Hey everyone! I'm looking into getting a miter saw for my DIY projects and fun woodworking at home. I'm trying to decide between a 7-1/4", 10", or 12" blade. If all the other features are the same, how does the blade size actually affect everyday use? Is there a general guideline for how to choose the right size? I'm not running a commercial workshop, just working on some personal projects. Am I going to regret opting for a smaller blade later, or is bigger not necessarily better? Thanks in advance for your thoughts!
3 Answers
Honestly, I initially thought a 10" was the best since it’s convenient to switch blades with my table saw. But after using a 12”, I won't go back! The larger blade lets you tackle deeper cuts, like big posts without a hassle. For DIY and smaller projects, a 10" is usually sufficient, but having that extra power with a 12" is really nice for some tougher tasks!
The size of the blade really affects what you can cut. If you're cutting larger boards or thicker materials like 4x4s, you're going to want a bigger blade, like a 12". I actually have a 10” for most tasks, and it works great for a lot of DIY stuff. But if you think you'll need to cut some really big pieces, go for the 12" to avoid struggles later on.
For casual DIY projects, a 10" miter saw is typically plenty. It’s the most common size and good for general use. I personally have a 10" sliding compound miter saw that serves me well for furniture projects and angles. If you’re doing more fine woodworking, you might find a 12" has better capabilities, but the deflection can get tricky when it comes to precision cuts.