Can I use a 10" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

dsb5610 · Apr 15, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

I used my Milwaukee compound miter with an abrasive blade numerous times. Actually cuts very well. Eventually I cut a large enough piece that it melted the kerf plate. On the Milwaukee the kerf is plastic and comes uncut. I've bought a Milwaukee chop saw since then. Everything is metal on that. I'm not impressed with it's cutting performance but I have only used the original blade so far. I have a couple of blades now that are used for cutting railroad tracks that I will be trying the next time I need it.

dsb

BloomingtonMike · Apr 15, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

There is a new Milwaukee chop saw out that is getting good reviews. Can you post your model number for me?

BloomingtonMike · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

So I just ordered the new Milwaukee 14" 6180-20. Really wanting to modify my 72" rear rake. The rake was free so $180 for the saw is good right? This saw is getting great reviews and I like the horizontal D-Handle. Ordered from Amazon. Here is a picture:

Quick-change abrasive wheel system for less downtime
Largest cutting capacity in class for larger stock
Horizontal D-handle for optimal comfort
Powerful 5.4 HP/15-amp motor for fast cutting
Completely tool-free for simple fence adjustments and wheel changes
Powerful 5.4 HP/15-amp motor for fast cutting
Completely tool-free for simple fence adjustments and wheel changes
Quick-change abrasive wheel system for less downtime
Largest cutting capacity in class for larger stock
Horizontal D-handle for optimal comfort

MtnViewRanch · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

For other people looking for a steel cutting chop saw, look at the Makita LC1230 12 metal cutting saw. It's a little smaller than the abrasive saws, (12 inch)and a little pricey at $428.22. Makita says that it cuts 4x faster than there abrasive saw. I would say that it cuts 10x faster than my 14" Milwaukee abrasive saw. Hopefully the new Milwaukee 6180-20 saws are better than mine.

Brian

MtnViewRanch · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

dsb5610, I was very disappointed with my abrasive saw also. I have tried about every blade out there. Bought cheep ones and expensive ones from the welding supply place. None of them cut very good for very long. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif I went with the Makita LC1230 cold saw with carbide teeth. Much, much better /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Brian

dsb5610 · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

I've got the Milwaukee model 6176-20. It has a 3.2hp, 15a motor. At 5.4hp versus 3.2hp the one you have ordered should work much better. I would be interested in knowing how it does.

dsb

dsb5610 · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

Brian, that's not what I wanted to hear. Was hoping a good quality blade in the Milwaukee would make a big difference.

Did you look metal band saws? I wonder how much you would have to spend to get one with similar performance of the Makita.

dsb

BloomingtonMike · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( For other people looking for a steel cutting chop saw, look at the Makita LC1230 12 metal cutting saw. It's a little smaller than the abrasive saws, (12 inch)and a little pricey at $428.22. Makita says that it cuts 4x faster than there abrasive saw. I would say that it cuts 10x faster than my 14" Milwaukee abrasive saw. Hopefully the new Milwaukee 6180-20 saws are better than mine.

Brian )</font>

At what thicknesses does the drycut work well at?? That figure seems to be missing.

Farwell · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

Depending on the thickness of the metal and the ability to hold the metal firmly while being cut, it can be done
I have used belt driven table saws with the fiber metal cutting blades to cut 3"X3/8" steel channel. It takes a while but it will work and is a little rough on bearings.
I use skill saws with plywood blades mounted with the teeth facing backwards to cut metal siding. The secret is to make sure that it is on a solid surface and held firmly if you want quality cuts.
I would not make a habit out of using saws designed for wood cutting to cut metal. Saws designed for metal cutting are so much better and safer. IMO
Farwell

MtnViewRanch · Apr 16, 2006

Re: Can I use a 10\" miter saw as an abrasion CO saw?

dsb,I have a cheapy Harbor Freight band saw ($100 22 years ago) and it works ok. Cuts bigger stuff than the Makita, but no where as fast or as straight. A good band saw is going to cost around $800 if I remember correctly. Can't wait to need it for a job for a reason too get it also. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif Remember you can never have enough tools, and never rent or borrow anything more than once.

Brian