Safely Replacing the Miter Saw Blade

With the miter saw being one of the most innocuous power tools in any woodworking shop, changing the blade is a frequent task. Fortunately changing blades on a miter saw is fairly quick and easy. Usually all that is required is a screw driver, Allen wrench and occasionally, a block of scrap wood.

Always begin by turning the saw off and unplugging it. Never work on any power tool when there is even a remote chance of it turning on. Even with the saw not running, wearing your safety goggles will prevent random dust and splinters from getting in your eyes.

You will first need to bypass the blade guard by sliding it up until you can see the screw that holds the guard in place. Loosen the screw enough to slide the guard all the way back so you can reach the locking pin and blade bolt.

Once the locking pin is depressed you can spin the blade until it locks in place. If the miter saw does not have a locking pin, use the piece of scrap wood to wedge in the blade to prevent movement. You are now ready to remove the blade bolt with the Allen wrench. Check to see which way the bolt is threaded as they come both ways on different miter saws. The owner’s manual should also have this information in it.

This releases a flang which then allows the old blade to be removed. Now everything is done in reverse. Put on the new blade and flange and tighten it back. Return the blade guard to its original position and tighten it back. You are then ready to turn the saw back on and make a few practice cuts to insure that all is working properly before returning to your woodworking project.

Since there are different blades for various cuts and materials, learning this simple function well is an important part of every woodworking day.