Jeff - I used the spline method on my barn. There is a good back and forth discussion of this joint in the TFG Design book. Also, in the same reference, Tedd Benson gives detailed specs on several examples in a house design. As you might guess, the traditionalists don't favor it it, but from a strength and design flexibility point of view, I like it. I used 2x4 hickory splines with 4 - 1 inch pegs in each member coming into the post. If you want more details and/or a pic, send me a note. jekbear