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Best Miter Saw 12 Inch (2024 Update)

If you’re looking for a quality miter saw, it's essential to do some research before making a purchase. There are so many options out there, all with different features and price points. One of the vital considerations when purchasing a miter saw is what size you need. A 12-inch miter saw is a mid-range option that provides greater cutting capacity than its 10-inch counterpart. However, it is also a bit more expensive.

Other factors to consider include the type of blade, the maximum cutting angle, and whether the saw is single or dual-bevel. You'll also want to think about your intended use of the saw. Are you using it for DIY projects around the house, or are you a professional carpenter or woodworker? Each of these factors can affect the type of saw that will work best for you.

So, how do you find the best 12-inch miter saw for your needs? Are you looking for a model that is powerful and reliable? Or do you prioritize portability and ease of use? Do you need to make precise cuts, or is a more utilitarian saw sufficient? Asking these types of questions can help you narrow down your options and choose the saw that will best meet your needs.

Whether you're an experienced woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, a quality 12-inch miter saw can make a big difference in your project's outcome. By considering your intended use, blade type, and other essential factors, you can find a saw that will meet your needs and provide accurate, reliable cuts for years to come.

10 Best Miter Saw 12 Inch

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for precise and efficient cutting of wood, plastic, and other materials with its dual-bevel sliding glide feature and 60-tooth carbide blade.
2
The product is ideal for making precise angled cuts on wood for various projects.
3
Ideal for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts who require precise cuts on large materials such as lumber and molding.
4
Ideal for cutting precise angles on wood and other materials, with cordless convenience and reliable battery power.
5
The product is ideal for precision angled cuts in wood and other materials, commonly used in furniture and construction projects.
6
Ideal for precise, accurate cuts on a variety of materials, with dual bevel capabilities and a built-in laser guide.
7
The product is ideal for precision cutting of wood and other materials at various angles.
8
Ideal for precise and efficient crosscuts, miters, bevels, and compound cuts in wood, plywood, and other materials.
9
The product is ideal for supporting heavy miter saws and providing a stable work surface that is lightweight and easy to transport.
10
The product is ideal for making precise angled cuts in various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.
Ideal for precise and efficient cutting of wood, plastic, and other materials with its dual-bevel sliding glide feature and 60-tooth carbide blade.
The product is ideal for making precise angled cuts on wood for various projects.
Ideal for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts who require precise cuts on large materials such as lumber and molding.
Ideal for cutting precise angles on wood and other materials, with cordless convenience and reliable battery power.
The product is ideal for precision angled cuts in wood and other materials, commonly used in furniture and construction projects.
Ideal for precise, accurate cuts on a variety of materials, with dual bevel capabilities and a built-in laser guide.
The product is ideal for precision cutting of wood and other materials at various angles.
Ideal for precise and efficient crosscuts, miters, bevels, and compound cuts in wood, plywood, and other materials.
The product is ideal for supporting heavy miter saws and providing a stable work surface that is lightweight and easy to transport.
The product is ideal for making precise angled cuts in various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.

1. Bosch Dual-Bevel Miter Saw – Compact & Precise

The Bosch-exclusive Axial-Glide System takes center stage in this miter saw, providing wider cross cuts and better alignment for maximum accuracy. The large, upfront metal bevel controls and Square lock precision fences make quick, precise adjustments a breeze. Clean up is a snap with the dust collection chute and vacuum adapter.

This miter saw provides unparalleled cutting control at all angles. The Crown chop lock ensures that the head is locked in place for maximum chop cutting capacity for upright base moulding and nested crown. With a depth front-to-back of 30 inches (not including arm), it is both compact and powerful, taking up to 10 inches less workspace than a slide miter saw. This makes it perfect for tight quarters where other saws just won't do.

The Bosch miter saw is designed with comfort in mind. The large, form-fitting ergonomic ambidextrous trigger handle with soft grip provides maximum comfort even during extended use. The clear lower guard allows for unobstructed visibility throughout the cutting job, ensuring precise cuts every time.

2. Makita Ls0815f Slide Compound Miter Saw

Looking for a versatile and portable compound miter saw that can handle all your cutting needs at the job site? Look no further than this powerful and reliable option.

With a 10.5 AMP direct drive motor, this saw delivers a whopping 5,000 RPM, making quick work of even tough materials. And with its miters ranging from 0-50 degrees to the left and 0-60 degrees to the right, you'll have plenty of flexibility when it comes to making precise cuts.

Plus, with positive stops at 0, 15, 22.5, 31.6, 45 and 50 degrees (both to the left and right) as well as 60 degrees to the right, you can easily achieve the exact angle you need for any given project.

Despite its powerful performance, this saw is also compact and lightweight, weighing in at just 31.1 lbs. This makes it easy to transport to and from job sites, as well as maneuver around tight spaces when you're working.

When it comes to cutting capacity, this saw is no slouch either. It can handle up to 12" cuts at 90 degrees, and up to 8-1/2" at 45 degrees. So whether you're working with large or small materials, you'll be able to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

3. Dewalt Flexvolt 120v Max* Miter Saw Kit, 12-Inch, Double Bevel, Compound, Sliding (Dhs790at2)

Introducing the revolutionary cordless and corded power tool, the Flexible. With its innovative design, this product combines the power of corded tools with the freedom of cordless ones. What makes it stand out is its world-first feature, an automatic voltage change that adjusts according to the tool being used.

This tool boasts a powerful 120V brushless motor that provides longer runtime, compared to brushed motors. This means that it can work continuously without the need for frequent recharging. With its impressive runtime, it can perform up to 289 cross cuts in 3-1/4" baseboard molding.

One of the most impressive features of the Flexible is its CUTLINE blade positioning system. This system is adjustment-free and comes with a cutline indicator, making it easier to use and more efficient. This means that you can easily make the perfect cut, every time, without worrying about measurement errors or blade adjustments.

Portability is also a key feature of this product. The Flexible's compact design makes it lightweight, weighing only 56lbs. This makes it easy to transport and move around your workspace, allowing you to work on your projects wherever you need to.

4. Double Power Laser Saw: Makita Xsl06pt

The Makita Cordless Circular Saw is a powerful tool that can be used for cutting through a variety of materials with ease. The saw is powered by two LXT batteries, which utilize x2 LXT technology to provide more power, speed, and run time without the need for a cord. This means that the user can work for longer periods of time without being tethered to a power outlet.

The Makita Cordless Circular Saw is equipped with a Makita-built electronically controlled BL motor that delivers a speedy 4,400 RPM for faster and smoother cutting. The BL Brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, which results in the motor running cooler and more efficiently, leading to longer life.

The saw is also equipped with automatic speed change technology that adjusts cutting speed and torque during the cut for optimum performance. This feature ensures that the saw is working at its best, no matter the thickness or density of the material being cut.

With the x2 LXT technology, the Makita Cordless Circular Saw can deliver up to 334 cuts per charge in 2×4 spf and up to 192 cuts per charge in 2×12 spf lumber using two 5.0Ah batteries. This means that the user can work for extended periods of time without worrying about running out of power.

5. Makita Ls1221 12" Compound Miter Saw

Introducing a cutting-edge tool that will make your woodworking projects a breeze! This powerful miter saw boasts a large cutting capacity of 3-7/8" x 6" at 90°, allowing you to tackle even the toughest cutting jobs with ease.

Equipped with a 4-1/2" tall pivoting fence, this saw can handle crown molding up to 5-1/2" in size, making it perfect for both professional carpenters and DIY enthusiasts. The powerful 15 AMP direct drive motor delivers an impressive 4,000 RPM, ensuring smooth and accurate cuts every time.

With positive miter stops at 9 settings, including 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, 45° right or left, and 0° (90° cuts), this saw offers unparalleled versatility and precision. The horizontal D-handle design makes for comfortable and easy operation, even during prolonged use.

Whether you're working on a large construction project or a simple home improvement job, this miter saw is the perfect addition to your toolkit. Don't settle for less – invest in a tool that will get the job done quickly, efficiently, and accurately.

6. Makita Ls1219l 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw With Laser

Introducing the newest addition to your woodworking arsenal: the sliding compound miter saw. This saw boasts a unique 2-steel rail sliding system designed to offer single slide-glide operation, which reduces the saw footprint and allows for operation flush against a wall. Its innovative design also enables increased capacity for up to 8" crown molding (vertically nested), 6-3/4" baseboard (vertical), and 15" crosscuts at 90 degrees.

Convenience is key with this saw, as it features an in-front bevel lock for easy operation. Additionally, the dual dust collection ports provide excellent dust extraction performance, keeping your workspace clean and safe.

But what really sets this saw apart is its innovative direct drive motor and guard system, engineered for increased vertical cutting capacity (6-3/4"). This means you can tackle bigger and more complex projects with ease, knowing that you have the power and precision to get the job done right.

Whether you're a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, this sliding compound miter saw is the perfect addition to your workshop. With its increased capacity, convenient features, and innovative design, you'll be able to take on any project with confidence. Don't settle for less when it comes to your woodworking tools – choose the best and get the job done right with this amazing saw.

7. Bosch Gcm12sd 15 Amp 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw With 60 Tooth Saw Blade

Introducing the exceptional miter saw with an innovative Axial Glide System, providing wider cross cuts and improved alignment while being compact enough to save up to 12 inches of work space. This saw boasts an expanded cutting capacity, with a 14 inch horizontal capacity and nominal 6 1/2 inch vertical capacity against the fence base, as well as a 6 1/2 inch crown capacity against the fence 45 spring.

This miter saw offers easy adjustments with a large, easy-to-read uniform bevel and stainless steel miter scales that feature marked detentes and roof pitch angles. The Bevel detents include 0, 33.9 degree, and 45 degree left/right for precise cuts. Additionally, this saw has the best 90% dust collection in its category, optimized for cutting 2x material with a vacuum.

Boasting precision like no other, the square lock quick release fences lock fence 90 degrees to the table, requiring no adjustment, and providing a 1 touch lock/unlock to slide fence for added support. This saw also provides upfront bevel controls, with an all-metal bevel lock lever and range selector located upfront for quick and easy bevel settings without reaching behind the saw.

This exceptional miter saw includes a miter saw, (1) 12 inch 60-tooth carbide-tipped blade, (1) wrench, (1) toolless vertical work clamp, (1) dust bag, and a vacuum adapter elbow. Measuring at 32.38”L x 26.5”W x 27”H with the head up and at the 0/0 position, this saw is compact yet powerful.

8. Makita Ls1219lx 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw With Laser And Stand

The sliding miter saw is an innovative tool that is designed to simplify your woodworking projects. It boasts a unique 2-steel rail sliding system that offers a single slide-glide operation, making your work easier and more efficient. This saw is capable of handling a wide range of cutting tasks, thanks to its increased capacity for up to 8" Crown molding (vertically nested), 6-3/4" baseboard (vertical), and 15" crosscuts at 90°.

In addition to its impressive functionality, this saw also comes with a durable compact folding stand that has transport wheels and a side handle for easier job site portability. Its aluminum tubular design weighs only 33.7 lbs, making it easy to move around with minimal effort.

The saw features an in-front bevel lock that provides convenient operation, enabling you to make quick and accurate adjustments to the bevel angle. Additionally, it has dual dust collection ports that provide excellent dust extraction performance, ensuring that your workspace remains clean and free of debris.

This sliding miter saw is built to last and can support up to 500 lbs, making it perfect for heavy-duty tasks. Its sturdy construction guarantees stability and precision, giving you the confidence to tackle any woodworking project with ease.

9. Dewalt Portable Miter Stand – Heavy Duty

The DEWALT miter saw stand is designed to provide a convenient and reliable solution for professionals and DIY enthusiasts who need to transport and store their miter saws with ease. The stand features a compact design that makes it easy to carry and store, while still providing a 1000lb capacity to handle even the toughest jobs with ease.

Constructed from lightweight aluminum, the stand weighs only 17lbs, making it easy to transport to and from the jobsite. The legs of the stand provide superior support and can be folded for easy storage. Thanks to the Leg Lock Levers, the stand can be set up quickly and easily, allowing you to get to work faster.

With the Transport Latch, a pair of stands can be easily transported together, further adding to the convenience of this product. The stand also comes with DW7231 miter saw mounting brackets, which allows it to be used as a tool stand. Please note that the miter saw is not included.

10. Skil 3821-01 12-Inch Quick Mount Compound Miter Saw With Laser

The SKIL Miter Saw is an innovative tool designed to provide fast and accurate cuts. It features a unique laser cutline guide that ensures precision in every cut, making it perfect for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

With 9 positive stops, this miter saw allows users to set the most common miter angles with ease. Whether you are working on a simple home project or a more complicated job, this feature will save you time and effort.

The SKIL Miter Saw is equipped with a powerful 15 amp motor that delivers an impressive 4,500 RPM, making it capable of handling even the toughest materials. This motor ensures that every cut is smooth and precise, providing you with professional-looking results.

For added convenience, the SKIL Miter Saw comes with a table extension that includes left and right extension rails. This allows you to work on longer and larger work pieces with ease, providing you with the flexibility you need to complete any project.

Finally, the SKIL Miter Saw features a quick-mount system that allows for quick and easy setup on the SKIL miter saw stand (3302-02). This feature saves you time and hassle, allowing you to focus on your work instead of worrying about complicated setup procedures.

Best Miter Saw 12 Inch FAQs

Are there any safety features I should consider when purchasing a 12 inch miter saw?

When purchasing a 12 inch miter saw, there are several safety features you should consider. Firstly, look for a saw with a blade guard that covers the blade when it is not in use. This will prevent accidental contact with the blade and reduce the risk of injury. Secondly, a saw with an electric brake is an important safety feature as it stops the blade quickly when the trigger is released. This reduces the risk of injury in case of accidental contact with the blade. Thirdly, consider purchasing a saw with a laser guide that will help you to make accurate cuts. This will reduce the risk of making mistakes and injuring yourself. Finally, ensure that the saw has a sturdy base and is securely mounted to reduce the risk of the saw tipping over. Overall, safety should be a top priority when purchasing any power tool, including a 12 inch miter saw.

Can a 12 inch miter saw be used for both crosscuts and miters?

Yes, a 12 inch miter saw can be used for both crosscuts and miters. A miter saw is a versatile tool that is designed to make accurate angled cuts, known as miters, as well as straight cuts, known as crosscuts. A 12 inch miter saw is a larger size and can handle a wider range of materials, making it a popular choice for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts.

To use a 12 inch miter saw for crosscuts, simply adjust the blade to a 90 degree angle and position the material against the fence. For miters, adjust the blade to the desired angle and position the material against the fence and the saw's table.

It's important to note that the specific capabilities of a 12 inch miter saw can vary depending on the brand and model. Always read the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines before using any power tool.

Can a 12 inch miter saw cut through thick materials like hardwood?

Yes, a 12 inch miter saw can definitely cut through thick materials like hardwood. In fact, a 12 inch miter saw is considered to be a very powerful cutting tool and is capable of cutting through various types of wood, including hardwoods, with ease.

The size of the blade in a 12 inch miter saw allows for a larger cutting capacity, which means it can handle thicker materials. However, it's important to note that the type of blade being used also plays a crucial role in the saw's cutting ability. A high-quality blade designed specifically for cutting hardwoods will make the task much easier than a blade designed for softer materials.

It's also important to take safety precautions when using a miter saw. Always wear eye and ear protection, keep hands and fingers away from the blade, and use a clamp to secure the material being cut to prevent it from moving during the cutting process. With proper safety measures and a high-quality blade, a 12 inch miter saw can easily handle cutting through thick hardwoods.

How easy is it to change the blade on a 12 inch miter saw?

Changing the blade on a 12 inch miter saw is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed by anyone with a basic knowledge of tools. The first step is to unplug the saw and loosen the blade bolt using a wrench. Once the bolt is loose, remove the blade guard and carefully remove the old blade. Make sure to note the direction of the teeth on the old blade before removing it, so that the new blade can be installed in the correct orientation.

Next, install the new blade, making sure that the teeth are facing in the correct direction. Tighten the blade bolt securely, but be careful not to over-tighten it, as this can damage the blade or the saw. Finally, reattach the blade guard and plug the saw back in.

Overall, changing the blade on a 12 inch miter saw should take no more than 15-20 minutes, and with a little practice, it can be done quickly and easily. However, it's important to follow proper safety procedures and take the necessary precautions to avoid injury.

What are the top rated 12 inch miter saws on the market?

There are several 12-inch miter saws available on the market, but the top-rated ones are:

1. DeWalt DWS780: This miter saw is considered to be one of the best 12-inch miter saws available. It has a powerful motor, a large cutting capacity, and an accurate cutting system.

2. Bosch CM12SD: This miter saw is known for its smooth and accurate cuts. It has a dual-bevel system that allows the user to make precise cuts at different angles.

3. Makita LS1219L: This miter saw is praised for its cutting capacity and powerful motor. It has a laser guide system that helps to make accurate cuts.

4. Hitachi C12RSH: This miter saw is known for its innovative design and cutting capacity. It has a dual laser marker system that helps to make precise cuts.

5. Festool Kapex KS 120: This miter saw is considered to be one of the most accurate and reliable 12-inch miter saws available. It has a unique cutting system that allows for precise cuts at different angles.

All of these miter saws are highly rated for their accuracy, cutting capacity, and durability. It's important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing the right miter saw for your projects.

What features should I look for in a 12 inch miter saw?

When looking for a 12 inch miter saw, there are several features that you should consider to ensure that you get the right tool for your needs. Firstly, you should consider the power of the saw. A higher power saw will be able to handle tougher materials and make more accurate cuts. Secondly, you should look for a saw that has a good blade, as this will ensure that your cuts are clean and precise. Thirdly, you should look for a saw that has a good angle range, as this will allow you to make a wider variety of cuts. Fourthly, you should look for a saw that has a good dust collection system, as this will help to keep your workspace clean. Finally, you should consider the overall build quality of the saw, as a well-built tool will last longer and be more reliable over time. By considering these features, you can ensure that you get a 12 inch miter saw that meets your needs and helps you to achieve the results you want.

What is the difference between a compound miter saw and a sliding compound miter saw?

A compound miter saw is a power tool used for making precise cuts at various angles. It is designed to pivot left and right to make angled cuts, known as miter cuts. Additionally, it tilts in one direction, usually to the left, to make bevel cuts. A compound miter saw can only make cuts at one fixed length.

On the other hand, a sliding compound miter saw has all the features of a compound miter saw but also has the added advantage of a sliding feature. The sliding feature allows the saw blade to slide forward and backward, increasing the cutting capacity of the saw. This means that the saw can make wider cuts than a compound miter saw. The sliding compound miter saw can also be used to make both miter cuts and bevel cuts at any angle.

In summary, while a compound miter saw can only make angled and bevel cuts at one fixed length, a sliding compound miter saw can make wider cuts due to its sliding feature, making it a more versatile tool.

What is the maximum cutting capacity of a 12 inch miter saw?

A 12 inch miter saw is a powerful tool used for cutting various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic. The maximum cutting capacity of a 12 inch miter saw is typically determined by its blade size and the angle of the cut. Generally, a 12 inch miter saw can cut through materials up to 4 inches thick and 12 inches wide at a 90-degree angle. However, the cutting capacity may vary depending on the brand and model of the saw. It is important to note that the maximum cutting capacity of a miter saw also depends on the type of blade being used. For example, a blade with larger teeth can cut through thicker materials than a blade with smaller teeth. It is always recommended to refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the maximum cutting capacity of a specific 12 inch miter saw.

What is the price range for a quality 12 inch miter saw?

The price range for a quality 12 inch miter saw can vary depending on the brand, features, and level of accuracy you require. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $1000 or more for a quality 12 inch miter saw. Some of the more affordable options in this range may lack certain features, such as laser guides or LED lights, but can still provide accurate and reliable cuts. Higher-end models may offer more precise cutting angles, larger cutting capacities, and advanced features like digital displays and automatic blade brakes. Ultimately, the price you are willing to pay will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to carefully consider your options and read reviews from other users to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Which brands make the best 12 inch miter saws?

When it comes to 12-inch miter saws, there are several top brands that offer high-quality products. Firstly, Dewalt is a well-known brand that produces reliable and efficient 12-inch miter saws that are popular among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Their saws feature powerful motors, precise cutting capacities, and durable construction.

Another great brand is Bosch, which produces 12-inch miter saws that are known for their accuracy and ease of use. Their saws come with a range of features, including laser guides and digital displays, making them a popular choice for those who demand precision and convenience.

Milwaukee is also a top brand that produces high-quality 12-inch miter saws that are designed for heavy-duty use. Their saws feature powerful motors, large cutting capacities, and advanced safety features that make them a popular choice for professionals.

Other brands that make great 12-inch miter saws include Makita, Hitachi, and Metabo HPT. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget.