Wixey has introduced another model to its line of digital gauges, bringing easy and exact measuring to the shop. It’s a height gauge, and there is a lot to like about it.

Aside from the affordable price, the gauge is intuitive and easy to read in both metric and fractional measurements. With the ability to measure height to 3-in. and depth to 2-in. (with the included plunger), this gauge will be handy for setting up router bits, sawblades, and checking the depth of dadoes and drilled holes.

The legs straddle the blade or bit, allowing for exact measuring. The gauge also has an incremental mode so you can reset it to a second distance, a handy feature if you’re routing an odd-size dado with two passes (two fence setups).

The gauge’s legs have magnets on the bottom, so it won’t tip over—at least on a metal surface. After zeroing out and setting the gauge, you lock in the measurement. The only downside is that the body is made of plastic, so you must treat this tool with care. All in all, though, it is a welcome addition to the shop.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Starrett 12-in. combination square

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

Buy at Amazon

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

Veritas Precision Square

This precision square is incredibly versatile, from checking squareness to dialing in machine setups.

Buy at Lee Valley