Best Sliding Mitre Saw for Skirting: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Site Carpenter
Fitting skirting boards might seem straightforward until you encounter the walls of a typical York property. Nothing is square, corners are rarely 90 degrees, and managing long lengths of timber in a tight hallway can be a nightmare without the right kit.
A quality sliding mitre saw is the heart of any second-fix joinery job. Whether you are dealing with tall Victorian torus skirting or modern pencil-round architrave, you need a saw that offers precision, adequate cut capacity, and decent dust extraction—especially if you are cutting MDF.
In this review, I've selected three sliding mitre saws that suit different needs: a solid budget option for the DIYer, a premium double-bevel saw for efficiency, and a compact problem-solver for those tricky renovation jobs.
Live in York?
Don't want to invest in expensive tools?
Get a free quote for professional skirting fitting.
Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Laser Guides"
"Manufacturers claim laser guides ensure perfect accuracy every time."
On site, lasers often get clogged with sawdust or misaligned during transport. They are helpful for a rough guide, but for a perfect join, always trust your pencil line and 'eye' over the laser.
The Spec: "Dust Extraction Bags"
"The little cloth bag catches all the sawdust."
These bags catch perhaps 20% of the dust. If you are cutting MDF skirting inside a customer's home, you absolutely must connect a proper vacuum extractor, or you'll coat the room in fine dust.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
JCB 254mm Sliding Mitre Saw with Laser Guide & Dust Collection Feature
JCB
For the price, getting a 254mm (10-inch) blade is fantastic value. This size is crucial for taller skirting boards common in period properties, which smaller saws struggle to cut vertically. The 60-tooth blade included is surprisingly good for a clean finish.
The Good
- Great value for a large 254mm saw
- Includes a 60T blade suitable for fine finishing work
- Powerful 2000W motor handles hardwood easily
The Bad
- Single bevel only (can be awkward for long boards)
- Dust collection bag is basic (use a vacuum)
Installer Tip:
When cutting tall skirting, the 254mm blade allows you to stand standard height boards upright against the fence. This is much more accurate than laying them flat and using the bevel function.
Priced at £159.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonEvolution R255SMS-DB+ Double Bevel Sliding Mitre Saw
Evolution Power Tools
This is the 'Plus' version of Evolution's reputable saw, and the double bevel feature is a game-changer. It allows you to angle the head both left and right, meaning you don't have to flip long skirting boards around in tight hallways—a massive time saver on site.
The Good
- Double bevel improves workflow significantly
- Multi-material blade cuts through hidden nails without damage
- Large 300mm slide capacity for wide boards
The Bad
- Heavier unit, less portable than smaller models
- Higher price point, though justified by features
Installer Tip:
The multi-material blade is brilliant for renovation work where you might hit old nails in reused timber. It saves you ruining a standard wood blade instantly.
Priced at £269.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonEvolution R210SMS+ Sliding Mitre Saw
Evolution Power Tools
For navigating tight terraced houses or for smaller renovation projects, this compact 210mm saw is ideal. It cuts wood, metal, and plastic, making it a versatile problem solver if you are also doing pipework or repairing thresholds. It creates space in the van and the workshop.
The Good
- Lightweight and easy to move up/down stairs
- Lowest price point but still professional quality
- Cuts mixed materials (great for DIY renovations)
The Bad
- Smaller 210mm blade limits cutting height for tall skirting
- Less power (1500W) than the 10-inch models
Installer Tip:
Because the blade is smaller, you may not cut 120mm+ skirting standing up. You'll need to lay the board flat and use the bevel function. Ensure you clamp the timber firmly, as laying it flat increases the risk of movement during the cut.
Priced at £131.95 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
What size mitre saw do I need for skirting boards?
Should I mitre or scribe internal corners?
Can I use a multi-material blade for fine finish joinery?
What is the difference between single and double bevel?
Need Professional Skirting Board & Architrave Fitting?
Our team at DR Joinery specialises in Skirting Board & Architrave Fitting across York.
Get a free quote for professional installation.
View Our Skirting Board & Architrave Fitting Service