Reply by richard2345

Thanks for all the replies!

Horizontal – I need to take about 3/4 inch off both sides. If I rip a stile with a circular saw, say, by hand, and I get the side out of square with rails, how would I be able to get the stile back into square with the rail? My guess would be a hand plane would be more effective than a power jointer (I have a 6” powermatic) because I could check for square as I go. What do you think?

casual: thanks for the link! I checked out that technique, and I think I understand how to make that jig. If I can’t be reasonably assured I can bring the stiles into square with the rails using the other methods, I’ll make that jig.

Jay – roger the metal detector. Depending on how many of these floor joists i mill down, it may be worth the investment. Their a great source of thick lumber that I’m hoping will be not warp when out in the elements.

Loren: i admire your confidence with a circular saw :)

Greg: I will experiment with your technique as well.

Thanks all for the great tips!