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Best Radial Arm Saw Review | Top 10 Pick | WWPN
- WWPN Staff
There is no tool quite as valuable in a carpenter’s toolbox as a radial arm saw. Used for both cutting and shaping wood, this versatile machine is available in several market variations.
While this is good news, finding a suitable model for your needs is challenging. You cannot simply work with any radial arm saw because the ones not sharp enough will considerably damage the wood you’re working with.
This guide is here to help. Discover the top 10 radial arm saws and their honest reviews. Toward the end, there’s a buying guide offering valuable tips for purchasing the right radial arm saw
Table of Contents
Top 10 Radial Arm Saws to Choose Your Ideal Pick From
Some top factors that have been considered while choosing the top 10 radial arm saws include the saw’s flexibility, quick cuts, and versatility. Each of the radial arm saws included in this list is suitable for a particular purpose. So, each is in a class of its own.
BEST RADIAL ARM SAW OVERALL: DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw (DWS780)
BEST IN TERMS OF VERSATILITY: Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw
BEST FOR HEAVY-DUTY USAGE: BOSCH Power Tools Compound Miter Saw
BEST IN TERMS OF AFFORDABILITY: CRAFTSMAN V20 Sliding Miter Saw
1. Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw, 10 Inches
Product Specification
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Item Weight – 54.9 pounds
- Any Special Features – Brakes
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel
- Blade Length – 10 inches
- Speed – 3800 RPM
Product Description
The more advanced the motor on a compound miter saw, the better its performance will be. This 10 inches HPT compound miter saw comes with a 12 A motor that makes controlled yet efficient and precise cuts.
Given its high-speed steel body and powerful motor, it can cut through even the toughest types of wood. Despite holding such power to cut wood, the machine is overall lightweight. This means it is compact and can be stored without hassles.
This machine works white on an otherwise black miter scale to ensure superior visibility and accuracy. Then there is the linear ball sliding system that makes it possible to create precise cuts. Both on the bevel and miter scale, there are positive stops to take quick measurements and settings.
This radial arm saw is ideal for heavy-duty woodworking needs.
Metabo HPT 10-Inch Sliding Compound Miter Saw, Double-Bevel, Electronic Speed Control, 12 Amp Motor, Electric Brake, 5-Year Warranty (C10FSBS)
- Sliding Double Bevel Compound Miter Saw
- MOTOR: 12 amp motor for professional power
- BEVEL: 0-45 degree bevel angle range, to the right and left allowing users to quickly and easily flip the saw blade and leave the material in place
- MITER: 57 degree miter angle to the right, for ultra flexibility with 45 Degree miter angle to the left
- MITER SCALE: White on black miter scale for superior accuracy and visibility
Pros
- High level of accuracy
- Secure clamping for better work safety
- Positive stops for safety and accuracy
- Lightweight design yet durable
Cons
The factory alignment needs to be set manually and may sometimes go off.
2.DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 12-Inch (DWS780)
Product Specification
- Power Source – Corded Electric
- Blade Color – Black
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Any Special Features – Brushless
- Item Weight – 56 pounds
- Blade Length – 12 inches
- Speed – 3800 RPM
Product Description
DEWALT is more than just a renowned brand by name. The company is famous for its durable manufacturing products. So, durability is a given with the DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw (DWS780) of 12 inches.
One of the biggest problems with a radial arm saw occurs when you need to replace its parts. But this machine’s solid stainless-steel body will stand the test of time. This radial arm saw is integrated with CUTLINE blade positioning technology for high visibility and XPS technology for high visibility and accuracy. XPS shines an LED light on both sides of the blade when lowered.
The saw’s super powerful dust collection mechanism ensures at least 75% of the dust generated is cleaned up. You can easily make double-bevel cuts using this saw, equipped with tall sliding fences that robustly support the crown.
One unique feature of this saw is that it comes with a back fence design that cuts the lumbar even at an angle of 45 degrees. The bevelling scale is oversized to ensure accurate and easily angled cuts. Finally, this radial arm saw is portable and compact, making it easy to store in narrow spaces.
DEWALT Double Bevel Sliding Miter Saw, 12-inch, Compound (DWS780)
Pros
- A high degree of precision
- An advanced dust collection system
- Makes accurate double-bevel cuts
- Compact, lightweight design
Cons
- Blades might become warped with prolonged use
3. Bosch Power Tools Compound Miter Saw with Portable Stand
Product Specification
- Power Source – Battery Powered
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Blade Length – 12 inches
- Number of Teeth – 60
- Any Special Features – Brushless
- Amperage – 15 A
Product Description
This powerful compound miter saw from Bosch Tools is ideal for heavy-duty woodworking. One of its standout features is the sharp blade. It comes with 60 sharp teeth that enable you to cut precisely through all kinds of wood.
This machine accompanies a stand that is lightweight and portable. Despite being lightweight, this radial arm saw is stable and durable. The axial glide system offers compact precision, that too, within seconds.
Since the advanced system offers proper alignment, even wide cross-cuts can be made. The stainless-steel miter scales are marked with uniform pitch and bevel angles for enhanced visibility and accuracy. This system is also equipped with a patented gravity-rise system.
Another unique fact about this arm saw is that it has a 15-feet material capacity, which is one of the highest in portable pieces. The stand it comes with is also durable and has eight wheels that ensure easy movement to the job site.
Sale
Bosch Power Tools GCM12SD – 15 Amp 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw with 60 Tooth S with Bosch Portable Gravity-Rise Wheeled Miter Saw Stand T4B
Pros
- Sharp cuts made using 60 teeth
- Heavy-duty system ideal for the most ambitious woodworking projects
- Compact and portable
- Easy-to-read bevels
Cons
- The axial arm may need manual adjustments.
4. CRAFTSMAN V20 Sliding Miter Saw 7 ¼ Inches
Product Specification
- Power Source – Battery Powered
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel
- Blade Length – 4 inches
- Item Weight – 21.8 pounds
- Speed – 800 RPM
- Number of Teeth – 80
- Any Special Features – Brushless
Product Description
If you’re looking for an affordable and powerful radial arm saw, the CRAFTSMAN sliding miter saw of 7 ¼ inches is your ideal pick. This radial arm also comes with a standard 3,800 RPM motor, which helps make smooth cuts within seconds.
It is ideal for small to mid-sized woodworking projects. This miter saw can make two angled cuts – 90 degrees and 45 degrees. It also comes with the CUT-LINE LED positioning system that ensures high accuracy and visibility.
There are 9 dent stops to make accurate cutting adjustments. Being budget-friendly, an added benefit of this miter saw is that it is suitable for both beginners and seasoned woodworking professionals. Equipped with side handles, this miter saw is also lightweight yet durable.
On a side note, this sliding miter saw is suitable for those woodworking enthusiasts who travel a lot.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Sliding Miter Saw, 7-1/4 inch, Single Bevel, Battery and Charger Included (CMCS714M1)
Pros
- Affordable price
- LED light positioning system for smoother cuts
- Easy adjustments made through casted dent stops
- Ease of carrying via side handles
Cons
- There may be some issues of self-destruction with this unit (with prolonged use).
5. BOSCH Compact Miter Saw (CM10GD) 10 Inches
Product Specification
- Power Source – Electric
- Item Weight – 64 pounds
- Item Color – Blue
- Blade Material – Metal
- Blade Length – 10 inches
- Number of Teeth – 60
- Speed – 4,800 RPM
Product Description
If there is one radial arm saw that is ideal for making precise and accurate cuts, the BOSCH Compact Miter Saw has to be it. Equipped with the axial glide system, this compact miter saw cuts through wood precisely and accurately.
Compared to other miter saws on this list, this one comes with an even more powerful motor of 4,800 RPM. This makes it super-fast and heavy-duty. Another important thing to note about this machine is that it makes crooked places straight.
How exactly? By enabling you to make easy and smooth angled cuts (something which is often challenging with these saws). This is made possible through its precise controlling adjustments. The front part of the unit also features bevel controls that make it easy to adjust.
Finally, this unit is also ideal for those who hate clean-up – the vacuum adapter quickly sucks in wood shavings, chips, and debris. And you won’t have to worry about space crunch either – this compact machine only takes up 10 inches of counter space.
BOSCH CM10GD Compact Miter Saw – 15 Amp Corded 10 Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw with 60-Tooth Carbide Saw Blade
Pros
- Precise cutting controls for angled cuts
- Compact design
- Powerful motor for super precise and smooth cuts
- Ease of access provided through bevel controls
Cons
- Some parts of the machine are made of plastic and may need to be more durable.
6.Makita Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser (LS1219L) 12 Inches
Product Specification
- Power Source – Electric
- Item Weight – 33.7 pounds
- Blade Length – 12 inches
- Blade Material – Metal
- Cutting Angle – 90 degrees
Product Description
Cutting thicker and larger wood types requires a naturally larger blade, which this sliding compound miter saw offers. The sliding miter operation is advanced, enabling decreased saw footprint. The 12-inch blade length is robust and can make angled cuts at 90 degrees.
The blade is undoubtedly sharp, but the precise control offered by the powerful motor makes it possible to make smooth yet controlled cuts. Compared to other radial arm saws available on this list, this machine is more expensive, but it is worth the purchase for ambitious woodworking projects.
The system also comes with a compact stand that is durable and takes up little space. The stand comes with rubber wheels and a side handle for easy transportation. With this miter saw, you never have to worry about cutting efficiency or durability.
Makita LS1219L 12-Inch Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser & WST06 Compact Folding Miter Saw Stand
Pros
- Powerful motor that supports easy and fast cutting
- Accurate, angled cuts at 90 degrees are possible
- Portable stand for easy transportation
- Easy to use
- An excellent dust collection system
Cons
- Installation may be time-consuming
7. MILWAUKEE Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 10 Inches
Product Specification
- Power Source – Cordless
- Item Weight – 45 pounds
- Blade Length – 10 inches
- Blade Material – Metal
- Any Special Features – Brushless
Product Description
The MILWAUKEE sliding compound miter saw is another decent product that ensures you make accurate cuts. Does it have any set-apart features compared to other tools on this list? Yes! This is convenient and easy to install.
Though a little higher price point, this machine is ideal for new woodworking enthusiasts and commercial contractors. Its motor is highly powerful, and the body is durable. You can use this machine all day long without causing damage to its battery.
One justified reason why the price point is high is because of its cordless feature. You can place it anywhere at your convenience and use it. This machine is equipped with an in-built dust collection system, but compared to others on the list, the same is not as sharp and clean.
Overall, it is a good product with decent run-time and side handles for easy carrying.
Sale
2734-20 M18 Fuel, 10″, Dual Bevel, Sliding, Compound Miter Saw
Pros
- A high degree of accuracy
- Extra run-time
- Easy to install
Cons
The in-built dust collection system could be better.
8. Skil Dual-Bevel Compound Miter Saw, 10 Inches (MS6305-00)
Product Specification
- Power Source – Electric Corded
- Item Weight – 39.4 pounds
- Blade Length – 10 inches
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Speed – 4,800 RPM
- Number of Teeth – 80
Product Description
Advanced tools come in all shapes and sizes; this sliding compound miter saw proves this. Among the more lightweight variants on this list (39.4 pounds).
The system’s motor is highly powerful, running at 4,800 RPM. One standout feature of this machine is that it functions on LED shadow line technology. This ensures you make precise cuts, even more accurate than lasers.
Again, this compound miter saw is highly portable and can be used on compact work benches. Furthermore, he lock knob technology enables repeatable, accurate cuts at the desired angles. What makes it value-for-money is its advanced safety features and ease of use.
Sale
Skil 10″ Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw – MS6305-00
Pros
- 4,800 RPM motor for extended power
- Precise cuts at common angles
- High precision through LED shadow positioning
- Durability ensured through cam lock knob
Cons
- Changing the blade could be tricky with this one.
9. Evolution Power Tools Compound Miter Saw Plus, 7 ¼ Inches
Product Specification
- Power Source – Electric Corded
- Item Weight – 19.6 pounds
- Blade Length – 4 inches
- Blade Material – High-Speed Steel
- Any Special Features – Brushless
- Surface Recommendation – Wood
Product Description
Right off the bat, one unique feature of this compound miter saw is that it can cut multiple materials without changing blades. The blade system and gearbox are high-performance, and the 10 A high-torque motor generates enough power for quick, clean cuts.
This tool also comes with a 3-piece clamping system for added stability. An in-built laser system is also provided to guide you in making precise cuts. The integrated side carry handles make it highly portable and easy to store or transport.
This is also a lightweight system but durable in its make. Finally, a dust bag is also provided for effortless dust collection and clean-up post-usage. This is also a highly affordable tool, primarily suitable for those new to woodworking.
Evolution Power Tools R185SMS+ Sliding Miter Saw with Multi-Material Cutting, 45 Degree Bevel, 50 Degree Miter, 210 mm Slide, Blade Included Cuts Wood Plastic Metal & More, 7-1/4″
Pros
- No need to change blades for different materials
- Easy clamping for added stability
- Laser guidance for accurate cuts
- A robust dust collection mechanism
Cons
- Not suitable for framing lumbar
10. DEWALT Heavy-Duty Single-Bevel Compound Miter Saw, 12 Inches (DWX725B)
Product Specification
- Power Source – Electric Corded
- Item Weight – 17 pounds
- Blade Length – 12 inches
- Blade Material – Stainless Steel
- Speed – 4,000 RPM
- Surface Recommendation – Aluminum
- Any Special Features – Brushless
Product Description
Extremely lightweight, this compound miter saw comes with a blade of 12 inches and a portable stand for convenience. The precise miter system is unique because its machined fence support makes up for the lightweight body.
You need not fear losing control while woodworking. There is also the tall sliding fence that enables you to make perfect vertical cuts. The blade has 14 positive stops that offer a high degree of control.
The stainless-steel detent plates ensure your accurate measurements are preserved. Common angles like 45 degrees and 90 degrees cuts can be easily made using this tool. The motor is a powerful 4,000 RPM despite the light body. The blade is sharp and durable.
DEWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw, 15-Amp, Single Bevel, Compound with Miter Saw Stand, Heavy Duty with Miter Saw Mounting Brackets (DWS715 & DWX725B)
Pros
- Durable and robust body
- Detents and sliding fence for accurate cross-cuts
- Powerful 4,000 RPM motor
- A high level of control offered by 14 positive stops
- Mounting brackets available
- Solid handle capacity (1000 pounds)
Cons
- Installation could be tedious
Best Radial Arm Saw Buying Guide
While the above list includes 10 of the best radial arm saws available in 2023, choosing your ideal one can still seem challenging. This is exactly what the following buying guide is for. So make an informed choice!
Frequency
The first question you need to ask yourself is how frequently you see yourself using the arm saw. If not so frequently, it makes no sense to invest in comprehensive, heavy-duty features makes no sense.
Choose a saw that comes without the bells and whistles, suitable for basic tasks. However, frequent, heavy-duty use calls for an intensive tool with all advanced features.
Power
The second factor to consider is the power or speed of the motor. The power determines how fast you can cut with the saw. However, it does not tell how deep the cuts can go.
When a radial arm saw comes with a high wattage and a high number of revolutions per minute, it becomes suitable for cutting through thicker wood.
Type of Blade
Again, the blade size will help determine the depth of the cuts. The small-length saws on this list, such as 4 to 10 inches, are suitable for thinner wood pieces.
However, if you wish to cut through rigid and thick lumbar, opt for longer blades, like 10 inches or 12 inches.
Extra Functionalities
As observed from the list above, not all radial arm saws are created equal in terms of functionality. Some even come with additional functions like LED and laser positioning.
Such features are designed to offer greater accuracy and precision control. Then there’s the in-built dust collection system for easier clean-up. Ensure you take your requirements into account before investing in one.
On a Parting Note
Radial arm saws are valuable woodworking tools and, as such, a critical investment in every woodworker’s toolbox. Making an informed choice prevents the waste of time and money.
This guide offers insights that can redirect your purchase decisions to the ideal saw. Opt for the DEWALT Compound Miter Saw (DWS780) if you need a versatile tool. If your woodworking needs are heavy-duty, you can choose the BOSCH Power Tools compound miter saw.
If you’re new to woodworking and wish to start with an affordable, robust variant, the CRAFTSMAN V20 sliding miter saw is the ideal pick. So, what are you waiting for? Bring home your perfect radial arm saw and woodwork all the way!
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