Long-part Stopblock

Stopblock on your miter-gauge extension provides a simple, foolproof way to crosscut multiple parts to equal length without measuring each one. But what if you're cutting extra-long parts, such as table legs? In that case, clamp on a long-part stopblock like this one.

Start by attaching an MDF or plywood miter-gauge extension to your miter gauge. Make it at least 1" wider than the thickness of your workpieces and long enough to reach from just past the blade on one end to 6" or so past the end of the miter gauge on the other end. Mount it to your saw's stock miter gauge, and cut a kerf that marks the blade position.

Subtract the length of the extension from the final length of the workpiece, and cut a strip of ³⁄₄ "-thick MDF or plywood about 10" longer than that distance. Next crosscut a 1¹⁄₂ "-long piece off the strip and screw it to one end of the strip, where shown below.

To use the stopblock, measure the length of the parts you'll cut and clamp it that distance from the kerf. Butt the workpiece end against the stopblock (without bending the extension) and crosscut the part.

If the stopblock slips or wobbles, add a second clamp or adhere 100-grit sandpaper to the back side of the miter-gauge extension where it overlaps the long-part stopblock.

To cut parts with mitered ends, replace the stopblock with one that's mitered the same angle as your part. Completely capturing the mitered workpiece end adds dead-on repeatability to those cuts. Always check to make sure there's no sawdust between your workpiece and the stopblock.

If you like this project, please check out more than 1,000 shop-proven paper and downloadable woodworking project plans in the WOOD Store.