Even though we will have a lot of electrical products in 2023, we have been finding ways to finish our jobs efficiently since the dawn of manhood.
For example, when it comes to woodworking and carpentry, we have made axes and manual saws that have significantly decreased the amount of time it takes to prepare for an incoming winter by a considerable margin.
Nowadays, we have surpassed the outdated tools and moved on to electrical products that need minutes to cut a piece of wood or a wooden board.
Before modern miter saws were first introduced, we used a backsaw stored inside a miter box, but those days are over.
Now we have the 12-inch miter saws consisting of a circular saw that can easily make bevel cuts or cross-cuts.
Of course, you want the very best, which is why the topic of this article revolves around finding the best 12-inch miter saw and the best 12 inch sliding compound miter saw on the market.
Stay tuned and see which one it is!
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Top 6 12-inch Miter Saws You Can Buy
$$ — DEWALT Sliding Compound 12-Inch Miter Saw ~ 56 lbs - It's not a top-level secret that the best miter saws are expensive, but we've managed to find one that won't leave you crying over your banking balance. This is the top product in terms of price and quality ratio.
$$$ — BOSCH Power Tools GCM12SD Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide ~ 65 lbs. Bosch has always been one of the superior companies in the woodworking world, so it's no wonder that they've made this beast of a saw that features the axial glide system for advanced alignment and wider cross-cuts.
$$ — Skil Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw ~ 42.5 lbs. Whatever you do, you can't go wrong with Skil. In this case, you'll be investing less than $300 for a powerful dual-bevel compound miter saw that cuts at 4500 RPMs.
$$$ — Delta Dual-Bevel Sliding Cruzer Miter Saw ~ 57 lbs. Miter saws are always exposed to debris and contact with the stock, which often results in damages and breaks. So, why not put your money into the most durable miter saw we could find?
$$ — Metabo HPT 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw ~ 77.8 lbs. This one has it all. It's a complete 12-inch miter saw we were able to find with all the necessary accessories you'll need for a woodworking project.
$$$ — Makita LS1219L 12" Sliding Compound Miter Saw ~ 81.6 lbs. A precise miter system, single-glide operations, and increased vertical cutting capacity. Do we have to go on?
You can discuss all you want about the practicality of single-bevel, double-bevel, compound, or non-compound saws, and there's bound to be inconsistencies in opinions.
Well, the DWS779 DeWalt miter saw leaves no room for rumors and opinions - it's efficient and does the job in the blink of an eye!
We don't have to waste a lot of lines telling you the perks and benefits that you'll get when you make a deal with DeWalt. In essence, you'll receive a rock-solid warranty deal, a durable tool, and an affordable price tag to top it all off.
When it comes to this DeWalt sliding compound miter saw, we've got a couple of key traits to share with you.
Firstly, since this is a compound miter saw, you'll be able to make angled cuts to the left and to the right on ten positive stops in the range between 0 and 48 degrees.
Secondly, DeWalt treats all of their tools, including saws, like they are made for every possible situation. Therefore, the DWS779 can make cross-cuts, bevels, and angled cuts at consistent speeds that can go up to 3800 RPMs.
The sliding system is not only useful in the sense that you can cut wider and larger boards, but it also improves the overall stability of the miter saw, delivers fast cuts, and even enables you to make chop cuts thanks to the tall sliding fences.
It is a corded DeWalt sliding compound miter saw, but that shouldn't even be a priority considering that DeWalt incorporates its 20V max system with almost all of its power tools, including miter saws.
All in all, it has an impressive cutting capacity, a precise miter system, a miter detent override, and a vertical clamp. Do you really need anything else?
- Quality deal
- Compound capabilities
- Crosscut capacity
- Compact slide system
- Linear ball bearings
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If you're a jobsite worker and one of your main goals is optimizing the work environment in terms of space, the BOSCH Power Tools GCM12SD Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide will be the perfect fit for your arsenal of tools.
In technical terms, this is a dual-bevel 12-inch miter saw that features Bosch's patented Axial Glide System instead of the traditional compound saw features. Essentially, the main difference lies in the fact that this type of saw maximizes the use of space with no clearance, as opposed to compound saws.
Furthermore, this type of technology allows the user of the saw to make significantly wider cuts since there's a 12-inch gap to benefit from. This stems from the fact that the axial system folds the arm of the saw and improves your overall maneuverability.
What Bosch accomplishes the best in comparison with its competition is building proprietary parts that have no match. Take the fence, for example. This unit has a fence system with a quick-release lever and automatic adjustments that require no effort from your side.
Moreover, the build of this miter saw has an expanded cutting capacity that's ideal for larger woodworking projects. Horizontal capacity is 14 inches, vertical is 6-1/2 inches, and crown base molding with a 45-degree spring is also 6-1/2 inches.
Based on its performance and stats, this is the 12-inch miter saw that you should get. So, why isn't this one the top pick?
A good miter saw, especially 12-inch models, should be lightweight and easy to transport, given the nature of their application and the projects you'll use it for. This one seemed a bit hefty, and that's the only real reason it's not in the first place.
- Axial sliding glide system
- Dual-bevel properties
- Support crown molding
- Motor power
- Dust collection system
- Hefty
- No laser marking system
This previous power tool was the embodiment of power and versatility, but it lacked additions that allow easier transportation and use. We're not here to leave you hanging, so here's our compact and lightweight Skil Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw.
Unlike the DeWalt miter saw and the Bosch model, this double-bevel sliding saw offers something slightly different than what you'd expect.
Namely, the main focus behind this model is absolute precision and transportability, unlike durability and the abundance of features in the previous ones.
This Skil unit has nine positive stops that accommodate the standard miter angle, but each cut is controlled and measured thanks to the laser cutline guide. Furthermore, the manufacturer didn't skip out on the motor power as well.
The cutting speed is maxed out at 4500 RPMs thanks to the powerful 15-amp motor and a lightweight design.
Most importantly, we had to include this unit for one simple reason - it's so easy to use and carry!
Firstly, you have table extensions rails on both sides that let you work with thick and wide boards or different types of materials.
Secondly, it includes the quick-mount system, as well as blade guards. The total weight is only 42.5 lbs, which is the perfect weight for a single person to carry without getting tired. We tried it, and the cuts were clean with no left-outs or debris.
Unfortunately, you can't adjust the depth of each cut, so you'll have to do it by eye if you're not making cross-cuts or bevel cuts. Other than that, this one even stands its ground against the DeWalt miter saw.
- Easy to assemble/ quick-mount
- Lightweight and compact
- Strong motor power
- Wide cutting space
- No adjustments for depth capacity
Miter saws are not considered the most user-friendly power tools out there, and you'll usually have to use them for a while until you get that final grip and understanding of space organization. Until then, you can use the Delta Dual-Bevel Sliding Cruzer Miter Saw - a woodworker's best friend.
The first feature that we liked about this sliding compound miter saw was its design. After you finish carving out an appropriate miter angle, the miter detent override will let you make micro-adjustments to your work for more precise cuts.
The build of this unit is perfect for ambidextrous people, thanks to the ergonomically-molded handle and balanced controls. You'll generally hear that the best 12-inch miter saws have a double-bevel design, and it's correct in most cases.
Dual-bevel miter saws enable you to make miter cuts on the left and the right by pivoting the miter saw blade in the desired direction. In this case, you can do it at a 47-degree angle with seven positive stops in between.
Another cool thing about this Delta sliding compound miter saw is the specific set of materials that were used to build it. Technically, it is a heavy-duty unit, but wait till you hear this. It has a military-grade frame made of aluminum that retains durability but significantly cuts off weight.
In addition to all of this, you'll even get a 5-year warranty for maximum insurance. On the other hand, it's the prices miter saw on this list, so it is a bargain, but this is certainly a unit that deserves to be called the best 12 sliding compound miter saw.
- Ergonomic design
- Seven positive stops
- Military-grade build
- 5-year warranty
- Expensive
Perfecting a wooden chair or a shelf takes more than just one power tool, and no one likes to borrow stuff from neighbors or friends. Therefore, here's a woodworking kit with a bunch of stuff, including one quality Metabo HPT 12-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw.
As far as the kit goes, you'll receive a lightweight drill driver and a compact impact driver aside from the 12-inch miter saw. The entire set is not that expensive, especially when you consider the fact that there are 12-inch miter saws that cost as much as this awesome kit.
When it comes to the saw, there are a couple of features we'd like to mention that we believe stand out—number one - bevel adjustment. You can set the miter angle up to 57 degrees on both sides, thanks to the compact slide system.
Moreover, this unit has fixed rails that allow the saw head to slide without needing rear clearance. You can even raise the fence to 5-1/8 inches for vertical crown molding. It has a nice dust collection mechanism and comes with a dust collection bag.
Metabo sells a lot of woodworking power tools, but it's quite surprising to see that they have such a quality product in their arsenal that goes for this price. Not only that, but it also comes with a 5-year warranty, which is astounding.
We did notice that the laser guide kind of vanishes when you lower the saw. Also, it doesn't have a large cutting capacity like some of the previous models, but it holds its ground.
- Complete kit
- 57-degree angle
- Accurate cuts
- Vertical vise
- 5-year warranty
- Laser guide vanishes when adjusting the heigh
- Cutting capacity
You know what you're in for when you see Makita's name on the board. Since this is our last item in the tool reviews, let's just dig right into the Makita LS1219L 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw review.
One saw had to take the last place, but that doesn't mean it's poorly constructed or that it has some major flaws. Right off the bat, we want to tell you that the only reason it's in sixth place was its size and laser guide system.
It's a bit bulky and weighs over 80 lbs, which is slightly problematic. Also, the laser is a bit outdated, and there are better systems available for newer 12-inch miter saws.
But, what makes this 12-inch compound sliding miter saw special is the single-glide operation. Essentially, the two-steel rail reduces the footprint of the saw and allows you to finish the work much faster. Furthermore, the gearbox is perfect for vertical cutting, especially for 8-inch crown molding.
One of the benefits of having a heavy-duty miter saw is that you'll get some perks that lightweight units don't have. For example, this saw has a built-in laser, a dual dust collection port, and a large aluminum base that improves the stability of the entire device.
Overall, if it were slightly cheaper, we would've definitely placed it higher up.
- Heavy-duty product
- Single-glide operation
- The dual dust collection port
- Built-in laser
- Heavy
- Outdated laser
The things you should know about 12-inch miter saws: A buyer's guide
In its essence, a miter saw is a standard type of a jobsite saw that can make various cuts at positive stops in the range between 0 and 50 degrees, sometimes more.
You won't find an authentic and innovative miter saw among the sea of products right now, but there are still some differences that separate a quality 12-inch miter saw from a bad one. But, how would you know the difference?
We'll go over a couple of the key points regarding miter saws and supply you with enough information to conclude your purchase. Stay tuned!
1. Application
Even though there are a ton of miter saws based on their design, build, and saw blade size, you should first determine why you're buying a miter saw and what you will use it for.
In most cases, 12-inch models are sold for cutting 4x4 and 2x4 boards under a specific angle that only miter saws can achieve.
However, you might want to try crown molding or 90-degree cuts, which require specific designs.
Also, some 12-inch miter saws can even be used for certain metals if the blade is strong enough and the fence can withstand that type of pressure.
2. Accuracy
A miter saw's accuracy is highly determined by three factors - rip fence, the blade, and adjustments. Now, you cannot always get the best of all three worlds, but you should at least try to compromise and get something that'll work for your needs.
For example, owning a larger blade won't necessarily improve your accuracy. A larger blade is a major help with thick materials and some metals, but its sharpness and durability are the things that you should pay attention to - TPI, the material of the blade, CNC-machine builds, etc.
3. Additional equipment
Naturally, there are some accessories that miter saws have that table saws don't.
Miter scales are a necessity, and you should look for stainless steel miter scales with marked bevel detents for cutting and roof pitch angles.
A dust collection system isn't a priority, but if you're getting it, make sure to grab a miter saw with a dust bag since they don't always come with the package.
4. Warranty
Unfortunately, cutting accuracy and power are not the reflection of the warranty you'll get for a certain product. In most cases, it heavily relies on the prowess of the manufacturer and how well they're doing on the market at the time.
However, you should still not be satisfied with a warranty deal that's under a year.
Most companies will offer at least one or 2-year deals as a part of the limited warranty deal for the bare tool. If you're ordering some accessories, they won't be included in the deal.
FAQs
Who makes the best 12-inch chop saw?
Chop saws and miter saws differ a bit in their functionality and application, but the common denominator is the company that makes the best ones.
DeWalt is a world-renowned manufacturer of power tools, including these saws, and it's obviously our favorite one. Also, Makita and Skill are up there when it comes to chopping saws.
Which miter saw is the most accurate?
Our favorite when it comes to accuracy is undoubtedly the Skil Dual-Bevel Sliding Miter Saw. Even though you can't adjust the depth, the scale and the blade are so good, including the laser system. Working with it is so easy and straightforward that you'll never think about replacing it with a newer model.
How deep can a 12-inch miter saw cut?
It really depends on the unit you're using, but 12-inch miter saws can usually cut up to 3.5 or 4 inches, based on the design. This is more than enough for a 4x4 wooden board, which is the standard.
Will a 12-inch miter saw cut a 12-inch board?
Not really. 12-inch miters can cut 7-1/2-inch boards.
What is the best 12-inch miter saw?
Let us start off by saying that these are undoubtedly the 6 best miter saws right now.
Some are better than the rest based on their application or design, but the one that truly took our breath away was the DEWALT Sliding Compound 12-Inch Miter Saw.
It's lightweight, well-crafted, runs fast, and makes compound cuts with such ease. Not only that, but it's so affordable, which is a huge plus when it comes to 12-inch miters. It's in its own league!
- Stainless steel miter detent plate of the 12-inch miter saw blade comes with 10 positive stops
- The mitre saw has a precise miter system and machined base fence support
- Precise miter system and machined base fence support Cam-lock miter handle with detent override delivers quick and accurate miter angles for DEWALT miter saw
- Tall sliding fences support 6-3/4-inch base vertically
- Bevels 0 degree - 48degree left and right
Final thoughts
This is all the major info we have on the best 12-inch miter saws.
We can't really give you a recommendation since they're all so good and you won't make a bad choice if you choose either one.
Our favorite is the DeWalt model, but any product here will do you good. All we can strive for is that you use it in good health and for years to come.
Thank you for reading!