I'm diving into a project to rehab my old shed and I'm looking at buying a used miter saw from the marketplace. From what I've read, I should aim for a 12-inch model and steer clear of lower-end brands like Chicago Electric and Craftsman. However, I'm seeing mixed reviews for options like Rigid and Delta. Currently, I have my eye on a Dewalt DW705 for $75, which seems well-liked despite being an older model. I also spotted a Bosch, but it's priced much higher. What are the best miter saw brands to consider, and what should I keep an eye out for if I'm trying to save some cash?
2 Answers
Honestly, $75 for that Dewalt sounds like a steal, especially for something you'll use for your shed! I've got a Bosch model and it's really nice too, though I find it a bit of a hassle to adjust every time I move it. If you're just starting out, the Dewalt is really reliable and gets the job done.
When it comes to brands, you can't go wrong with Dewalt, Festool, and Makita—I'd say they're top tier. Rigid and Kobalt generally aren’t the best options. If you can, look for a sliding model around 10 or 12 inches. Just a heads up, the Bosch can be a pain to adjust regularly. The Dewalt model is solid, and the Hercules is just a clone—not bad but not as good. If you see a sliding Dewalt for $150, it might be worth it!
Don't forget, Festool deserves its spot on your list! They make excellent tools but at a higher price for sure.
You definitely can't overlook the benefits of the Dewalt, especially with the amount of support and resources available online. It’s a great option for beginners!