What kind of saw?

[Socalgal]

It's really time I bought a saw.. but what kind? It would be used for home-based projects like cutting lumber for raised garden beds and an arbor/trellis, stuff like that. Is there a saw that will cut thick lumber and do miter cuts also?

Will my existing bench shelving work - I'm hoping I don't have to bolt it to the shelving. I'll be going to Home Depot but wanted to get some ideas from you guys, too.

Thanks

[surreal]

A chop saw

[RobRich]

A large table saw, radial arm saw, and even a large miter saw. It largely depends on how you want to make those cuts. If you are not cutting anything lengthwise, then a miter saw sounds like a good choice for your desired tasks.

You can source a decent consumer-class 12" compound miter saw for around $200-$250. You can get a 10" much cheaper, but I suggest a 12" if you intend working with framing timbers or similar size wood stock for your flowerbeds.

I would also suggest taking a trip to Sears instead of Home Depot, but that is largely a personal choice. I used to work for Sears, so I have a decent insight into its big-ticket hardware product lines and warranty/return policies. Take a look at Sears.com, as there are couple of 12" models currently on sale.

For what its worth, I could do those basic cuts with a good old handheld circular saw as well, but YMMV depending on skill level with a circular saw. If you don't already have one, get a circular saw ASAP. Not only is a circular saw great for short cuts, but it will be also good for your lengthwise cuts, such as lattice panels for trellising. Freehanding can be difficult, but you can clamp a level or similar straightline to your work for a guide. Around $60 to $100 will source you a decent model for occasional residential projects.

[Socalgal]

So I can use a miter saw not only for mitering (for the base millwork I want to install - but I hear mitering is hard to do) but for regular cutting, lengthwise cutting, etc.?

I can go Sears.

Surreal, what do you do with your chop saw?

[RobRich]

Chop saw = miter saw.

Miter saws are for short cuts. Great for cutting boards to length and corners for your flowerbeds. For example, say you need to cut four 4"x4" boards to length, then put 45-degree angles on them so you can build the sides for a square flowerbed. Also, if you get a 12" model, you will be able to cut some rather large wood stock.

Otherwise, you would typically use a table saw or handheld circular saw for long lengthwise cuts, such as cutting a piece of 4'x8' plywood in half.

[Socalgal]

Ahh, ok. Sounds like I want a 12" miter saw, then. Might as well do it right. I'll hit Sears.com, www.resellerratings.com and www.dealighted.com for some preliminary price / deal info

[surreal]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Socalgal

Surreal, what do you do with your chop saw?

I don't have one. I use a circular saw.
Are you going to be doing enough mitering to warrant spending money on a "specialized" saw?? Usually a chop saw is a finish carpenters tool or a cabinet builders tool.

If you just want to do some miter cuts, get a miter box for 15 bucks, however I don't think I'd miter the corners of the raised garden bed.

When you look at the circular saw, pick them up and see how they feel to you as far as balance and weight goes for you. I also suggest you go to Lowe's or the depot and talk to someone about the uses of each saw. A tool you're unfamiliar with should be purchased in a store, or at least shop for them there.

[RobRich]

Quote:

I don't think I'd miter the corners of the raised garden bed.

You wouldn't?

I sold plenty of miter saws for general contracting and residential use. It is a great tool to have IMO, and it can replace a circular saw for many tasks. You can get the benefit of more precise cuts, which can be important for even basic straight cuts when cutting boards to length.

[Socalgal]

I tried one of those miter boxes that require a handheld/manual wood saw and it was a PITA, lol; the box kept moving around, the edges were jagged, and it was too slow and labor-intensive to get anything substantial done.

I'm not sure how much mitering I will do - if I can learn to do it well I will redo the base in my house - but, if possible, having an all-in-one solution is desirable so that I have options without multiple purchases.

[Socalgal]

Cool - btw, do I have to bolt it into the table to use it?