Every once in a while, someone develops a new gadget that works well, is wonderfully designed, and is well manufactured. The Galbert Caliper is one of those tools. Woodturners will find it a quick, reliable solution to measuring diameters for spindle turning.
The Galbert caliper is designed to give an accurate reading of the diameter of a spindle, as you are making a cut with your parting tool. When the desired diameter is reached, simply stop cutting. There’s no need to set or reset the caliper . . . it is spring-loaded and has a dial, so you can instantly and accurately measure a range of diameters.
The diameters that can be measured range from one-half inch to 2-and-one-half inches. While the cutting tool is engaged, that range is three-quarters of an inch to 2-and-one-half inches.
I like the looks of the tool. The design is well conceived. And I really like the nifty logo!
Of course I had to try it out for myself, so I put a piece of maple on my lathe and proceeded to turn several diameters, using my parting tool. I held the caliper in one hand, the parting tool in my other hand, and cut away! The easy-to-read numbers on the caliper told me exactly when to stop cutting for any specific diameter.
I read the instruction sheet that accompanied the tool. It’s straightforward and easy to understand. I went to the web site where there are a couple of short videos showing the caliper in use. Those are useful; however, I’d already figured out how to use the tool. If you want to see for yourself, go to www.petergalbertchairmaker.com or click on the videos in this Tool Preview. Peter Galbert is the inventor of the caliper. I will say that he’s certainly an expert turner, so if for no other reason, it’s worth watching him turn.
The caliper can leave a mark on the wood from the metal rubbing. That’s generally not a problem for most spindle turners, as initial diameters are cut for the purpose of establishing the spacing and size of various elements, and some turning is done to the area after the initial measuring. If, however, it’s a problem for what you are making, the mark can easily be fixed with a bit of sanding or a slight amount of moisture to raise the grain.
The Galbert Caliper sells for $79.50 through www.petergalbertchairmaker.com. I give it a positive recommendation for anyone who needs to measure diameters while spindle turning!
