radial arm saw vs. sliding compound miter saw

[saichele]

So here's a problem more people would like to have. I have a 10" compound miter saw. I have the opportunity to buy used either a Craftsman 12" radial arm saw (about 20yrs old but looks like new) or a Dewalt sliding compound miter saw (about 10 yrs old, also in good shape although it looks a little rougher). Same price.

As far as I can see, they stack up about the same, and I have the space for the radial arm, so that's where I'm leaning. Any other opnions (preferably with rationale?)

Thanks
Steve

 

[ctlovell]

Radial arm saw all the way. It's impossible to rip with a slide compound miter saw. Plus you get the stability of a stationary piece of equipment and the capacity of a 12" blade.

 

[nshif]

I have both, a 12" craftsman radial and a Bosch 10" compound miter. They both have their place and do different jobs but I wouldnt want to be without either. I do use the Bosch more but try to cut a 4x12 with a 10" miter saw

 

[Sandor]

Sliding compound miter saw, all the way, if I could have only one.

I sold my radial arm years ago, and have never missed it. A sliding compound miter is something I could use on jobsites every several weeks. For siding, its a must-have.

It boils down to what you want to do with it.

If you want to build furniture in a shop environment, choose the radial arm.

If you want to be mobile, then the sliding compound miter, especially if you already have a table saw.

You only live once. Buy both.

 

[EatenByLimestone]

RAS. Try making a daddo with a mitre saw.

Matt-

 

[tutu_sue]

Easier to cut body parts off with radial arm saw. Goes out of adjustment. By the compound miter and get a table saw for the rest.

There's recall on old Sears radial arm saws for safety shield.

 

[saichele]

Ended up buying the RAS. The flexibility is worth the risk of a digit or two (always make sure the right hand is the one working the saw).

If you notice me typing slower sometime in the future, you'll know why.

Steve