Need some advice
 

I am not handy, so I have no idea how to approach this. My son has a bunk bed from Ikea, this one...

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50019950

It is too high, so we need to cut it down. The pipes look 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter. The bed is already put together. I don't see a pipe cutter that cuts a pipe that large. I have a ryobi 18v circular saw that holds a 5 1/2 inch blade. Can I use that with a metal saw blade? Any better ideas?
Thanks.

Yeah, if your circular saw has a blade specifically for metal, you should be able to use it. Try a preliminary cut an inch or so up the tube to see if it cuts clean enough for you.

However, you might want to simply go with a tried and true manual hack saw to better control the cut and prevent the tube from getting out of round or whatever.

Yeah you will want to get a metal cutting blade for that. go to home depot I believe they are the only ones who sell ryobi and they should be able to help you.
Always remember measure 10 times cut once. The blade should double as a grinder blade if you are careful but screw ups with a bunk bed can cause some real disasters.

You can definitley use that saw and I most definitley recommend a metal cutting blade for the job:


If you can't find one in a store near you you could try a wood blade with the most teeth you can get. It will work in a pinch although afterward it'll be toast!

Always wear eye protection!

I agree with all the advice above.

The only thing i would add is while you are out buying a blade, pick up a small file if you don't already have one. Just so you can smooth it out and file off any nasty little metal burrs and shavings that might be hanging off the metal after its been cut. They can slice you pretty easily.

I have had varied results using metal blades in a circular saw, and as you say 18v, I assume your saw is a cordless rechargable one?
I think you'd have trouble getting that to cut through a pipe that size in one go. I usually cut aluminium tube with a drop saw, which is like a circular saw, but fixed, like this:



It would be scary to try with a hand held saw, apart from the grabbing, it would be hard to keep a straight line with it. I fear it could end up looking like someone had chewed it off, they would end up different lengths, and poor mini-jester would always roll into one corner of the bed :(

(Trust me, I have fucked many things up by trying to do it on the dodgy...)

I'd suggest borrowing or hiring a cut-off saw, which is like a big grinder with a cut off wheel:



This will do a much quicker, safer, neater job, plus it would be way cheaper than buying a blade you will probably only use once.

I have always used a hacksaw cause I am to cheap to buy a drop saw or table saw. I would however buy some of the rubber round things that you can either a) put on the end of the legs or b) put under the legs to prevent damage to the floor.

screw it, just buy a new bed!

They sell hand pipe cutters to handle pipe that large....

http://www.ridgid.com/Tools/Heav-Dut...s/EN/index.htm

Luckily I do marketing for an Industrial Supply company!! I suggest using a Sawzall (also known as a reciprocating saw)



From what I remember, Ikea materials aren't exactly made of hardest steel. So use a fine tooth blade and it should chop it off no problem.

AND if you need any blades you can order them from me! Just let me know and I might be able to get you a discount!