GOINGMAKE Table Saw Miter Gauge Review 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

GOINGMAKE Table Saw Miter Gauge: You know that feeling when you make a cut on your table saw and it comes out slightly off angle? It drives you crazy, right?

Your stock miter gauge probably works fine for basic cuts, but when you need real precision for furniture making or fine woodworking, those factory gauges just don’t cut it.

Whether you’re a weekend DIY enthusiast or a seasoned woodworker, getting perfect crosscuts and miter joints can make the difference between amateur looking projects and professional grade work.

Key Takeaways:

• Precision matters: The GOINGMAKE miter gauge offers exceptional accuracy compared to stock table saw gauges. With positive angle stops and a solid aluminum construction, you get repeatable cuts within fractions of a degree.
• Value for money: Priced between $59 and $220 depending on the model, these gauges offer professional level features without the premium price tag you’d pay for brands like Incra.
• Easy setup: Unlike complex miter gauge systems that require hours of calibration, GOINGMAKE gauges come factory calibrated and ready to use right out of the box with minimal adjustments needed.
• Universal compatibility: The standard 3/4″ x 3/8″ T slot bar fits most table saws, band saws, and router tables on the market, making it a versatile addition to any workshop.
• Multiple fence options: You can choose from compact 360mm fences for tight spaces or extended 18 inch models for supporting larger workpieces during crosscuts and miter operations.

What Makes GOINGMAKE Stand Out in the Miter Gauge Market

The woodworking tool market is packed with options these days. You have budget models, mid range choices, and premium gauges that cost more than some complete table saws.

GOINGMAKE has positioned itself in that sweet spot where quality meets affordability. The company focuses on delivering features that working woodworkers actually need, not just fancy bells and whistles that look good in marketing photos.

What really sets GOINGMAKE apart is their attention to the small details that matter. The machined aluminum construction provides stability without excessive weight.

The angle adjustment mechanism uses a spring loaded indexing system that clicks into preset stops, but you can also make micro adjustments when needed. The fence system includes flip stops for repetitive cuts, which is something you usually only find on higher priced models.

Understanding the Different GOINGMAKE Models Available

GOINGMAKE offers several variations of their miter gauge to suit different workshop needs and budgets.

The Compact model features a 360mm fence and sells for around $59, making it an excellent entry point for beginners or those working in smaller shops. This version includes multifunction flip stops and positive angle stops for common cutting angles.

The Portable model steps up to an 18 inch fence for $69, giving you more support when working with wider stock.

This extra fence length makes a huge difference when cutting large panels or working with sheet goods. The additional $10 investment is well worth it if you regularly work with materials wider than 14 inches.

At the top end sits the Premium model with micro adjustable flip stop and extendable fence, priced at $219. This model competes directly with professional grade gauges from other manufacturers.

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Build Quality and Materials That Last

The construction quality of a miter gauge directly impacts its performance and longevity. GOINGMAKE uses machined aluminum for the main body and angle scale, which provides excellent stability while keeping weight manageable. This material won’t rust like steel components might in humid workshop environments.

The miter bar itself is typically made from steel with adjustable pressure points that let you fine tune the fit in your saw’s slot.

This is important because different table saws have slight variations in slot width. Being able to adjust the fit means you get smooth sliding action without any side to side play that would compromise cut accuracy.

The fence extrusions are aluminum with a clear scale etched or printed along their length. Quality control on these scales is important for making accurate repetitive cuts.

The flip stops use metal construction rather than plastic, which means they’ll hold up to regular use without wearing out or breaking.

Precision and Accuracy Features You Can Count On

Accuracy is the whole point of upgrading your miter gauge, so let’s talk specifics. GOINGMAKE gauges include positive angle stops at the most commonly used angles: 0, 15, 22.5, 30, and 45 degrees in both left and right directions.

These stops use a spring loaded pin that drops into machined detents, giving you consistent repeatable angles every time.

The angle scale itself is clearly marked with easy to read graduations. Most models show measurements in both directions from zero, so you can quickly see your angle without mental math. A built in cursor or pointer helps you read the scale accurately, even in less than perfect workshop lighting.

For situations where you need angles between the preset stops, the locking mechanism allows infinite adjustment across the full range. The lock should hold firmly without any creep during cutting. Good models like GOINGMAKE use adequate clamping force that you can tighten securely without excessive effort or needing tools.

Setting Up Your GOINGMAKE Miter Gauge Properly

Getting your miter gauge set up correctly takes maybe 15 minutes but makes all the difference in performance. Start by checking the fit of the bar in your table saw slot. It should slide smoothly with no side to side wobble. If there’s play, use the adjustment screws on the bar to expand it slightly until you get a smooth but snug fit.

Next, verify that the gauge reads accurately at the zero position. Place a reliable square against the fence and blade with the gauge set to zero degrees.

If there’s any deviation, most GOINGMAKE models have a calibration adjustment that lets you correct this. Loosen the angle scale mounting screws slightly, adjust to true zero, and retighten.

Test the other preset angle stops similarly if you have an accurate protractor or angle gauge. The preset stops should be accurate from the factory, but it’s worth checking before you start cutting expensive wood. Small adjustments can usually be made if needed.

How to Make Perfect Crosscuts Every Single Time

Making accurate crosscuts is probably the most common use for a miter gauge. Here’s how to get perfect results consistently. First, always use the fence for support, even on narrow stock. The fence keeps your workpiece from shifting during the cut and provides a reference surface for square cuts.

Position your workpiece firmly against the fence and hold it securely throughout the cut. Don’t let it slide along the fence during cutting, as this can cause binding or kickback. Use push blocks or hold downs if working with smaller pieces that bring your hands close to the blade.

For repetitive crosscuts at the same length, set your flip stop to the desired measurement. Make a test cut on scrap wood first to verify the dimension before cutting your actual project pieces. This saves material and prevents frustration. Once confirmed, you can cut multiple pieces quickly with confidence they’ll all match.

Mastering Miter Cuts and Angled Work

Miter cuts require a bit more attention than straight crosscuts since you’re working at an angle. Start by setting your gauge to the desired angle using the preset stops for common angles. The positive stops on GOINGMAKE gauges make this quick and reliable.

One challenge with miter cuts is that the effective fence length decreases as you increase the angle. For severe angles, the workpiece might not have much fence contact, making it harder to keep steady. This is where longer fences really shine. Consider supporting the back end of longer workpieces with a roller stand or helper.

When cutting miters for frames or boxes, remember that complementary angles add up to 90 degrees. If you’re cutting a 45 degree miter on one piece, the mating piece also needs 45 degrees.

But if your project requires odd angles, like hexagons or octagons, you’ll need to calculate the correct angles. The GOINGMAKE gauge’s ability to set any angle makes these specialty cuts possible.

Test your miter setup on scrap pieces before cutting final material. Small errors in angle multiply quickly when you’re joining multiple pieces. A frame with four corners, each off by just 1 degree, ends up with a 4 degree gap somewhere. Better to discover issues on scrap wood than ruin expensive hardwood.

Safety Features and Best Practices

Safety should always be your top priority in the workshop. A miter gauge actually improves safety compared to freehand cutting because it provides controlled material movement and keeps your hands farther from the blade. Still, you need to follow proper procedures.

Always keep your hands well clear of the blade path. Use the fence as your handhold when possible, keeping fingers behind the blade line. For cuts on smaller workpieces, use push sticks or blocks to maintain safe hand position. These simple shop made tools can prevent serious injuries.

Make sure your miter gauge bar fits properly in the slot without excess play. Loose fit can cause the gauge to shift during cutting, potentially leading to kickback or binding. The adjustment features on GOINGMAKE gauges let you dial in the perfect fit for safe operation.

Never reach over or around a spinning blade to remove cut offs. Wait for the blade to stop completely, or use a push stick to move pieces away.

This seems obvious, but accidents happen when people get comfortable and forget basic precautions. Cut offs trapped between the blade and fence can also kick back, so clear them properly between cuts.

Wear appropriate safety gear including eye protection and hearing protection. Table saws are loud and throw dust and chips. A face shield provides even better protection than safety glasses alone. Keep your work area clean and well lit so you can see what you’re doing clearly.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Gauge Running Smooth

Proper maintenance keeps your miter gauge performing accurately for years. Start by keeping the bar and slots clean. Sawdust buildup in the T slot can interfere with smooth sliding and affect accuracy. Wipe out the slot regularly with a brush or compressed air.

The bar itself benefits from occasional waxing. Use paste wax on the metal surfaces that slide in the slot for smoother operation. This also provides slight corrosion protection. Just apply a thin coat, let it dry, then buff it out. Don’t use oil or grease, as these attract sawdust.

Check fasteners periodically to ensure nothing has worked loose from vibration. The angle lock mechanism especially should be snug. If you notice the angle drifting during use, the locking mechanism needs tightening or adjustment.

The scale and cursor should stay clean for easy reading. Wipe them with a damp cloth if they get dirty. Avoid harsh solvents that might damage printed scales. If your model has a removable fence, occasionally check that the mounting is tight and the fence hasn’t developed any twist or warpage.

Store your miter gauge properly when not in use. Hanging it on the wall or placing it in a drawer prevents accidental damage from other tools or materials falling on it. If you have a climate controlled workshop, great. But if your shop experiences temperature and humidity swings, check the gauge fit periodically as wood table saw tops can expand and contract.

Real World Performance in Different Workshop Scenarios

How does the GOINGMAKE miter gauge perform in actual workshop use? Let’s look at a few common scenarios. For furniture making, precision is critical.

Drawer fronts need identical dimensions, face frame parts must be exactly square, and joinery requires accurate angles. The GOINGMAKE system handles these tasks well, with the flip stops making repetitive cuts efficient and accurate.

In construction carpentry applications, speed matters alongside accuracy. When cutting studs, trimming boards, or preparing materials for installation, you need to work quickly without sacrificing quality.

The easy to use angle stops and smooth sliding action keep work moving. The robust construction holds up to the demands of job site use.

For hobbyist woodworkers, the GOINGMAKE gauge offers professional capabilities at a reasonable price. Weekend projects like picture frames, cutting boards, or small furniture pieces benefit from the improved accuracy. The learning curve is gentle, so beginners can get good results fairly quickly.

Production work demands consistency above all else. Making 50 identical parts means your miter gauge must return to the same position reliably every time. The positive stops and quality construction of GOINGMAKE gauges provide this repeatability. Users report that measurements hold throughout long production runs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the GOINGMAKE miter gauge fit my table saw?

Yes, most likely. GOINGMAKE miter gauges use the standard 3/4″ x 3/8″ bar size that fits the majority of table saws, band saws, and router tables made in the last several decades. The bar also has adjustment screws that let you fine tune the fit for your specific machine. If you have an unusual or imported tool with non standard slots, measure your slot dimensions before purchasing.

How accurate are the angle stops on GOINGMAKE miter gauges?

The preset angle stops on GOINGMAKE gauges are machined to very tight tolerances and should be accurate within a fraction of a degree right out of the box. Many users find they don’t need any calibration adjustment. For the ultimate precision, you can verify angles with a precision square or protractor and make small adjustments if needed. The quality is comparable to gauges costing significantly more.

Can I use a GOINGMAKE miter gauge for dados and grooves?

Absolutely. A quality miter gauge like GOINGMAKE excels at guiding workpieces over a dado blade set. The positive stops help you maintain consistent angles for angled dados, and the flip stops make repetitive groove spacing simple. Just ensure your fence is high enough to provide adequate support for the workpiece as it passes over the wider dado blade.

What is the difference between the compact and extended fence models?

The main difference is fence length, which affects the maximum width of stock you can support comfortably. The compact 360mm model works well for most typical woodworking up to about 12 to 14 inches wide. The extended 18 inch model provides better support for wider panels and sheet goods. Longer fences also give you more flexibility in flip stop positioning for various measurement points.

Do I need the premium model or will the basic version work fine?

For most woodworkers, the basic or mid range GOINGMAKE models provide all the features you need for excellent results. The premium model adds micro adjustment capabilities and extended fence options that professional furniture makers and those doing very exacting work might appreciate. Consider your typical projects and accuracy requirements. You can always upgrade later if you find yourself needing additional precision.

How do I adjust the bar if it feels too loose or tight in my saw slot?

Look for the small adjustment screws on the sides of the miter bar. These expand or contract the bar width to adjust the fit. Make small adjustments, like a quarter turn at a time, then test the fit. You want smooth sliding action with no wobble. If you adjust too much and it becomes too tight, just back off the screws slightly. This adjustment feature is one reason GOINGMAKE gauges fit so many different saws.

Can the GOINGMAKE miter gauge replace a crosscut sled?

They serve different but complementary purposes. A miter gauge excels at angled cuts and provides portability since you can quickly remove it when needed. A crosscut sled offers maximum support for large panels and can be safer for certain operations since your hands never cross the blade path. Many woodworkers use both tools depending on the specific cutting task. The GOINGMAKE gauge is much easier to store and set up than a full sled.

What maintenance does a GOINGMAKE miter gauge require?

Very little, actually. Keep the bar and your saw’s miter slot clean from sawdust buildup. Occasionally apply paste wax to the bar for smooth sliding. Check that fasteners remain tight, especially the angle lock. Protect the gauge from impacts or drops that could affect calibration. With basic care, these gauges should provide years of accurate service without major maintenance needs.