Miter Saw issues and recommendations

MidwestChomp

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I bought a used 12 inch Delta brand miter saw a few years ago. It has been very good, but it has had some issues spring up the last few weeks. At times it doesn't cut all the way through (seems like it takes a few seconds to get to max rpm), and makes almost a grinding noise after I make the cut, bring the blade up and release the trigger. It tends to not stop right away after releasing the trigger.

The brushes look good, but I wonder if it the trigger or brake mechanism that is starting to go. It is getting a bit scary to use and I would like to keep all my fingers.

I am thinking of getting a new one if I can't resolve the issues. I would like to keep it under $400. I would like a 12 inch so I can keep my 12 inch Diablo blade.

If anyone has any ideas and recommendations I would appreciate it.
 

crosscreekcooter

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Don't know how much you use the saw but you can get a great buy from Harbor Freight. 12" sliding bevel by Chicago Tools (China). This saw is a badass for under $200. The Delta is $650 at HD. No brainer for me. I've had a Chicago 10" for 10 years that I have literally beat the schit out of and it cuts like a man.
61969_zzz_500.jpg
 

bradgator2

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You want to keep it 12 inches? Better talk to dubs.
 

MidwestChomp

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Don't know how much you use the saw but you can get a great buy from Harbor Freight. 12" sliding bevel by Chicago Tools (China). This saw is a badass for under $200. The Delta is $650 at HD. No brainer for me. I've had a Chicago 10" for 10 years that I have literally beat the schit out of and it cuts like a man.
61969_zzz_500.jpg
I go back and forth whether to get a sliding. I am an amateur so I don't use one heavily that's why I don't need a professional grade.

I have a few Chicago Electric tools and they are both cordless. I had to upgrade because they weren't very powerful. But from an amateur standpoint that saw looks decent.
 

crosscreekcooter

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The saw I own is over 10 years old and cuts as well as a 10" DeWalt I used to own. They are both 15 amp motors, I think I paid $80 for the Chicago saw, the DeWalt was $250.
Go to Youtube and source Harbor Freight 12" sliding miter saw reviews and watch a few to make your own decision
 

MidwestChomp

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Go DeWalt, you'll never go back.

As for this note...

How long of an extension cord are you using?
The cord on the saw is about 3-4 feet long I think. I plug it straight into the wall...no other extension cord.
 

crosscreekcooter

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This is an example of a Stanley Mod. 60, the first miter saw I ever owned. I used this for a number of years (early 70's) running interior trim and cornice work.
p2-stanley-no-60-mitre-box-full-shot-with-saw.jpg

A lot of builders back then didn't buy prehung door units, and even when they did the the casing and stop came as random lengths. If you subbed interior trim, you were paid by the opening (typically $25 per opening - doors and windows) and the miscellaneous trim like base and shoemold were expected to be thrown in. If there was additional trim like crown, chair rail and door and window pediments you negotiated more money. Handnailed.
 

MidwestChomp

Fun was the goal and we hit the bullseye
Lifetime Member
Sep 15, 2014
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This is an example of a Stanley Mod. 60, the first miter saw I ever owned. I used this for a number of years (early 70's) running interior trim and cornice work.
p2-stanley-no-60-mitre-box-full-shot-with-saw.jpg

A lot of builders back then didn't buy prehung door units, and even when they did the the casing and stop came as random lengths. If you subbed interior trim, you were paid by the opening (typically $25 per opening - doors and windows) and the miscellaneous trim like base and shoemold were expected to be thrown in. If there was additional trim like crown, chair rail and door and window pediments you negotiated more money. Handnailed.
That is real badass craftsman there.
 

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