Originally posted by THarvey...
I like the miter saw better than the table saw. It is much cleaner and <b>safer</b>. ...
emphasis added
NB: <b>IMHO</b>
SAFETY is the #1 consideration in all woodworking I do.
I DON'T know that the statement above is based on facts or empirical evidence.
What I do know is that almost every individual I've seen using a miter saw to make these cuts holds the blank with their hands while most of the folks I've communicated with using a tablesaw use a miter sled and hold-downs to hold the blanks while they cut them.
<b>Clearly, the TS with a miter sled and hold-downs is safer than holding the blank with your hand on either tool.</b>
Furthermore, as to technique, while a miter saw works, the problem is there isn't a way to make a stopped cut using the miter saw so one cuts all the way thru the blank.
It's easier to use a miter sled and hold-downs on a Table saw and NOT cut all the way thru the blank than it is to use a miter saw, cut all the way thru the blank and then have to be able to realign the pieces exactly 4 times.
The specific answer to the original question is: "Yes, a miter saw can be used."
Is it the best tool for the job? in my opinion, NOT at all! I'd put it 5th behind:
1. Table saw with miter sled and hold-downs
2. Band-saw with miter sled and hold-downs and a stop.
3. Radial Arm saw with a miter sled and hold-downs.
4. Hand tools: a good backsaw, miter gauge, and stop.
5. Miter saw.
I don't want to start a religious tool war here but there's a reason we own different tools. Some are more suited to certain jobs than others. Whichever tool and method you use, do it safely. [
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