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Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw

Big Horn

Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw

  • Compact 9-inch beam
  • Polished hardwood body
  • Brass-plated head and shaft
  • Brass thumbscrew
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On this page

Is the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw ranks #8 in our Best Marking Gauge 2026 list (best secondary). Its biggest strength: compact size fits in an apron pocket and works in tight spaces. The main caveat: 9-inch beam limits maximum setting versus a full-length gauge.

Specs that matter

Key features

  • Compact 9-inch beam
  • Polished hardwood body
  • Brass-plated head and shaft
  • Brass thumbscrew
The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Compact size fits in an apron pocket and works in tight spaces
  • Brass-plated head and shaft resist wear at the fence and beam contact points
  • Short beam is less prone to flexing than long beams
  • Low price makes it practical to keep as a dedicated secondary gauge

Cons

  • 9-inch beam limits maximum setting versus a full-length gauge
  • Pin cutter rather than a wheel or blade cutter
Fit check

Should you buy the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge?

Think twice if this matters to you

  • 9-inch beam limits maximum setting versus a full-length gauge
  • Pin cutter rather than a wheel or blade cutter
Where it ranks

Featured in 1 best-of list

ListRank
Best Marking Gauge 2026· Best Secondary#8 / 8
Cross-shop

Alternatives to the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw

Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.

Buying advice: woodworking

  1. Clamps, a combination square, a good saw and a drill cover most beginner projects.
  2. You can never have too many. Bar clamps handle wide glue-ups; quick-grip clamps are fast for smaller work.
  3. Standard wood glue suits indoor projects. Water-resistant glue suits outdoor work and cutting boards.
  4. Oils are easy to apply and repair. Polyurethane and varnish protect tabletops and floors better.
  5. Eye and hearing protection and dust collection matter from the first project. Lay oily rags flat to dry to prevent fires.

Read the full guides

Answers

Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw: common questions

Is the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw ranks #8 in our Best Marking Gauge 2026 list (best secondary). Its biggest strength: compact size fits in an apron pocket and works in tight spaces. The main caveat: 9-inch beam limits maximum setting versus a full-length gauge.

What are the downsides of the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw?

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: 9-inch beam limits maximum setting versus a full-length gauge; pin cutter rather than a wheel or blade cutter.

What are the key features of the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw?

Compact 9-inch beam, Polished hardwood body, Brass-plated head and shaft and Brass thumbscrew.

What are the best alternatives to the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw?

Worth comparing: Crown 135 Marking Gauge, Beech, Crown Tools 152 Mortise and Marking Gauge, Rosewood and Big Horn 19562 Mortise Marking Gauge with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

Where can I buy the Big Horn 19256 Marking Gauge, 9-Inch with Knurled Brass Adjusting Screw?

It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.

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