[DesertRatTom]

I seem to recall something like this made by Rockwell at least 10 years ago. It was advertised on late night TV and the selling channels. Here's a picture: Went used for $80. Looks like it uses standard blades.

 

[DesertRatTom]

Nicely done. Using the Bosch saw was a good decision. Very precise and a solid blade guide. I do wonder how you make sure the fence is parallel to the blade?

 

[DesertRatTom]

...I am planning to add a support arm and bearings, to keep the blade from deflecting. That was the plan originally, just haven't had time yet.

That sounds like a good idea. You'd think the outside edges of the saw base would be parallel to the blade. Perhaps you could align to that and use some press on rule tape, indexed so the zero aligns with the inside of the saw blade. That might do the trick. You might check with ereplacementparts.com for the blade guide parts. Might save you some time and trouble.

You also did a really nice job on that split fence.

 

[DesertRatTom]

Thinking over the stick on ruler tape, I think I'd want to cut a very shallow groove just deep enough so the rule is maybe 1/64th below the surface so the lettering and numbers don't get worn down.