So, I've got a modest amount of powertools in my shop. Some of my bigger saws are old and used and I find that I reach for the backsaw and miterbox when I want a more accurate cut. However, even getting perfect miters by hand requires a keen eye and a bit of skill, and in my case, sometimes pure luck. With that said, If I need that perfect 45 on some trim pieces or even an odd angle to compliment a piece, I reach for my bevel guage and mechanical pencil and cut my mark in half with a dovetail saw.
But this post poses more of a question than a brag about some of my neanderthal methods.
Are miter boxes intended to be disposable items? I find that with the cheap plastic ones, they begin to lose their accuracy after about 20 cuts and the flex they have if you bind the wood is horrible.
Some of the wood miter boxes look pretty decent, but I have not owned one in years.
Another thing I find to be cumbersome is that sometimes the backsaw just seems too short and slips out of the miter slots.
Does anyone have any good pointers to buying and using a miter box for cuts?