If you own a table saw, consider adding a miter gauge as an important tool to your system. It will assist you to make cross-cuts and due to its 45-degree angle, it can also make compound cuts. Mostly, radial-arm saws are known for making compound cuts. You can give a miter gauge a try. Read this handyman.guide to know what is the miter gauge used for.
What is a miter gauge?
This refers to a tool that will assist you to hold any workpiece in your workshop. They hold workpieces at set angles as you cut on a table saw or a disk sander. You will use it to slide in a slot on the machine that you are using.
10 Uses of miter gauges on your project
I am sure that you are now informed about the importance of a miter gauge as a working tool. You probably will need more information about it and we are more than willing to let you know more about this wonderful tool. We shall keep you in the know about a variety of miter gauge tools and their uses. Therefore, let us shed light on the various cuts you can make and how you can get started using your miter gauge.
Square Cross-Cuts with a Miter Gauge
For beginners, cross cuts are the easiest to grasp and work on. This is where we shall start from. Set a 90 degrees gauge if you are doing a cross-cut. This will ensure a square cut on the material you are working on. Ensure that you have set the gauge accurately. You will not achieve that professional cut that you have always desired if your miter gauge is a bit configured in terms of degree. Checking on the gauge accuracy is pretty simple.
Angled Cross-Cuts with a Miter Gauge
Consider executing an angled crosscut as your popular cut. Its name actually suggests that it is similar to a cross-cut. However, the angle settings are set from 90 degrees to any suitable angle like 45 degrees. This cut can be made by guiding your gauge against the blade of the saw for the reason that the board may be disturbed by the movement of the gauge. It may also slide the board out of its position as you work on it.
This problem can only be solved by getting a clamp to have your board fixed to the gauge. We recommend that you get a small clamp normally used in woodworking. Once you have put the board in the right position, have the angle set as well. After this, you may proceed with making the cut. However, you only need to be careful and gentle as you cut because injuries are inevitable.
Making Multiple and Identical Cuts
You are at discretion to choose any cutting length which is suitable for you. After this, you are supposed to align one edge to the fence. Do clamping on a stop block. We prefer that you choose a stop block that is angled. For you to make a splendid cut, have your board pushed against the block.
Making an Accurate 45-degree Miter Cut
Do not set the miter gauge without first raising the blade. Ensure that it is set to 45 degrees. If you want to mark precisely, use a drafting square. Later, you may try mounting an extension fence to the miter.
Holding the board firmly against the fence will definitely ensure a strong working area as you plan to mark and cut. After this, cutting is done by pushing the board on the blade.
You will find crosscutting the easiest task ever by the use of a miter gauge. Ensure that you have set the miter to 45 degrees before you can start the process. If you are a professional cross-cutter, you probably are aware that miter cuts come before square cuts. This is a unique technique that most people do not know. It is accurate and quite easy and accurate.
The square picture frame should be done into two. This exercise needs extreme precision and therefore, you will need to be careful. Accuracy is determined by the fact it is firmly fixed together. You will need to be very vigilant because a slight mistake may affect the output.
Frequently asked questions
When must you use a miter gauge when using a table saw?
Make Square or Angled Cross-Cuts
It is possible to set the blade of your saw at 45 degrees. This is why you need a miter saw because it will make it possible for compound cuts to be made. These designs of cuts are normally done by a radial-arm saw.
Are table saw miter gauges universal?
There is a universal table saw miter gauge manufactured by Powertec. It provides cuts with high precision. It is also durable especially when you want to give your board angled cuts.
How do you fix a loose miter gauge?
You will need to do some peening on one side of the bar using a hammer or a center punch. This is going to give you a bar fit that is undersized. If you find it loose, the other side needs peening. If it becomes too tight, the other side needs sanding for a perfect fit.
What do you use a miter gauge for?
It is a tool that is used to hold a workpiece or workpieces. This is possible especially when angles are set while cutting on sanders, band saws, or table saws. A slot is slid in by a miter gauge while on the work table. It is also known as the miter slot.
Conclusion
It is good to research all the time for any tool that you want to purchase. It will give you the best tool for a better job. If you own a miter that is well researched, you will come out with smooth work and also safety. Therefore, the above guide would be of great help as you think of going for a miter gauge from the nearby stores.
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