Woodwork Setup Gauge Blocks - Parametric (Imperial Edition)

Setup gauge blocks are a fast and accurate way to setup power tools for accurate cuts.
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updated June 19, 2022

Description

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Setup gauge blocks are a handy tool to help woodworkers quickly and precisely set fences on table saws, table routers and bandsaws, and to set depth stops on pillar drills and plunge routers and probably loads of other things. Faster, more accurate and less fiddly than using a tape measure, using a setup gauge is easy and yields repeatable results. Extremely high-precision machined steel blocks are available for machinists, but a 3D print is good enough for most woodwork - AND the plastic won't hurt your carbide teeth! Each gauge covers two measurements - just slip it in in the orientation you want between the bladed and fence (or whatever), and away you go. Measurements are recessed into the blocks to avoid guesswork - I filled mine with white nail polish following FuzzyLogic's ingenious inlay labels technique (linked below) - no MMU required!

The ends are rounded - the first versions were square, but it caused warping problems that interfered with accuracy. The rounded edges print beautifully. There is also a slight bevel on the edges to prevent problems with elephant's foot pushing out your accuracy.

I have included the OpenSCAD file - it is really easy to generate a block of whatever size you need if the supplied STLs don't cover your needed size. This is the Imperial version of the Metric set - The four supplied STLs are good for the following measurements:

  • 1/16"
  • 1/8"
  • 3/32"
  • ¼"
  • ½"
  • 7/8" 
  • ¾" 
  • 1"

Check out the original Metric model if you prefer rational units of measure ;-)

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The author remixed this model.

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