As a professional picture framer, I understand the importance of a high-quality miter saw.
That’s why I spent a lot of time looking into and experimenting with various miter saws to identify the ones that work best for picture framing.
In this article, I will share with you my best choices for miter saws that are ideal for cutting picture frames with ease and precision.
Our Top Favorite – 5 Best Miter Saws for Picture Framing
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Miter Saw Model |
Price |
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1- BOSCH GCM12SD Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw |
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2- Genesis GMS1015LC Compound Miter Saw |
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3 – DEWALT (DWS779) Sliding Compound Miter Saw |
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| 4- Makita LS1040 Compound Miter Saw | |
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5- Metabo HPT C10FCGS Miter Saw |
1- BOSCH GCM12SD Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw
Specification
- Color: Blue
- Blade Material: Metal, Stainless Steel
- Surface Recommendation: Metal
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Special Feature: Brushless
- Product Dimensions:38 x 26.5 x 27 inches
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Amperage: 15 Amps
- Blade Length: 12 Inches
- Number of Teeth: 60
- Cutting Angle: 90 Degrees
Detailed Features
Design
If you’re a pro or a weekend warrior carpenter, you need the BOSCH GCM12SD 15 Amp 12 Inch Corded Dual-Bevel Sliding Glide Miter Saw.
This stylish blue saw has a metal and stainless steel blade designed for cutting through metal.
A corded electric outlet provides electricity for the saw. All of your cutting demands may be met with this steady and reliable supply of energy.
Patented Glide System
This saw’s innovative axial gliding technology is one of its best qualities. You’ll be able to make more precise cross-cuts and improve alignment while taking up only 12 inches of floor space.
Thanks to this setup, precise cuts can be made and the working area can be kept neat and tidy with little effort.
Expanded Cutting Capacity
The GCM12SD has a larger cutting capacity than its ancestors, allowing for cuts up to 14 inches in width, 6 1/2 inches in height when measured against the fence base, and 6 1/2 inches in height when measured against the fence’s 45-degree spring.
Because of this, you may use it to make a wide variety of cuts, making it a useful tool for any task.
Adjustable and Precision
The saw’s uniform bevel is wide and easy to read, and its stainless steel miter scales feature indicated detents and roof pitch angle markings for precise adjustments.
Accurate cuts can always be made thanks to the bevel detents set at 0 degrees, 33.9 degrees, and 45 degrees to the left and right.
The saw is designed for vacuum cutting of 2x material and features 90% dust collection, the best in its class. One-touch locking and unlocking allow for effortless sliding.
The square lock quick-release fences secure the fence at an angle of 90 degrees to the table without the need for any further adjustments.
Ease of Use
The BOSCH GCM12SD is built for convenience, featuring up-front bevel controls, a metal bevel lock lever, and a range selector for quick and simple bevel adjustments without reaching behind the saw.
All-inclusive Package
A 12-inch, 60-tooth carbide-tipped blade, a wrench, a tool-free vertical work clamp, a dust bag, and a vacuum adaptor elbow are all included with the purchase of this miter saw.
There is no need to go out and buy extra parts; everything you need to get started on your projects is right here.
| Pros | Cons |
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2- Genesis GMS1015LC Compound Miter Saw
It is a great option for woodworkers and picture framers looking to make precise cuts with the Genesis GMS1015LC 15-Amp 10-Inch Compound Miter Saw.
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Dimension:5×16.25×15 inches
- Weight: 1 Pound
- Power Sources: Corded Electric
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Speed: 4600RPM
Detailed Features
Versatility
The saw can easily do compound miter cuts and bevel cuts up to 45 degrees to the left.
It can be used for any number of decorative purposes, including picture frames, shadow boxes, and crown molding.
Laser Cutting Guide
The saw has a laser cutting guide for easier alignment and better precision. You’ll have more control over your cuts if you know exactly where they’ll be made.
Electric Brake and Arbor Lock
The saw has an electric brake that can stop the blade in a matter of seconds, and it also has an arbor lock for easy blade changes.
Because of this, swapping the blades is simple, and you can go back to work in no time.
Positive Miter Stops
The saw has nine miter stops with solid detents that lock firmly in place for a quicker setup and precise cuts.
Those who routinely make cuts at the same angles will find this to be an ideal solution.
Cutting Capacity
Suitable for most picture framing tasks, the saw has a maximum cutting capacity of 45 degrees on both the horizontal and vertical (H 1-3/8″ x W3-5/16″).
Durability
The saw’s lightweight, durable, die-cast aluminum stand is perfect for taking it anywhere.
Accessories
The saw has a preinstalled 60T Carbide blade, a dust bag, two extension wings, and a blade wrench, and it requires two AAA batteries for the laser.
All the extras you need to begin woodworking right away are included, making this a wonderful deal for beginners.
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3 – DEWALT (DWS779) Sliding Compound Miter Saw
The DEWALT DWS779 Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a powerful and precise tool for any professional or DIY woodworking project.
Specifications
- Color: Yellow
- Dimensions: 21x17x17 inches
- Weight: 56 Pounds
- Number of Teeth: 60
- Power Sources: Corded Electric
- Blade Length: 12 Inches
- Speed: 3800RPM
Detailed Features
Precision and Versatility
The saw has a miter detent plate made of stainless steel with 10 positive stops for making precise miter cuts. The machined base fence support and accurate miter system guarantee steady and accurate cuts.
To further expand its functionality, the saw can be beveled from 0 to 48 degrees in each direction.
Cutting Capacity
The saw is appropriate for larger tasks since it can cut dimensional timber up to 2 inches by 14 inches at 90 degrees and 2 inches by 10 inches at 45 degrees.
Durability
The saw has two horizontal steel rails that are incorporated into it, and it has a novel clamping mechanism that uses linear ball bearings to increase precision and sturdiness.
Dust Collection
The saw’s dust-collecting mechanism is so effective, it can collect almost 75% of the dust it produces, so your workspace will stay tidy.
Design
It has a large, high-visibility bevel scale with positive stops and tall sliding fences that allow for a vertical base of 6-3/4 inches.
Brushless Motor
The saw has a brushless motor, which offers effective performance and increased longevity. Compared to brushed motors, brushless motors are known to operate more quietly and last longer.
Power and Speed
This saw is equipped with a motor that runs on 110 volts and 15 amps, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 3800 RPM.
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4- Makita LS1040 Compound Miter Saw
Specifications
- Color: Blue
- Dimension: 20x10x21 inches
- Weight: 34.1 Pound
- Power Sources: Corded Electric
- Blade Length: 10 Inches
- Speed: 4600RPM
Detailed Features
Power and Speed
The saw’s 15-amp direct drive engine offers increased performance and 4,600 RPM, making it swift and powerful enough for most jobs.
Precision
There are 9 positive stops located at 15, 22.25, 30, 45, and 0 degrees along the saw’s swiveling arm, which is supported by two posts and allows for a wide range of cutting angles (52 degrees right and 47 degrees left).
Bevel Capability
The saw is especially useful because it can perform bevel cuts of up to 45 degrees to the left.
Durability
The saw’s carbide-tipped blade and machined aluminum base ensure its longevity and reliability. It also features dual aluminum bases, slide rails, and rail guides for smooth, precise motion.
Accessories
The saw comes complete with all of the required attachments, including a vertical vise, a blade, a wrench, and a triangle rule, so you can begin working with it right away.
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5- Metabo HPT C10FCGS Miter Saw
Specifications
- Brand: Metabo HPT
- Color: Green
- Blade Material: High-Speed Steel
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Special Feature: Amazing Value
Detailed Features
Powerful Cutting Performance
The 10-Inch Miter Saw from Metabo HPT is a strong and flexible tool that can handle a variety of cutting jobs.
The saw’s 15 Amp motor provides ample power for even the most demanding cuts, reaching speeds of up to 5,000 RPM when not under load.
Portable Design
The saw weighs only 24.2 pounds, making it portable and easy to use.
Flexible Cutting Options
It offers a large miter angle range of 0–52 degrees to the right and left, giving you more options. In order to make precise cuts, you can adjust the bevel stops to any angle between 0 and 45 degrees to the left.
Precision and Support
The saw’s broad table provides superior material support, and a vice-gripping system keeps the workpiece in place.
It includes a horizontal handle for a firm grip and positive stops that are activated with the thumb for speedy miter adjustments.
Professional Quality
The saw has an electric brake that stops the blade in milliseconds, protecting you from accidental slicing, and it comes with Metabo HPT’s Professional 5-Year Tool Warranty.
The saw is 25 pounds heavy and can generate up to 1,950 watts of power. It is manufactured in China. The versatility and efficiency with which this saw cuts through a variety of materials make it an excellent buy.
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What to Look for When Buying the Best Miter Saw for Picture Framing?
When buying a miter saw for picture framing, there are a few key things to consider:
Blade Size
A smaller blade size is usually appropriate for cutting the tiny pieces of wood used to make picture frames. An excellent choice for photo framing is a 10-inch blade.
Miter Range
The miter range of your saw is particularly critical for projects like making picture frames, which require accurate cuts at very small angles.
Framing pictures call for a saw with a bevel capacity of 0 to 45 degrees.
Bevel Range
For picture framing, bevel cuts are sometimes required. You can make more precise cuts with a saw that has a bevel angle of 0–45 degrees.
Accuracy
When framing a picture, it’s essential that your cuts be precise. If you want to make clean cuts every time, you should get a saw that has a laser guide or a digital display.
Dust Collection
When working with wood, sawdust might be an issue. A saw that incorporates a dust collection system is an excellent investment for anyone concerned with maintaining a clean and healthy work environment.
Durability
The saw’s lifetime depends on the quality of its construction and materials. In your search for a saw, keep in mind that quality and longevity matter.
When it comes to picture framing, a miter saw with compact blade size, a large miter range, a bevel range, and an integrated laser guide or digital display is your best bet.
In addition, you should ensure that it has a reliable dust collection mechanism and is built to last.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if a miter saw is suitable for picture framing?
For picture framing, it’s best to use a saw with a laser guide or digital display and a double-bevel sliding compound miter mechanism, both of which allow for a wide variety of miter and bevel angles.
When framing artwork, it’s helpful to have a saw that has a built-in dust collection system so that the workspace stays tidy.
Are sliding miter saws better for picture framing than non-sliding saws?
Sliding miter saws are great for framing pictures because they can cut bigger pieces and make longer crosscuts, both of which are important when working with bigger frames.
They also offer a more accurate cutting mechanism, which is important for picture framing.
Are there any specific brands that are known for making miter saws suitable for picture framing?
Among the many manufacturers of miter saws, DEWALT, Bosch, Makita, and Hitachi stand out as top choices for picture framers.
These companies make a wide range of high-quality miter saws, each with its own precise cutting system and other features that make them great for framing pictures.
Can a miter saw be used for cutting other materials besides wood for picture framing?
Yes, a miter saw can cut non-wood picture framing materials. Aluminum and PVC miter saws use specific blades. A specific blade can also cut acrylic, foam board, and MDF.
Before cutting other materials with the miter saw, ask the manufacturer or an expert.
Final Verdict
When searching for the ideal miter saw for picture framing, keep an eye out for features like a dust collecting system, a laser guide, a wide variety of miter and bevel angles, and a high-precision cutting mechanism, such as a double-bevel sliding compound miter saw.
DEWALT, BOSH, Makita, and many other well-known manufacturers of high-quality miter saws for picture framing are mentioned above with detailed reviews.
Think about whether or not you’ll need to cut anything except wood with the miter saw.
Thanks for Reading!
I am Arxal, the founder and main writer of sawgeeks.com. Passionate about woodworking and power tools, I started this blog to share my knowledge and experiences with others in the field. Through my articles, I aim to provide helpful information and create a community for fellow saw geeks.
