TESTED: JessEm tool setting gauge
The gauge has two parts with one sliding up and down. All parts are precision cut and detailed.
Review and photos: Raf Nathan
The JessEm Tool Company is based in Canada and began its woodwork toolmaking with the invention of their router-lift in 1999. Over the years this has been the basis for an ever-growing range of precision woodwork tools, fixtures and jigs.
It seems nothing is too much trouble when they make something. Looking at this tool setting gauge, I note precision machining, specially made fixtures and clamping systems, absolute accuracy in measurements, and how it it all comes together in a beautiful fashion.
Tiny teeth on each part mesh securely together. The lower mark shows the gauge at 10mm. The mark above is if you set from the other side of the arm.
This gauge is made from 14-gauge stainless steel, precision cut and assembled with special fittings. Loosen the large brass thumbwheel and the moveable arm section will slide up or down. There are milled teeth in the body and arm that mesh together at exactly 1mm intervals. Tighten the thumbwheel and it is set.
There are metric and imperial gauges available in two sizes. The large version reads to 90mm, and the small one reads to 54mm. For my work the small version is more than adequate.
Setting the height of tablesaw blades is easy. Here it is setting the blade height at 25mm.
Use the gauge to set the height of tablesaw blades with ease, or use it to set the blade to fence distance. There are two set marks on the arm that allow for the thickness of the base so you can use it above or below.
On the router table it can be used to set cutter heights, or lay it horizontally to set the fence exactly where you want it. If you have old style straight cutters on your jointer this will be a boon for setting the cutter height.
The gauge excels for setting cutters and the fence on the router table.
Arguably the tool’s only let-down is not being able to read to fractions of a millimetre. It works only at 1mm marks. The centimetre ruler markings are clear but you may need reading glasses for the smaller 2mm increment markings. The tool arrived perfectly set ex-factory but if needed the moveable height section can be reset via four screws.
It’s not an essential tool, but if you adore fine tools and their inherent beauty then this gauge is perfect for you. Given its accuracy and the outstanding build quality I think the cost is very reasonable.
Review tool supplied by and available from JessEm, see www.jessem.com
Raf Nathan @treeman777 is a Brisbane-based woodworker.