Rob Cosman's Marking Gauge

I have used many types of marking gauges over the years since I was taught cabinetmaking by hand in the 1970s by an Amish master. When I explored Rob's videos related to dovetailing and sharpening, it became clear that he has distilled technique to its essence and tools to their most effective form. I first invested in his dovetail saw and associated accessories to see if the combined use of these actually produces a more elegant joint. I can say my investment has not been in vain. I pride myself in my hand cut dovetails, and now, using the system he espoused, are about as close to flawless as one could get.
So, given that positive experience, I opted for his marking gauge. As the owner of a gauge with etched measurements, I initially thought use of the Cosman version might take more time, but after pulling out and using my Starrett gauge blocks with it, I realized that with the other gauge, I was working slower, as I was always checking setting to ensure I was actually on the mark. So, another win, and I'll be buying a second one so I don't have reset each time. Although the tools are expensive, I have not regretted one purchase. Love the Adjustars too.

I've been wanting one of these for years now. Finally purchased one and got to use it for the first time the other day. What an absolute treat. Above and beyond anything else.

Cosman's marking gauge is heavier construction than those I already have. I like the heftiness of this gauge now that I am in my late 70's. And I use it in a way that leverages this more robust design. I set it for the depth of my dovetails and then use it to "route" the bottoms of them cleaning out any high points that would compromise the otherwise perfect fit. Of course some chisel work may be required too to clean out corners where the round cutter can't reach. I learned about this tool while taking Rob Cosman's Handtool Workshop. If you are at all interested in working with hand tools take this 6 day workshop! And support his Purple Heart Project even if you don't take the course.

Modern marking gauges are superbly effective compared to the ( many ) older classic designs. I admit to having more marking gauges than any sensible human would ever have, wooden ones with pins and knives and holders for pencils, micro-adjustable disc models like this one, shop-made versions that are not as good as commercial ones. The Rob Cosman gauge is a solid competitor for the best anywhere, though it depends somewhat on what you want. The 1/2 inch cutter is aggressive and makes a cut you can trust to put a chisel into, but for longer reaches you have to be careful to keep the rod/axle parallel to the face of the wood. It has no micro adjust, but on the whole that saves you time. It is superbly made, a pleasure in your hand. The flat side helps save it from damage or destruction when it rolls off your bench onto whatever your shop floor is made of because you idly put it down and then started banging on a chisel. It is quite heavy in your toolbox if you are going anywhere, but it feels super good in your hand. Just looking at it reminds you to do skilled work, because its grace is what gives it beauty. The same thing is true of that walnut or cherry or oak or ash you are making into something beautiful.

Great marking gauge.

Does Rob make anything that isn’t top quality?