6 essential machinery setup tools

In many shops, this multifunction tool finds use only when scribing a line across a workpiece. What a shame! You can use the head alone to set 45 degree and 90 degree angles on a tablesaw blade, miter gauge, or jointer fence. Lock the head in position on the rule to check the distance from a router bit to the router-table fence (above) or the height of a tablesaw blade. Hold the edge of the rule against the router-table fence to set a router-bit bearing flush. (Generally speaking, price reflects reliability and accuracy.) In the WOOD shop, we rely on a Starrett 12" model, shown (above). (item 30N03.01, Lee Valley, 800-871-8158, leevalley.com)

Not every angle in woodworking measures 90 degrees or 45 degrees. For anything in between, add an adjustable triangle to your tool kit. You'll find one at an art-supply store.

This miniature marvel squeezes into spaces where a bigger square can't. It fits in an apron pocket, so it's always at your fingertips for checking square on machine setups or workpiece edges after completing a cut. (item 141014, Woodcraft, 800-225-1153, woodcraft.com)

Tables and extension wings sag, cast iron warps, and moving machines around bumps them out of alignment. A straightedge helps you spot problems in surfaces that are supposed to be flat.

For these jobs, use a long metal rule that easily shows gaps and irregularities under its narrow edge. Simply clamp a spring clamp on one end, and it stands on edge, freeing your hands to fine-tune the machine. We found 48" and 60" steel rules at big-box lumberyards.

When checking a setup requires minuscule measurements, reach for a dial indicator. It shows increments as fine as 1/1000". You can spend a lot, but an inexpensive one will do the job.

A jig keeps the indicator stationary while taking measurements. Purchase one like the Super Bar (above left), or make your own for setting jointer knives (below left). Find a free plan for the jointer jig at woodmagazine.com/jointerjig. (Dial indicator, item G1479, Grizzly Industrial, 800-523-4777, grizzly.com; Super Bar, MasterGage Corp., 888-893-8300, mastergage.com.

Mount this dead-flat, machined plate in place of a saw blade in your tablesaw, radial-arm saw, or mitersaw. It provides a longer, truer surface than a saw blade for taking measurements and checking setups. (Master Plate, MasterGage Corp., 888-893-8300, mastergage.com)