Best 8 1/2 Sliding Miter Saw in 2024

An 8 1/2 sliding miter saw is a versatile tool that can make precise angled cuts on wood, plastic, and aluminum. This type of saw is ideal for professionals and DIY enthusiasts who need to make accurate cuts for furniture, flooring, and trim work.

When shopping for the best 8 1/2 sliding miter saw, it’s crucial to consider several factors. The first thing to look for is the saw’s cutting capacity, which determines the maximum width and depth of the material that can be cut. Another important consideration is the saw’s bevel and miter range, which determines the maximum angle at which the saw can cut. The saw’s motor power, blade size, and dust collection system are also important factors to consider.

After researching and testing various 8 1/2 sliding miter saws, we have identified the top models that offer the best combination of performance, reliability, and value. In this article, we will provide a detailed review of each saw, highlighting their unique features and benefits. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, our guide will help you find the best 8 1/2 sliding miter saw that meets your needs and budget.

Best 8 1/2 Sliding Miter Saw

We have done extensive research and testing to bring you the best 8 1/2 sliding miter saws available on Amazon. Our team of experts has analyzed various features such as blade size, motor power, bevel range, and cutting capacity to ensure that we provide you with accurate and unbiased recommendations. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, we’ve got you covered. Below is our roundup of the top-performing 8 1/2 sliding miter saws that you can buy on Amazon.

Makita 40V max XGT® Brushless Cordless 8‑1/2″ Dual‑Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, AWS® Capable, Tool Only

If you’re looking for a miter saw that delivers power and precision for your cutting needs, the Makita 40V max XGT® Brushless Cordless 8‑1/2″ Dual‑Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a great option.

Pros

• The Makita-built brushless motor delivers 4,800 RPM for faster cutting performance, making it perfect for those who need to make quick cuts.
• The L.E.D. light casts a shadow of the saw blade onto the material as an exact cutting line, ensuring that you make accurate cuts every time.
• The saw has a large 2-3/4″ x 12-1/4″ cutting capacity at 90-degrees, which is perfect for cutting larger materials.

Cons

• The Makita 40V max XGT® Brushless Cordless 8‑1/2″ Dual‑Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a bit pricey, which may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
• The saw does not come with a battery or charger, which means you’ll need to purchase them separately if you don’t already have them.
• The saw is a bit heavy at 49.2 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around the job site.

We recently had the opportunity to use the Makita 40V max XGT® Brushless Cordless 8‑1/2″ Dual‑Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw on a job site, and we were impressed with its performance. The saw’s brushless motor delivered fast and smooth cuts, which made our work much easier.

One of the standout features of this saw is the rail-forward design, which maximizes workspace when the miter saw is positioned flush against a wall. This feature allowed us to work in tight spaces without sacrificing cutting capacity.

The saw’s bevel angle lock and release dial at the front of the tool also made it easy to access and reposition, which saved us time and effort. The electric brake provided maximum productivity, and the soft start suppressed start-up reaction for smooth start-ups and longer gear life.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and precise miter saw that can handle heavy-duty cutting tasks, the Makita 40V max XGT® Brushless Cordless 8‑1/2″ Dual‑Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw is definitely worth considering.

BOSCH CM8S 8-1/2 Inch Single Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, Blue

This sliding compound miter saw by BOSCH is a great option for those looking for a portable and lightweight saw that still packs a punch. With its expanding workpiece supports, easy-to-read scales, and detent system, it provides quick and accurate cuts for a variety of projects.

Pros

• Convenient bevel lock lever and turret stops on the side of the tool for easy adjustments
• Integrated expanding base extensions for additional work-piece support
• Miter detent override for quick and accurate cuts

Cons

• Blade size is limited to 8-1/2 inches
• Some users may prefer a saw with a larger crosscut capacity
• May not be suitable for heavy-duty, industrial use

We were impressed with the convenience and ease of use of the BOSCH CM8S miter saw. The bevel lock lever and turret stops located on the side of the tool made it easy to adjust settings without reaching behind the saw. The expanding base extensions were also a nice touch, providing additional support for larger workpieces.

However, the limited blade size may be a drawback for some users, and those looking for a saw with a larger crosscut capacity may need to look elsewhere. Additionally, the CM8S may not be suitable for heavy-duty, industrial use.

Overall, we would recommend the BOSCH CM8S 8-1/2 Inch Single Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw for those looking for a portable and lightweight saw that still provides accurate and reliable cuts.

Metabo HPT Miter Saw | 8-1/2-Inch Blade | Linear Ball Bearing Slide System | C8FSES w/out Laser

If you’re in search of a reliable and lightweight miter saw for your woodworking needs, the Metabo HPT C8FSES is worth considering.

Pros

• The linear ball bearing slide system ensures superior accuracy and ease of use.
• Positive miter stops allow for quick adjustments to 15, 22.5, 31.6, and 45 degrees to the left and right.
• The adjustable pivot fence provides improved stability while cutting and supports workpieces like crown molding lying flat.

Cons

• The saw blade is relatively small, limiting the size of cuts you can make.
• The brushless motor can wear out quickly, requiring frequent replacement.
• The lack of a laser guide may make it harder to make precise cuts.

We found the Metabo HPT C8FSES to be a reliable and efficient tool for our woodworking needs. The linear ball bearing slide system made it easy to make accurate cuts, and the positive miter stops allowed us to make quick adjustments to the angle of the blade. The adjustable pivot fence also provided excellent support for our workpieces, ensuring stability while cutting.

However, the relatively small blade size was a bit limiting, and we had to make multiple passes for larger cuts. Additionally, the brushless motor did wear out quickly, requiring frequent replacement. Finally, the lack of a laser guide made it harder to make precise cuts, especially for beginners.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and reliable miter saw for your woodworking projects, the Metabo HPT C8FSES is a solid choice. Just be aware of its limitations, and you should be able to get the most out of this tool.

Makita LS0815F Slide Compound Miter Saw

If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight sliding miter saw that can handle a wide range of cutting applications, the Makita LS0815F might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• The direct-drive 10.5 AMP motor with soft start provides smooth start-ups and constant power with no belts to slip or replace.
• The electric brake adds convenience and safety to the cutting process.
• The saw is compact and lightweight (31.1 lbs.), making it easy to transport to different job sites.

Cons

• The saw lacks a double bevel or positive stops on the bevel.
• The location of the tilt gauge is a little awkward.
• The dust collection system could be more effective.

We’ve had the opportunity to use the Makita LS0815F on a variety of projects, and overall, we’ve been impressed with its performance. The direct-drive motor provides plenty of power for cutting through a range of materials, and we appreciate the soft start feature, which helps to extend the life of the saw.

One of the standout features of this saw is its portability. It’s compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to move from one job site to another. We’ve also found that the electric brake is a nice touch, as it adds an extra layer of safety to the cutting process.

While the saw lacks a double bevel or positive stops on the bevel, we haven’t found this to be a major issue. The tilt gauge is a little awkwardly located, but it’s still easy enough to read. And while the dust collection system could be more effective, it’s still better than nothing.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and portable sliding miter saw, the Makita LS0815F is definitely worth considering.

RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 7-1/4 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw

If you’re looking for a portable and powerful sliding miter saw, the RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 7-1/4 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a great option.

Pros

• This saw is part of the RYOBI ONE+ System of over 260 cordless tools that all work on the same battery platform, making it a great addition to your collection if you already have other RYOBI tools.
• The saw is very portable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use in different locations.
• The 40-tooth Carbide-Tipped blade provides improved performance for fast, clean cuts and cross cut up to a nominal 2 in. x 10 in.

Cons

• The battery and charger are sold separately, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you don’t already have them.
• The saw is only 7-1/4 inches, so it may not be suitable for larger projects or cuts.
• The saw is not suitable for heavy-duty or professional use.

We were impressed with the RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless 7-1/4 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw. It’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to use in different locations. The saw is part of the RYOBI ONE+ System, so if you already have other RYOBI tools, this saw is a great addition. The 40-tooth Carbide-Tipped blade provides improved performance for fast, clean cuts and cross cut up to a nominal 2 in. x 10 in. However, the battery and charger are sold separately, and the saw is not suitable for heavy-duty or professional use. Overall, we recommend this saw for DIYers and those looking for a portable and powerful saw for smaller projects.

DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4-Inch Miter Saw

If you’re looking for a portable and lightweight miter saw that can deliver precise and accurate cuts, the DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4-Inch Miter Saw is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system provides adjustment-free cut line indication for better accuracy and visibility.
• The adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with 11 positive stops improves productivity and ensures cutting accuracy.
• The oversized bevel scale makes bevel angle adjustments accurate and easy.

Cons

• The saw does not come with a battery or charger, which must be purchased separately.
• The saw is limited to cutting smaller materials due to its 7-1/4-inch blade size.
• The dust collection bag is not very effective and may require a shop vac for better dust collection.

We’ve used this saw for a variety of projects, including cutting baseboards, crown molding, and other trim materials. The saw is easy to set up and use, thanks to its compact and lightweight design. The adjustable miter detent plate makes it easy to set the saw to the most commonly used angles, and the bevel scale is easy to read and adjust.

One of the best features of this saw is the integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system. This system provides an adjustment-free cut line indication for better accuracy and visibility, which makes it easy to align your cuts and achieve precise results. The oversized bevel scale is also a nice touch, as it makes bevel angle adjustments accurate and easy.

However, there are a few downsides to this saw. First, it does not come with a battery or charger, which must be purchased separately. Second, the saw is limited to cutting smaller materials due to its 7-1/4-inch blade size. Finally, the dust collection bag is not very effective and may require a shop vac for better dust collection.

Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX 7-1/4-Inch Miter Saw is a great choice for anyone looking for a portable and lightweight miter saw that can deliver precise and accurate cuts. It’s easy to use, packed with features, and built to last.

Makita XSL02Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 7-1/2″ Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw, Tool Only

If you’re looking for a powerful and portable miter saw, the Makita XSL02Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 7-1/2″ Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw might just be what you need.

Pros

• The BL Motor delivers 5,700 RPM for fast cutting.
• Weighing only 28.2 lbs. with battery (battery not included), it’s easy to carry around.
• The 4-Steel Rail Sliding System increases rigidity to produce superior cuts.

Cons

• The saw is quite expensive compared to other models.
• The battery life is not as long as we would like.
• The dust collection system could be better.

We were impressed with the power and speed of this saw. The BL Motor delivers fast and efficient cuts, making it perfect for a variety of projects. We also appreciated how lightweight and portable it is, which makes it easy to move around and use on different job sites.

However, the price tag is quite high compared to other models, which may be a deal-breaker for some people. We also found that the battery life wasn’t as long as we would have liked, so you may need to purchase an extra battery or two if you plan on using it for extended periods of time. Lastly, the dust collection system could be better, as it doesn’t capture all of the sawdust.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and portable miter saw, the Makita XSL02Z 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 7-1/2″ Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to pay a premium price for the convenience and power it offers.

RYOBI 7-1/4 in. Miter Saw 9 AMP. Light Weight With Blade

If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight miter saw that’s perfect for DIY jobs around the house, the RYOBI 7-1/4 in. Miter Saw might be a great option for you.

Pros

• The powerful 9 Amp motor delivers up to 5,100 RPM for heavy duty cutting.
• The miter saw has up to 2 in. X 4 in. cutting capacities and 4-1/4 in. cross cut capacity.
• Miter stops are located at the most common angles: 0°, 15°, 22.5°, and 45° left and right for quick cut settings.

Cons

• The saw is not suitable for larger projects.
• The blade is 7-1/4 inches, which is smaller than most miter saws.
• The dust bag is not very effective.

We were impressed with the RYOBI 7-1/4 in. Miter Saw’s compact and lightweight design, which makes it easy to transport and store. The saw is also very easy to use, and we appreciated the convenient miter stops that allow for quick cut settings.

One of the standout features of this miter saw is its powerful 9 Amp motor, which delivers up to 5,100 RPM for heavy duty cutting. We found that the saw was able to handle a variety of small cuts in wood with ease.

However, we do have a few complaints about the RYOBI 7-1/4 in. Miter Saw. First, the saw is not suitable for larger projects, as the blade is only 7-1/4 inches. Additionally, the dust bag is not very effective, so you may need to use a separate dust collection system.

Overall, we think the RYOBI 7-1/4 in. Miter Saw is a great option for DIYers who need a compact and lightweight saw for small projects around the house. However, if you need a saw for larger projects, you may want to consider a larger miter saw with a bigger blade.

Metabo HPT | Compound Miter Saw | 10-Inch | Single Bevel | 15-Amp Motor | 0-52° Miter Angle Range | 0-45° Bevel Range | Large Table | 10″ 24T TCT Miter Saw Blade | C10FCGS C10FCGS Only

If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and lightweight miter saw, the Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw is a great choice.

Pros

• The 15 Amp motor delivers high power for the toughest of cuts generating a no-load speed of up to 5,000 RPM.
• It’s lightweight, weighing just 24.2 lbs. making it easy to maneuver and transport.
• The miter angle range of 0-52 degrees, to the right and left, provides increased flexibility.

Cons

• The dust collector attachment is not very effective and requires frequent cleaning.
• The blade is not included in the warranty and needs to be purchased separately.
• The horizontal handle can be uncomfortable to use for extended periods.

We recently used the Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw to complete a woodworking project, and we were impressed with its performance. The 15 Amp motor delivered enough power to make clean and precise cuts through hardwoods and softwoods alike. Its lightweight design made it easy to move around the job site, and the large table with a vice clamping system provided excellent support for our workpiece.

The thumb-actuated positive miter stops allowed us to make quick and simple miter adjustments, while the bevel range of 0-45 degrees to the left provided clean and accurate bevel cuts. The large extended flip fence was also a great feature, rising to 4 inches, allowing us to make accurate cuts on large workpieces.

However, the dust collector attachment was not very effective, and we had to clean it frequently to avoid a buildup of sawdust. Additionally, the horizontal handle was not very comfortable to use for extended periods, and we found ourselves taking frequent breaks to rest our hands.

Overall, the Metabo HPT Compound Miter Saw is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile miter saw. Its lightweight design, powerful motor, and large table make it a great option for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

DEWALT 20V MAX* 7-1/4-Inch Miter Saw

If you’re looking for a reliable and portable miter saw, the DEWALT 20V MAX* 7-1/4-Inch Miter Saw might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• The DEWALT 20V MAX* miter saw is cordless, making it easy to use on job sites without worrying about finding an electrical outlet.
• The adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate with 11 positive stops ensures accurate cutting, improving productivity and saving time.
• The integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system provides adjustment-free cut line indication for better accuracy and visibility for the miter saw.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the saw is not as powerful as corded models, which can lead to slower cutting times.
• The DEWALT 20V MAX* miter saw is more expensive than some other cordless models on the market.
• The miter saw is limited to cutting 7-1/4-inch blades, which may not be suitable for larger projects.

Overall, the DEWALT 20V MAX* 7-1/4-Inch Miter Saw is a great option for those in need of a portable and reliable cordless miter saw. Its adjustable stainless steel miter detent plate and integrated cut line cross-cut positioning system make for accurate and precise cuts, while its cordless design allows for easy transportation and use on job sites. However, it may not be the most powerful option available and is more expensive than some other cordless models.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best 8 1/2 sliding miter saw, there are a few important factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of key features to help you make an informed decision.

Blade Size and Type

The blade size and type are important considerations when choosing a sliding miter saw. Look for a blade that is 8 1/2 inches in diameter, as this is the standard size for this type of saw. Additionally, consider the type of blade you need for your specific project. A crosscut blade is ideal for cutting across the grain, while a ripping blade is best for cutting with the grain.

Cutting Capacity

The cutting capacity of a sliding miter saw refers to the maximum width and depth of the material that can be cut. Look for a saw with a cutting capacity that meets your specific needs. Additionally, consider the sliding range of the saw, which determines how far the blade can slide back and forth.

Motor Power

The power of the motor is an important factor to consider when choosing a sliding miter saw. Look for a saw with a motor that is powerful enough to handle your specific project. A motor with a higher RPM (revolutions per minute) will provide faster and smoother cuts.

Bevel and Miter Angles

The bevel and miter angles refer to the range of angles that the saw can cut. Look for a saw with a wide range of bevel and miter angles to provide the most versatility for your projects. Additionally, consider the ease of adjusting the angles on the saw.

Dust Collection

Dust collection is an important feature to consider when choosing a sliding miter saw. Look for a saw with a dust collection system that effectively captures sawdust and debris. This will not only keep your workspace clean, but also improve visibility and reduce the risk of respiratory issues.

By considering these key features, you can find the best 8 1/2 sliding miter saw to meet your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a high-quality sliding miter saw?

When shopping for a sliding miter saw, there are a few key features to consider. Look for a saw with a powerful motor, at least 10 amps, and a blade size of 8 1/2 inches or larger. A laser guide can be helpful for precision cutting, and a dust collection system can keep your workspace clean. Additionally, a sliding miter saw with a bevel range of 45 degrees or more will allow you to make angled cuts with ease.

How does the cut capacity of a 7 1/4 sliding miter saw compare to an 8 1/2 model?

A 7 1/4 sliding miter saw typically has a smaller cut capacity than an 8 1/2 model. While a 7 1/4 saw can handle most standard cuts, it may struggle with larger or thicker pieces of wood. An 8 1/2 sliding miter saw, on the other hand, can handle a wider range of cutting tasks and is a better choice for more demanding woodworking projects.

Can you recommend a durable blade for an 8 1/2 inch miter saw?

There are many high-quality blades available for 8 1/2 inch sliding miter saws. Look for a blade with carbide teeth and a high tooth count for smooth, precise cuts. Some popular blade brands include Freud, Diablo, and DeWalt.

What are the benefits of using a compact sliding miter saw over a standard size?

A compact sliding miter saw is a great option for those with limited workspace or who need a saw that can be easily transported. These saws are smaller and lighter than standard models, but still offer the versatility and precision of a sliding miter saw. They are also often more affordable than larger models.

How do I determine the right size miter saw for my woodworking projects?

The size of the miter saw you need will depend on the size and complexity of your woodworking projects. For most hobbyist or DIY projects, an 8 1/2 inch sliding miter saw will be sufficient. However, if you frequently work with larger pieces of wood or need to make more complex cuts, a larger saw may be necessary.

Are there any standout 8 1/2 sliding compound miter saws recommended by professionals in 2023?

As of 2023, there are several 8 1/2 sliding compound miter saws that come highly recommended by professionals. Some popular models include the DeWalt DWS780, the Bosch CM8S, and the Makita LS0815F. Each of these saws offers a powerful motor, precise cutting capabilities, and durable construction.