Slamfire:
I can get down to maybe 2 inches of log. Screw several pieces of plywood on each end to which the guide is attached. Usually I do this to start out to get a flat surface as the logs are not flat. It also helps in lining up to get the cut with the grain desired. Usually use a square, a level and measure from the center of the log to get orientated.
For this short piece [ it's actually part of a crotch and not good wood ] I used a power hand planer to get some level spots for the guide.
Also use my band saw when the pieces get smaller and managable. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
Egon