Toolipedia: T-Bevel
Toolipedia: Everything you wanted to know about the T-bevel.
What is a T-bevel?
A T-bevel, sometimes called a false square, can be adjusted, which makes it a handy tool for recording and transferring angles. T-bevels are often used by finish carpenters when installing base trim on two walls that intersect at an unusual angle (non-90-deg. or non-45-deg.) or when installing stair spindles and railings. T-bevels can also be used as a depth gauge.
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Here are the basic parts of a T-bevel:
- Handle or stock
- Sliding blade
- Thumb wheel or tightening nut
How is a T-bevel used?
Operation basics (for base trim):
- Loosen the thumb wheel or tightening nut
- Slide the T-bevel over the corner with the handle on one wall and the blade on the other
- Tighten thumb wheel or tightening nut
- Bring the T-bevel to the miter saw cut station
- Press the handle against the fence,and adjust the angle of the saw blade so it’s the same as the angle of the T-bevel blade
- Read the gauge on the miter saw and divide that number in half
- You now have the angle that each piece of trim should be cut at
What are the different types of T-bevel?
- Standard size blades are 8 or 9 inches, mini T-bevels are usually 4 inches
- Handle construction may vary, most are wood, plastic, or composite
- Some expensive models have a built in digital angle meter
- Some blades are ruled, often in inches
What makes a good T-bevel?
- The nut needs to hold fast when tightened
- Solidly constructed handle
- Brass or stainless-steel metal parts
Johnson company makes high quality T-bevel.
T-bevel Tip
If you are ever in a pinch for a 45-deg. marking gauge, the sharp end of a T-bevel is just that.
