How Far Apart Are Miter Slots?

Miter slots are one of the key features of a table saw, and they are also one of the most misunderstood. The miter slot is a U-shaped cut in the table that allows the miter gauge to slide back and forth.

The miter slot is not a precision cutter, but it does need to be wide enough to allow the miter gauge to slide smoothly. Most miter slots are 3/4″ wide by 3/8″ deep.

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The other important dimension of the miter slot is the spacing between the slots. The spacing between the slots is what determines the maximum width of a workpiece that can be cut on the saw.

Most table sAWS have two miter slots, spaced about an inch apart. This allows for a maximum cut width of about 12″.

Some table sAWS have only one miter slot, and this limits the maximum width of a cut to about 6″. If you need to make wider cuts, you’ll either need to use a different saw or make multiple passes with the saw.

The bottom line is that you need to know the width and spacing of your miter slots before you start cutting. If you don’t, you could end up with a workpiece that’s too wide for your saw or a miter gauge that doesn’t fit properly in the slot.