Measuring & Layout Tools – Calipers, Squares & Gauges

Q: What are setup bars used for in woodworking?

Setup bars—like the 5-Piece Brass Bar Set —are precision-ground spacers used to set router bit height, table saw blade height, and fence gaps without measuring tapes. They provide repeatable, tactile references for common dimensions.

Woodworking Measuring & Layout Tools – Rules, Squares, Calipers & Gauges

Every accurate cut begins with an accurate measurement. Infinity Tools carries more than 69 precision measuring and layout instruments—covering everything from the first pencil line on rough lumber to the final caliper check on a finished joint. The collection spans digital tools, traditional hand instruments, and machine-specific readouts from trusted brands including iGaging, Wixey, and Veritas.

For digital precision, the iGaging 6" EZ Cal Digital Caliper measures inside, outside, depth, and step dimensions with clear digital readout. The iGaging Angle Cube Digital Angle Guide sets blade and fence angles to a tenth of a degree—essential for accurate miter and bevel cuts. The iGaging Digital Thickness Gauge measures board thickness instantly without calipers for quick stock confirmation.

For hand-tool and bench work, the iGaging Bench Square Set provides precision-ground reference squares for setting up machines and checking assemblies. The 46" Aluminum Straight Edge spans full panel widths for long-grain layout and checking machine table flatness.

Machine Readouts, Trammel Sets & Setup Bars

The Wixey Digital Planer Readout adds a digital depth display to portable planers for consistent thickness across multiple boards. The 5-Piece Brass Bar Set provides precision spacers for router table and table saw setup. Browse sub-categories including Marking Gauges, Calipers & Setup Tools, Rulers & Squares, and Digital Machine Readouts to browse by instrument type.

Frequently Asked Questions

What measuring tools does every woodworker need?

A complete woodworking layout kit should include a reliable square (for checking 90° and 45° reference), a marking gauge or mortise gauge, a quality ruler or straight edge, and a caliper for precise thickness measurements. The Measuring & Layout collection covers all of these categories.

What is a digital angle cube used for in woodworking?

A digital angle cube measures and displays precise angles for setting table saw blade tilt, miter gauge angle, router bit height, and jointer fence angle. The iGaging Angle Cube reads to a tenth of a degree, making it far more precise than the graduated scales built into most machine fences.

How do digital calipers help in the woodworking shop?

Digital calipers measure inside and outside dimensions, depth, and step measurements with instant numerical readout. In the shop, they verify stock thickness, check joint gaps, confirm mortise and tenon dimensions, and measure dowel or bit diameters quickly and without interpretation error.

What is a bench square set and why is it important?

A bench square set provides precision reference squares in multiple sizes for checking machine alignment, verifying assembly square, and setting tool angles. The iGaging Bench Square Set includes ground steel squares that are accurate to within industry-standard tolerances for woodworking.

What is a Wixey digital planer readout?

The Wixey Digital Planer Readout mounts to portable thickness planers and displays the cutting depth digitally, replacing or supplementing the planer's built-in scale. It allows consistent stock thickness across multiple boards without measuring each one individually.

What are setup bars used for in woodworking?

Setup bars—like the 5-Piece Brass Bar Set—are precision-ground spacers used to set router bit height, table saw blade height, and fence gaps without measuring tapes. They provide repeatable, tactile references for common dimensions.

Do I need both a marking gauge and a square for woodworking layout?

Yes—they serve different purposes. A square establishes perpendicular and 45° reference lines from an edge. A marking gauge scribes lines parallel to an edge at a set distance. Both are essential for laying out joints such as mortise and tenons, dadoes, and rabbets.

What is the longest straight edge available at Infinity Tools?

The 46" Aluminum Straight Edge is designed to span full panel widths for layout, scoring, and checking machine table flatness. It is the longest format in this collection and suits cabinet and panel work.

Does Infinity Tools offer free shipping on measuring tool orders?

Free shipping is available on most orders over the qualifying threshold. See the shipping policies for current rates and any applicable exclusions.

Where can I learn more about setting up woodworking machines accurately?

The Infinity Tools learning center includes guides on machine setup, measuring techniques, and layout fundamentals. The Digital Machine Readouts collection also has tools specifically designed for accurate saw and planer calibration.

Measuring & Layout