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Miter Saw Uses – What Can It Be Used For?

By: David S. Miles | Last Updated: January 20, 2024

The Miter Saw is one very popular machine amongst woodworkers and DIYers, thanks to its many functions and the fact that it serves its purpose perfectly. This type of saw has different uses that you need to know if you are buying it.

Today we are going to share with you some of the general miter saw uses and some considerations you should take into account.

Miter Saw Uses

The miter saw can complete regular crosscuts, angled cuts, bevel and compound cuts, but this does not mean it is limited to them. However, these are the cuts the miter saw can do with ease.

Regular Crosscuts


The miter saw can be used for regular crosscuts, or in other words- to cut a wood in half. This saw will be your best option since it is stable and powerful. It is a heavy saw, but you can put it in a workbench and adjust the material. It is easy to make the perfect cut with a miter saw, that’s why it is used by both professionals and beginners.

Angled Cuts


Angled cuts are also known as miter cuts. The miter saw can make very good angled cuts. Most often they can cut up to 50 degrees to the left and right, but this depends on the model and the brand. Even though you may buy a miter saw that has a larger range it will always have a limit on the length of cut and blade size.

You can make angled cuts when you are cutting furniture with angles, or when you are making a frame. The angled cuts are used for flooring and many other DIY projects too. So, if you like doing some projects on your own at home and you oftenly have to do angled cuts you definitely need a miter saw.

Bevel Cuts

The bevel cuts have always been difficult even for a professional. Even though they may be hard to accomplish, the miter saw can make a bevel cut with ease, because it is a powerful machine. With a miter saw you can even make a bevel cut into a wide board.

Most often, bevel cuts are used for geometric shapes.

Compound cuts


The compound cuts are as hard as the bevel cuts and many beginners do not do them. They are a combination of miter and bevel cuts. You will not need to make compound cuts often, but when you do it is always a good idea to have the right tool beside you.

These cuts are useful for complex angles, for making serving trays and many other difficult projects.

Best Selling Miter Saws

Other Considerations

When talking about the uses of a miter saw there are some considerations that have to be taken into account.

Repeatable Cuts


There are situations in which you will have to make repeatable cuts. You can easily do that with a miter saw by putting a stop on one end of the material and butting your work against that stop. 

You will make absolutely identical cuts, which may be really hard with some other types of saws as a circular one.

Built-in Workbench

Using a built-in workbench may be really helpful for using a miter saw. It will make easier positioning boards while making the cut. Most of the professionals use a built-in workbench, and it is a really good option for beginners too.

Sliding Saw

If you want to cut wider pieces of wood, then the sliding miter saw will help you do that. It is more expensive, but if you can afford it it is the best option. You will never need to flip the wood over and over until you cut it into two pieces again.

The miter saw is perfect for different uses as regular board cuts, angled cuts, compound cuts and many more. It is a good option for beginners and professionals, because it is one very useful tool. If you are new to saws, the miter saw will be a very good option for you. Do some research and make the perfect choice based on the tasks you are going to accomplish.We wish you good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a miter saw good for?

A miter saw is good for trim work, angled cuts, moulding, rafters and many other applications. Equipped with the right blade, these powerful machines can accomplish any task. They are good for beginners and professionals too.

What is the most common reason to use a miter saw?

Miter saws are most often used for cutting of molding and trim. These machines can accomplish many tasks such as making precise cuts, angled cuts and many more.

Can you use a miter saw as a table saw?

Miter saw can make the same cuts as the table saw, however, the table saw is not good for making precision cuts. 

When you can’t use a miter saw?

You can’t use a miter saw when it is placed on the ground. You can not cut pieces smaller than 20 cm. Furthermore, it is not a good idea to use the miter saw when you don’t have stability. That’s why a built-in worktable is always a good idea.
Additionally, you should never use the miter saw if your hands are not away from the blade, because this may be very dangerous for you.

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