Question

That can be done on a table saw using a taper sled or it can be done on a band saw without a sled.

d

-- The best things in life aren't THINGS.

The band saw would be the best, because of less wood waste.

-- -** You are never to old to set another goal or to dream a new dream ****************** Dick, & Barb Cain, Hibbing, MN. http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.com/gallery/member.php?uid=3627&protype=1

Thanks Don and Dick I will give it a try.

You say “besides using a circular saw”. However, the absolute best way to do this is with track saw that is a type of circular saw.

It is hard to use a taper sled on a TS for something 8’ long. On the band saw the cut will only be as straight as your ability to follow the line.

With a track saw you would need some additional 2×4s beside the one you are cutting to support the track and saw. However, with the track in place you are going to get a virtually perfect cut.

When I say “track saw” I am thinking of what some may call a “plunge saw”. The best known is festool, but DeWalt and Makita both have their own versions available.

-- Rich, Cedar Rapids, IA - I'm a woodworker. I don't create beauty, I reveal it.

GMman, You could attach a block of wood to leading end of your 2×4 which is one half the width of the 2×4 and then attach another 2×4 as a straight edge. Then run it through your table saw. Cut the block on the appropriate angle, should be about 8 degrees for an 8 foot 2×4. The long side of the block should be 1 3/4” long. Custom built taper sled!

-- Andy ---- Missoula, MT

Band saw it out staying outside the line approx 3/16’’ then run it over your jointer to clean up the saw marks. you will have to be careful when you get to the thin end

-- wchips

I agree with Rich, a circular saw and straight edge would be the best way to cut a taped 8’ 2×4. But you must first insure your 2×4 is straight or you’ll have to clamp/screw it down while pulling/holding it straight. This would go for any way you cut the taper.

You could also make the aforementioned sled with a 6” x 8’ x 3/4” piece of ply. Just screw the STRAIGHT 2x to the ply with drywall screws with the proper taper + 1 bladewidth overhanging one side. Then set the tablesaw fence to 6”, run the 2x/ ply through and you have the tapered piece you need.

Rick,
Pensacola, FL

From my recent experience I can say that a truly straight 2×4 is becoming quite rare. In fact, if I want a really straight 2×4 I buy a 2×12 and rip it. It seems like they put straighter material into the wider boards.

-- Rich, Cedar Rapids, IA - I'm a woodworker. I don't create beauty, I reveal it.