LumberJocks

Laser Accuracy

« back to Woodworking Tools, Hardware and Accessories forum

Forum topic by HokieMojo posted 92 days ago 129 views 0 times favorited 5 replies Add to Favorites
View HokieMojo's profile

HokieMojo

257 posts in 179 days


92 days ago

Topic tags/keywords: laser mitre saw

I own a lot of craftsman tools and I guess about 3 of these tools have a laser line feature (scroll saw, circular saw, and mitre saw). I think the only tool that has a truly meaningful laser on it is the mitre saw. The other two help you cut a long straight line, but if you really want it to be straight, you will use a straightedge.

Anyway, I’m wondering how accurate this feature should be. The laser on my saw is probably about 2mm thick. the brightest part is probably 1mm. I don’t feel like the line is all that crisp though. It is actually enough that I still just pull the handle down to see where the teeth wil make contact with my board. Should I jsut be using the laser for a reference, or should I be able to rely on it for the cuts themselves. Just wondering.
Thanks!

View lew's profile

lew

956 posts in 206 days


92 days ago

I have a laser on my miter saw- the only tool that has one. In my opinion, with practice you can get pretty accurate cuts using the laser as the guide.

Lasers on other tools- especially the drill press- (at least to me) only serve to increase the price.

Lew

View Scott Bryan's profile

Scott Bryan

8579 posts in 273 days


92 days ago

I have one on my miter saw but I rarely use it. I got it because of the novelty but, since I move my miter saw outside to cut, the laser can’t be seen in the sunlight. But because it is offset from the actual cutline it does take a little getting used to. I just prefer line of sight. Maybe I just can’t be taught new tricks. :)

-- With God's help all things are possible- even woodworking. Woodworking is not just a hobby, it is an (expletive deleted) expensive hobby.

View HokieMojo's profile

HokieMojo

257 posts in 179 days


92 days ago

ok,
I thought maybe the laser that comes with the saw is cheap, needs tuning, or was being subjected to a user without enough experience to operate it properly. I feel a little better. i guess I just need to practice.

View Mike Lingenfelter's profile

Mike Lingenfelter

384 posts in 565 days


92 days ago

A few of my tools came with lasers and the only one I find useful is the one I added to my drill press. The rest are turned off and not used. The laser on the circular saw is the biggest joke. Although, I saw they put one on a Jig saw, why?

-- Mike - http://inquisitivewoodworker.blogspot.com/

View ToddO's profile

ToddO

60 posts in 274 days


92 days ago

I too have a Craftsman jigsaw and mini circular saw with lasers on them. I used to think they were a waste of money, (why not put that money into better quality or a feature I’d actually use I thought). Then for work I looked into laser modules and found out that they are dirt cheap. I guess it’s like cup holders in cars, doesn’t really cost anything to put them in and you get one more feature to add to the list on the box. Plus if you block off part of the line you can entertain your pet. As far as how accurate they are, they put these tools together by the thousands per day; you know they aren’t tweaking each one to make sure it’s dead on. So until I can adjust the light, I’ll continue to use a straight edge.

-- Todd, Richfield MN

You must be signed in to reply.

Your Online Shop - Your Support Is Greatly Appreciated - Your Woodworking Showcase - 3 Ways To Help, Financially - Your Woodworking Community

Woodworking StoreApparel StoreMake a Donation
Bookmark And Share This Page
  • View all advertisers
  • Advertise with us

DISCLAIMER: All views and comments posted by members are not necessarily those of LumberJocks.com or of those working on the site.

Latest Projects | Latest Blog Entries | Latest Forum Topics

HomeRefurbers.com

Latest Projects | Latest Blog Entries | Latest Forum Topics

GardenTenders.com :: gardening showcase