The old saying, “Use the right tool for the job,” is particularly pertinent when it comes to shapes and contours. Cutting and shaping oddly-shaped flat materials, such as flooring and sheet metal, is one of the trickiest maneuvers any handyman or weekend DIY warrior will ever have to pull off. The angles are hard to cut and shape, and they’re just as hard to measure and duplicate. The key is to use a contour gauge (or “shape duplicator”) to accurately replicate curves on the raw material. A contour gauges is affordable and simple to use. Effectively, it’s a row of pins set snugly against one another in a frame. They move independently, perpendicular to the frame. When pressed against a baseboard, molding, fender, quarter-panel, or any surface, the “fingers” conform to the object, emulating the shape and taking an exacting impression of the surface. You then place the contour gauge onto your wood, linoleum, tile, sheet metal—whatever you’re trying to match to the shape—and trace a line. Contour gauge, profile gauge, outline gauge—no matter what you call it, this toolbox essential makes duplicating shapes easier. Check out some of our favorites.
Best Overall
General Tools 833 Plastic Contour Gauge
Best Value
Ezgauge Master Outline Gauge
Honorable Mention
Frienda 3-piece Countrour Gauge Set
Benefits of Contour Gauge
- Ensures a Perfect Cut. Contour gauges make it very easy to record intricate shapes then transfer it to a piece of material. This makes it simple to produce the perfect cut.
- Improves Productivity. The design pairs simplicity and accuracy perfectly. Not only does this make quick work of challenging projects, but it can also make the process much more enjoyable. It will streamline any process while boosting morale.
- Reduces Waste. By attaining the perfect measurements, there is less chance for poor cuts to be made. Therefore, there will be less wasted material after each project. A small investment can save hundreds of dollars with time.
Types of Contour Gauges
Standard vs. Locking
Contour gauges typically only vary in terms of including a locking mechanism or not. The locking mechanism isn’t always needed. Most times, the fingers are very stiff and will stay in place, even after moving around. A locking mechanism is simply a measure taken to ensure that they do.
Top Brands
General Tools
General Tools made its debut in New York City back in 1922. Known initially as General Hardware Manufacturing Co., it offered hardware and hand tools. It has grown to supply many specialty supplies and equipment, including the General Tools 833 Plastic Contour Gauge that takes our pick for “Best Overall.”
SmartSaker
SmartSaker is owned and operated by the British company, Saker Tech LTD. This branch produces high-quality instruments, such as the Saker Contour Gauge. This is a premium option with a much higher listing price, but it features a few key design characteristics that increase the tool’s overall quality and useful lifespan.
Contour Gauge Pricing
- Under $20: Contour gauges are generally low-buck investments, and most land well under the $20 mark. Even within this price range, you can find premium features. Stiff fingers, locking mechanisms, and sets containing multiple gauges are all things you can expect to find for this dollar amount.
- Above $20: When contour gauges list for more than $20, it is typically a bundle. It may be listed as a set of multiple gauges, or a single gauge with additional supplies and materials to aid in making recordings. However, some gauges use premium materials for construction and feature higher finger counts that list in this price range.
Key Features
- Overall Length. The overall length is essential to how the tool can function. Longer gauges can record more details, but do not fit into tight spots. A shorter body squeezes between objects and offers better control in such a setting. Most contour gauges measure either five or 10 inches that capitalize on these characteristics.
- Finger Depth. A contour gauge works by depressing the fingers in order to record shapes. How long, or deep, the fingers are is crucial because it allows the tool to record more intricate details. It can also function in making it much easier to trace the fingers’ position onto materials. However, the fingers can’t be so long that the tool becomes difficult to handle or fit into tight areas.
- Finger Count/Finger Width. The number of fingers allows for a more accurate representation of the shape. Additionally, thinner fingers also contribute to this aspect. Both features make for smoother lines that more closely represent the cuts you need to make. It will also make for a much better experience when transferring the shape to materials.
Other Considerations
- Locking Mechanism. Locking mechanisms aren’t always necessary but can be desirable. Often, the fingers are held tightly in the gauge’s body and aren’t likely to shift when moving. However, a slight bump may force you to start over. Some models feature a locking mechanism to prevent this from happening.
- Ruler. The more information a tool can provide you with, the better. Even if you don’t rely on it all of the time, a ruler on the made body can be very useful. It provides a dual function to the tool and even makes it easy to record specific details of a shape that you need to transfer onto other materials.
- Adjustable Tension. Over time the fingers and body will wear. As they do, the fingers will fit loosely and will shift easily, making the tool hard to use. Being able to adjust the tension of the tool fixes the issue. In doing so, you can effectively increase the overall lifespan of the gauge.
Best Contour Gauge Reviews & Recommendations 2021
Best Overall
General Tools 833 Plastic Contour Gauge
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Best Value
Momenturn Contour Gauge Ezgauge Duplicator
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Best Set
RITTOOLS Wider and Metal Lock Contour Gauges
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Premium Pick
Saker Contour Gauge
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Honorable Mention
GOXAWEE Contour Gauge Profile Tool
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Honorable Mention
Motem Contour Duplication Gauge
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Honorable Mention
Varsk Contour Gauge
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Honorable Mention
Rak Locking Contour Gauge
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Tips
- Measure Twice, Cut Once. No matter how useful a tool may be, it cannot account for user error. There is always the possibility that the contour gauge’s fingers have shifted or detail has been missed.
- Locking Is Ideal. Locking mechanisms typically drive up the price. However, being able to lock the fingers in place only further ensures accuracy by preventing the likelihood of the fingers shifting.
- Proper Storage is Key. ABS plastic and composites are rigid but can take a beating in a toolbox. Dedicated storage and proper care are essential to preserving the tool and attaining accurate recordings.
FAQs
Q: How can you use a contour gauge?
A: You can use a contour gauge to develop complex material pieces that fit against items with intricate shapes. They prove most useful when creating flooring pieces that fit against toilets or other household objects with unique shapes.
Q: Can you make a contour gauge at home?
A: Anything is possible, and with access to the right equipment and supplies, you can make your own contour gauge. However, these tools are very affordable. Even premium models are well worth investing in before attempting to build your own.
Q: What can you use a contour gauge for?
A: Contour gauges are useful for many projects. They are traditionally associated with woodworking and flooring. However, they can be used for auto bodywork, metal fabrication, and elsewhere.
Q: What is a contour duplication gauge?
A: A contour duplication gauge is a tool that is used to mimic shapes that are difficult to trace or measure. They eliminate complicated procedures by taking the place of templates that are commonly created to mock materials that will fit against intricate shapes.
Final Thoughts
The General Tools 833 Plastic Contour Gauge takes our pick for Best Overall, the GowAxe Contour Gauge Duplicator with Lock for Best Value. However, everything on our list is a worthy addition to your toolbox. Which will you be investing in?