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So, over the next few weeks, I’m offering up a few tools that fall into this category. I would like for you to evaluate these tools and let me know if I’m right (they are great tools, but are not totally useful in the woodshop) or if I clearly missed the boat and these tools would make terrific additions to your woodworking experience.
First up is the Starrett Prosite 5-N-1 Protractor. This protractor is available at Amazon.com for $85 (link to tool). Popular Woodworking reviewed the earlier version of this tool December 2004. In his review, David Thiel wrote that the angle gauge was very easy to use for finding angles and miters. He also wrote that the szie made it a bit bulky to use to fine-tune machine setup in the shop (Click the link to read Thiel’s review Prosite Protractor.pdf (316.64 KB)).
Today, even with the improvements to the markings , they’re laser engraved , and the addition of a couple charts that help find the appropriate settings for cutting crown mouldings and determining roof pitches, my take on this tool is that it’s a wonderful tool for the construction trade. If I were still in that field, I could find many uses for the Prosite Protractor. But in the woodshop, I just cannot find more than an occasional application.
How about it? Am I missing a great use for the Starrett 5-N-1 tool? Or, is it a great tool for applications other than woodworking? Leave a comment for everyone to see or, if you choose, send a message directly to me. If I’ve missed the call on this tool, I go to the wall to get a review in the magazine.
Next, we’ll take a look at a direct fit air hose system. It’s called APEGRIP and it’s by High Tech Air Connection.
Here are some supplies and tools we find essential in our everyday work around the shop. We may receive a commission from sales referred by our links; however, we have carefully selected these products for their usefulness and quality.
