Precision Brass Setup Bars

[footprintsinconc]

hello everyone!

I was thinking of getting the "Precision Brass Setup Bars" that are currently on sale at woodcraft ($12.50 for 2" long and $14.99 for 4" long).

i wanted to know if they are a usefull tool to have? i have a 6" digital caliper and i also have rockler small u shaped ruler that allows you to measure the distance from the table top to the top of the bit.

two questions:
1---how usefull do you think this tool is and is it worth it.
2---if so then should i get the 2" long or 4" long

thanks in advance for your suggestions and comment!

[LinuxRandal]

I know they are used on the Router Workshop over at thewoodworkingchannel.com. A quick setup device for only those four sizes, but it makes me want to get a inexpensive set of Gage blocks that much more. The Gage (correct spelling) blocks are good for height gauges, and have more sizes for things like dado width (a kind of story stick), etc.

[Uncle Cracker]

If memory serves me, somebody on here was selling precision metal setup blocks that they fabricated themselves, but I cannot remember who, and a quick search did not provide the answer. Perhaps somebody else can find it. As I recall, there was a very good assortment at a good price.

[Ken Massingale]

I use them regularly. They are one of the most useful small, inexpensive aids in the shop. Combine the different widths or use individually to set blade/bit heights, distance from fence, etc.
Remember, 'Bigger Is better'! ;-)

[LCHIEN]

Very useful. I'd get the longer ones.

In fact, I just buy square metal bar stock at the local hardware store, costs around $1 per 1 foot piece, in the same sizes as the set you buy.
Very accurate sizing.

[footprintsinconc]

thanks for the comments. longer the bar, the better - understood.

loring, i like you idea. i think i will pass on this offer and buy the steel square stock instead, at least look into it.

regards,

[bthere]

One of the reasons most of the setup bars are brass is that they are supposed to be gentler on your sharp blades. With steel, perhaps a little more care is needed to keep from damaging cutting edges.

[sweensdv]

I have the short set and use them all the time. So far anyways I've never run across a situation where the shorter ones haven't been long enough.