Kent, I normally allow several extra inches for snipe. In my current situation, though, I need 9' finished boards and my choice from my supplier was 8' or 10' or 14' lengths. I picked up 10 footers and I guess I could have shortened to 9.5" prior to planing but I just figured it was an extra unnecessary step and the 10' lengths pretty much takes snipe off the table (so to speak :) )