Miter saws

Electric brake: Reverses the flow of electricity when the saw's trigger is released. This is an important safety feature that slows the blade quickly in case of emergency.
Blade guard: Most miter saws have self-retracting guards that withdraw when the saw is lowered for use, and reappear when it is raised.
Laser guide: Gives a precise visual line where the cut will occur on your workpiece.
Dust bag: Helps collect sawdust for a clearer, more tidy cutting area.
Shaft lock: Immobilizes the shaft and blade for quicker, easier blade changes.
Table extensions: Mount on either side of the saw to help balance longer workpieces.

Miter saws are really versatile power tools that have become a mainstay of workshops all over the world. A powerful saw that makes perfect angled cuts by pulling a circular blade down onto a workpiece with a short, controlled plunge. Miter saws might appear as complex and varied, but you can say that there are only three general types. The type you should choose will depend on your woodworking needs.

Basic Miter Saws
Basic miter saws are the least versatile off the three major types, but they�re often a starting point for novice or do-it-yourselfers. These basic models typically adjust for miter cuts only, so consider upgrading if you need to do more than that.

Compound miter saws
Compound miter saws are often easier to use than basic miter saws because you can place your woodstock flat for cutting, and they adjust simultaneously for miter and bevel cuts. A compound miter saw is great for jobs that feature stock that's not very tall or wide, such as door and window trim or picture frames.

Sliding Compound Miter Saws
Sliding compound miter saws are the most versatile saws of the available types. They have a engine and blade assembly that's mounted on a moveable arm to accommodate wider and longer workpieces. For smaller workpieces, the saw performs like an fixed-head model. On some models, the blade can only pivot in one direction, but on a dual sliding compound miter saw, the blade can tilt to the right or left.

Important Features
Models will vary by manufacturer and design. Here are a few of the more commonly found features that you might want to look in to.