This Old Workshop, Delta Miter saw review, woodworking

Woody Tool Workout:

Delta ShopMaster Model MS250 10" Compound Power Miter Saw

I found myself in need of a miter saw that I can do some quick cutting with at home. We are doing some minor home improvement projects including replacing molding around our family room.

Not wanting to invest a large amount of money in a full featured saw since there is one sitting in our woodshop a few miles from my house, and being simply too lazy to want to haul it back and forth as I need it, I started my search.

I went to our local home improvement warehouse store and this Delta Shopmaster on sale. I was impressed by the features as well as happy with the price.

Powerful 13 amp. Motor provides plenty of power for tough cutting jobs.
• Cross cuts a nominal 2" X 6" or 4" X 4" at 90°. Miters a 2" X 4" flat or on edge et 45° R & L
• Lightweight, aluminum-alloy construction weighs only 28 lbs.
• Large, one-piece fence for maximum support of extra-wide materials.
• Easy-to-read bevel scale with adjustable positive stops for quick tilt settings.
• Convenient miter indexing mechanism for quick, easy miter settings.
• Electric blade brake automatically stops blade in seconds.
• Lubricated-for-life ball bearings assure trouble-free performance with less maintenance
• Dust bag collects fine dust and woodchips.
• Makes quick work of cutting compound angles on crown moulding or nominal 2 X 4's.

I have used this saw on the molding project, as well as some deck repairs cutting 2x4's and 2x6's. The Shopmaster made quick accurate work of both these cutting jobs. I have left the saw unmounted but it would easily fit onto many of the aftermarket chop saw tables. I have mine set up on a roll away storage bench and use an adjustable outfeed roller for added support when cutting longer items.

Overall I have been quite happy with this saw and it continues to perform as expected and I feel comfortable recommending it if your needs are like mine for a nice small miter saw to do some cutting around the house, or in a small house shop.

Daniel

Delta didn't gain a top spot for their tool line without making precision tools.

The investment was well worth it for this saw. I am very pleased with it's value.

Although if you were only able to get one miter saw, I might suggest investing in a 12" saw. But if budget is a concern, this is a great alternative for a home shop. And its small enough to be fairly portable if need be.