The Bevel Boss is a template designed to set a bevel gauge to a precise angle, up to 50° off 90°. It’s well made and does its job exceedingly well, far better than with a speed square. The increments (to quarter degrees) are etched into a plate of stainless steel, 0.040 in. thick. If I were a chair maker or a boatbuilder, I’d probably use the Boss quite a bit, but it will come in handy on those special, angular occasions.

Inch scales (to sixteenths) are on the back and on one end. Out of curiosity, I aligned them with my trusty Starrett scale. To my surprise, the increments did not line up exactly: A few were off by just under 1/128 in. The discrepancy is finer than I’ll ever need, but I’d prefer to be the only one adding error to my work.

The angle gradations could be off by as much, but I didn’t notice. For the first time ever, I set my bevel gauge to exactly 45°, giving me as accurate a layout line for a miter cut as my Starrett adjustable square. For octagonal work, the Bevel Boss is the ticket, though a little pricey.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Veritas Wheel Marking Gauge

A wheel-type gauge is the easiest to use, and this wonderful Veritas model is a steal at $38.

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Starrett 12-in. combination square

This accurate, robust, well-machined, easy-to-read combo square is as great as ever.

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Lie-Nielsen No. 102 Low Angle Block Plane

With smooth, precise adjustments and wonderful balance, this compact block plane is a joy to use. It doesn’t have any bells and whistles, but there’s not a better block plane available for the money.

Buy at Direct