There is almost certainly a decent tool dealer "somewhere"
in your area. Most of these guys will carry almost all of
the major brands. Go and find one or more of these stores
and ask them for help in selecting a saw.

You might be surprised at what help you can get in one
of these stores.

Lowes and Home Depot do the exact same thing but you will
be hard pressed to find a knowledgeable sales clerk to
explain the differences.

I would look at the Porter Cable, Dewalt and Makita brands
for several excellent options.

Porter Cable 3802
Dewalt 715 or 716
Makita LS 1214 or LS 1221

http://www.portercable.com/
http://www.dewalt.com/us/woodworking/mitersaw/
http://www.makita.com/




wrote:

I am looking for input before purchasing a compound miter saw for my
husband as a gift. I am looking to replace a radial arm saw that he
picked up used several years ago. The darn thing never stays in
alignment for a straight cut. I've been told a compound miter saw is
more useful, but don't know what to get. He is just a hobby and fix-it
user, but I am willing to get him a nice one ($500-600 range if
needed). Is it worth it to move up to a sliding compoung miter? He'd
like a saw with a laser line. I'd appreciate any input you can give me
as to features to look for, brands, accessories to get (his kids are
looking for gift ideas too), etc. Thanks for your time.