Compass for marking offsets

[pugilato]

You know how Norm Abrams used a compass to mark offsets or trace wall profiles on a piece? I am looking for a compass for just such a thing. All I have ever found is the type you find in a school supply store, and they are unreliable (in keeping the measurement). Any recommendations?

 

[AdamM]

Search for scribe or compass on leevalley.com.  Looks like they have some pretty hefty ones, but I haven't tried any.

You can also search for 'marking compass' or 'scribing tool' on Amazon...they have some pretty cheap options that at least have screw(s) to lock the distance in place.

 

[GhostFist]

I have a rather expensive compass that may be overkill for wood working but I have to say I prefer it when exact work is needed. Made by starret it has an excellent locking mechanism and a micro adjust for absolute precision. This is a machinists compass but it really is a beaut. I also like the starret trammels. as they are compact yet surdy. perfect for large and small arcs alike.

 

[John Bates]

Fastcap do an excellent one, the Accuscribe Pro

 

[TinyTiger]

I agree with the Fastcap one.

 

[pugilato]

Yep, that's the one. Many thanks.