Dial in blade height for ultimate accuracy
Unsatisfied with the "almost" accurate results I would get from setting the blade and bit height on my tablesaw and router, I created this simple dial-indicator stand that brings surgical precision to establishing cutting depth.
To create the stand, cut it as shown from 3⁄4 "- or 1"-thick acrylic (my first choice) or hardwood. In the top of the stand, drill a hole large enough for a 0–1" dial indicator's mounting sleeve and install a setscrew to hold it firmly in place. Next, add a 1⁄2 "-diameter flat tip to the indicator's stylus. The tip is necessary because of the alternating bevels of the saw blade's teeth.
To use the indicator, first zero it out against the tablesaw table or router base, then position it over the blade or bit and measure the depth of cut. These inexpensive indicators-provide accuracy to within .001" and the satisfaction of getting the most out of your tools.
—John Lorbiecki, Hubertus, Wis.