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THE MORTISE GAUGE
V. Ryan © 2003 - 2023
 
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The mortise gauge is a special type of marking gauge and it is used to mark wood so that a mortise can be cut into it. The diagram below, represents a typical mortise and tenon joint. The mortise is marked out using the mortise gauge although it must be set to the correct size of mortise chisel very carefully. A mortise chisel is then used to remove the waste wood.
The mortise gauge is normally made from a hardwood such as rose wood with brass being used for the parts that slide along the stem.
 
TYPICAL MORTISE AND TENON JOINT
 
 
THE MORTISE GAUGE
(turned upside down, for ease of viewing both spurs)
 
A mortise gauge is used by cabinet makers, joiners and carpenters, to accurately mark out mortise joints. It differs from the ‘marking gauge’ in that it has two spurs (one fixed and the other adjustable).
 
 
SIMPLIFIED ANIMATION OF THE MORTISE GUAGE
   

 
 
 

QUESTION: Draw the diagram of a mortise gauge (shown below / above) and label all the parts. Explain how the distance between the fixed spur and adjustable spur is adjusted.

   

 

 
MORTISE GAUGE BEING USED TO MARK OUT A PLAIN MORTISE
 
 
 
 

MARKING WITH THE MORTISE GAUGE

   

1. The distance between the fixed spur and the adjustable spur is set so that it matches the width of the mortise chisel. This done by turning the brass thumb screw. The width of the mortise chisel should match the width of the mortise to be cut in the wood.

   

2. A try square and a marking knife are used mark the lines at the top and bottom of the mortise.

3. The stock of the mortise gauge is pressed against the side of the wood. It is then pushed along the wood until the mortise is marked out correctly.

   
 
   

4. The mortise chisel is then used to break the surface of the waste wood by gently tapping the handle with a mallet.

 

5. The waste wood is then slowly removed, this time, by applying more force to the handle of the chisel with the mallet. The waste is removed until the entire mortise hole has been cut.

QUESTIONS: Using notes and diagrams describe how a mortise gauge is used to mark out a mortise and tenon joint.

 
 

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