Milwaukee 10" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

Transitioning to cordless tools has become a necessity for professionals seeking convenience and flexibility on job sites. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Milwaukee 10" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, model 2734-21. As a professional carpenter with a penchant for precision and power, I was eager to see how this tool would perform in various working conditions. Here's my detailed take on this miter saw, covering its strengths and areas where it falls short.

Features and First Impressions

The Milwaukee miter saw comes equipped with several impressive features. The POWERSTATE brushless motor and M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT 8.0 battery pack promise enhanced power and extended runtime. The saw also includes an adjustable stainless steel detent plate, cam locking miter system, and a Shadow Cut Line LED Light for improved alignment. Portability is facilitated by top and side handles, making it seemingly ideal for job site use.

Out of the box, the saw feels robust and well-constructed, yet it's relatively lightweight at 45 lbs. Setting it up was straightforward, and the initial calibration for miter and bevel angles was simple enough with the provided instructions.

Performance and Usability

Power and Cutting Ability

The saw boasts a 10" blade with an RPM of 4,000, providing ample power for a wide range of materials. In my initial tests, the saw handled 2x12s effortlessly, making clean and precise cuts. The brushless motor indeed delivers a significant amount of power, and the battery life is commendable. I managed to complete numerous cuts on a single charge, which is a notable advantage for those working on remote job sites without easy access to power outlets.

Accuracy and Adjustability

One of the standout features is the Shadow Cut Line LED Light. This system replaces traditional lasers and offers excellent visibility, ensuring that your cuts are precise. The adjustable stainless steel detent plate also provides a solid basis for repeatable accuracy. However, I noticed that after extended use, the precision of the miter and bevel cuts started to wane. The saw’s detents were slightly off, which required frequent recalibration.

The bevel adjustment mechanism is easy to use, but I found that it could be a bit finicky when trying to lock in exact angles. This can be a drawback for those requiring high precision, such as finish carpenters. The sliding mechanism is smooth initially but tends to develop some play over time, affecting the accuracy of longer cuts.

Portability and Ergonomics

Portability is one of the saw's strong suits. The top and side handles make it easy to carry around the job site, and the relatively light weight is a relief for those who need to move their tools frequently. The controls are well-placed and intuitive, making it easy to switch between different settings quickly.

Drawbacks and Limitations

Durability and Build Quality

While the saw feels sturdy, the sliding mechanism's durability is questionable. After a few weeks of use, I noticed some flex in the slider bars, which compromised the accuracy of my cuts. This is particularly concerning for professionals who rely on precision for tasks like installing crown molding or baseboards.

Dust Collection

Dust collection is another area where the saw falls short. Despite using a shop vac, the dust and chips seemed to scatter everywhere. The design of the dust chute is not optimal, and it doesn’t capture debris effectively. This can be a significant drawback for indoor work or when working in finished spaces.

Price and Value

Given its features and capabilities, the saw is priced on the higher end of the spectrum. While it offers a lot of conveniences, such as being cordless and portable, the issues with durability and accuracy make it a less attractive option for high-precision work. For general carpentry and framing, it performs adequately, but it may not justify the cost for those who need impeccable accuracy.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

The Milwaukee 10" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a mixed bag. It excels in portability, power, and battery life, making it a convenient choice for general carpentry and framing tasks. The Shadow Cut Line LED Light is a fantastic feature that enhances cutting accuracy, at least initially.

However, the saw's long-term accuracy and durability are concerning. The flex in the slider bars and the need for frequent recalibration can be frustrating, especially for finish carpenters who need precise cuts. The poor dust collection further detracts from its overall usability.

Would I recommend this tool? For general carpentry, framing, and other tasks that don't require extreme precision, the Milwaukee miter saw is a solid, albeit pricey, option. Its cordless convenience and robust power make it suitable for job sites where mobility is crucial. However, for finish carpenters or those requiring high precision and reliability, I would suggest looking at other options. The issues with accuracy and durability make it a less ideal choice for tasks demanding exacting standards.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 10" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw is a tool with great potential but falls short in some critical areas. It’s a good investment for those who prioritize portability and power, but it may not meet the needs of professionals seeking flawless precision.