Reddit mentions: The best power miter saws

A good drill is key. It's silly to stick to one brand (many people have the bs brand loyalty fetish and I'm not sure why). You'll also want to get a variety of drill bits to go with drill. Go to garage sales and start hoarding nails, screws, etc at cheap prices.

My recommendations below are based on at least 5 hours of research and shopping around. There are some things I'd probably add to the list (like a hand saw and dremel) but this takes care of a lot of your big needs. I own everything on the list and am pleased with it all, especially in terms of a performance for value ratio.

The key is know what you want then shop around / wait for the best prices (track prices in spreadsheet). Use google shopping to compare prices and see who price matches plus has best ebates or Ibotta cash back % + consider buying gift cards at a discount on Raise or elsewhere to further maximize savings (or just go with whatever credit card gets best points on particular site). Add Google Chrome app "Honey" to have coupon codes auto applied (eliminates time searching for them).

Also, I'd strongly consider getting a credit card with a decent bonus that will essentially help you get these items for free (assuming you can achieve the bonus spend with money you're already paying on existing bills / monthly purchases - it's a no-brainer in this case) - Chase's Sapphire Preferred is a good place to start ($500 bonus for 4K spend in 3 months)

Consider waiting until Black Friday (and from Jan to end of feb) for the good deals.

Drill (get a decent to really good one - you'll use it often)

• This one goes on sale for $99 on BF though you may be able to find it elsewhere for that price or cheaper now:
  
• Makita XPH102 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2" Hammer Driver-Drill Kit (3.0Ah): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L84A470/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_Wv.BzbSZ9FGJH
  
  Circular Saw
  
• cordless is usually unnecessary - this one goes on sale for ~$70 on BF:
  
• Hitachi C7ST 15-Amp 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007QESNMU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_vy.BzbT32M7T2
  
• honestly I haven't used this as much as a muti-tool but many DIY blogs say you need one... not sure I agree but it nice to know I have it
  
  Multi-tool
  
• This one goes on sale for ~$99 on BF - there are cheaper ones but I like this one a lot and it has a lot of power and attachments:
  
• Rockwell RK5151K 4.2 Amp Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool with Duotech Oscillation Angle Technology and 10-Piece Accessory kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HD4EQTG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_EA.BzbQ9KM4AQ
  
  Miter saw
  
• I've used this more than circular saw - it's much more accurate and fast for most jobs - went back and forth about getting a saw with a larger blade but ultimately decided 10in is enough for most jobs and I've been correct in that assumption so far:
  
• Hitachi C10FCE2 15-Amp 10-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V5Z6RG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UF.Bzb0CFWDHT
  
• paid ~$99 by buying on Jet and getting their 15% off first three orders + Ibotta 5% cash back
  
  Respirator
  
• may seem like overkill but don't fuck with your lungs: GVS SPR457 Elipse P100 Half Mask Respirator, Medium and Large
  
• https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013SIIBFQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HD.BzbREVSMX6
  
  Horse (the 'roided out version)
  
• this has come in really handy for me as it often helps to get stuff done without extra help:
  
• Rockwell JawHorse Portable Material Support Station – RK9003 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007XRFQKW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_0E.Bzb9V02GJV
  
  Sander (makes a huge difference): I've seen it in the low $40 range
  
• DEWALT D26441 2.4 Amp 1/4 Sheet Palm Grip Sander with Cloth Dust Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009WRKUC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wW.Bzb3CAWTZ9

Here are the basics, I will edit if I think of any more essential tools, but you can go an awfully long way with these.

Hand Tools:

• Hand saw- I prefer Japanese style pull saws, meaning they cut on the pull stroke. My go to utility saw is a Vaughn bear saw, which is a robust package, with several types of interchangeable blades. There are countless types of saws, for different uses, but a fine toothed Japanese saw will get you by for most things.
  
  
• Combination square- A sliding ruler square, perfect for marking and layout. you will also want a speed square eventually, so you might as well get one.
  
  
• Tape measure- Start with a basic 25' tape, and get more as needed.
  
  
• Basic chisel set- Most of the entry grade chisels are pretty much the same, this Irwin set is a pretty good buy. to start with a set of 1/4", 1/2", and 1" are all you really need, but you can never have enough chisels.
  
  
• Block plane- A low angle block plane will get you a long ways breaking corners and trimming pieces. Stanley makes a great, affordable, option. As time goes by you will need a jack plane, but a block plane will do for now.
  
  
• Sharpening equipment- A fine diamond stone like this will get you a long way keeping your chisels and plane sharp. You should do research into sharpening methods as you use your tools more, and build a system that fits you.
  
  
• Hammer- A cheap smooth face hammer. Build a wooden mallet as a starter project.
  
  
• Clamps- You always need more clamps. Big clamps. Small clamps. Weird clamps. I like bar clamps. Harbour Freight has good deals on fair clamps, but don't expect too much out of them. To start with get a couple with ~8" throat, and a couple with ~18" throat.
  
  Power Tools:
  
  
• Cordless drill- If you're willing to spend the money for a good, reliable, tool I recommend Makita, but a Ryobi or Rigid will serve you well if you're just working on small projects. Everyone has their favourite cordless tool brand, and, for the most part, it really is just preference. I highly recommend adding an impact driver and circular saw to whichever system you choose.
  
  
• Circular Saw- If you want to work with plywood or larger sticks, you will want a circular saw, which is the most basic power saw. Most of the major tool companies make fine starter saws, Skil is the original, and is quite cheap, but there are plenty of others, browse a store and see what takes your fancy.
  
  
• Jig saw- A jig saw is used for cutting curves, and you will eventually need it if you build enough things. I prefer Bosch but there are cheaper options. See what feels right to you.
  
  
• Miter saw- You don't need this right away, but if you start doing more projects you will want one. I recommend going right to a sliding compound miter saw, like this Dewalt. You will never need more miter saw than that, and if you get a small one you will eventually end up buying a the real deal.
  
  
• Table saw- Again, you don't need this right away, but eventually you will feel you need the precision and ease that a table saw brings. The Rigid portable table saw is a great saw if you're working in tight quarters and need to pack up, but you'll appreciate the appreciate the stability of a cast iron topped cabinet saw if you have the cash and space for it.
  
  Misc:
  
  
• Drill bits- Get a cheap twist drill set that goes from 1/16" to 1/2" and a basic spade bit set. Later you will want a set of forstners and hole saws.
  
  
• Utility knife
  
  
• Driver bits
  

I'm a professional carpenter and general contractor, and from my personal experience and the anecdotal evidence from the guys I regularly see, Bosch is of the best you can get for cordless tools nowadays. DeWalt used to be the go-to, but their quality has dropped considerably over the last 5-10 years. They still have some decent products, but I know of a lot of people who have had major issues with their drill chucks being off center.

This said, you kind of need a grab bag to get the best of each tool.

Here's my current setup, which is the same as quite a few contractors I work with:

• Bosch 18V impact driver/drill set. I've dropped my driver with a 6" bit attached directly onto the bit from 10' up, on concrete, and the entire thing was unscathed. Batteries last forever and charge very quickly.
  
  
• Festool jigsaw. Festool makes AMAZING products, but it's probably way overkill for most, and this Bosch model is a great second option I've seen used by many guys with a ton of success.
  
  
• Skil Mag 77 circular saw. This is the be all end all saw. It has enough torque to change the rotation of the earth. It's heavy, though, so a decent sidewinder might be your best bet. I would never use anything else, personally, though.
  
  
• Bosch compound sliding miter saw. I love this thing. You can put it flat up against a wall and still use the slider, which is a feature unique to them.
  
  
• DeWalt table saw. The major plus of this saw is that the rip fence is on a track, so both sides move together. I still never trust their gauges, but to know that both the front and back are equidistant from the blade 100% of the time is worth its weight in gold.
  
  
• DeWalt thickness planer. Never thought I'd buy one, and now I wouldn't be without one. With the combination of the above 3, you can pretty much make anything out of anything. Have a 5/4 board at the house but you need a 1x? 2 passes through the planer and you're set.
  
  
• Bosch Rotary Hammer. The demo master. It can hammer drill massive holes in concrete, or switch to hammer only mode to remove tile or glued on drywall particles. These are bulletproof.
  
  
• DeWalt orbital sander. Nothing fancy, as I don't do a ton of heavy sanding. Something to look for in these is the variable speed; makes jobs much easier.
  
  
• Bosch oscillating tool. Most brands are similar, and depending on your uses a corded model may be better. I have a second tool that uses these batteries so I have lots of backups (and they charge very quickly), and I often use it in places that running a cord would be a pain in the ass. This is great for trimming things that are immovable and can't be sawed: think door frame bottoms for new floors, baseboard trim to accommodate a new vent, drywall patching, anything. Love this thing.
  
  
• RotoZip spiral saw. Great for drywall, and there's a masonry style bit that works good for cutting pieces of tile (like around a faucet or control).
  
  
• Bosch planer. Again, nothing fancy and I definitely don't use it daily...but when you need a planer, there's not much else you can use.
  
  
  So there you go. Those are the ones that have gone through the ringer on a construction crew and have survived heavy abuse and regular moving/dropping without any signs of letting go. Some may be overkill for your situation, but they're what I've found to be best. I'm probably missing a few loose ends so look out for edits.

I moved from Boston to Athens GA and bought my first real (but still cheap) home. Its a great functional house but all the storage space had this very cheap wire shelving that absolutely sucks. The 120sf master closet was not functional at all. Neither was the laundry room. Or the 4 other bedroom closets. Or the pantry.

So I called California Closets and Inspired closets. Two national chains and the only providers of a service like this in Athens GA. They both had very slow response times and took more than 3 weeks to visit my home to do a walk through and then another 2 weeks to get a quote. Inspired never showed up.

They were PRICEY. California came with this proposal for $2,929.

Our goal was to get rid of our dressers in our master bedroom and have some drawers in the closet so we could fit all of our clothing in there. California let us know that an option with 16 drawers (8 for each of us) would be $5,000 or more plus tax. He also let me know the install team is backed up and it would take 6 weeks until they could get to the job. I didn't bother hassling him for a quote.

So I shopped around a bit and decided to buy some Easy Track systems from Build.com. I looked around my house and decided to not only build out my master closet but also my laundry room, pantry, three guest bedroom closets and basement bedroom closet.

I measured each closet and drew some designs on a notebook. This and this.

Then I made this list of the Easy Track systems I would need to order to accomplish all of this.

Then I compiled my order on Build.com. I called them and was able to get a 10% discount on the pricing. Here is my receipt.

$2,710.02 + $189.70 tax for a grand total of: $2,899.72

Then I borrowed my neighbors miter saw and got to work. First I ripped out the old wire shelving and then spackled the holes and repainted. This took about an hour. I drank 2 miller lites while doing this. If you end up starting a business I recommend skipping that step.

I drank two more miller lites and listened to this audiobook while I put together all 16 drawers with wood glue and a rubber mallet. This took about 3 hours total and was the hardest part of the entire process.

The next morning I hung the track system on the wall using my laser level (which is the most handy tool ever for a home owner) and started the install. This took a total of about 8 hours for the master closet. I got a lot faster on the second half. If I were doing it again I would probably get it done in closer to 5 hours.

This is the final product:

Master closet empty. Full. Laundry room. Pantry.

We cleaned out all three of our dressers and fit all of the things from the previous closet layout in with ease. Then we listed them on craigslist.

I went on and did the other 4 closets and easily multiplied my available storage space in this home by at least 8x overall.

How much would all this work have cost me if I hired it out? No telling. Maybe $8k? $10k? 15k? Not to mention the fact it would have taken about 10 weeks from the desire to get it done to actually getting it done.

I spent about 20 hours and $3k. I think I could do the next one in 10 hours total.

Are you a little handy and a fast learner? Set something up and start offering this service! Doing this while you have a full time job is the perfect way to start. More on that here.

Don’t like closet building? Check out this list and take your pick.

I'd recommend buying tools based on what your project plans are. If you're going to do trim, build decks and fences or anything that involves less sheet goods, absolutely I'd recommend a miter saw.

If you plan to build sheet good stuff, desks, cabinets, anything that involves plywood, then you can reasonably by a table saw and fill the gaps with a circular saw.

What is your budget? I'll be able to make better recomendations for tools if I know how much you have to play with.

I would avoid the saw you linked for a few reasons:

1. Single Bevel - If you have any intentions of doing crown moulding or trim you will literally want to kill yourself after setting fire to that saw from rage. The saw only tips one direction, it rotatates horizontally either direction, but it only tips one direction, this will make some compound miters a fucking nightmare to figure out (if you can even do it with acceptable results) Even for a home owner, I'd suggest a 12" dual bevel saw. I own this: http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-GCM12SD-120-Volt-12-Inch-Glide/dp/B004323NNC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452305203&sr=8-1&keywords=bosch+sliding+miter+saw
   and I would not for ONE second hesitate to buy it again. Unlike most sliding saws, it does not use a rail system, so if you use it in a shop, you don't need 18-24" behind the saw to slide it. It's great for installing at a workbench. The price is also much more reasonable for you yankee folks since you dollar is getting much better now. It's a great saw, and if you look after it (as with any good tools) it will last a lifetime.
   
2. Sears tools are not what they used to be, I would not put them much above buying ryobi anymore, as they've outsourced so much of their production to the lowest bidder. I'd take Ridgid tools (great for homeowners, btw, because of lifetime service agreement for non-commerical users). Some of their (sears) stuff is ok, but there are better options now. My philosophy has always been buy the best quality you can afford, once. You're learning this lesson with your circular saw already.
   
   
3. 10" saws are ok, but a 12" saw gives you alot more cut capacity, both width of material, and depth.
   
   Some people might find the new yankee workshop boring (as you can likely tell, I'm a huge fan of Norm, and have been since I was a boy, I can attribute vast amounts of my woodworking knowledge to him directly) You'd do yourself a favor by watching some of his shows, and grabbing a book of his called "Measure twice, Cut once" they are absolutely worth the time investment.
   
   Here's a good place for you to start:
   
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUMif8_XQRE
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYqvwlbm6B0
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTp4v1PZmBY
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuKIBWqg5yI
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nGqsc0JF3I
   
   That should keep you busy for a couple hours. It might be a little dry in places, but everything he show he does for a reason. This guy is about as good as it gets IMHO.
   
   Let me know if you have any more questions, I'd be happy to help you.
   

I used a Fein multi master for about 2 years doing trim and door installs. It works great but it's loud as fuck and will rattle the begezus out of your hands. The Cordless Makita was a good upgrade. The Milwaukee cordless multi tool was nice to use as well. (have no experience with other brands)

Festool's rebuild service is pretty good from what I saw. The only thing about their tools however is the switches and cords wear out quick in a production shop setting. It kinda sucks when you have to spend 15 minutes fiddling with it to get it to work or you have to rebuild the cord end because the wires keep breaking off.

Tool parts: http://www.ereplacementparts.com/power-tool-parts.html This is one of a few sites that sell parts in addition to the manufactures service centers which you can usually order parts from as well.

The only makita cordless tool I replaced was my impact driver and thats only because they came out with a quieter version. My ears have thanked me ever since. I've had them for about 7-8 years now. No issues with batteries, chargers or otherwise.

I've spent time with the Festool miter saw and I hated it. It's very clunky for the money and lacks in capacity. Also you'd think something that expensive would have a soft start instead of bucking like a mule. *Also the stupid safety lock drove me nuts as no other miter saws really have them.

Having been a trim carpenter for a few years I got to use several different brands and even models and some were better than others. the Bosch saws were hit or miss. The craftsman, a 20 year old thing I had for a while was actually pretty good for a long time but the Dewalt saws were always spot on even after being bounced around in trucks and trailers for years. I currently use a dewalt 716 miter saw and my only complaint is the dust collection is shit. After 13 months of constant use I still have yet to have to adjust it.

A good quality skil saw and a straight edge jig works the same way and is several hundred dollars cheaper but to each their own I guess. I use something like this with my Ridgid R3203 6 1/2-Inch saw Which has never failed to handle anything I've thrown at it. It's a hell of a good saw if your looking one.

Tool quality on the Domino Knock offs will certainly be a top priority and you are right that if it's not flawless it won't be worth it but we have to wait to see what the competition comes up with.


Btw I've enjoyed this conversation. It's been a good way to talk tools and share our insight without it getting into the weeds.


Edit: fixed my shitty memory from 6 years ago with the festool miter saw

Thanks for the feedback. I was really hoping for more than just 1 response, but what can ya do? :)

I ended up purchasing a bunch of items from Home Depot, and after checking online, I realized that many were dumbed-down versions of the real thing.

IE: Wooster Sherlock 2-4 ft pole.

So I ended up returning all of items and re-purchased better versions online.

How'd I do?

1. Purdy 144080330 XL Series Dale Angular Trim Paint Brush, 3 inch
   
   
2. Purdy 144380340 XL Series Sprig Flat Trim Paint Brush, 4 inch
   
   
3. Warner ProGrip 5-in 1 Stiff Painters Tool, American Craftsman, 10971
   
4. 
   (Pack of 8) Purdy Dove Cover, 9" x 3/8", White
   
5. Wooster Brush SR090 Sherlock GT Convertible Extension Pole, 2-4 feet
   
6. DEWALT DW716XPS Compound Miter Saw with XPS, 12-Inch
   

I have this guy http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW715-15-Amp-12-Inch-Compound/dp/B000ASBCK4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373516554&sr=8-1&keywords=Dewalt+miter+saw

Very happy with it. You can do a lot with a circular saw and a straight edge clamp. Good luck, build your tool collection over time, and buy the best you can afford. If you stick with it, you'll just want to upgrade later

> https://www.amazon.com/Lee-Precision-Breech-Lock-Challenger/dp/B003ISVWC6

yes. i also got mine from amazon.

the parts that need improvement are discussed in the customer reviews near the bottom of the page. powder dispenser and scale are the items i remember getting lukewarm reviews. those parts are cheap to upgrade. so no worry.


you need dies for the caliber that you are reloading.

for some reason i have 2 sets of .223 dies. i know i purchased one, i'm not sure if the other came with the kit.

i purchased a 2" bench top cut off saw [$32]

a jig to cut my cases [$13] 300blk

a case length guage [$10] 300blk

ammo loading tray [$7]

dies [$39] for each caliber

digital caliper [$16]

frankford scale [$32]

frankford bullet puller [$16]

tumber kit [$75]

i spent a good month or so on /r/reloading before i actually purchased anything.

i asked questions and made a shopping list.

those guys are very helpful

research what you actually need for the caliber / bullet grain you want to reload before you buy anything.

double and triple check what powder you need as well. it could save your life.


i kinda over did it with supplies

haven't opened half the boxes yet.

I'd wait until Bosch comes out with the 2nd-generation of the Dual Bevel Glide.

Check out this Bosch. If I were you I wouldn't look at anything but Bosch, DeWalt, or Milwaukee.

I can't speak for Bosch Miter saws, but their Drills, Drivers, Sanders, Jigsaws, Batteries, and Radios are excellent IMO. They build great tools.

EDIT: Be sure to get a high tooth-count blade.

Definitely not craftsman.

I have a Ryobi drill, and I find it to be functional, but of very low quality. It works fine, but it has a horrible clutch and idiotic speed control with the trigger. The charger is annoying to use, the batteries attach in an asinine way, and the damn chuck can barely hold a bit- they fall out quite often. I Torque the shit out of it too, and it still won't hold bits.

I also happen to have a new Makita drill/driver set, and it's like a goddamn spaceship in comparison to the Ryobi.

The way I see it, if their construction and engineering is so unreliable for something like a drill, with no safety concerns beyond some hair pulling, then I wouldn't want a saw from the same people.

I have a DeWalt Skilsaw that I'm very fond of, and it wasn't particularly expensive. Rigid has a model that's almost identical to the DeWalt internally as well if you prefer orange.

If you can get a Makita Miter saw, that would be the best option, although I've used 12" milwaukee saws and they seem fine. I actually had a Delta chopsaw that was only $89,00 and it was totally awesome, very quiet too.


THIS is the Delta saw in question, although mine was black and normal looking. The 2016 model appears to be a lot more colourful: https://www.amazon.com/Homecraft-H26-260L-10-Inch-Compound-Delta/dp/B00LHUWAFA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466943279&sr=8-1&keywords=delta+chop+saw&refinements=p_89%3ADelta

Same saw though.

depends on what diy goals you have in mind. What I find myself using 80+% of the time when I am doing home diy stuff is some combo of the following.....

• Circular saw for breaking down sheet goods
  
• 
  
• Miter saw for breaking down dimensional lumber and trim cuts
  
• 
  
• Hammer
  
• 
  
• pry bars
  
• 
  
• my demo hammer (see below)
  
• 
  
• clamps
  
• 
  
• cordless drill
  
• 
  
• cordless impact driver
  
• 
  
• side cutter pliers
  
• 
  
• 11-in-1 screwdriver (see below)
  
• 
  
• Channel locks
  
• 
  
• Vise grips
  
• 
  
• socket and wrench set
  
• 
  
• putty knife
  
• 
  
• box cutter
  
• 
  
• tape measure
  
• 
  
• multimeter
  
• 
  
• wire strippers
  
• 
  
  don't forget yard work
  
  
  
• pump sprayer
  
• 
  
• seed/fertilizer spreader
  
• 
  
• mower
  
• 
  
• weed trimmer
  
• 
  
• rake
  
  A lot of those above tools stay in a tool bag I carry around, along with stuff like a pencil, markers, drill bit kit, driver kit, zipties and a few other such items.
  
  For basic tools and power tools for the weekend warrior..Harbor Freight is hard to beat.
  
  For good deals on power tools and air tools that are a of better quality...bigskytools.com has great deals on refurbished dewalt, hitachi, bosch and millwaukee tools.
  
  For your stated goals...I would go with a sander, a miter saw, a circular saw, carpenter square, speed square, a 48" level and a 12" level, and some other small tools I mentioned.
  
  Heres a good miter saw. Will handle everything you will need
  
  https://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCH2-15-Amp-10-inch-Compound/dp/B000NKB3LW
  
  Bigsky runs frequent deals on nailer/compressor combos should you wind up doing lots of trim. And frequently they will have a good 15 amp circular saw for around $50.
  
  Speed Square
  https://www.amazon.com/Swanson-S0101-7-inch-Square-Layout/dp/B00002255O
  
  Carpenter / Framing Square
  https://www.amazon.com/Tools-Framing-Hi-Contrast-Aluminum-1794447/dp/B005XUHH5S
  
  wood chisel set
  https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-16-150-Short-3-Piece-Chisel/dp/B00002X1YO
  
  Demo hammer - This hammer is HEAVY but it will chew through just about anything. If you are gonna be doing demo work I strongly suggest getting one...and a big wrecking/demo bar also
  
  https://www.amazon.com/Jackson-Pulverizer-Concrete-Demolition-Hammer/dp/B002IKM6XO
  
  Heres that 11-in-1 scewdriver. i use this thing 99% of the time I need a manual screwdriver. I bought more just put one in my autos and one at work.
  
  https://www.amazon.com/Milwaukee-Electric-Tool-48-22-2114-Screwdriver/dp/B006WTK436
  
  I know I saved it for last...but don't forget safety gear. Glasses, face shield, gloves and if you are going to be doing dusty work or painting then get some breathing protection.
  
  

I️ literally just bought the dewalt dw716xps from Amazon. Right now 250 with an extra blade. I️ didn’t want a slider due to space and weight, but the dewalt saws are the best imo and the xps light is a great feature

DEWALT DW716XPS Compound Miter Saw with XPS, 12-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P0DXET6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_zi7fAb2T5ACJ1

Squiggle wood is really cool, but what can it actually be used for aside from a demonstration of squiggle wood. The precision and accuracy of the jointmaker is probably it's best selling point, but that still doesn't come close to justifying the price. IMO.

Lets use specifically the kapex... it's really pricy

Vs the Bosch axial which is much more affordable and I do believe it to be an even better performer than the kapex.

You end up paying for the Festool name rather than quality of tool.

> If this this is a POS like your saying then no reason to even hang on to it. Thanks for your input. I think I saw the tab

I figured mine would be great for small projects too. Problem is you need precision with the smaller stuff, which the table saw could not provide at all. I completely forgot to mention that I bought https://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCE2-15-Amp-10-inch-Compound/dp/B000V5Z6RG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1481037657&sr=8-3&keywords=miter+saw and I'm very happy with it. I wish the saw would raise a little higher but it's been working awesome for me.

Not sliding but very accurate. For trim and flooring this is the best for the price. but a sliding one is ideal, this cant handle a 2x8.

https://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCE2-15-Amp-10-inch-Compound/dp/B000V5Z6RG

One surprise I had with the newer non-sliding dewalts is that they won't take the LED light attachment that makes the shadow right on the cut line.

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DWS7085-Miter-Saw-Light-System/dp/B000X9EDD8

Ordered it on amazon and then had to return it and get the Irwin laser guide, which so far has been fine, but you have to start the saw to see it and know that it's just to the left.

http://www.amazon.com/Irwin-Industrial-Tools-3061001-Miter/product-reviews/B0009XYN4M

Another kicker is how often I've seen these pop up on Craigslist lately at pretty solid prices. If you have a few weeks to stalk craigslist you might do better, if you don't mind the hassle and you know what you're looking at.

I highly recommend the Hitachi on amazon, it gets great reviews and its an amazing compound miter saw for the price.
http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCE2-10-Inch-Compound-Miter/dp/B000V5Z6RG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395172421&sr=8-1&keywords=Hitachi+miter+saw

Here's my opinion...

The reason to get a sliding miter saw is to increase the width of the board you can cut without going to a larger saw blade. You mention it's for cutting baseboard, windows trim, etc. I doubt that you'll need an accurate miter (non 90 degree cut) on a any of those items that truly will need such a wide cut capacity.

If you do then you can always use your table saw with a crosscut sled and jig or a good quality miter gauge. Same thing with long bevel cuts, just go to your table saw.

This opinion assumes you won't need to cut long miters or bevels very often. If that's not a good assumption then the Bosch GCM12SD does seem like the best fit for you. Otherwise between your table saw and something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW713-10-Inch-Compound-Miter/dp/B000WR18XY

You should be well covered.

We both have the same Miter saw on our wishlists!!!, but that's probably pretty unrealistic.

How about this incense collection. It could make both of our homes very peaceful.

I love HF tools, but I tend to avoid anything that might injure me during a malfunction.

I have a Ryobi and I love it. It's the one with a radial arm saw sliding miter saw component so the small blade size is not as much of an issue. I think I got it refurbished on Amazon for $160 or so. The thing is built like a tank.

Edit: This one

I bought this Dewalt 12" miter saw about a year ago and really, really like it. It's currently at $350 on Amazon which is a pretty good deal.

I hear you, but there is only one way to get that experience. You don't need a workshop either...

You could do it well with:

• circular saw ($50)
  
• cheap drill press ([$50 w/ coupon](https://m.harborfreight.com/8-in-5-speed-bench-drill-press-60238.html?utm_referrer=direct%2Fnot%20 provided))
  
• handheld router ([$75] (http://www.cpooutlets.com/factory-reconditioned-ridgid-zrr2401-1-6-hp-laminate-trimmer/rgdrzrr2401,default,pd.html?ref=pla-mobile&zmam=31282435&zmas=47&zmac=722&zmap=rgdrzrr2401&gclid=Cj0KEQjwmv7JBRDXkMWW4_Tf8ZoBEiQA11B2frK1GwIs5sOvBFNJc6Fp5FC55fP6LjREXE_W7j_HsdQaAjuc8P8HAQ) + ~$20 for bit kit)
  
• handheld drill
  
• handheld sander
  
  It'll be more than a weekend project with those, but a great experience.
  
  A table saw (~$200+) and/or miter saw ($100) aren't needed, but would speed that up significantly.

If you want the 716 buy it from Amazon but get the 716xps model. It has the shadow light on it. Just bought it a few weeks ago. Love it! Its $288 currently on Amazon.

DEWALT DW716XPS Compound Miter Saw with XPS, 12-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P0DXET6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9ktUCbTWHN5Z2

Ya I love this guy and this stud finder. Made an amazing doggy door through my wall to the side of the house for a dog potty area, only took a couple days with the right tools.

Are you limited to that budget or can you go over? I got the Bosch GCM12SD a few months ago and it is awesome. Literally every worker who comes over and sees me using it is like "Damn that is a nice chop saw".

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004323NNC/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I dont have a shop so I keep it on this stand and wheel it in and out of my shed when I use it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VZNEM0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I got the laser for it as well but I never use it, just as easy to line things up manually.

This one will be good.

I’ve used this one for almost 2 years and haven’t had a single issue.

I built a stand out of one sheet of plywood and use that. Just YouTube stands and you can find some decent ones you can build out of 2x4’s for practically nothing.

I’ve built some awesome furniture with that saw and it looks like the first one is a remake which is cheaper.

If her cuts are all straight, something like a sliding compound mitre saw might be a better (and quicker) option. Something like This

What are you using this for? Do you already have a circular saw? If not, buy that first... it'll be far more useful.

You're not going to get a sliding miter worth a damn for that kind of money. There's a few reasons to send money on a miter... a) you're a contractor using it day in/day out, b) you need the wider cutting range of a sliding saw, or c) you need the higher precision of an expensive saw for fine trim work. For everything else a cheap chop/miter saw is going to do you just fine. Take a look at something like the Hitachi 10" Miter. It will make quality cuts with a good blade and serve you well, all without paying the Dewalt tax just for the name.

Whatever you buy (circular, miter, sliding compound, etc.) invest the cash in a Diablo carbide blade... a quality blade will make even a crap saw semi-decent.

I've got this one and I like it. It even has special brackets to make cutting crown moulding easier.

I would skip the Harbor Freight tools. If you want a miter saw, you can go with the Hitachi C10FCE2 for $130 new Amazon or $117 from Amazon Warehouse. Or you can get the C10FCH2 for $170 new or $140 Amazon Warehouse.

If you can wait a little bit, you can find the C10FCE2 on sale for $100. I bought mine for that price at Lowes in the middle of June. Amazon had it for the same price at the time.

Of the miter saws you have I would go with the Ryobi 10"; it is better quality than the Harbor Freight tools even if it is not the best quality.

I have the 10" Hitachi miter saw with laser: http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCH2-10-Inch-Miter-Laser/dp/B000NKB3LW

I've used it for framing, cutting trim, and hard wood floors. A 12" would be nice but not that necessary IMHO. The only issues I've had with the 10" is doing a 45 degree miter cut on my 6" wide hard wood floors. I had to cut one side then flip it around to finish the cut. Otherwise, it's been great. A 60 tooth diablo blade is a great addition.

Hitachi C12RSH2 15-Amp 12-Inch Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser Marker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GET8278?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
This is what I have and it is worth every penny I love this thing

Now, how much of your purchase decision is centered around this flooring project? Because most 10" non-sliding saws should be able to cut most flooring. And most any cuts you'd be making with this thing will not be seen (covered by baseboards). And you're not really butting up two cut sections, so accuracy isn't even really that important. In other words, if 90% of your motivation is the flooring project or other relatively low-accuracy projects like it, you shouldn't need to spend anywhere close to $500. If you have other high-accuracy projects in mind (e.g. furniture) then, yeah, spend the money now.

For flooring in particular, Hitachi makes a 8 1/2" slider that's popular among flooring guys and Kobalt and Craftsman both make sliding 7 1/4" saws that use very cheap circular saw blades. I'd probably trust the Hitachi to be decently accurate, but the Kobalt and Crasftsman have some crazy wobble to them, at least playing with them in the store. But, again, if all you're doing is flooring that doesn't really matter. Plus they're tiny and very cheap. That Kobalt goes on sale for like $80 sometimes. And with $7 blades you're in business for cheap.

You will get lots of opinions on this. A "chop box" is just that, and is excellent for construction work, decks, framing, etc. Interior trim work as well. That's about it in my book as far as woodworking goes(with a bow to Ana White and her incredibly ill conceived and designed construction lumber furniture); for finer work, furniture, etc., out of hardwoods or furniture grade softwoods, you're not doing yourself a favor by investing large dollars. Also, and again if you are not doing carpentry work, sliders go out of alignment much more than a non-sliding compound miter saw, and if you get a 12" non-slider, you are not losing all that much in crosscut capacity. So, for the money, a good quality non-sliding 12" compound miter saw by either Makita, Bosch or DeWalt would be my recommendation. About $200-300 cheaper than the sliding variety, which you really don't need. https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW715-12-Inch-Single-Bevel-Compound/dp/B000ASBCK4/ref=sr_1_4?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1539969968&sr=1-4&keywords=12+inch+miter+saw

If you're getting a new one, I'd also consider this Hitachi 10" model for such occasional use (and assuming you don't want to cut huge things). I've used a friend's and I would definitely pick one up for $120 if I had more regular use for one

I bought a Hitachi compound miter saw from a local big box hardware store. It doesn't cost a lot more, and it's taken everything I've thrown at it with no issues at all... It's light but solid, and powerful enough to handle hardwood and 4x4s without bogging down.

You may want to invest in a mitre saw. Cheaper than a table saw but better than a handheld circular saw. This is the one I have: https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW715-12-Inch-Single-Bevel-Compound/dp/B000ASBCK4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524781731&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=dw715&dpPl=1&dpID=51sL-KnayUL&ref=plSrch

I don’t own a table saw, but this (http://www.woodworkerswebsite.com/Miterstand.html) portable mitresaw stand is on my list to build this summer.

Dewalt 12" sliding double bevel miter saw - $324. Regular Price is $349 so it's not an amazing discount but this saw usually doesn't go on sale at all. It's the exact same saw as the $500 DWS780 except it doesn't have the laser line. The rails on this saw stick out way far in the back, so it's annoying if you want to put it up against a wall, but otherwise this is a real nice saw.

It might be worth considering a small chop saw like is used for converting .223rem to .300blk. That's a lot of material to trim down using a standard case trimmer. Here's a link to the saw I use for the 300blk conversion.

As someone who owns both a 12 inch sliding and non-sliding miter saw and does a lot of home projects, I recommend getting a 10 inch slider.

The 12 inch sliders are just big and bulky and hard to move. The 12 inch non-sliders will cost you more for blades than the 10 inch ones. Plus, if you check I think some of the 10 inch sliders have a larger cutting capacity than some of the 12 non sliders.

Lastly, you can do rough dado's with a slider (at least mine can).

Something like this is nice:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AIX5OO/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=1535523722&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B00007J8CH&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1MBJ78YY6XQ6DRS30G2J

Here's a good miter saw replacement.

Radial arm saws can be used safely, but they're nowhere near as convenient and safe as a miter saw. I have the same problem, though; I hate the slide rails sticking out the back of most. You've found the Bosch Glide, but you should also look at the Delta 26-2251 or the Hitachi C12RSH2. The Delta has hinges like the Bosch but costs quite a bit less. The Hitachi uses rails like every other sliding saw, but they're fixed at the rear with the head sliding, so they take up less space behind the saw.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AIX5OO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_KTM2AbFEG0XMD

Sliding compound miter saw - Vision can't build no cabinets!

This model. Since amazon had it on sale, and Lowe's price matches anything sold by Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GET8278/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_J5ADybMWR5Q3Z

The Hitachi C10FCE2 is a perfectly good saw. Plenty of power, cuts accurately, has an accurate, solid fence. It checks off all the essential marks for a quality tool, but has absolutely no extra features.

While I'd prefer a sliding fence to a flip fence, and I really don't like the clamp position on it (it will get in the way of bevel cuts when attached on the left side), it is still a a very good tool.

Plus you can get a miter stand and still be within about $20 of the price of the Makita LS1040.

For $107 on Amazon its a hard saw to beat for the money.

https://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCE2-15-Amp-10-inch-Compound/dp/B000V5Z6RG

this was worth every cent for me

A little miter saw, like this, will run you easily less than $150.

I realize that's expensive for a single tool, especially when you're buying all the other stuff for a coop, but it might be worth looking into. I know mine has paid for itself just in a lack of sore arms :)

If you plan on building more than a work bench I recommend getting a miter saw. You can get a decent one for cheap:

[This is what I got]
(http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCE2-10-Inch-Compound-Miter/dp/B000V5Z6RG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422581816&sr=8-1&keywords=mitre+saw)

My plan was to trade up if I ever outgrew it, but that hasn't happened yet.

I have the same saw. It's $120 from amazon. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V5Z6RG

Tell that to amazon. some of their "list prices" are way more than that item has ever sold for anywhere.example i bought elsewhere after shopping around a lot, i never saw it over $800

That's funny. Every single tool I have ever bought at Harbor Freight went wrong.

Here's a decent saw for only $220. I just did 2 kitchens worth of crown moulding with this saw this week.

http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW715-15-Amp-12-Inch-Compound/dp/B000ASBCK4/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1409267495&sr=8-11&keywords=12+inch+dewalt

Found a guy (well reviewed) in another city that basically does anything construction related. He said he can cut them for me but his minimum job price is $75. For the price, I am leaning towards just ordering this $99 10" Miter Saw and this $22 10" Non-Ferrous Saw Blade, taking it to the Maker Space and cutting it there.

Do those look like they will be good enough to get the job done? I am a bit concerned, I have one of my pieces measured out to being 1496mm of a 1500mm piece (increased all of the Z frame pieces by 100mm). Worried the blade cut may possibly be too thick for that to work.

Aside from coming with a "coarser" blade, how would it be aimed at construction vs cabinetry? If the Dewalt isn't accurate it should just need adjustment. Personally, I lean towards the DeWalt (I want a 12" sliding double Bevel Compound Miter saw one day) because I can'y justify the extra money on the Bosch beast

I got the 779 from amazon for 350. I couldn't find a good one on CL

https://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DWS779-Sliding-Compound-Miter/dp/B01ESCU5WS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1518540274&sr=8-2&keywords=dws779

99 on amazon

BOSCH 12" ARM SAW:

http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&safe=off&sa=X&rlz=1C1CHFX_enUS461US461&biw=1599&bih=809&tbm=isch&prmd=imvns&tbnid=VhOggZf9hETkKM:&imgrefurl=http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-GCM12SD-120-Volt-12-Inch-Glide/dp/B004323NNC&docid=SUBz96dGGZyFbM&imgurl=http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51o1ZQTMCqL._SL500_AA300_.jpg&w=300&h=300&ei=np17T5iRBarD2QXX59WnAw&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=475&vpy=138&dur=536&hovh=225&hovw=225&tx=147&ty=132&sig=108206764076847164418&page=1&tbnh=142&tbnw=138&start=0&ndsp=32&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:0

Where are you located that a brand new Bosch miter saw is under $300? That saw is $600 at Home Depot and Amazon, right now.

TruePower 919 High Speed Mini Miter/Cut-Off Saw, 2-Inch (colors may vary) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VWHTUG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_T.eLAb0JB8H35

Do NOT buy this. It comes with 5 drills/drivers/impacts. Here is what you need:




http://www.amazon.com/Makita-LCT314W-Lithium-Ion-Cordless-3-Piece/dp/B005C95E2I/ref=sr_1_11?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007466&sr=1-11&keywords=12v+drill+driver+combo+kit




http://www.amazon.com/Hitachi-C10FCE2-15-Amp-10-inch-Compound/dp/B000V5Z6RG/ref=sr_1_2?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007519&sr=1-2&keywords=compound+miter+saw




http://www.amazon.com/PORTER-CABLE-PC75TRS-7-5-Amp-Reciprocating/dp/B004V327PS/ref=sr_1_9?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007539&sr=1-9&keywords=sawzall





http://www.amazon.com/WEN-61720-4-Inch-2-Inch-18-Gauge/dp/B000EJW1ZY/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007628&sr=1-1&keywords=brad+nailer





http://www.amazon.com/PORTER-CABLE-PCFP02003-3-5-Gallon-Pancake-Compressor/dp/B00BMUGQNC/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007761&sr=1-1&keywords=air+compressor




http://www.amazon.com/Stanley-60-100-10-Piece-Standard-Screwdriver/dp/B0000950PN/ref=sr_1_4?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007815&sr=1-4&keywords=screwdriver+set




http://www.amazon.com/Stanley-51-624-20-Ounce-Fiberglass-Hammer/dp/B000VSSG2K/ref=sr_1_3?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007879&sr=1-3&keywords=hammer+set




http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW1177-20-Piece-Black-Oxide-Metal/dp/B001EYU5N8/ref=sr_1_9?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007985&sr=1-9&keywords=drill+bits




http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW1177-20-Piece-Black-Oxide-Metal/dp/B001EYU5N8/ref=sr_1_9?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457007985&sr=1-9&keywords=drill+bits




http://www.amazon.com/Stanley-33-425-Powerlock-25-Foot-Measuring/dp/B00002X2GQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1457008034&sr=1-1&keywords=tapemeasure

https://smile.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW715-12-Inch-Single-Bevel-Compound/dp/B000ASBCK4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511842031&sr=8-1&keywords=dewalt+12%22+compound+miter

this bastard is at the cheapest it's ever been according to camelcamelcamel, I ordered it today!

This one?

Dewalt version is the same price

I think it's This one.

Thoughts on this Amazan daily deal Dewalt miter saw?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AIX5OO/

Do you mean cutting a 90? I would use a chop saw.

If you have a lot of them, and they need to be identical and very accurate, I would use a table saw and a sled.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000NKB3LW/ref=pd_aw_vtph_0_lp_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=RNCB0S04QQ1YDRVCE5XZ

No, I didn't include the saw in the price since I'll be using it for plenty of other things down the line. That saw was a little over $200. You can find it here.

>I have the same saw. It's $120 from amazon. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000V5Z6RG

Ah, that's no where near the same saw! YOU have a chop saw, he has a "sliding compound miter saw"!
Big difference!

I use my miter saw much more than my circular saw. I got this guy years ago and have had no regrets.

I bouch a cheapo mini chop saw from amazon which works fine with a jig

Not really heavy duty but I've only done a hundred pieces over three or four runs and no issues. It'd probably crap out if running it too long.

https://www.amazon.com/TruePower-919-Cut-Off-2-Inch-colors/dp/B000VWHTUG

Hard to go wrong with the Dewalt read the 1st review, by a high school shop teacher.

Also I don't understand the people here that never use one of these, or thinks it's too dangerous. How on earth do you cut things to length; especially long stock?

Also as OP stated if he is looking to prep kids for a trade, general construction is much more employable than fine WW, getting familiar with this tool seems would seem to be a necessity.