The second most important tool in cutting dovetails is your marking gauge. The gauge line becomes part of the finished joint. Here is why my Rob Cosman Marking Gauge will help you cut better dovetails. Product Details:
The cutter head comes to you sharpened; designed to sever the wood fibers not crush them, leaving a crisp gauge line.
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Great Tool !
Cosman tools are always high quality and perform as presented. I have an older Cosman gauge and you can see continuous improvement mindset applied by providing a rounded edge vs squared edge. Makes it more comfortable and offers some protection to the face from dinged edge mushrooming. Very nice.
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Tony · September 22, 2026
An accurate line!
Easy to set the cutter correctly and very SHARP. Should stay that way if fully retracted each time when finished. The recessed stowed position is great. Cuts a fine line!
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Dale · July 30, 2026
A Refined, Precision-made Marking Gauge - all you need, nothing you don't
I have used many types of marking gauges over the years since I was taught cabinetmaking by hand in the 1970s by an Amish master. When I explored Rob's videos related to dovetailing and sharpening, it became clear that he has distilled technique to its essence and tools to their most effective form. I first invested in his dovetail saw and associated accessories to see if the combined use of these actually produces a more elegant joint. I can say my investment has not been in vain. I pride myself in my hand cut dovetails, and now, using the system he espoused, are about as close to flawless as one could get.
So, given that positive experience, I opted for his marking gauge. As the owner of a gauge with etched measurements, I initially thought use of the Cosman version might take more time, but after pulling out and using my Starrett gauge blocks with it, I realized that with the other gauge, I was working slower, as I was always checking setting to ensure I was actually on the mark. So, another win, and I'll be buying a second one so I don't have reset each time. Although the tools are expensive, I have not regretted one purchase. Love the Adjustars too.