If you need to cut a 4×4 post, then the ideal tool is a large 12” miter saw. This saw has the blade diameter needed to chop through a 4×4 in a single pass, so if this is an option for you it’s the way to go.
Standard circular saws with 7 ¼” blades can only cut 2 ½” deep, so making the cut in a single pass isn’t possible. “A miter saw isn’t always an option though; if you need to cut a 4×4 on the job while you’re installing fence posts then a circular saw is a better option, as it can cut through a 4×4 in 2 or 3 passes, and is far more portable than a 12” miter saw. Line up your saw with the cut line from step 1, slide the blade in the existing groove, and complete the second cut.
In this article, I’ll guide you on how to cut 4×4 lumber with ideal sized circular saw. For general infrequent work, you can use your usual circular saw and blade and make several passes. For more regular work it would be best to invest in the right beam saw such as Makita 5402NA 16-5/16-Inch Circular Saw.
If it is your first time purchasing a circular saw and you intend to use it to cut 4×4, you might get confused about which circular saw size is best for cutting 4×4. The sizing of the circular saw refers to the size of the saw blades that fit the circular saw. The size of the diameter of the saw blade will also dictate the depth of cut the circular saw can produce.
The best way to cut a 4×4 post is by using a 12-inch miter saw, 10-inch radial arm saw, both of which can cut completely through a post in one pass, or a standard circular saw that can make precise cuts in two passes with the help of a simple jig. For a fence post or even a deck support post that’s going to rest on gravel and be supported by a cement base, an uneven end in which the cut is off by 1/8th of an inch won’t make much of a difference as that end will be buried in 2 or more feet of cement. Cut the first side, follow the cut line, rotate the board 180 degrees, and cut the second cut line completely through the post.
As a 12-inch blade features a great cutting capacity, sometimes a cheaper 12-inch blade will take out the 4×4 wood easily than a miter saw with a 10-inch blade. If you want to get the job done faster and smoother you should definitely consider either a 12 inch miter saw of any type or a 10 inch sliding miter saw. Cutting a 4×4 with a 10-inch blade is a strong ask and you have to consider the rip capacity of your table saw, some are better than others.
what size circular saw do i need to cut 4×4 Related Question:
How big of a circular saw do I need for a 4X4?
The best way to cut a 4×4 post is by using a 12-inch miter saw, 10-inch radial arm saw, both of which can cut completely through a post in one pass, or a standard circular saw that can make precise cuts in two passes with the help of a simple jig.
What size miter saw Do I need to cut a 4X4?
It shouldn’t be a matter of whether a 10-inch miter saw can cut a 4×4, but rather what miter saw is better suited for cutting 4x4s? The short answer is, you need a 12 inch miter saw.
Will a 10-inch saw cut a 4X4?
Yes, a 10-inch table saw can cut a 4X4. However, it can not cut it all in one go. It can only cut material that is 3.5 inches thick, so you will have to do it twice. A 12-inch table saw will be able to cut a 4X4 in one go.
How deep can a 12 inch circular saw cut?
To sum up, a standard circular saw can offer a cutting depth of 2.5 inches as the maximum, but you can adjust the depth to match your requirements. It’s easy by moving the blade up and down to align against the material before starting to cut.
Can you cut a 4X4 with a hand saw?
A good stance is important when you’re using a handsaw to cut thick material like this 4×4. Low sawhorses or other supports will enable you to get your hand, elbow, and shoulder in line with the blade. Step 4: Use full strokes at 45°. Long strokes save energy and produce smoother cuts.
Will a 7 1 4 miter saw cut a 4X4?
No not with one cut. You would have to turn the 4×4 over. Blade is a 7 1/4″ diameter, same as a hand held circular saw.
How thick can a circular saw cut?
Circular Saw Sizes Standard-size saws use 7 1/4-inch blades and can cut a maximum depth of about 2 1/2 inches. Compact saws can use anywhere from 3 3/8-inch blades up to 6 1/2-inch blades.
What size wood can a 10 inch sliding miter saw cut?
Typically, a 10-inch miter saw will cut a 2 x 6 at 90 degrees and a 2 x 4 at 45 degrees; a 12-inch miter saw will cut a 2 x 8 at 90 degrees and a 2 x 6 at 45 degrees. Saws also differ by whether the blade arm simply rotates (a basic miter saw) or both swings and slides (a sliding miter saw).
What is the advantage of a sliding miter saw?
They can quickly create bevels at any angle. Sliding compound miter saws have all the versatility of compound miter saws and a sliding feature, similar to a radial arm saw, allowing you to move the blade forward and backward. The major advantage of the sliding feature is the increased length of cut it provides.
Can I use a bigger blade on my circular saw?
The answer is generally this is not a great idea. A larger blade will put excess stress on the motor, and may not have enough strength to provide the cutting power at the tooth you need.
How do I know what size circular saw to get?
Circular Saw Features Blade capacity determines the maximum depth of cut a saw can achieve. The larger the blade, the deeper the cut. The most common blade diameter is 7-1/4 inches. Most saws with blade capacities of 6 inches or more can cut through 2-inch dimensional lumber at a 45-degree angle in a single pass.
How deep can a 10 inch circular saw cut?
Makita 5104 14 Amp 10-1/4-Inch Circular Saw This large cutting capacity sidewinder can reach depths of 3 ¾ inches at 90 degrees, which allows users to easily cut into some timbers.
What size circular saw Do I need to cut 2X4?
You need a minimum 5-3/8 inch size circular saw blade to cut a 2X4 at a 90 degree angle in one cut which is a crosscut. If you want to cut a 45 degree bevel with this size circular saw it will take 2 cuts. You could go with a 7-1/4inch or 10 inch blade to avoid making multiple cuts with the 45 degree bevel angle.
Is a 7 1 4 miter saw worth it?
Let me help you then; if you’re someone who needs to work with wider or relatively larger boards often and often, it’s better to choose the 7 ¼ miter saw. But if you need to make bevel cuts every once in a while, then a 10-inch miter saw should be your go-to!
Can a 7 1 4 miter saw cut a 2×6?
45° Miter Cut Capacity (max height) 2” 45° Miter Cut Capacity (max width) 2×6.
