In Brief: Can a 10 Inch Miter Saw Cut a 4×4?
Can a 10” miter saw cut a 4×4? While it is possible, it is not straightforward. A 12” miter saw would be better, but if you only have access to a 10” miter saw then this step-by-step guide will show you how to use it to cut 4x4s.
Can a 10 Inch Miter Saw Cut a 4×4?
If you need to cut some 4x4s, you might be wondering whether your 10” miter saw will be up to the task.
Miter saws are limited in the cuts they can perform by the size of the blade and whether they are sliding or non-sliding models.
The simple answer to the question of whether a 10” miter saw can cut a 4×4 is: Yes!
However, the process is not quite so straightforward. As we all know, the more complicated the process, the more room there is for error and the less precise your work can become.
A non-sliding 10” miter saw will not cut through a 4×4 in one pass without adjusting the blade guard, which can be dangerous. Otherwise, you will need to turn the stock at least twice to cut all the way through. A sliding model can tilt the blade so you can get through the thickness of the stock, as seen in this video:
If possible, you should upgrade to a 12” miter saw. Of course, it is not always possible to splash out on a new power tool.
If you are set on using your 10” miter saw to cut some 4x4s, this is how you do it:
- Step 1: Mark the Cut
The first thing you need to do is mark the cut.
Using a pencil and a set square, mark a clear line across all four sides of the stock. Ensure that all the lines are squared with each other and that they are the right distance from the end of the stock.
The reason you are marking all four sides will become clear later on. - Step 2: Adjust the Saw
Next, you need to ensure the miter saw is set up for a 90° cut.
Set the gauge to a 90° angle, then use a set square to ensure that the gauge is accurate. It is always better to check before cutting rather than realizing your saw needs adjustment afterward. - Step 3: Position the 4×4
Now, place the 4×4 in the right position, with the saw blade directly in line with the mark.
With the saw turned off, bring the blade down onto the wood to ensure it lines up perfectly with the marks you made earlier.
You may want to clamp the stock down to ensure it does not move during cutting. However, be aware that you will have to unclamp it to turn it for a second, third, and perhaps even fourth cut. - Step 4: Cut the 4×4
With the blade away from the stock, power up the saw. Allow it a moment to get up to speed.
Bring the blade slowly down onto the stock. You should do this slowly to prevent kickback, especially if you have elected to hold the piece down rather than clamp it.
Cut to around half the thickness of the 4×4, then bring the blade back up and power it off. - Step 5: Turn and Repeat
Now that you have made one cut, it is time to do it again for the other three sides.
This is why you marked the wood on all four sides.
Once you have turned the wood, repeat the process from step 3, ensuring that the wood is positioned correctly before cutting.
Check out this video if you want to see this process demonstrated with a bigger miter saw on a 6×6:
Summary
As you have seen, it is entirely possible to cut a 4×4 with a 10” miter saw, even if it is an involved process. While it would be better to have a bigger saw for this kind of task, if your budget cannot accommodate an upgrade then you will be able to make do with what you have.
Do you have any questions or comments? Feel free to leave them in the section below.
