Miter Saw Stop Blocks

By Robert Robillard on Workshop tips


How To Make and Use A Miter Saw Stop Block

For many years when I needed to make repetitive cuts on my miter saw, I’d use a stop block.  A stop block allows you to make accurate, receptive cuts without having to deal with graduated errors that result from using your tape measure and pencil.

A stop block for my workshop miter saw meant that I’d either clamp a scrap of wood to the miter saw fence or screw a block of wood down to my plywood miter saw table. I’ve used this stop block for so long I just didn’t realize how archaic it was.

Repetitive Cuts Made Easy

Setting up a block is simple. Determine how long you need your workpieces to be, secure your stop block in place.

Now you can just line up the board against the stop block and start cutting. All your pieces will be the same length. It’s a simple system that adds precision and functionality to your miter saw.

T-Track Stop Block

There are many systems and approaches available to purchase or to make your own, stop block. For my miter saw, I used a recessed Rockler t-track and a shop-made stop block.

The t-track is recessed into the plywood top on either side of the saw by cutting a channel with a plunge router or dado stack at the table saw.  It’s way faster than using a router.  When doing this I also replaced my tabletop with new plywood.

For placement of the T-Track, I chose to place the track in the middle section of my miter saw table. This system allows me to easily set up one or two stop blocks on either side of the miter saw.

 

Making the Stop Block

I had some leftover 1×4 and 2×4 mahogany, so I decided to make two 6-inch stop blocks out of the 2×4, and I used the 1×4 to make thin runners.

The stop block has a centered t-bolt and two runners that index into the t-track. The t-bolt locks the block to the track, and the runners keep the block in line to the track.

For the runners, I cut a dado in the bottom of the 2×4 to accept two thin mahogany strips, on each side of the t-bolt. The runners were sized to index into the t-track and the stop block dado. I used quick-setting epoxy to glue the runners in place.

In the center of the block, I drilled a hole for a 2-1/2” t-bolt. The runners keep the block parallel with the track, so it doesn’t twist when you tighten the t-bolt.

For cuts closer to the saws blade, but out of reach of the t-track I can clamp a block of wood to the miter saw fence, but I prefer to use a longer stop block that cantilevers off the track and onto the miter saw table.  This block is much longer than my mahogany blocks and is secured with two t-bolts.

 

Using the Stop Block

The new setup is faster than my old method and just plain sexier. There’s no argument that using a stop block will boost your productivity in the workshop. Once set up all you must do is make your repetitive cuts.

Conclusion

Using a stop block will bring speed, precision, and productivity to your projects.  You don’t have to make a stop block out of wood, Rockler has inline stops that are designed to work with the t-track system and work well too.

 

 

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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