I want to cut a few hundred stakes from scrap 2×4 lumber. The stakes would be 4ft long, and have a 70 degree taper at the end.
The most efficient method I can think of for cutting the tapers would be to use a compound mitre saw. However, the most severe angle/taper that can be cut with the compound mitre saws I've seen is 60 degrees.
Unfortunately, 60 degrees is not a severe enough angle for my purposes. The 60 degree taper does not penetrate hard clay soil well enough when pounded with a sledge hammer.
As I mentioned, I'm really hoping that I can use a compound mitre saw for this purpose (rather than a circular saw), because I think the mitre saw would be the most efficient method–in terms of time–by far.
How can I cut a 70 degree taper using a compound mitre saw?
Best Answer
Cut it perpendicularly.
70 degrees from 90 degrees (ie: a right angle) is 20 degrees.
Square the end of your taper and put a mark in the middle.
Set your saw on 20 degrees and place the mark so that the taper makes a T with the cutting rail, cut one side, flip the taper over, cut the other.
If you're concerned about stability - make an L shaped jig which you can put up against the rail and hold the taper against to keep it straight.