This tip comes from Jodee at Inspire Woodcraft. If you’re looking to improve the quality of your miter saw cuts, his advice on zero clearance inserts and fences is packed with useful insights.
Zero clearance inserts aren’t just for table saws—they can also make a noticeable difference when installed on a miter saw. Jodee walks through how these small upgrades can drastically improve cut quality, reduce tear-out, and make your saw safer to use.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Jodee’s channel:
What Is a Zero Clearance Insert?
A zero clearance insert is a custom-fit plate that sits in the base of your miter saw, surrounding the blade opening. Unlike the factory-installed insert, which leaves extra space around the blade, this upgrade supports the workpiece right up to the edge of the cut.
The main benefit is reducing tear-out, especially on the underside of your workpiece. The snug opening around the blade helps support the wood fibers as the teeth exit the cut, resulting in a much cleaner edge.
It also helps prevent small offcuts from falling into the blade slot and potentially kicking back. While kickback is less common on a miter saw than on a table saw, it can still happen—especially with narrow pieces or unsupported cuts.
Why Tear-Out Happens on a Miter Saw
Jodee explains that tear-out is often misunderstood. It’s caused by how the teeth of the blade exit the wood—typically on the bottom side of the cut. That’s why you often see clean top edges and rough bottoms.
The zero clearance insert works by providing support at the point of exit, minimizing fiber tear. This is especially important when working with softer woods or plywood, which tend to splinter more easily.
It also makes a difference when using a sliding miter saw. Because the blade travels across the wood, the entry and exit angles can shift, making tear-out even more likely without additional support.
Blade Choice Matters Too
Beyond the insert itself, Jodee highlights the importance of blade selection. He upgraded from a standard 60-tooth blade to a 72-tooth full kerf model for better all-around performance.
While finer-tooth blades seem like the obvious choice, Jodee points out that ultra-fine blades can deflect more easily, especially on construction-grade material. A full kerf blade provides better stability and makes cleaner cuts through a variety of stock types.
In his shop, he needs one blade that can handle both framing lumber and finer trim work. The full kerf, 72-tooth blade has proven to be a great middle ground.
The Zero Clearance Fence: A Key Companion
Jodee doesn’t stop with just the insert—he also stresses the value of a zero clearance fence. This is an added layer mounted to the back fence of your miter saw that closely hugs the blade path.
The concept is the same: reduce unsupported areas where wood fibers can split. A zero clearance fence gives material better support across its full length during the cut.
It also helps with accuracy by reducing lateral movement, especially when cutting thin or flexible stock. Combined with the insert, this setup dramatically improves cut quality on both sides of the blade.
Real-World Cutting Comparisons
In the video, Jodee demonstrates the difference between using a zero clearance setup and the stock configuration. Even with a less-than-sharp blade, the cuts made with the insert show noticeably less tear-out.
By comparing side-by-side results, he illustrates just how much of a difference these additions can make. For anyone doing repeatable cuts, fine trim work, or anything that requires a clean finish, this setup is well worth the small investment of time and materials.
How to Make Your Own Insert
You don’t have to buy a pre-made insert to get the benefits. Jodee shows how you can make one from scrap hardwood flooring, plywood, or any stable sheet good.
Cut a blank to fit the base opening, clamp it down, and then raise the blade through the piece to make your kerf. This leaves you with a custom-fit zero clearance insert that matches your specific saw and blade setup.
This is a quick and effective solution that adds real value to your workshop, and you can always keep extras on hand to replace worn-out inserts over time.
A Simple Upgrade with Big Results
In summary, Jodee makes a strong case for why a zero clearance insert and fence should be part of every miter saw setup. These small upgrades make cuts cleaner, safer, and more accurate, especially when dealing with delicate materials or visible surfaces.
Even if you’re not a professional woodworker, taking the time to add these components will noticeably improve your results. Whether you build your own or buy a set, the impact on tear-out and cut quality is immediate.
Support Jodee by visiting his online store here: https://inspirewoodcraft.com/collections/all.