Thank you for all your replies. They have all been very helpful. I hope you can answer the follow-up questions / comments:
* I have thought of asking a machine shop / local metal place to do my cuts but, if it is possible, I would prefer being able to do it in my garage and in my own time. Besides, these are projects I will do frequently for a very long time. So, perhaps a business will be glad to do the first project for a dime -- But, after that, their time is valuable as well and i am sure they would charge me a regular rate if I was a repeat visitor. Not to mention, I could certainly use a reliable and safe cut off saw for aluminum square and round tubing to make other projects like frames, etc.
* Yes, the miter saw I have is a regular miter saw for wood. This could certainly be a factor. I did a quick search for Metal Cold Saws and I can see why you mentioned the high price. So, cold saws are not in my budget at this time. Please consider the following:
My current needs: As per my original description, I would like to have the ability to safely and efficiently cut aluminum square and circular tubing from 1" to 3" (square or diameter) in a .0125 (1/8") wall thickness. I cannot see my needs going beyond this point (if they do, then I will certainly invest in more appropriate, heavy-duty, equipment). I would like to have the ability to "slice" these AL tubes in various lengths ... from 1/4" to 2". I would also like to cut the square tubing in 45 degree miter cuts to make corners for welded frames.
So, knowing my needs and that a Cold Saw is not an affordable option, would a regular metal CHOP SAW with a good non-ferrous metal blade be a safe and efficient alternative? I am looking at the following (please let me know if it would suit my needs):
Hitachi 14" Chop Saw at Lowes:
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?actio...4SF&lpage=none
Diablo Non Ferrous Metal Blade:
Does this combination fit my needs? I notice that the Chop Saw has a clamp and (from the picture) it seems as though any thin "sliced" cuts I make to either square or round tubing would fall to the bench or floor with each slice. Will this prevent the occasional kickback and sliced projectiles I have experience with my regular Miter WOOD saw and Diablo blade?
Also, if the above combo is recommended, how often shoudl one apply the saw wax? I have also read in other posts that spraying WD-40 is also an option ... Would silicone lubricant be better?
Once again, thank you for your help. I look forward to your replies.