If so, you’ll probably want to get yourself a radial arm saw or compound sliding miter saw. But which one is right for your needs? Let’s take a look at the differences between these two types of tools and help you decide which one is best for your projects.
A radial arm saw vs Compound sliding miter saw – What’s the difference?
Radial arm saws are great if you have lots of space in your workshop because they don’t require much room to operate. They can be mounted on walls or ceilings, but most people use them as free-standing units that sit on top of workbenches.
Compound sliding miter saws are more compact than radial arm saws and typically come with detachable legs that allow them to stand alone like any other table-top tool would. This makes it easier for users who don’t have enough space in their workshops but still want all the benefits that come from using this type of power tool.
Both options offer excellent cutting capabilities, but there are some key differences between them when it comes down to how they perform day-to-day tasks and what kind of projects each option is best suited for. We’ll cover those details later in this article! So let’s start by taking a closer look at both options…
Radial arm saw
What is it?
A radial arm saw is a powerful tool that uses a circular saw blade to cut wood. The saw is mounted on an arm that extends from the base of the tool, and the blade can be rotated around the arm to make angled cuts. This type of saw is ideal for ripping lumber (cutting it along the grain) and for making crosscuts.
How does it work?
To use a radial arm saw, you first need to set the cutting angle. You can do this by adjusting the position of the saw blade on the arm, or by using one of several preset angles that are available on most models. Once the angle is set, you can then use the fence (a guide rail that runs parallel to the blade) to make straight cuts. For angled cuts, you can rotate the workpiece so that it’s positioned against the fence and then use the saw to cut along the desired angle.
Is it for you?
A radial arm saw is a great option if you need to make a lot of angled cuts or if you need to rip lumber. They’re also a good choice for users who have a lot of space in their workshops. However, they’re not as compact as compound sliding miter saws, so they may not be ideal for users who don’t have a lot of workshop space.
Base size:
Radial arm saws come in different base sizes, but most models have a base that’s between 18 and 24 inches wide.
Blade size:
A radial arm saw blade comes in different sizes, but most models use a 14-inch blade.
Motor:
Most radial arm saws have a motor that delivers between 5 and 7 amps of power.
Plunge cuts:
Radial arm saws can be used to make plunge cuts, which is when you make a cut that goes all the way through the workpiece. To do this, you first need to set the depth of the cut by adjusting the position of the saw blade on the arm. Then, you can use the fence (or a miter gauge) to hold the workpiece in place while you cut.
Curved cuts:
Radial arm saws can also be used to make curved cuts. To do this, you first need to set the cutting angle and then use the fence (or a miter gauge) to hold the workpiece in place.
Cutting angles:
Radial arm saws can be used to cut wood at different angles, depending on the position of the blade on the arm. Most models have a range of between 45 and 90 degrees, but some offer a wider range of angles.
Cutting Capacity:
Radial arm saws can typically cut lumber that’s up to 12 inches wide and 6 inches thick.
Dust:
Radial arm saws produce a lot of dust when they’re operated, so you’ll want to use a dust collector or a shop vac to keep your workshop clean.
Safety features:
Radial arm saws come with a variety of safety features, including blade guards, anti-kickback pawls, and riving knives.
Cost:
Radial arm saws typically cost between $100 and $300.
Pros:
- Radial arm saws are ideal for ripping lumber and making crosscuts.
- They offer a wide range of cutting angles.
- They come with a variety of safety features.
Cons:
- They’re not as compact as compound sliding miter saws.
- They produce a lot of dust when they’re operated.
Compound sliding miter saw
What is it?
A compound sliding miter saw is a powerful tool that uses a circular saw blade to cut wood. The saw is mounted on an arm that extends from the base of the tool, and the blade can be rotated around the arm to make angled cuts. This type of saw is ideal for making crosscuts and miter cuts.
How does it work?
To use a compound sliding miter saw, you first need to set the cutting angle. You can do this by adjusting the position of the saw blade on the arm, or by using one of several preset angles that are available on most models. Once the angle is set, you can then use the saw to make a wide variety of cuts by moving the base of the tool back and forth along the arm.
Is it for you?
If you need to make a lot of crosscuts or miter cuts, then a compound sliding miter saw is definitely for you. This type of saw is much more versatile than a radial arm saw, and it can handle larger pieces of wood. It’s also easier to use, which makes it a good choice for beginner woodworkers.
Base size:
Most compound sliding miter saws have a base that is around 12 inches wide.
Blade Size:
The size of the blade on a compound sliding miter saw ranges from 7-12 inches in diameter.
Motor:
The motor on a compound sliding miter saw typically has a power rating of around 10 amps.
Plunge cuts:
A plunge cut is a type of cut where the blade is lowered below the surface of the wood before the saw is turned on. This allows you to make cuts that are deeper than the thickness of the blade. Many compound sliding miter saws include a plunge-cutting feature, which makes this type of cut much easier.
Curved cuts:
Some compound sliding miter saws come with a pivoting arm that allows you to make curved cuts. This can help cut molding and other decorative trim.
Cutting angles:
Most compound sliding miter saws allow you to set the cutting angle between 0 and 45 degrees.
Cutting Capacity:
The cutting capacity of a compound sliding miter saw varies, but it typically ranges from 2-3 inches.
Dust:
The sawdust created by a compound sliding miter saw can be very messy, so it’s important to have a dust collection system in place. Many models come with a built-in dust collector, or you can use a shop vacuum to collect the sawdust.
Safety features:
All compound sliding miter saws come with some type of safety feature, such as an automatic blade brake or cutoff switch. These features help to prevent injuries while using the saw.
Cost:
Compound sliding miter saws range in price from around $100 to $500.
Pros:
- A compound sliding miter saw can be used to make a wide variety of cuts.
- Most models are very easy to operate, making them a good choice for beginner woodworkers.
- Compound sliding miter saws are built to last and can withstand frequent use.
Cons:
- The sawdust created by a compound sliding miter saw can be very messy.
- Compound sliding miter saws can be expensive, but they are worth the investment if you do a lot of woodworking.
So, Which saw is best for you?
Both the radial arm saw and the compound sliding miter saw have their pros and cons, so it depends on what type of cuts you need to make.
If you need to make a lot of crosscuts or miter cuts, then a compound sliding miter saw is the better choice. It’s also easier to use than a radial arm saw, making it a good choice for beginner woodworkers. Radial arm saws are better suited for making wider cuts, so if that’s what you need then they are the better option.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
FAQs:
Which saw is best for beginners?
The compound sliding miter saw is the best option for beginners, as it is easy to use and versatile. Radial arm saws can be a bit more difficult to operate, so they are not recommended for beginners.
Which is the better choice for someone who is just starting out in carpentry?
The compound sliding miter saw is a better choice for someone who is just starting in carpentry, as it is more versatile and easier to use than a radial arm saw. Radial arm saws are better suited for making wider cuts, so if that’s what you need then they are the better option.
Which saw is best for DIYers?
The compound sliding miter saw is the best option for DIYers, as it is versatile and easy to use. Radial arm saws can be a bit more difficult to operate, so they are not recommended for DIYers.
Is a compound sliding miter saw good for professional use?
Yes, a compound sliding miter saw is good for professional use. It is durable and can withstand frequent use. It is also versatile, making it a good choice for a range of projects.
Conclusion:
We’ve shown you the pros and cons of radial arm saws and compound sliding miter saws. Now it’s up to you to decide which one is right for your needs.
Both tools have their advantages, so it depends on what you plan on using them for. If you need a powerful tool that can handle big projects, go with the radial arm saw.
But if precision is key and you need a versatile tool that can do both crosscuts and miters, then the compound sliding miter saw is the way to go. Whichever tool you choose, make sure to read the instructions carefully and always use safety gear when operating power tools.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can. Thanks for reading!