Miter Saw with or without laser?

Question

I want to buy a miter saw but just cant decide which one to buy.

I love the Dewalt 10" DW703 for $200. It feels very smooth and looks well constructed. However, it does not have laser guide.

My other option is Rigid 10" with laser MS1065LZ for also $200.

I have never used a miter saw before. I would think that the laser would make it much easier to line up the blade to the cut line?

Answer 1

get the dewalt. you will be money ahead. the laser is just an add-on that you don't really need. the dewalt is a better buy.

Answer 2

Ray, I have the DeWalt miter saw you're looking at and love it. I also have Rigid tools but prefer the feel of the Dewalt. Plus, the DeWalt is a very safe miter saw to operate but allows the experienced carpenters some freedom due to its design. What I don't like about the Rigid is the handle that allows a change in angle degree positioning. The DeWalt becomes an extension of my hand, but when I tested the Rigid it felt clumsy. Since I've never had a saw with the laser, I can't be completely objective. But I would be concerned about its accuracy if I had to lug it around as much as I do from job to job. You, however, might be able to keep it stationary at one location and that wouldn't be a problem. The Ryobi mentioned is an excellent buy for the DIYer who doesn't need the day-to-day durability of more expensive tools. All said, I will purchase another DeWalt miter saw when that time comes. Good luck

Answer 3

When I bought mine I was looking at the Dewalt 10 inch slide miter for around 579$ but there happened to be a contractor there when I was looking and he told me his got off zero and no matter what he did he couldn't get it back. He suggested the Bosch 12 inch compound miter saw and ever since it's been a tool I don't know how I did without. As for the laser I don't think they make the cutting much faster simply by letting you line it up a little easier. What I'd spend my money on is a very good cross cut blade. 60 tooth or higher like an 80 you get a very clean cut and not tearout with these. Don't skimp on the blade. A good blade can make a cheap saw run like a champ. Bought mine at Menards for around 230. You may not be happy with a 10 inch even with my 12 there are times when I wish I had a 14. But 12 is a good all around saw.

Answer 4

When I built houses, I was always the saw man. I can't imagine why anyone would need a laser. We used the DeWalt sliding compound miter saw, so I don't know about the regular ones, but its guard can be raised and held with your thumb without lowering the blade. Other saws I've used have a mechanism that's desinged not to let you do that. You have to lower the blade to get the guard up. Much easier to cut precisely (moldings) when the guard is already out of the way.

Also, all the new tools with lasers I've seen have kind of fuzzy lines. They only get sharp when the laser gets real close to the work, which defeats the purpose of the laser. Practice is a much better guide than a laser. A laser will get you in the ballpark before you cut, though, but I wouldn't rely on it to actually make the cut.

Answer 5

Miter Saw Laser

Answer 6

Answer number 1 has the clue. It's like buying a cordless set that includes a flashlight. I've been in this game a long time, have many decent tools, and never drilled or cut anything in the dark, needing a flashlight.

I have a great respect for lasers as they are applied to a surgeons hands, but to have on on a miter/chop saw is useless.

Having never used one is no sin. Certainly basic principals will apply, and to practice just get a bucket load of Culled lumber and chop away.

One of the most important LAWS in that type of work is Measure Twice/Cut Once.

Dewalt, Rigid, Milwaukee, Bosch, any brands are a matter of personal choice and experience in using. Certainly everyone has opinions and favorites. I happen to have an inexpensive fave I take on the job every day. It's a 10 inch Ryobi, I paid $99 for, NEW.

$200 is not a make or break investment, and as a newbie with the tool I suspect either you name will give you what you want. One thing I suggest is that you check AMPS, possible accessories, supply centers for repair and parts, and Warrantee.

I suspect too that if one digs deep enough they'll find that so many of the components are not made in the USA, and very likely, may not even be assembled here.

The greatest tool is one that serves your purpose for having it,,,even if you only use it once.

Steven Wolf

I use a lot of Dewalt tools, because of ease in finding them everywhere, the company that backs them, and the fact that I can find a Dewalt service center in almost every major city in the country.

Answer 7

1

Answer 8

I would buy neither of those two, they are made in either Taiwan or China and are of poor quality. Rigid is made by Ryobi only for Home Depot and Dewalt is not even a full grade about black and decker.

I would buy an Hitachi, Makita, or Bosch.

I don't need a laser and I do cabinet work which required accuracy in the cut. Depending on what you are planning to do with it, a double compound sliding miter might be your best option, far more flexible.

Answer 9

O.K. everyone has voiced their opinion about which one to buy but not answer your question. I am a professional carpenter, and will openly admit that adding the laser to my saw was a life and time saver. I no longer have to squat to see where my blade is going to hit and I am only cutting once when I cut to the blindside. I would spend the extra for an add on universal laser. Oh heck I also use be a De Walt guy but am VERY happy with the Rigid tools that I have bought. And if there is ever a problem Home Depot will hand you a new one. Many of rigid saws have rated the TOP of their class by many carpenter magazines and buyers guides. Good Luck and watch the digits

Answer 10

I have a miter saw that does not have a laser guide and in many instances, I think it would be helpful addition to my tool. However, I have a number of DeWalt tools. I am a DIYer and have done two whole house remodels and have use them for jobs bigger than they are designed for and they have held up. I am not to familiar with the Rigid brand, which if I was buying might be a consideration.

Answer 11

I Agree the dewalt is a good saw. we have a slider it is a little more pricey but we use our dewalt every day. It takes a lot of abuse we have never had a problem with it. As far as the laser making it easier to cut i have used both.Ya the laser is nice but just about anyone can cut accurately with either one.dewalt makes a laser add on I saw at the store. Havent used it though. good luck.