When a project requires several pieces cut to exactly the same length, a miter saw stop block is faster and more consistent than measuring and marking every workpiece.
The only problem is accurately positioning the stop. Here's an old radial arm saw trick that works just as well at the miter saw. Instead of trying to measure directly from the blade, make a shallow kerf in a piece of scrap and use that cut as your measuring reference.
Why Measure from a Kerf?
Trying to measure directly from a saw blade can be awkward. It's difficult to establish a positive reference point with the end of a tape measure. Instead, clamp a scrap to the miter saw fence on the opposite side of the blade from your stop block setup. Make a shallow cut in the scrap without cutting all the way through.
That fresh kerf provides a precise reference for the blade's actual cutting location. Hook the end of your tape measure directly into the kerf and measure from there to position the stop block. It's simple, repeatable, and there's no need to put your tape measure against the saw blade.
Step 1: Make a Shallow Kerf
Clamp a piece of scrap securely against the miter saw fence.
Lower the blade and make a shallow kerf in the scrap. You only need enough depth to provide a positive reference for the hook on your tape measure, so don't cut all the way through.
Wait for the blade to stop before raising the saw head or making adjustments to the setup.
Step 2: Position the Stop Block
With the saw off, hook your tape measure into the kerf.
Measure to the desired finished length, position the stop block at that measurement, and clamp it securely in place.
Hook your tape measure
Because you're measuring from a kerf made by the blade itself, the setup references the actual location of the cut.
Step 3: Make Repeatable Cuts
Remove the scrap used to establish the kerf.
Now place each workpiece against the stop block and make the cut. As long as the stop remains securely clamped in position, you can quickly cut multiple project parts to the same length without measuring each one individually.
Woodsmith Tip: Before cutting all your project parts, make one test cut and verify its finished length. This takes only a few seconds and confirms the stop block is exactly where you want it.
A Simple Trick for More Accurate Repeat Cuts
A stop block is one of the simplest ways to improve accuracy and efficiency at the miter saw. And this kerf trick makes setting one up just as easy.
Rather than estimating the blade location or trying to measure against the blade itself, the shallow kerf gives your tape measure a positive reference point. Set the stop once, verify it with a test cut, and you're ready to make as many matching parts as your project requires.
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