Miter Saw

What it's used for

The miter saw is great for making plane cuts when working with long and not too wide (think 2x4s). It can cut at an angle in two directions (compound miter). It's very powerful and fast.

Safety

A woodshop safety class is available. Check Meetup for the next date.

• Let the blade come to a complete stop before lifting it from the work piece.
• Don't leave space between the fence and the workpiece. Turn the blade rather than turning the workpiece.
• Rest the workpiece in a stable position against the fence with the wider dimension parallel to the blade.
• Don't cut anything too small
• Keep your fingers at a safe distance from the blade and any other moving parts. Don't reach close to the blade to pick up offcuts.
• Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Both are available.
• Don't use excessive force.
• Never wear loose clothing that might get caught in the blades or other moving parts when using power tools.

How to use it

Only trained users should use this tool. This section serves as a checklist and not as a replacement for training.

1. Plan your cut. Make sure your work piece is securely held in place and that it will be even after the cut is complete. Make sure that the work piece is narrow enough to be cut.
2. Plug the saw in
3. Connect the shopvac or dust catcher to the dust port on the back of the saw. Check that what you're using isn't full
4. Push the trigger safety latch to the side
5. Press the trigger. The blade will spin up. This is particularly loud.
6. Lower the blade onto the workpiece.
7. Release the trigger. Let the blade come to a full stop before lifting it.
8. Clean up after yourself