For easy, quick, and accurate use, a compound miter saw won't disappoint you. There are several types of miter saws, including the compound miter saw, that are used primarily for making what the name implies: miter joints. Miter joints are ones in which both pieces of wood are beveled in order to be joined with a third party. The compound miter saw will come in handy when beveling is needed.
The design is like no other. The regular motorized miter saw is small and portable, generally used to make simple, accurate crosscuts. It uses a circular saw blade, spinning in a motorized unit, usually cutting at a 90 angle while placed against a fence. The compound feature takes this compressed saw a step further. This allows the miter saw to flexibly move between -50 and 90 degrees, making it able to sit horizontal or at an angle to the plane. This also allows the saw to be used for bevel cutting, or cutting at 45 degrees.
So, if you're interested in using the compound milter saw, think of it as an adventure. While seemingly complicated, with simple instructions, the compound miter saw can be a cinch to use.
1. Operating the Saw
Before turning on the saw you need to establish the proper angle. To begin with the 90 degree angle, set the compound miter saw directly against the saw's fence. Doing so will get the saw perfectly level, allowing you to make a perfect 90 degree (perpendicular) cut. To cut, first turn the saw on. Once you've gotten a good hold of it, release the safety, place your hand on the blade arm, and pull it down to make the cut. Once you pull down the lever, the saw will make the cut at one speed at precisely the angle you set it at.
For best results, you should wait a full minute after turning the saw on to make the first cut. Let the blade come up to full speed, then lower it down carefully to the object being cut and let the blade do its job.
2. Adjusting the Saw
The compound miter saw allows you to adjust to certain angles, making desired cuts other than perpendicular to the wood. You must change the angle before turning on the saw. To do so, you can turn the base (the table) to the angle at which the blade cuts into the material. The material will be held against the fence, and should be moved to the angle you're looking to cut at.
First, swivel the blade arm, located on the base. Release the locking device that locks in the angle (which can be a switch or a simple screw, depending on the saw you have). Move the blade to the desired angle, which can usually be done by a knob located on the side of the saw. The knob will get you to the exact angle needed. Moving the blade by hand could be a safety hazard and is highly dangerous.
Once you've found it, lock the device back into place. You should hear a click, which will inform you that the saw has once again been locked and is ready to use. Angle numbers found along the side of the base will let you know what angle you're setting it at.
3. Test your Saw
Instead of diving right in to cut your material, it's always best to give your saw a test run, to make sure everything is working properly and your angle is set exactly where you want it. You can use anything from scrap pieces of wood or metal to cardboard. Place the material on the saw against the fence, turn it on, and let it get started. Once everything is in place and ready to use, make your test cut. Keep making adjustments as necessary to get exactly the bevel you want.
And of course, once all the test cuts are finished, you'll be good to go. Get your actual cutting material loaded into the saw and make your cuts. Going through the proper steps will ensure that the final outcome will be the best it can possibly be.
This article cannot be complete without a few tips: as always, never use the compound miter saw without protective gear. Shop glasses should be worn at all times. Since it can be pretty loud, it's suggested that you wear something to cover your ears. Always pay attention to your work, and always make sure you have complete control over the unit. As far as using the saw, never slam it down and always treat it gently. You shouldn't force the material into the saw, as this could damage it and ruin your cut. It should always be placed on a level, stable surface for best results.
The compound miter saw can be one of the funnest power tools to use. It's relatively inexpensive and can get the job done simply and effectively. As with any other power tool, teach yourself about it before using it. Be knowledgeable of the subject before hitting that power button. By following these steps and directions, you'll be on your way to making perfectly clean cuts with the compound miter saw in no time.