how to use a mitre saw

How To Use A Mitre Saw: Learn To Make Precise Cuts And Perfect Angles

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Mire saws, or chop saws, are efficient and accurate tools. While most DIY-ers rarely need mitre saws for their projects, having one will definitely speed up your work.

For example, these tools will take the load of creating angles, mitre joints, and repetitive identical cuts.

To avoid mistakes, read this article. You’ll learn how to handle a mitre saw – even if it does have an intimidating blade – from safety precautions to making precise mitre and angled cuts.

Keep reading below!

How To Use A Mitre Saw For Beginners

If you’re a complete beginner, here are some tips to make sure everything goes according to plan:

  • Prepare your workplace, like a comfortable table or workbench.
  • Prepare to work on the floor if you’re cutting through a very long board.
  • Read the user manual to learn how to use the machine.
  • Don’t skip the safety rules!
  • Learn the mitre saw’s parts and functions to understand how your tool works.
  • Use pieces of scrap material to practice and test the saw.
  • Cut different shapes and angles and see how these combine.
  • Experiment with all of your mitre saw’s functions and features.

Now that you’re done practising, here’s what you’ll have to do:

  1. Mark Your Material

Grab a pencil and measure your cut before using the mitre saw. Also, remember that your mitre saw’s blade isn’t paper-thin, so account for its width before cutting, especially when you need precise cuts.

2. Use A Mitre Saw Clamp

This clamp allows you to use both hands – and protects them too. Make sure the clamp and the blade are 6 inches apart before securing the clamp. Play a bit with its knob to ensure the clamp is as tight or as loose as you need.

3. Prepare The Saw

Adjust the mitre and the bevel according to the model you’ve bought – that’s why we advised you to read the user manual first. Each product has different instructions.

Here’s what to consider:

  • The mitre is the horizontal angle.
  • The bevel is the vertical angle.
  • If you don’t need bevelled edges, both these angles will be 0.
  • After making the proper adjustments for your product, set the saw and push the trigger.

Start Sawing

  • Make sure the blade is running at its maximum speed before making that first cut.
  • You’ll cut from front to back to reduce the risk of kickback.
  • After finishing with a board, let go of the saw’s trigger.
  • Don’t lift the saw until the blade doesn’t move anymore.

How To Use A Mitre Saw To Cut Angles

For mitre cuts, you’ll need to squeeze the lock handle to fit the angle you want. For example, you’ll need to set it at 0ᵒfor 90ᵒ cuts and go from there.

Pro tips:

  • Tip the blade arm at an angle to your workbench. Thus, you’re cutting with an angle and a slope.
  • If you need to cut angles frequently, choose a mitre saw that can tip and bevel in both directions.
  • The maximum slope is 45ᵒ for most mitre saws. Check different products’ specifications and choose one with more options if your projects require larger angles.
  • Remember to move front to back when you’re cutting to minimize splinters and the risk of injury.

Read more: Mitre Saw Reviews 

What is a compound mitre saw

 

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