You will need a radial arm or compound sliding mitersaw if this is the case. Which one is best for you? Let’s compare these tools to help you choose the right one for your project.
What’s The Difference Between A Radial Arm And A Compound Sliding Miter Saw?
Radial arm saws can be used in large spaces, as they don’t require much space. Although they can be mounted to walls or ceilings for some applications, most people prefer them to be free-standing units that are placed on top of their workbenches.
The compact compound sliding miter saws can be used in conjunction with radial arm or radial saws. They are also more portable than radial arms saws. This allows users to use the power tool in a smaller space, but still enjoy all the benefits.
Both options have excellent cutting capabilities. However, there are key differences in how they do day-to-day tasks as well as what type of projects each one is best suited for. We’ll get to those details in the next article. Let’s take a closer look at each option.
Radial Arm Saw
What’s It All About?
Radial arm saws are powerful tools that use a circular saw blade for cutting wood. To make angled cuts, the saw is mounted on an arms that extends from its base. The blade can also be rotated around this arm. This saw is great for cutting lumber along the grain and making crosscuts.
What Does It Mean?
First, set the cutting angle to use a radial-arm saw. Adjusting the position of your saw blade on the arm or using one of the preset angles available on most models will help you set the cutting angle. To make straight cuts, you can use the fence (a guiderail that runs parallel with the blade) once the angle has been set. To make angled cuts, rotate the workpiece so it is against the fence. Then use the saw to cut at the angle you desire.
Could It Be For You?
Radial arm saws are a great choice if you have to make many angled cuts or to rip wood. These saws are also great for those who have lots of space in their workshop. They are not as compact than compound sliding mitersaws so they might not be the best choice for those who don’t have much space in their workshops.
Base Size:
Radial arm saws can be made with a variety of bases, but the majority have a base between 18 and 61cm wide.
Blade Size:
There are many sizes of radial arm saw blades, but most use a 36 cm one.
Motor:
Radial arm saws typically have motors that deliver between 5 and 7 amps.
Plunge Cuts:
Radial arm saws are able to make plunge cuts. This is when the cut goes through the entire workpiece. First, adjust the position of your saw blade on the arm to determine the depth of the cut. You can then use the fence or a miter gauge to keep the workpiece in its place while you are cutting.
Curved Cuts
You can also use radial arm saws to make curved cuts. First, set the angle of the cutting and then attach the fence or miter gauge to secure the workpiece.
Cutting Angles:
Radial arm saws can cut wood at different angles depending on where the blade is located on the arm. While most models offer a range between 45 and 90 degrees for cutting, some models allow you to cut at a wider angle.
Capacity For Cutting:
Radial arm saws are capable of cutting lumber up to 30cm wide and 15cm thick.
Dust:
Radial arm saws can produce a lot dust when used, so it is a good idea to have a dust collector and a shop vacuum to keep your workshop clean.
Safety Features
Radial arm saws have a variety safety features such as blade guards, anti–kickback pawls and riving knives.
Radial arm saws are typically between and
Pros:
- Radial arm saws can be used to rip lumber or make crosscuts.
- You can choose from a variety of cutting angles.
- You can choose from a range of safety features.
Cons:
- They are not as compact than compound sliding mitersaws.
- When they are operated, they produce a lot dust.
Compound Sliding Miter Saw
What’s It All About?
A compound sliding mitersaw is a powerful tool that cuts wood with a circular saw blade. To make angled cuts, the saw is mounted on an arms that extends from its base. The blade can also be rotated around this arm. This saw is great for cutting crosscuts or miter cuts.
What Does It Mean?
First, set the cutting angle for a compound sliding mitersaw. Adjusting the position of your saw blade on the arm or using one of the preset angles available on most models will help you set the cutting angle. After you have set the angle, you can use the saw to make many cuts by moving your base along the arm.
Is This For You?
A compound sliding miter or crosscut saw is the best choice if you are looking to do a lot of miter and crosscuts. This saw can cut larger pieces of wood and is more versatile than a traditional radial arm. This saw is also easy to use, making it an excellent choice for beginners in woodworking.
Base Size:
The base of most compound sliding miter saws is approximately 30 cm in width.
Blade Size
A compound sliding miter-saw blade’s diameter is between 7 and 30 cm.
Motor:
A compound sliding mitersaw’s motor typically draws around 10 amps.
Plunge Cuts:
A plunge cut refers to a type cut in which the blade is dropped below the surface of the timber before the saw is turned. This allows you make deeper cuts than the blade’s thickness. This type of cut is made much easier by many compound sliding miter-saws that include a plunge-cutting function.
Curved Cuts
A pivoting arm allows you to make curves with some compound sliding mitersaws. This is useful for cutting molding and decorative trim.
Cutting Angles:
You can set the angle of most compound sliding mitersaws between 0 to 45 degrees.
Capacity For Cutting:
Although the cutting capacity of a compound slide miter saw can vary, it is usually between 2-8 cm.
Dust:
A compound sliding miter saw can produce a lot of sawdust, so it is important to have a dust collection system. You can either use a shop vacuum or a dust collector on many models.
Safety Features
Every compound sliding mitersaw comes with some safety feature such as an auto blade brake or cutoff button. These safety features are designed to protect the user from injury while operating the saw.
Prices for compound sliding miter saws start at around
Pros:
- You can make many cuts with a compound sliding mitersaw.
- Many models are easy to use, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
- The compound sliding miter saws can withstand repeated use and are made to last.
Cons:
- A compound sliding miter-saw can create a lot of sawdust.
- Although compound sliding miter saws are more expensive than others, they can be very useful if you do a lot woodworking.
Which Saw Is The Best?
The radial arm and compound sliding miter saws have pros and cons. It all depends on the type of cuts that you are making.
A compound sliding mitersaw is a better choice if you have to do a lot of crosscuts and miter cuts. A compound sliding miter saw is also much easier to use than a traditional radial arm, which makes it an excellent choice for beginners. Radial arm saws can make wider cuts so they’re a better choice if you have that need.
It all comes down to personal preference.
FAQs:
Which Saw Is The Best For Beginners?
Because it is simple to use and versatile, the compound sliding mitersaw is the best choice for beginners. Radial arm saws are a little more complicated to use, so they are not recommended.
What Is The Best Choice For Someone Just Starting In Carpentry?
A compound sliding mitersaw is a better choice if you are just beginning in carpentry. It is more versatile and easy to use than a conventional radial arm saw. Radial arm saws can make wider cuts so they’re the best choice.
What Saw Is The Best For DIYers?
Because it’s versatile and simple to use, the compound sliding mitersaw is the best choice for DIYers. Radial arm saws are a little more complicated to use, so they are not recommended.
A Compound Sliding Miter Saw That Is Suitable For Professional Use.
Yes, professional use of a compound sliding mitersaw is possible. It’s durable and can withstand repeated use. It’s versatile and suitable for many projects.
Conclusion:
We’ve discussed the pros and cons for both compound sliding miter and radial arm saws. It’s up to you now to choose which one suits your needs.
Each tool has its advantages. It all depends on the purpose of your use. Radial arm saws are a more powerful option for large projects.
The compound sliding miter saw is a great choice if precision is important. No matter what tool you use, ensure that you read all instructions and wear safety gear whenever operating power tools.
