Miter Angle
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionThe miter angle is the rotation of the blade relative to the fence, cutting across the width of the board. A 0-degree miter is a straight crosscut. A 45-degree miter produces a 90-degree corner when two pieces meet. Most miter saws swing from 0 to 50 degrees left and right. Common presets include 15, 22.5, 31.6, and 45 degrees because those cover the angles used in standard trim, framing, and polygon joints. The detent stops at those presets click into place so you don't have to eyeball them.
Why It Matters
Inaccurate miter angles show up as visible gaps where trim pieces meet. A saw with positive detent stops at the common angles gives you repeatable, gap-free joints. If your trim work has gaps, check the miter angle before blaming the material.