Setting a sliding bevel to an exact degree is difficult with a plastic protractor. Depending on the design of the protractor, you usually have to first draw the line you want and then set the bevel to that. So there are two opportunities for error. Plus, setting a bevel to a fraction of a degree is difficult with a plastic protractor intended for school use.
Enter the Bevel Monkey. It’s similar to several other tools on the market, but I like the Bevel Monkey because it is easy to read, is inexpensive and it does one thing only: Set a bevel.
You put the bevel against one edge of the Bevel Monkey and set it to the angle (or fraction of an angle) you want. As a chairmaker, this tool is always on my bench while drilling mortises.
It’s well made. Easy to us. And the perfect size.
— Christopher Schwarz
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Ah, bless the Angle Ape.
Any tool us better with monkey in the name. Try it. Fret Monkey. Mallet Monkey. Jack Monkey.
For those who don’t want to deal with UK shipping and currency, Woodpecker Tools is selling a very similar one: https://www.woodpeck.com/one-time-tools/onetime-tool-bevel-squares-angle-reference-plates-2019.html
Surprisingly, it’s not too overpriced, which is weird for them. BUT they are making it as one of their gimmicky “OneTime” tools, so I’m not sure how long it will be around…
Highland Woodworking sells a well made bevel setting gauge as well, for under 20 bucks. It’s a copy of the now defunct Bevel Boss. I don’t know where it’s made, but I’m guessing it’s not local.
Highland has a couple. One by iGaging, I think you’re referring to, and another by Veritas. LV of course also has the Veritas Bevel Setter. Either supplier would be easier for NA readers, but…
While hard to really tell from the photos, none of the alternatives look as easy to read as the Bevel Monkey Chris suggests.
I need a Bevel Monkey!
Ordered mine. Shipping was billed after the fact for about sixteen dollars