Couple tips - search forum for “width of x-axis makerslides” and you will see very simple rigidity modifications. It is a long thread but many folks are performing this mod: Width of gap X axis makerslides - #15 by Earwigger
Also - if you can drill a few holes through your stock and screw them to the wasteboard you will be much better off.
Yes - minimizing tool stickout has an amazing effect on your cutting.