A miter box is an inexpensive tool that can be used to cut small pieces of wood at precise angles. It’s perfect for making picture frames, boxes, and other small projects. If you’re just getting started with woodworking or need something simple to use, a miter box might be the right choice for you.
Miter saws are a great tool for making precise cuts, but they’re not always the best option. If you need to make a lot of cuts that don’t require precision or accuracy, then using a miter box is better than using a miter saw.
Here we’ll talk about some of the most important features to consider when buying a new miter box or miter saw and how each one affects your cutting capabilities.
We’ll also discuss some common questions people have about these tools before providing our recommendations for three specific models that we think are great choices depending on what kind of projects you plan to use them for most often. By the end, hopefully, we can answer all your questions and provide enough information that makes it easy for you to choose the perfect tool!
1: Miter box
What is it?
A miter box is a simple tool that helps you make precise cuts at different angles. It’s typically made from wood or plastic and has slots for holding your workpiece in place while you cut it. There’s also usually a built-in stop so you can quickly and easily set the angle of your cut.
How does it work?
To use a miter box, first, you need to measure and mark the line where you want to cut. Next, place the wood piece in the box and adjust it until the line is lined up with the slot. Then, use a hand saw to cut along the marked line.
Is it for you?
If you need to make a lot of small, precision cuts at a range of different angles, then a miter box is the right tool for you. It’s perfect for making picture frames, boxes, and other small projects.
Base size:
Most miter boxes have a base that’s around 10-12 inches long. This is a good size for most smaller projects, but if you need to cut larger pieces of wood, you might want to look for a model with a larger base.
Blade size:
The blade size on your miter box will vary depending on the brand and model. However, most blades are around 8-10 inches long. This is the perfect size for making most cuts, but if you need to make a particularly large cut, you might want to look for a model with a larger blade.
Plunge cuts:
Miter boxes are not typically designed for making plunge cuts – that is, cuts where the blade enters the wood from the top. If you need to make this type of cut, you’ll need to use a miter saw instead.
Cutting angles:
Miter boxes typically have slots that allow you to cut at angles between 0 and 45 degrees. This is enough for most common projects, but if you need to make more precise cuts, you might want to look for a model with a wider range of angles.
Curved cuts:
Miter boxes can also be used to make curved cuts, although this can be a bit more difficult. If you need to make curved cuts often, you might want to consider using a miter saw instead.
Cutting capacity:
The cutting capacity of a miter box is the maximum size of wood that it can cut. Most boxes can handle pieces that are around 6-8 inches wide and 3-4 inches deep. If you need to cut larger pieces of wood, you’ll need to use a miter saw instead.
Dust:
Miter boxes don’t typically produce a lot of dust, which makes them a good choice for people who have allergies or asthma. However, if you’re looking for a model that produces even less dust, you might want to consider a miter saw instead.
Safety features:
Miter boxes are typically very safe to use, but it’s always important to read the instructions carefully before using them. Make sure to keep your hands and fingers away from the blade at all times and be careful not to cut yourself on the slots in the box.
Cost:
Miter boxes are relatively affordable, and most models cost between $10 and $50. This is a great option if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to get started with woodworking.
Pros:
Inexpensive
Can make precise cuts at a range of different angles
Very safe to use
Cons:
Not suitable for making plunge cuts
Can be difficult to make curved cuts
Limited cutting capacity
2: Miter saw
What is it?
A miter saw is a powerful tool that is used to make accurate crosscuts and miters in lumber. It consists of a circular saw blade, mounted on an arm, that swings down onto a workpiece.
How does it work?
The miter saw is connected to a power source, typically an AC outlet. The operator selects the desired angle for the cut and then moves the workpiece into position. The saw is activated, typically by a trigger on the handle, and the blade cuts through the workpiece.
Is it for you?
The miter saw is not as portable as the hand saw but is much more accurate. It is ideal for trim carpenters, furnituremakers, and cabinetmakers.
Base size:
The base size of a miter saw varies but is typically around 10 inches.
Blade Size:
The blade size on most miter saws ranges from 7-1/4 to 12 inches in diameter.
Plunge cuts:
Miter saws can make plunge cuts, which is a cut that starts in the middle of the workpiece.
Cutting angles:
The miter saw can be set to make cuts at angles from 0° to 50°.
Curved cuts:
Miter saws can also be used to make curved cuts, by setting the blade at an angle and moving the workpiece across the blade.
Cutting Capacity:
The cutting capacity of a miter saw varies but typically ranges from 2×6 lumber to 2×14 lumber.
Dust:
Miter saws produce a lot of dust, which can be a safety hazard. The saw should always be operated in a well-ventilated area.
Safety features:
Miter saws are equipped with a number of safety features, including a blade guard, a splitter, and an anti-kickback pawl.
Cost:
The cost of a miter saw varies but typically ranges from $100 to $300.
Pros:
The miter saw is very accurate and can make a wide variety of cuts.
Cons:
The miter saw is not as portable as the hand saw.
It also produces a lot of dust.
Which is right for you?
If you are a carpenter or woodworker who needs to make accurate crosscuts and miters, then a miter saw is the right tool for you. The miter box is less accurate than the miter saw and does not have as wide a range of cuts. The miter saw is also more portable than the miter box.
It produces a lot of dust, so be sure to operate it in a well-ventilated area. Safety features like the blade guard, splitter, and anti-kickback pawl make it safer to use than the hand saw. The cost of a miter saw ranges from $100 to $300.
FAQs:
Which is best for beginners?
The miter saw is not as portable as the hand saw, but it is much more accurate. It is ideal for trim carpenters, furnituremakers, and cabinetmakers.
How deep can a miter saw cut?
The cutting capacity of a miter saw varies but typically ranges from 2×6 lumber to 2×14 lumber.
Which is best for DIYers?
The miter saw is a better choice for DIYers than the miter box. It is more accurate and can make a wider range of cuts.
Can I use a miter saw to cut crown molding?
Yes, a miter saw can be used to cut crown molding. You will need to set the blade at the correct angle for the cut.
Can I use these for cutting metal?
Miter saws can be used to cut metal, but you will need a special blade that is designed for cutting metal. But miter box cannot be used to cut metal.
Can I adjust the blade height?
Yes, many miter saws have an adjustable blade height. This allows you to make cuts at different depths.
Can I use these for making deck railings?
No, miter saws should not be used to make deck railings. A circular saw is a better choice for this type of job.
Conclusion:
So there you have it – our take on the miter box vs. miter saw the debate. Both tools have their pros and cons, but in the end, which one you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. We showed you how to use a miter box and a miter saw, so now it’s up to you to decide which tool is right for the job.
We hope this article has helped shed some light on the differences between these two tools and given you a better idea of which one might be right for you. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!