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When it comes to using a miter saw, there are several mistakes that beginners and even professionals can make. In this article, readers will learn about 12 common mistakes to avoid when using a miter saw, as well as tips and tricks to make the process safer and more efficient.
The article will cover topics such as avoiding dangerous angles, choosing the right blade, ensuring saw accuracy, dust protection measures, proper body positioning, safe clothing practices, and handling small cuts safely. By following the advice in this article, readers can improve their miter saw skills and avoid potential injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid dangerous angles and create a jig to ensure accuracy.
- Choose the right blade for the job to improve the quality of cuts.
- Take safety precautions such as checking the saw for square, using dust protection, avoiding loose clothing, and handling small cuts carefully.
Avoiding Dangerous Angles
Creating a Safe Jig for Extreme Angles
One common mistake that people make when using a miter saw is cutting dangerous angles. For instance, if the miter saw only goes up to 50 degrees in one direction and 60 degrees in the other direction, but a 65-degree cut is needed, it can be dangerous to try and make the cut by lining up the mark with the blade and holding it steady.
To avoid this danger, a safe jig can be created for extreme angles. First, a 2×6 board should be cut down to the same width as the table or base of the saw. Next, double-stick tape should be placed on either side of the board, making sure not to tape the side that pivots. The board should be flat and not rocking before it is pushed against the fence and set straight down.
Once the board is securely in place, 45-degree cuts should be made in both directions, and then the center piece should be removed. This will make the board 45 degrees instead of zero. With the two pieces acting as a fence, a cut can be made at zero degrees, which will actually be 45 degrees. To reach 65 degrees, the board should be moved to 20 degrees and locked down before making the cut.
This method allows for a very large angle, such as 65 degrees, to be safely cut on the miter saw using the new jig. When the cut is finished, the double-stick tape can be removed, and the miter saw will be back to normal without any damage. This technique can be useful when making furniture or other projects that require extreme angles.
It is important to note that the stock blade that comes with a miter saw is typically meant for rough construction and is not ideal for woodworking projects. It is recommended to replace the blade with a blade such as the CMT 8802 blade, which lasts a long time and cuts very cleanly. Other budget options, such as the Diablo line of blades, are also available.
In addition, it is crucial to check the saw for square before use. This can be done by using a simple square to ensure that the blade is square to the fence. If the blade is not square, adjustments can be made using the owner’s manual.
Another mistake to avoid is not having any type of dust protection. This can be achieved by using a dust mask or a dust collection system such as a shop vac or dust extractor. It is important to wear the mask while cutting and to leave it on until the air is clear of dust.
Finally, it is important to avoid crossing arms while operating the saw and to avoid loose or baggy clothing around the blade. Small pieces should also not be cut on the miter saw, as they can get pulled around by the blade and cause a kickback. By following these tips and using proper techniques, dangerous angles can be avoided while using a miter saw.
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Choosing the Right Blade
Upgrading from the Stock Blade
One of the common mistakes that most beginners make is keeping the stock blade that comes with their miter saw. These blades are typically meant for rough construction and are not suitable for woodworking or making furniture. To avoid this mistake, it is recommended to upgrade the blade to a better quality one. The CMT 8802 blade is an excellent choice as it lasts a long time and cuts super clean. Other budget-friendly options include the Diablo line of blades.
Recommended Blade Types
When choosing a blade for your miter saw, it is essential to select the appropriate type based on the job at hand. For crosscuts, blades with a high tooth count are recommended as they prevent more tear-out and result in a cleaner cut. On the other hand, for ripping, blades with a lower tooth count are preferred as they cut faster and are more efficient.
It is also important to consider the material being cut when selecting a blade. For cutting hardwoods, blades with a high tooth count and a negative hook angle are recommended. For cutting softwoods, blades with a lower tooth count and a positive hook angle are preferred.
In conclusion, upgrading the stock blade and selecting the appropriate blade type based on the job and material being cut are essential for achieving clean and accurate cuts with a miter saw.
Ensuring Saw Accuracy
Checking for Square
One of the most common mistakes made by beginners, intermediates, and even professionals is not checking the miter saw for square. It is essential to make sure that the blade is square to the fence to avoid inaccuracies. To check for square, the user should ensure that the saw is unplugged or the batteries are removed. Then, they should take a simple square and line it up with the blade. If the blade is not square, there is an easy fix. Most saws have an adjustment that allows the user to move the plate around to adjust where zero is at. The user can then check the 90-degree angle by getting between the teeth of the blade to get an accurate reading.
Adjusting for Precision
Another mistake beginners make is cutting dangerous angles. Miter saws have a limited range of angles, and it can be dangerous to try to cut angles outside of this range. To safely cut angles outside of the saw’s range, the user can create a jig. First, they should cut a 2×6 down to the same width as the saw’s base and use double-stick tape to ensure it is flat and not rocking. Then, they can cut 45-degree angles in both directions and remove the center piece to create a 45-degree jig. To cut a 65-degree angle, the user can move the jig to 20 degrees and lock it down. This will create a 65-degree angle safely and accurately.
Conclusion
By checking for square and adjusting for precision, users can ensure that their miter saw is accurate and safe to use. Additionally, it is important to replace the stock blade with a blade designed for woodworking and to use dust protection to avoid inhaling harmful particles. Finally, users should avoid crossing their arms and wearing loose or baggy clothing around the blade to prevent accidents. By following these tips, users can make the most of their miter saw and achieve accurate and precise cuts.
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Dust Protection Measures
Using Quality Dust Masks
One of the most common mistakes that beginners make when using a miter saw is not using any type of dust protection. This can be dangerous as the saw can create a lot of dust, which can be harmful to the lungs if inhaled. The easiest and most budget-friendly way to protect oneself is to use a good quality dust mask. RZ mask is a popular choice among woodworkers. The M2 model is a one-strap mask that is comfortable to wear. The M3 model has a couple of extra straps. It is essential to wear the mask while cutting and even during assembly to avoid breathing in the dust.
Implementing Dust Collection Systems
Apart from using a dust mask, another option is to use a dust collection system. The dust collection system can be a shop vac or a dust extractor. A shop vac with a high horsepower motor is recommended as it can pull the most airflow through the saw. A dust extractor is also a good option. Festool CT36 is an excellent dust extractor that works well with miter saws. It is important to note that some miter saws are worse than others when it comes to dust collection. Aftermarket fittings are available to help improve the dust collection.
It is crucial to keep the work area clean and free of dust. Dust can accumulate in the base of the saw, which can be dangerous. Loose or long sleeve baggy clothing should be avoided around the blade, as it can get caught in the blade and cause serious injuries.
Proper Body Positioning
Avoiding Arm Crossing
When using a miter saw, it is important to avoid crossing your arms. This means that if you are right-handed, you should hold the board with your right hand on the right side of the blade and operate the saw with your left hand on the left side of the blade. Crossing your arms puts your arm in a dangerous position, especially in the event of kickback.
It is also important to avoid loose or baggy clothing that could get caught in the blade. If you are wearing long sleeves, make sure they are not too baggy and stay away from the blade.
In addition, beginners should avoid cutting very small pieces on the miter saw. The saw is not designed for this and there is a risk of the piece getting pulled around by the blade, causing kickback and potential injury.
By following these tips for proper body positioning, users can operate the miter saw safely and avoid common mistakes.
Safe Clothing Practices
When using a miter saw, it is important to avoid loose or baggy clothing that could get caught in the blade. Long sleeves should also be avoided, especially if they are too loose. This is to prevent any injuries to the forearm or hand area.
Additionally, beginners should avoid crossing their arms while using the saw. This puts the arm in a dangerous position, especially if there is a kickback. Holding the board with the right hand on the right side of the blade and operating the saw with the left hand on the left side is the recommended way to use the saw.
Beginners should also avoid cutting very small pieces on the miter saw. The saw is not designed for this, and there is a risk of the piece getting pulled around by the blade, causing a kickback.
Lastly, it is important to wear appropriate safety gear, including a dust mask to protect against inhalation of dust particles. A dust collection system, such as a shopvac or dust extractor, is also recommended to keep the workspace clean and safe.
Handling Small Cuts Safely
When making small cuts on a miter saw, it is important to avoid certain mistakes to ensure safety. The following tips and tricks can help make small cuts safer:
- Avoid cutting dangerous angles. Trying to hold a board steady to make a cut at an unsafe angle can be extremely dangerous. Instead, create a jig by cutting a 2×6 and using double stick tape to ensure it is flat and stable. Cut 45° angles in both directions and remove the center piece to create a 45° jig. Move the jig to 20° and lock it down to create a 65° angle safely and accurately.
- Replace the stock blade that comes with the miter saw. These blades are typically meant for rough construction and are not ideal for woodworking. Upgrade to a blade like the CMT 8802 blade for a cleaner cut.
- Check the miter saw for square. Make sure the blade is square to the fence by using a simple square. If it is not square, adjust it as needed by referring to the owner’s manual. Check the 90° angle as well to ensure accuracy.
- Use dust protection. Wear a good quality dust mask like the RZ mask or use a dust collection system like a shop vac or dust extractor. Avoid breathing in dust while assembling projects.
- Avoid crossing arms when cutting. Hold the board on the right side and operate the saw on the left if right-handed, or vice versa if left-handed. Do not cross arms as this puts them in a dangerous position.
- Avoid loose or baggy clothing around the blade. Long sleeves are okay as long as they are not too baggy and stay away from the blade.
- Avoid cutting very small pieces on the miter saw. The gap between the fences can cause small pieces to get pulled around by the blade and cause kickback, which can lead to serious injuries.
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