Milwaukee 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw

When I first got my hands on the Milwaukee 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw, I was eager to see if it lived up to its reputation. Known for their robust and durable tools, Milwaukee has set a high bar, and I was curious to see if this saw would meet or exceed my expectations.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about this miter saw is its sheer heft. Weighing in at 65 lbs, it's definitely not the most portable option out there. But what it lacks in portability, it more than makes up for in build quality. The saw feels incredibly sturdy, with dual horizontal steel rails that give it exceptional stability. The sliding mechanism is smooth, thanks to the linear bearings, making it easier to handle larger cuts.

Setup and Calibration

Setting up the saw was relatively straightforward. The instructions were clear, and all the necessary tools were included. However, I did need to spend some time calibrating it to ensure it was cutting square. The miter angle fine adjustment with detent override was particularly useful here, allowing for precise tweaks that helped me get the saw dialed in perfectly.

Cutting Performance

Once set up, the saw's performance was impressive. The 15.0 Amp, 3.3 Max HP Direct Drive Motor has more than enough power to tackle a variety of materials. I tested it on everything from soft pine to dense hardwoods, and it cut through effortlessly. The constant power technology with soft start is a nice feature, preventing any sudden jerks when you pull the trigger.

The digital readout for miter angles is a nice touch, offering accuracy down to 0.1°. This is particularly useful for projects that require high precision. However, I did find that the digital readout can sometimes be a bit finicky, requiring a reset by unplugging the saw.

Blade and Cut Quality

The saw comes with a 12" blade, which is adequate for most tasks. However, I found that upgrading to a higher-quality blade, like a Freud or Diablo, significantly improved the cut quality. The stock blade did a decent job, but for finer work, a better blade is essential.

One area where the saw excels is in its ability to make clean, smooth cuts. Even when cutting through thick materials like a 6x6 pressure-treated post, the saw performed admirably. The dual integral job site lights are a useful feature, providing good visibility of the cutting area. However, these lights can get obstructed by sawdust over time, reducing their effectiveness.

Dust Collection

The integral dust channel does a reasonable job of capturing sawdust, but it's not perfect. When connected to a shop vac, it managed to catch about 50% of the dust, which is better than some other models but still leaves room for improvement. For indoor use, I would recommend setting up an additional dust collection system to keep your workspace clean.

Usability and Comfort

Using the saw is generally a pleasant experience. The oversized single lever bevel adjustment with 9 positive bevel stops makes it easy to switch between common angles. The saw's weight, while making it less portable, adds to its stability, reducing vibrations and making it easier to achieve accurate cuts.

However, the saw's size and weight can be a drawback if you need to move it frequently. It's best suited for a stationary setup, ideally mounted on a rolling stand for easier maneuverability.

Durability and Longevity

Having used the saw for several months now, I can attest to its durability. It has held up well under regular use, showing no signs of wear or mechanical issues. The build quality is excellent, and I expect this saw to last for many years with proper maintenance.

Drawbacks

While the Milwaukee 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw has many strengths, it does have a few drawbacks. The digital readout, while useful, can be unreliable at times. The saw's weight and bulk make it less portable, which could be a dealbreaker for those who need a more mobile solution. Additionally, the stock blade is not the best for fine woodworking, necessitating an upgrade for higher-quality cuts.

Overall Recommendation

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 12" Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you need a reliable, powerful, and highly accurate miter saw and don't mind its weight and size, this is an excellent choice. It's particularly well-suited for stationary setups in workshops or job sites where portability is not a primary concern.

However, if you require a more portable solution or need a saw that performs flawlessly out of the box without any need for calibration or upgrades, you might want to consider other options. Despite its few quirks, the saw's robust build quality, power, and precision make it a worthwhile investment for serious woodworkers and contractors.