A sliding miter saw is actually called a sliding compound miter saw.  It incorporates these two key features: a vertical pivot that rotates allowing the blade to be tilted both horizontally and vertically and it has sliding arms horizontally which allows a much wider cut. This is a dedicated cross cut saw as long rip cuts cannot be done.

Are They Easy to Use?

The sliding compound miter saw is a favorite amongst professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike because of its, precision, durability and portability.  Even though they are portable they are robust enough to maintain their accuracy and very easy to set up. Since the back-piece is fixed against the fence, a kick-back is almost impossible and it helps to keep hands clear of the blade. Binding is rare because the saw head is drawn back, lowered and then pushed through the material.

How Does a Sliding Miter Saw Work?

The cut is made from above so adjusting for blade depth is not necessary when working with different pieces of material. Oftentimes, when working on a project, repeat cuts are needed and the sliding miter saw is made perfectly for this. Most saws have exact stops at commonly used angles and adjustable stops at 45 and 90 degrees allowing the head to easily tilt.



Are There Any Disadvantages to Using A Sliding Miter Saw?

There is really only one disadvantage and it is a relatively minor one at that. Wood chips and dust tend to build up and due to blade placement, can be difficult to extract. You may also get an occasional flying wood chip.
 

So Who Makes the Best Miter Saw?

Considering value, durability and ease-of-use, the question is easily answered with the Makita Miter Saw. The Makita mitre saw has three blade sizes: 12", 10" and 7 1/2". A few of its available features are a built in stand, LED light, and laser-guided. They sell for between $440 and $850 depending on the size and features included. Makita makes a saw that is good enough for the professional and easy enough for the do-it-yourselfer. When you take into consideration Makita's iron clad guarantee and nationwide network of service centers combined with the price, durability, power and ease-of-use; it simply makes the decision a no brainer.


Where is the Best Place to Buy My New Saw?

It depends on your priorities really. If you need it right away and have access, your local Home Depot usually has a nice selection. If you have a week or so and want to save a few dollars, I recommend you shop for it online at Amazon.

Makita Sliding Miter Saw Price Comparison

The most popular Makita Sliding Miter Saw selling today is the  12 inch Dual Slide Compound Miter saw (LS1216L). Buying from your local Home Depot is obviously the quickest way to get one and, unless it's on sale, the most expensive. It is usually for sale at around $645. Their website, homedepot.com, is much less at $599 with 6-14 business days free shipping. Ebay offers the Makita Sliding Miter Saw three different ways: auction where the price is pretty close to the "But It Now" price, refurbished at $519 or the "Buy It Now" price of $626.99 and all three offer free shipping at 5-12 business days. Amazon looks like they offer the best deal consistently at only $579 (sometimes less) and include free shipping in 5-8 business days. This seems to be the best deal if you've got about a week you can wait. If you are interested in going to check it out for yourself and/or purchase, just click on one of the links below:

Amazon - click here
Home Depot - click here
Ebay - click here

Other Makita Power Tools Available

We also have another website with valuable information available for the Makita Drill. There is information provided for Makita Drills, the Makita Cordless Drill, the Makita 18V Combi Drill, Cordless Drills, and the Makita 18V Drill.