this guide and it is my sincere hope that it can be of help to you. Remember that this is a general guide and you should always follow the instructions in the manual and you will become a pro at using a compound miter saw.
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