How to use a hand miter saw?

Before you start

Protect your material

Most models should have a clamp or "leg" attached to the workbench that can be used to hold the material securely while you work. Some models allow you to mount the entire tool on the workbench for added stability.

Check Angle

Most handheld miter saws have an angle guide, which is a curved metal plate with various angles marked on it. Align the saw to the desired angle using the pivot. On most models, lifting the lever on the side of the bench will unlock the hinge, allowing you to move the saw to level it at the desired angle.

Practice makes perfect

If you are not an experienced hand saw user, make a few test cuts on scraps of material before starting work. This way you can see what works and what doesn't without worrying about messing up the final result.

Should you push or pull?

Typically, the teeth on a hand miter saw blade are designed for both push and pull cutting. This means you can apply downward pressure on either or both strokes for faster and more aggressive sawing.

Starting your cut

Step 1 - Press the blade into the material

Lower the saw blade to the surface of the material you wish to cut. This is usually done by releasing a lever next to the handle.

Step 2 - Move the blade away from you

Start by lightly pressing the saw against the surface of the material, applying very little downward pressure in a smooth, slow motion.

Once the teeth have entered the material, you can increase the speed and start sawing at a steady pace.