The Bottom Line
For woodworkers and building contractors looking for a professional level 12" sliding compound miter saw, it's hard to believe one could find a better choice than the Milwaukee 6955-20. This sturdy, albeit heavy sliding miter saw is easy to use and full of features that will produce exactly the precision results fine woodworkers and craftsmen require. Of course, all of these features come at a price, one that may put this saw out of the reach of the weekend woodworker. However, if one looks at it as an investment in a quality tool, the woodworker will be rewarded with a well-built, precise miter saw.
Pros
- Cuts miters of up to 60-degrees (right) and 55-degrees (left)
- Adjustable depth of cut for groove cuts or rabbets
- Well-written owner's manual includes crown molding angle charts
- Trigger includes spot for padlock for added anti-theft security
- Common-angle detents on bevel is a nice touch
Cons
- At 76 pounds, this unit is a bit heavy for use as a portable miter saw
- Fine adjustment knob can be a little difficult to engage
- A bit pricey, but loaded with features
Description
- It is advisable to mount the saw on a stand or table, as it is a bit back-heavy when the saw is at the back of the travel
- The digital miter gauge can occasionally be "tricked" into an imprecise reading. A quick move to a detent solves the issue
- Only the left fence slides - the right fence must be removed when cutting deep bevels
- Includes a blade brake for added security
- Comes backed by a 5-year limited warranty
Guide Review - Milwaukee 6955-20 Sliding Dual Bevel Miter Saw
I'll be the first to admit that I've never really been a big fan of sliding miter saws. I've always preferred to use a non-sliding compound miter saw, mainly because I was uncomfortable with the extra added weight and motion of a slider saw.
However, after using the Milwaukee 6955-20, I may be changing my tune. Not only will this Milwaukee cut much wider boards than a non-sliding miter saw, but it can cut at wider angle miters than most miter saws. The digital miter gauge allows for fine angle miters at one-tenth of a degree precision. This may seem like overkill, but when installing crown molding or trim on a less than square corner, the additional level of precision will definitely come in handy.
There are a couple of minor issues that I'd like to see Milwaukee address. First, I'm puzzled as to why the left fence slides, but the right one doesn't. I'm sure there must be a reason, but I couldn't figure out why.
Second, probably for the benefit of users who have never properly used a sliding miter saw, there is a diagram on the right side of the turntable that shows the proper motion for using a slider. For the record, that motion is to leave the saw up off of the table and pull the slide forward (while depressing the trigger), then, when the motor is at full speed, depress the saw to the bottom of its motion (down to the turntable) before pushing the saw through the wood. After completing the cut, raise the saw off of the table and release the trigger. Wait for the blade to stop before removing the stock.
The diagram on the right side of the turntable shows this motion, but unfortunately the diagram is backwards as it is oriented to the saw. Placing the diagram on the opposite side of the turntable would make it properly oriented to the motion of the saw, and might prevent a novice from making a potentially dangerous mistake.
However, after using the Milwaukee 6955-20, I may be changing my tune. Not only will this Milwaukee cut much wider boards than a non-sliding miter saw, but it can cut at wider angle miters than most miter saws. The digital miter gauge allows for fine angle miters at one-tenth of a degree precision. This may seem like overkill, but when installing crown molding or trim on a less than square corner, the additional level of precision will definitely come in handy.
There are a couple of minor issues that I'd like to see Milwaukee address. First, I'm puzzled as to why the left fence slides, but the right one doesn't. I'm sure there must be a reason, but I couldn't figure out why.
Second, probably for the benefit of users who have never properly used a sliding miter saw, there is a diagram on the right side of the turntable that shows the proper motion for using a slider. For the record, that motion is to leave the saw up off of the table and pull the slide forward (while depressing the trigger), then, when the motor is at full speed, depress the saw to the bottom of its motion (down to the turntable) before pushing the saw through the wood. After completing the cut, raise the saw off of the table and release the trigger. Wait for the blade to stop before removing the stock.
The diagram on the right side of the turntable shows this motion, but unfortunately the diagram is backwards as it is oriented to the saw. Placing the diagram on the opposite side of the turntable would make it properly oriented to the motion of the saw, and might prevent a novice from making a potentially dangerous mistake.
