re: What kind of hand saw for this job?

Here’s a sneak peek. I ended up getting a $10 back saw at Lowe’s. Store brand. I think it is easier than all the set up that goes with using a circular saw.

In the picture you can see the joint is not flush. It’s resting on its own (self supported). If I push the brace a little it will sit flush. The mortise is a little too big. It was really hard to cut the mortise at an angle with any accuracy. This is the first of 3 that I have to make. I think for the other 2, I’ll offset the tenon so the mortise is straight in instead of at an angle. I think that will allow me to get a tighter fit.

Now… Should I pin the joint? If so, with what? Oak dowel? Brass rod? I don’t want to spoil the “beauty” of the joint with threaded rod and nuts. With all the weight that will be on it I doubt it will go anywhere. Pinning is probably not necessary.

Question 2: should I worry about water collecting in the joint? Especially for the one in the picture where it’s angled down. Looks like a water trap to me. I’m afraid it might promote rot. Probably not as big of a concern if I offset the tenon.

What do you think?