How to Accurately Cut a 6×6
Mastered in a Minute: Use a rafter square to guide cuts through large timbers.
Because standard circular saws won’t cut all the way through large stock in a single pass, you need to cut from multiple sides. Here’s how to do it accurately:
First, mark the cut location, and use a pencil and a rafter square to extend the line around the stock. Rotate the stock as needed to line up the square and transfer the line to all sides.
Then, set the circular saw to its maximum depth. Note that with some sidewinder saws, you may need to go slightly less than the full depth so the saw’s motor housing doesn’t hit the rafter square as you make the cut.
After the blade depth is set, align the blade with the cutline. Then position a rafter square flush with the edge of the stock and against the saw’s shoe as a guide. For accuracy, keep the shoe in contact with the square during the cut.
After the first cut, rotate the stock, and use the kerf from the first cut to align the blade for the second cut. Reposition the square and hold it firmly in place.
Before starting the saw, back the blade out of the kerf so it won’t catch. Then pull the trigger and make the cut.
Rotate the beam and repeat the process on every face.
On large material like this 6×6, there will be some uncut wood remaining at the center. For this, use a handsaw or a reciprocating saw with a long wood blade to complete the cut.
More on Building
Build a Grade-Level Deck: Install Posts and Rim Beam – In this video series, we show you how to build a grade-level deck. Fit deck posts and square up beams and end joists quickly and easily with the tips builder Mike Guertin shares in this video. Watch now to learn more about installing deck posts and rim beam.
Deck Guardrail System – Mounting Post – The student crew lays out and installs the posts for the deck guardrail system.
Top 10 Deck Building Mistakes – Avoid these common deck-building problems by implementing these simple solutions. Learn more about build a longer-lasting, safer deck.
Ultimate Deck Build 2015: Pouring Accurate Concrete Piers – For a grade-level deck, where the beam is set right on post bases anchored to the top of the concrete piers, there is very little room for error. In this episode we cover how to determine the height of the piers, and some tips on working with concrete. Watch and learn more here.
View Comments
I like these videos because I think all too often people miss out on "how to do something simple correctly" and the elemental stuff gets taken for granted.
For instance in my window cleaning job you are supposed to tilt a squeegee about 10 degrees when pulling or drawing it along a pane of glass (it's about directing water), and you are also supposed to make a dry line on a margin for you to cut in (to prevent smearing). Many 'professionals' don't do either and it shows in their end result as the water gets dirtier or with the sun at noon. It's because they have never asked themselves "how do I actually do x" so the possibility of an improved way never arises. Asking simple questions pays off. I estimate making several thousand dollars a year extra because of these and other similar techniques.
I would turn the square around so the stop is against the front edge of the workpiece. That way your pushing against the stop and holding it in place as you're making your cut.
I agree 100 % with markmoro !
Hi markmoro - That way can work, too, but isn't great for really wide stock. When you push the saw, the force tends to push the workpiece forward. To stabilize the workpiece, it's common to hold it with fingers wrapped around the back edge. The advantage of putting the square's lip on the back edge is that you can then maintain your grip on the workpiece and keep it from moving forward as you push the saw through it. If the lip is on the front edge, you're pushing the square forward (unless you can get a grip on the far edge as well), which makes it more likely the piece will move.