What is Soft Start for a Miter Saw? Built in or adapter?

Ever wondered if there was another way of starting the engines of your diverse appliances and pieces of gear?

The normal startup does the job well. However, there are numerous ways in which it’s less than flawless.
Is there any other method you can use?

If there is, what is it? If you’ve always asked yourself these queries, we’re thrilled to tell you that yes, there’s another excellent method. It’s known as a “soft start.”

A soft starter considerably lessens the stress on an appliance and, therefore, prevents damage. There are various distinct types of engine-driven equipment that benefit from using a soft starter.

A soft start for you miter saw can also help prevent tripping a breaker panel.

For instance, fans, conveyors, and pumps all use a soft starter.
Escalators can also use soft starters as they save energy and can start and stop automatically.

In this article, we shall discuss soft start in a miter saw. Read on to learn more!

What is Soft Start for miter saws?

A soft starter is an extra appliance added to an average AC electric motor to allow the engine to use a distinct startup method. The device aims to lessen the strain on the motor during the normal power-up motor phase.

The soft starter will gradually start increasing voltages to the engine to achieve this. It enables a smooth speeding up of power rather than abrupt and intensely vivid power bursts that can cause damage to the engine and the entire device.

While many usual startups include a rush of electrical currents into the engine all at once, the soft start provides a sleek and steady linear power slope.

It minimizes the general wear and tears on the circuits of the motor. It results in a healthier appliance that’ll not break rapidly.

Some can adjust the starting voltage and the time it takes until the engine is fully powered up. It depends on the specific starter design you select.

Bosch Miter Saw Soft Start

Because electric motors frequently need large amounts of electricity to hasten to the trifling speed, you can use a soft starter to restrict the surge of current (inrush current) and the electric motor torque, leading to a smoother, safer, and slow startup.

Soft starters safeguard your Bosch miter saw from potential damage and also prolong your electric motor’s lifespan. It also reduces the heating brought about by common start/stops.

It lessens the mechanical strain on the engine and shafts and the electrodynamics strain on the power cords.

Adding a Soft Start Adapter to your Miter Saw

Miter saws consume a lot of power fast. If your circuits cannot manage the abrupt power draw, this can frequently cause electrical problems.

Soft starter adapters lessen the stress on the electric current. It ensures the saw doesn’t consume the power all at once.

Soft start adapters aren’t cheap, but if you’re looking into them it’s likely you NEED one. the range from $60-$120 depending on the quality and power range they can handle.

It might be a little frustrating having to buy an adapter, but it can save you a lot of hassle in the long run. Luckily you’re able to use these adapters for multiple tools.

Apart from Bosch, several other brands such as Dewalt and Makita miter saws are equipped with a soft start function. On the other hand, you can attach an ordinary soft start adapter to any miter saw.


Cutting Quarter Round Without a Miter Saw: Easier than you think!

Even if you aren’t a professional woodworker, there may come a time when you need to make an angled such as when installing quarter round into your home.

The typical go-to tool for this type of project would be a miter saw — but what do you do if you don’t have a miter saw?

Don’t worry. You don’t have to run out to buy a miter saw. There are alternative options available to you. The most common and easiest alternative is a miter box and hand saw. Alternatively, a table saw can be used to cut quarter round as well.

What is a Miter Box?

A miter box is a tool that keeps your cuts true, both straight and at an angle. It is a pre-fashioned box with various slots cut into it.

These slots act as guides for your saw so that you can perfectly cut at 90-degree and 45-degree angles. You should be able to find a very affordable miter box at your local hardware store. 

Pro Tip: Miter boxes are a great option for smaller indoor spaces because they minimize noise and sawdust since they are used with a hand-powered saw.

Miter boxes typically come in three different designs:

  1. Molded Plastic: This is the typical miter box that you would find at your local hardware store, home center, or even on Amazon. Considered an entry-level box, this type is very affordable while being user-friendly.
  2. Contractor Grade: If you are planning on using your miter box a lot, you may want to move to the next level and purchase a higher-quality model. A contractor grade miter box generally offers a wider spectrum of angles and is made from machined metal. The extra durability and strength allow you to do more with your miter box.
  3. Fine Woodworking: If you are working on decorative pieces or cutting easily damaged wood, a fine woodworking miter box will be most appropriate. This is a smaller tool that is meant for stock that would be damaged if cut with coarser teeth or even a rotating power tool blade.

How Do You Cut Quarter Round with a Miter Box?

Using a miter box to cut quarter round is pretty straightforward. First, you will need to clamp down your miter box to your cutting surface to ensure that it is secure before doing any cutting.

Next, you will need to measure your cut — a carpenter’s square will do the trick — making sure to account for the long end of your miter.

Once you are secure and measured, you will place your quarter round in the box making sure to orient the piece appropriately for your cut. Clamping down your quarter round will ensure that your wood doesn’t shift while cutting.

Start by scoring your cut line at your pencil mark with a few light passes. When you are confident you are lined up correctly, you can add more effort, cutting through the wood.

How To Cut Quarter Round with a Table Saw

If you have a table saw in your workshop, you can use that to cut your quarter round. You will want to start with accurate measurements, marking your piece of quarter round at the spot you want to cut your angle.

A table saw is generally set up to cut at a 90-degree angle, but most can be adjusted to cut at other angles. There is usually a lever or wheel in the same area of your saw where you adjust the blade height. If you are unsure of where to find this lever or wheel, you should consult your owner’s manual. It is a good idea to do a couple of test cuts on scrap wood to ensure that you have the desired angle before working with your quarter round.

Pro Tip: Always use a crosscut sled or a sturdy miter gage that fits your saw, and make sure the quarter round is supported to avoid kickback or injuries.