Where’s the edge? So often in the shop, that is a critical question. Trying to visually align a ruler to the edge of a board opens up an opportunity for error, particularly if your lighting is marginal and you have a callous or two on your fingertips. The Hook Rule, adds a little feature – a hook – to the traditional shop rule and instantly improves your accuracy. Just bring the hook against the edge of your board and zero is instantly registered. It even works perfectly if the edge has already been rounded over or chamfered (as long as the profile is less than 1/4" deep).
We’ve been using the Hook Rules in our test-shop since it’s last release, and we’ve found that the hook is great…most of the time. But there are times when it’s in the way. So, this time, we’ve changed the engraving of the graduations to make this the most versatile rule in your shop. On one side, the scale reads from left-to-right (with the hook). On the other side, the scale reads from right-to-left (from the square end of the rule). Need to measure from an inside corner? Register from the square end. Need to measure from an edge? Flip it over and use the hook. Both sides feature one scale in sixteenths and another in thirty-seconds. For those who prefer to work in millimeters, we offer a metric version, as well.
The side that reads right-to-left is ideal for setting up your table saw. Place the end against the fence and align the desired measurement to you saw blade.
We engraved the end of the hook, too, for easy access to check or set the height of saw blades, router bits and your drill press.
The Hook Rules are just 1/32nd of an inch thick, eliminating parallax viewing error and keeping the 24" rule light enough to handle easily. They’re made from hardened stainless spring steel and finished with a special process that produces a non-glare satin surface. The graduations are laser engraved to a tolerance of ±.004" total accumulated error. In short, they’re designed and manufactured to last through generations of woodworkers.
We make the hook rules in 3 sizes, 6", 12" and 24". Each comes with a wall-mountable Rack-Itâ„¢ to keep your Hook Rules safe, but always within easy reach. Each size is available individually, or save some money with the complete set. Keep a 6" in your apron pocket, a 12" on your bench and the 24" hanging by your table saw for the next cabinetry project.
Uses:
- Accurately measuring and marking wood for carpentry projects
- Ensuring precise alignment when installing shelves
- Creating detailed layouts for cabinetry and woodworking
- Assisting in the construction of frames and furniture
- Guiding circular saws or routers for straight cuts
- Measuring lengths for cutting molding or trim
- Setting up jigs or fixtures in a woodworking shop
- Verifying dimensions during the assembly of complex pieces
- Facilitating the layout of drill holes on woodworking projects
- Enhancing accuracy in creating joints such as dovetails or mortise and tenon
Making Hook Rules In The Shop | Production Update
