Tips for cutting 2x4 square?

[coasternuts]

I was just cutting my 2x4's for the cross sections and was wondering if you had any tips for getting the ends square other than sanding.

Circular saw on a tiny 2x4 surface is not easy to keep straight.

Thanks.

[dabone]

Miter saw.

Just picked up a compound miter saw with laser sight for 79 dollars at Lowes.


Later,
dabone

[CJK]

Yep -- a compound miter saw is the way to go. You don't need the extra capacity of a sliding compound miter saw, and in fact, the sliding mechanism introduces some inaccuracies -- particularly in cheaper saws.

I'd look at a 10" saw for most arcade-related jobs, but you might want to consider a 12" saw if you're eventually going to use it for other stuff around the house (like crown molding).

Another option is a radial arm saw, which will give you a lot of the flexibility of a table saw too. The main drawback is that the radial arm saw is significantly more expensive than a miter saw, and it's way less portable.

My $0.02, and worth every penny.  :-)

-- Chris

[97thruhiker]

A miter or radial arm saw is you best bet as previously mentioned.  Beyond that if you have a right angle and a clamp you can get good results.  Just place your angle on the 2x4 allowing the guide edge of your circular saw to run with.  Clamp down the right angle and make your cut.  As long as your 2x4 is straight longways you should get a decent cut.

[coasternuts]

I knew that was coming.  I got a 7 1/4" compound miter for X-mas and I used it to cut my 1x1 panel supports nice and square only I didn't think it would cut that much.

Though now reading the label carefully it does say square cuts up to 2 x 4 1/4.    So do you think this would be ok?  You can never be to careful with power tools. 

Other than that I will try the straight edge with my square.

Thanks for the input.

[markrvp]

I knew that was coming.

[97thruhiker]

Use the miter if you have it.  It's one of my favorite tools (a lifesaver if you ever need to build a deck) The straight edge method I mentioned previously would get the job done if you do not have access to a miter or radial arm saw.

[AceTKK]

yea, just use a speed square clamped (or just held with your hand if you're in a hurry) along the length of the stock as an edge-guide for the circular saw.

[NY_in_TX]

I agree a  miter saw is the best, and a compound miter saw is the best bang for the buck power tool you can get.  makes cutting but joints easy, miters,  as said earlier does crown molding and most of all does it all FAST.

here's a some cool tips for working with a circular saw.  it can pretty much do anything in a pinch

http://www.taunton.com/finehomebuilding/pages/h00051.asp



good luck! 

[AceTKK]

yes, this is exactly what I was talking about:




(taking from the link NY posted above)

[HeadRusch]

Another good way is to just build a jig.  Get a decent set of Clamps and a nice long metal level.  Just measure twice, clamp down the metal Level with the clamps and run your saw along the edge to make the straight cut.

This is the only way I was ever able to cut straight lines when doing my MDF Control Panel.
Even then at my first attempt I got some cuts wrong, thank god for wood putty

I am currently considering doing a Mini-mame, and may need those massive jig-skills again

[CJK]

If you've got ~$400 burning a hole in your pocket and want perfectly straight cuts (beveled or square), take a look at this system from Festool:

http://www.festoolusa.com/ProductDetails.aspx?id=3&prodid=561086

When you're done building your cabinet with it, I'll buy it from you for $200.   

-- Chris