place would have a big enough saw to make a single even cut any way you would want it. If you decide to cut it with a torch it will take a bit more time since you need to make several cuts just to get to the middle as you mentioned, but it can be done. You just need the right amount of heat and the right tip. Or a plasma cutter, but again only steel fabricators or a steel erecting company would have a tool able to cut that thickness.
Grandma was right... It IS what's on the inside that counts!