The most common problems caused by moisture in wood are finishes that don’t stick, joinery that breaks apart, and boards that take on new and unwanted shapes after milling. The solution to all these problems is to use wood that has been dried to the right moisture content, between 8% and 12%. And the easiest way to determine moisture content is to use a moisture meter.

Moisture meters use either pins or an electromagnetic plate (pinless) to measure moisture. Some pin-style meters take deep readings with hammer probes; others take readings from 5/8 in. or less. Both styles leave marks. Pinless meters leave no marks but require the wood surface to be smooth; they detect moisture down to about 5/8 in. I looked at a dozen meters priced from $60 to $350 and was surprised to find that their overall accuracy is quite good.

The Protimeter BLD-5700 Timbermaster has a long and slender shape that fits easily into a pocket. It comes with a calibration device and remote sensor and provides detailed digital readouts. It’s also the only meter reviewed that comes with a remote temperature-sensing probe that automatically corrects for temperature.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Rockler Deluxe Panel Clamp

These clamps can handle glue-ups between 10 in. and 36 in. wide, and boards up to 3 in. thick. Sliding feet attach to the lower bars with magnets, letting you position them quickly for stability on any surface. The spring-loaded jaws adjust easily, dropping into notches along the bars. And the powerful clamp handles clear the benchtop.

Buy at Amazon

Blackwing Pencils

If you've listened to Shop Talk Live, you've heard them talk more about these pencils than you could possibly imagine.

Buy at Amazon

Tite-Mark Marking Gauge

These gauges can be easily and precisely adjusted with one hand, which allows you to set the tool while holding a ruler or workpiece in the other. The quality is exceptional, and all have sharp cutters that offer great visibility.

Buy at Lie-Nielsen Toolworks