When you are stocking your workshop one of the primary power tools you might consider purchasing is the saw. Although many will choose a 10-inch model, 12″ miter saws are also worth taking into consideration. What is the best miter saw 12 inch you can buy?
The information provided below, together with the reviews that go with it, can aid you in determining the most suitable model for your workshop and woodworking needs.
- 7 Best Miter Saw 12 inch The Homeowner
- Quick Summary
- Reviews of the Best 12 Inch Miter Saws
- 1. DEWALT Miter Saw DWS715
- 2. DEWALT Double Bevel Compound Miter Saw DWS716XPS
- 3. SKIL 12-Inch Miter Saw 3821-01
- 4. DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw DWS779
- 5. SKILSAW SPT88-01
- 6. Metabo HPT C12FDHS 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw
- 7. BOSCH 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw GCM12SD
- The main thing you need to know as a buyer of 12 inch miter saws
- Features worth paying attention to
- Amps score
- Bevel Capacity
- Stops and Depth stop
- Accuracy
- Dust collector
- Safety is above all
- FAQ
- Should You Buy A 12-Inch Miter Saw?
- How to set up a laser on a 12 inch miter saw?
- Is a 10 or 12″ Miter Saw Better?
- How thick can a piece of wood be cut with a 12″ miter saw?
- How long can a miter saw last?
- Our top choice – the best 12 inch miter saw
- Summing It Up
7 Best Miter Saw 12 inch The Homeowner
If you’re searching for the most effective 12″ saw, you are likely to run into a challenge that we’ve all encountered. There are too many choices to pick from. Don’t worry about it. We have compiled a list of seven of the best miter saws 12″. We acknowledge that these aren’t all miter saws available in the market. However, we believe that our selection will help you through your search.
You can find step-by-step instructions on how to use a miter saw in this article.
Quick Summary
- DEWALT Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw DWS715 – great saw at a good price
- DEWALT Double Bevel Compound Miter Saw DWS716XPS – extended power and durability
- SKIL 12-Inch Quick Mount Compound Miter Saw with Laser 3821-01 – high portable design
- DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw DWS779 – accurate cuts
- SKILSAW Worm Drive Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw SPT88-01 – the best 12 inch miter saw for speedy cutting
- Metabo HPT C12FDHS 12-Inch Compound Miter Saw – best value for money
- BOSCH 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw GCM12SD – smoothness and precision
Reviews of the Best 12 Inch Miter Saws
1. DEWALT Miter Saw DWS715
Specifications:
- Brand – DEWALT
- Blade Length – 12 Inches
- Speed – 4000 RPM
- Cutting Angle – 90 Degrees
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Item Weight – 42.8 pounds
- Item Dimensions LxWxH – 26.77 x 21.85 x 18.9 inches
The 12-inch Single Bevel Compound Miter Saw is powered by a 15 Amp motor, which can run 4000 rpm, which provides extra power and durability.
It has a stainless-steel miter detent plate and a cam miter lock, providing high-quality and repeatable accuracy with simple adjustments.
Tall sliding fences support 5-1/2 inches of crown molding vertically and 5 1/2 inches horizontally nestled. Its light design and the built-in carry handle are perfect for mobility.
2. DEWALT Double Bevel Compound Miter Saw DWS716XPS
Specifications:
- Brand – DEWALT
- Blade Length – 12 Inches
- Speed – 3800 RPM
- Cutting Angle – 50 Degrees
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Item Weight – 49 pounds.
Another great miter saw from DEWALT. This 12-inch Double-Bevel Compound of DEWALT miter saw has a 15 Amp motor that runs at 3,800 RPM. It delivers extended power and endurance. For visibility and accuracy, the integrated CUTLINE feature (LED-work light system) allows for adjustment-free cutting lines.
Saw equipped with stop plate and carbide blade with 14 stops and double bevel design. It also has a cam miter lock system which allows for easy adjustments and repeatable accuracy.
The tall sliding fences can support 6-1/2 inches of vertical base molding and 6-5/8 inches of vertical crown molding nested. High-efficiency dust collection is achieved by concentrating at the point where it is cut. The lightweight design and integrated carry handle make it easy to transport. The tool comes with a carbide-tipped blade, a wrench, a dust bag, and a quick clamp.
3. SKIL 12-Inch Miter Saw 3821-01
Specifications:
- Brand – SKIL
- Blade Length – 12 Inches
- Speed – 4500 RPM
- Cutting Angle – 90 Degrees
- Blade Material – High Speed Steel
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Item Weight – 42.5 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 28.28 x 18.15 x 20.5 inches
The SKIL 3821-01 features a quick mounting system that makes it easier to set up the saw stand. This miter saw is equipped with laser guidance and can cut quickly at a specific angle.
You can use it with large workpieces because the table extensions allow you to place them left or right. It is a bevel compound miter that can cut through miter and bevel. The head can tilt in both left and right, making bevel miter cuts from top left to bottom right, or from top right to bottom left. It can also work with large workpieces as it has table extensions for left or right.
Skil has added nine positive stops to the saw. This allows you to quickly set up popular angles that you may use in your project. Most people can operate the lock mechanism and handle it with one hand. Finger knobs used to tighten the table extensions in place may be more difficult to tighten without working loose over time, however.
4. DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw DWS779
Specifications:
- Brand – DEWALT
- Blade Length – 12 Inches
- Cutting Angle – 45 Degrees
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Item Weight – 56 Pounds
- Product Dimensions – 21″L x 17″W x 17″H
The presented model ensures impressive motor power. The Dewalt Sliding Compound Miter Saw DWS779 can cut precisely with 10 positive stops because it is made of stainless steel. This miter saw has dual horizontal steel rails with a clamping mechanism and linear ball bearings. These characteristics ensure the accuracy and durability of the saw. A cam lock miter handle with detent override delivers quick and accurate miter angles.
With this miter saw you can make very precise cuts. The Dewalt DWS779 is perfectly suited for jobsites as well as garage shops for the DIY-er. With a 12-inch blade and the ability to slide, this saw is capable of cross-cutting very wide stock.
The miter gauge on the saw with stops at the most common angles is pretty spot on and standard for a saw of this caliber. The bevel adjustment is performed by loosening the knob at the back of the saw and then retightening it to the desired bevel angle.
We recommend this saw, it is a reliable tool.
5. SKILSAW SPT88-01
Specifications:
- Brand – SKILSAW
- Blade Length – 12 Inches
- Speed – 4000 RPM
- Cutting Angle – 45 Degrees
- Blade Material – High Speed Steel
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Item Weight – 51 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 31.25 x 19 x 20 inches
With an ordinary 15 amp motor, the saw has speeds as high as 4000 RPM. It comes with a worm drive gearing, which increases the torque as well. With a 4-by-14 cross cut capability and dual bevels of 0 and 45 option, with pre-set stops. It may require calibration. The set includes a 60 tooth carbide blade.
It has a built-in LED Shadow Light which provides excellent cutting precision. It also provides a smooth operation, which isn’t often seen when it comes to belt-driven miter saws.
The dust collector has an average level and you will require a vacuum cleaner in order to keep your saw clean.
6. Metabo HPT C12FDHS 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw
Specifications:
- Brand – METABO HPT
- Blade Length – 12 Inches
- Cutting Angle – 45 Degrees
- Blade Material – High Speed Steel
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Voltage – 120 Volts
- Speed – 4000 RPM
- Product Dimensions – 36.6 x 24 x 23.4 inches
Metabo HPT 12 Inch sliding compound miter saw is a sturdy strong, robust, and well-designed tool that meets the standards established by Metabo. The smoothness of its cuts is achieved mainly due to the axial sliding system. Metabo is also characterized by its ease of use, namely the ease of setting the bevel without having to move behind the miter saw.
The alignment mechanism for the cutline blade as well as the two steel horizontal rails boost the cutting accuracy. The saw is able to handle parts as large as 2х16” wide for 90 degree crosscuts, and 2×12 inches for 45 degree angle bevel cuts. 0-45 degree bevel angle range to the right and left allowing users to quickly and easily flip the saw blade and leave the material in place.
It’s not a problem to worry about dust accumulation on your work space when you use it in conjunction with a high-quality vacuum.
7. BOSCH 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw GCM12SD
Specifications:
- Brand – BOSCH
- Blade Length – 12 Inches
- Cutting Angle – 90 Degrees
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Voltage – 120 volts
Bosch GCM12SD BOSCH GCM12SD – is a 12″ corded dual-bevel sliding miter saw with a large cutting capacity which is driven by a 120V electric corded 15 amp motor. It has 60 teeth of the carbide-tipped blade to ensure smooth and precise cutting performance. It is a big saw, but isnt clunky. The angle changes for compound or miter are in the same spot to make things easy. It is a really powerful tool with a 60 tooth saw blade.
The main feature that stands out in the product lies in its axial glide mechanism. The axial glide system saves you a lot of workspace in operation. The gliding system glides smoothly across the entire cut, allowing an even wider width of cuts than models of similar size.
The miter detent plate is equipped with four screws that are accessible through holes for changing the plate’s position and an arbor lock that prevents the blade from moving when blade removal or installation. This saw works with different 12″ blades. It also has the ability to see through the lower guard for visibility along the cut line.
While it can fast and accurate cuts as it is, this model doesn’t have a laser. This is a bit disappointing considering the cost. Adjustment is simple. This model stands out due to 90 % dust collection.
The main thing you need to know as a buyer of 12 inch miter saws
Features worth paying attention to
Amps score
A key aspect I like to check first is Amps score. This gives me an indication of the electricity the motor in the electric circuit is able to generate. The greater the amp is, the more power the motor is able to generate.
Bevel Capacity
The standard bevel angle can be 45 degree. The compound miter saws degree bevel can be used to cut sharp edges that aren’t perpendicular to the top of the wood. Picking a double bevel can be a costlier option, but it gives you the benefit of a wide degree range for cut capacity. Some of them can cut through as high as 135 degrees on a miter saw.
Stops and Depth stop
Another thing I like to find on a miter-saw is what some refer to as stops. These are found in the height and angle adjustments on a top-quality miter saw. Positive stops are an option determined by the manufacturer where the blade will cease when the blade’s angle is set.
Positive stops allow you to move quickly the saw towards the preset angle without needing to measure it precisely as possible on the gauge. The more positive steps you have, the quicker you can set up for a variety of angled cuts.
Depth stops are points that can be quickly adjusted to which will decide how deep the blade will cut the wood that you work on. They may not be used as often as stops, but a quality miter saw will have at minimum, a few stops which are set to depth. They are a great time saver when making repetitive cuts.
Accuracy
The accuracy of your sliding rails is essential when cutting since the fields that are required are identified. This makes your work much easier and more precise. The laser guide and the LEDs are the two most frequently used precision guides. In contrast, LED precision guides are preferred since lasers aren’t visible outdoors.
Great if after blocking the miter saw does not require additional settings.
Dust collector
Woodworking can be messy, therefore it is important to have a good dust collection mechanism is one you may want to consider purchasing. Today, manufacturers offer 75 percent dust collection efficiency on average and some also include the dust bag as an additional option.
Safety is above all
Safety features are critical with power tools, especially when using 12-inch miter saws because there is a risk of accidents. Blade guards that are articulated should be able to move freely and expose the blade when it cuts through the wood while retracting the blade when it is removed from the wood is working on.
Before purchasing the product, ensure that you purchase models that have an electric brake that stops the blade when you release the switch. Blade guards, trigger locks that lockout and safety clamping mechanism miter saw stop block extension cords are also safety features of a miter saw. A blade guard is a must to prevent cuts in operation as well as when idle.
Another feature to look for is an electric brake. It refers to the miter saw reversing the flow of electricity when you depress your power switch. This allows you to stop the blade swiftly after use.
Spindle locks or shaft locks are other options I’d like to see. They help hold the blade in place when you tighten or loosen it to the saw.
FAQ
Should You Buy A 12-Inch Miter Saw?
A miter saw is used for cutting at an angle. This is achieved with a swing arm on which the blade is mounted.
Naturally that a larger blade allows you to work through larger pieces of wood. Using the 12-inch model you can accurate cuts a large amount of lumber at one time, whereas it would require two passes using the lesser miter saw. It will save you time.
Because of its larger blade, most 12 inch miter saws will come with greater power. More power lets you cut through thicker materials with less effort without slowing down. This extra power could be used to compensate for the slower spin speed on the blade when running through smaller timers.
Because they are larger in cutting power and stronger, 12″ miter saw designs tend to be more robust than other saws which are smaller in size. It could be due to the stronger material used in the fence or plate however they could also include larger motor components designed so that they last for a longer time.
The more powerful designs are utilized frequently in construction areas which will require more durable power tools, too.
12-inch miter saws can make long cuts, which makes them suitable for tasks like deck building. But, you can make use of miter saws of 12 inch miter saw when creating crown moldings or furniture.
How to set up a laser on a 12 inch miter saw?
In most cases, the laser line must remain on the left side of the cut. It is necessary to cut a small hole in the board and then fix the board using clamps so that it won’t move, and align the beam to that cut as per the instruction manual.
Is a 10 or 12″ Miter Saw Better?
The 12″ miter saw is superior to a 10 inches miter saw because bigger blades perform better, particularly in larger workpieces. If you have to cut large crown molding, a 12″ saw can cut through it. The proper size is essential. A 10-inch saw could be less expensive since it has fewer blades and is less trouble to keep in good condition however. In terms of efficiency as well as durability it is advisable to choose a 12″ is way better.
How thick can a piece of wood be cut with a 12″ miter saw?
In general, it is that a saw with a 12″ blade can cut before 7 1/2 inches. This is the width that you require to create two-by-eights. You can also have a 4×4 or 4×6 piece completed in one pass.
How long can a miter saw last?
Don’t give too much importance value to the durability of your equipment if you plan to be using the miter saw often. Many companies provide warranty periods of just 12 months. This means that you should pick a high-quality device that has as few parts made of plastic as possible. It is also crucial to keep the motor cool throughout its operation as major overheating could reduce its lifespan.
Our top choice – the best 12 inch miter saw
The best 12 inch miter saw is the DEWALT DWS715. Its compound sliding miter saw is made up of stainless steel. Very well thought out detentes, a compound only one side so that straight upwards and downwards (vertical roundness) is always exact.
This model has а great trigger safety system, with a horizontal D handle and power and smoothness that makes beautiful and accurate cuts. It is important to note that this 12-” size provides a huge capability, however, it is not very large for a typical “home” saw. With regard to its delivery to the place of work, it’s light and well transported. As with the majority of miter saws, if you carry it by the base and not the trigger handle, it will remain accurate for many years.
This is the best 12 inch miter saw in its class.
Summing It Up
Choosing the best 12 inch miter saw to choose depends largely on your needs and preferences. Professionals who require more capabilities might be interested in investing in high-end professional equipment however enthusiast users can do happy with smaller models.
I would recommend DEWALT DWS715 as a user-friendly and adaptable model. It is a reliable tool that offers an array of operation modes, which makes it ideal for use in almost every setting, and at a fair cost.
I hope this article will be useful to trim carpenters who are already working on woodworking projects, and those who are just about to start working. Since the applications for miter saws vary greatly, it would be interesting to know your opinion on this matter. Leave a comment and don’t forget to share your experience with miter saws if you have any.
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