Best Miter Handsaws of 2026
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Miter handsaws are essential tools for any woodworker or DIY enthusiast. These saws are designed to make precise cuts at various angles, making them ideal for tasks such as creating frames, molding, and trim work. They come in a range of sizes and styles, from traditional hand saws to power saws with adjustable blades. Miter handsaws are also popular among carpenters and construction workers who need to make quick and accurate cuts on job sites. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, a miter handsaw is a must-have tool for any workshop or toolbox.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 3 Miter Handsaws
Excel Blades 6-Inch Metal Mitre Box Set
CRAFTSMAN 12-Inch Mitre Saw & Clamping Box
The CRAFTSMAN Mitre Saw provides accuracy with cam-shaped pins that lock onto the honeycomb base, securing the work for precise cuts. It allows for multiple cut angles such as 45-degree and 90-degree mitres, and 45-degree and 22.5-degree face angles for octagonal shapes. The extended lip on the base holds the mitre box in place while cutting, and the saw stop prevents cutting into the box. Additionally, it has molded-in storage bins for cam pins and pencils.
JORGENSEN Pro Coping Saw, Coping Frame and Extra 2pcs 6-1/2 Inch Replacement Blades Set
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the 3 basic types of miter saws?
There are three basic types of miter saws: sliding miter saws, compound miter saws, and sliding compound miter saws. Sliding miter saws have a blade mounted on a metal track, while compound miter saws can make angled cuts in two directions. Sliding compound miter saws offer both sliding and compound capabilities.
2. Are hand miter saws any good?
Hand miter saws are suitable for cutting small or medium-sized joinery trim. However, they may struggle with larger stock and may not provide the precision required for commercial picture framing. They have their limitations and may not be ideal for every task.
3. What are the cons of a miter saw?
One disadvantage of a single bevel miter saw is that it can only make one-directional angled cuts. This means you have to turn the workpiece around to make matching cuts. It can be inconvenient when working with crown molding or other types of trim.
4. Is a miter saw good for beginners?
Miter saws are considered easier and safer to use compared to circular saws. They are suitable for beginner projects as they can cut boards up to 12" wide. For larger pieces, home improvement stores can assist with cutting, eliminating the need for a circular saw until more advanced projects are undertaken.
5. Which is better, a miter saw or sliding miter saw?
A sliding miter saw offers a greater depth of cut compared to a regular miter saw without rails. It also provides the ability to make compound cuts. If you need to cut deeper materials like 1x12 or 2x12 lumber, a sliding miter saw is a better choice. However, if portability is a priority, a regular miter saw may be more suitable.
6. What should you never cut with a miter saw?
When using a miter saw, avoid cutting pieces smaller than 20 cm (8 in.). Do not cut stock that has loose knots, splits, defects, or foreign objects like metal or stone in it. Additionally, do not operate the saw when it is placed on the ground.
7. What is a disadvantage of the miter saw?
A disadvantage of a single bevel miter saw is its limited capabilities in making one-directional angled cuts. This may require turning the workpiece around to achieve matching cuts, which can be inconvenient when working with crown molding or other types of trim.
During our miter handsaw research, we found 24 miter handsaw products and shortlisted 3 quality products. We collected and analyzed 60,482 customer reviews through our big data system to write the miter handsaws list. We found that most customers choose miter handsaws with an average price of $14.74.
The miter handsaws are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of miter handsaws, including Excel Blades, CRAFTSMAN, Jorgensen. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 167 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.