Scribing tools are utilised in machining, wood working as well as anything that requires cutting with precision. These unit have tips made of hardened and tempered steel and work by scratching in the workpiece. The more precisely you can scribe, the better you can assure the product’s accuracy and efficiency.
This article walks through the scribing tools you can utilise in daily life for marking built-in elements, joints, door casings, etc.
Uxcell Scribing Tool ($4.99)
This is an 11 cm long spring-types scribing tool for clockmakers. The unit can open up a maximum of 43mm and makes a circle of radius 4.5cm. These field divider callipers are used in the process of marking out suitable workpieces in metal works. The points are sharpened so that they act as scribes; one leg can then be placed in the dimple created by a centre or prick punch and the other leg pivoted so that it scribes a line on the workpiece surface, thus forming an arc or circle.
Available here.
Dictum Scribing Tool ($18.50)
This is Dictum’s parallel marker scribing tool ideal for joints, base-trims, casings, etc. It has an opening range of 4mm – 75mm and a removable point for marking circles. Guide it along the reference surface, and the adjustable pencil draws the marking line. Can also be used as a circular marker. Material: Plastic.
“I’m a cabinet installer. This item is perfect for scribing countertops and other materials. Recommend.” – Amazon’s Customer Review.
Available here.
Veritas Scribing Tool ($149.99)
This is Veritas easy to use, affordable log scribe. It comes in a yellow case with foam padding, a pencil and instructions on how to use it. As long as you keep the bubbles in between the lines, you will have a perfect fit.
“I have owned and used this tool for years, and although it has never been used on a log, it has performed flawlessly on critical details which would never have been attempted or even possible with a typical scribe – a real time saver for regular scribing tasks I have done as well. The tool is big, and with a myriad of adjustments does require carefully set up, but once familiar with it becomes simple. I should add that the curved end point is long enough to offset any project I have encountered and is just one reason I would buy this again if it were lost or stolen. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!” – Amazon’s Customer Review.
Available here.
General Tools Scribing Tool ($7.04)
This is General Tool’s two-point scriber which consists of small straight and short 90 degrees bent removable steel points which thread into knurled body. It has an aluminium frame with three interchangeable threaded steel points; little straight, short bent and long bent. The overall length of the unit is 8-7/8 inches and provides multi-faceted scribing solutions for machinists, mechanics and sheet metal workers.
“Nothing fancy but a good all-purpose scribe. Do yourself a favour and use some permanent thread locker when assembling it.” – Amazon’s Customer Review.
Available here.
Moody Tools Scribing Tool ($5.64)
This is a reversible scriber with a clip. The unit features interchangeable aluminium handles. Well-built and they give you a long enough carbide tip to allow you to resharpen it if you need to. The unit marks well non-hardened materials, but will only lightly mark the hard ones. The aluminium pen part is coated with a clear anodization so it does not scratch as easily as you think aluminium would.
“The chuck holds the point securely; the point scribes steel efficiently. I have another that has a magnet, which is a major p.i.t.a. When you set it down and every chip on the bench ends up hanging onto the end, or it grabs a drill bit and magnetises it forever. I like this one that is just an aluminium stick with a pocket clip and a pointy carbide end.” – Amazon’s Customer Review.
Available here.
General Tools & Instruments Scribing Tool ($5.16)
This is General Tools and Instrument’s pencil compass and scribe. Easy to use and is designed for marking contours and circles. Offers positive wingnut adjustment. It is constructed of brass plated steel and has a full-length hardened steel pin in metal frame for greater rigidity.
Available here.
Starrett Scribing Tool ($10.65)
This is Starett’s pocket scriber with a hardened steel point. The handle is also made of steel; is knurled and nickel plated. The hexagon head prevents rolling. Knurled chuck holds scriber firmly. The scriber point is finely tapered, so the location of the point is not obscured. The point can be reversed, telescoped into the handle and locked by the chuck, when not in use.
Technical Specifications By The Manufacturer:
- 2-3/8″ Point Length
- 1/4″ Handle Diameter
“First of all, to those saying it does not come with a tip, you have to unscrew the end, pull the tip out, and turn it around. The tip stores reversed in the scribe so you can keep it in your pocket without gouging out part of your leg accidentally, and they also shipped it like this for safety. As for not coming with directions, this is a scriber. It has a hard, sharp point for marking measurements or points or whatever on hard surfaces like metal and wood.
This is exactly what I needed. The point is not carbide as others noted, but the description never said it was carbide. Starrett does sell a carbide-tip version (70AX), but it is appropriately priced at about 3x the price. I have another scribe with a tiny carbide tip, but this Starrett with a steel tip blows out of the water. My only qualm is that I can see how this could loosen up around the tip, as one reviewer indicated that it had, but if that is an issue in the future, I will adjust my review accordingly. Everything about this screams quality, and I am jubilant with my purchase.” – Amazon’s Customer Review.
Available here.
Trend Scribing Tool ($28.47)
This is Trend’s handheld scribing tool for architrave, skirting, scribing doors, scribing worktops, setting hinge recess depth, etc. The articulated arm allows the required offset to be set precisely from 3/64 inch (1mm) to 1-9/16 inch (40mm) giving full flexibility. The thumb wheel offers fine adjustment, and this scribe can also be used as a marking gauge. Knurled foregrip sliding steel guide plate allows up to 1-15/16 inch (50mm) projection. The thin guide plate (0. 5mm) allows for access into narrow gaps ensuring full versatility, and the flat base ensures object surface remains in contact providing a consistent scribe.
Available here.
Fastcap Scribing Tool ($15.99)
This is Fastcap’s scribing tool with adjustable grip for regular pencils. This unit easily maintains consistent scribe offset, keeping parallel to surface every time. It is constructed of a polymer and measures 5-3/4 inches. Ideal for scribing cabinet trim, architectural mouldings, countertops, etc. The unit’s articulating pencil head increases flexibility for scribing over a wide variety of materials and textures. A removable compass point makes it easy to scribe circles and circular patterns. Made durable, heavy-duty and indestructible.
“Why didn’t someone think of this sooner, it gave a perfect duplicate scribe of the wall I was installing a counter top against. Now all my workers want one.” – Amazon’s Customer Review.
Available here.
General Tools Scribing Tool ($5.77)
This is General Tool’s tungsten carbide scribe and a magnet that marks hard materials including hardened steel, stainless steel, ceramics and glass. The alloy magnet picks up small parts and retrieves steel chips from hard-to-reach places. The scriber point can reverse for safety. Overall length is 6″.
“This scribe is comfortable to hold with the knurled grip. The scribe point itself is mounted in a 1/8 inch aluminium rod and is held in place with a collet. A quick turn of the collet will release the scribe to be changed. Or, the handle could be used as a 1/8 inch pin vise if needed. The other end has a very powerful magnet that is good for picking up small parts or for small metal chips. I highly recommend this tool.” – Amazon’s Customer Review.
Available here.
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Buyer’s Guide for Finding a Scribing Tool | Things To Consider When Buying a Scribing Tool
There are multiple factors to consider like the material of the scribing tip, the weight and balance of the tool, and how comfortable it feels in your hand are important things to keep in mind while buying.
Depending on what you need the scribing tool for, certain features will become more or less important to you. This guide will touch on some of those key features so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing your scribing tool.
Purpose
When you’re looking to buy a scribing tool, it’s important to first identify your specific use case. There are a myriad of types and models of scribing tools available in the market but not all of them will serve the same purpose. Ask yourself questions like what kind of material am I working with – wood, metal, or plastic?
Do I need greater precision or do I require added speed while dealing with materials? Every scribing tool has its particular set of features and characteristics depending on the task your company is looking to accomplish. Therefore it is required to have a clear purpose before you purchase, so you can make an informed decision about which tool is suitable for your needs.
1. Type of scribing tools
There is a vast range of options out there making the decision quite difficult. Depending on the project at hand and your level of expertise, it is important to research the different types of tools available to you so that you find the best option for your needs.
Compass Scribing Tool
A compass scribing tool is an ideal choice for creating precise drawings and designs. It consists of two separate components, the wheel, which provides rotation, and a long arm with a sharp tip used to draw circles and arcs accurately.
The wheel is connected to the arm by a hinge or pivot, allowing you to adjust its exact dimensions. Some models come with adjustable legs, providing additional accuracy when working on a flat surface.
In addition, most compasses are equipped with swivel heads that allow for easy adjustment for drawing any size of circle desired.
Flat Scribing Tool
These tools have a sharpened metal blade and metal spur that is used to mark lines or scores on different surfaces with precision and accuracy. One benefit of using flat scribing tools is they are easy to clean and maintain, so you know you’ll always get high-quality results from your projects.
Flat scribing tools require low force when compared to other options, so it’s easier for sturdier materials such as glass, tile, and stone. They are useful for drawing circles and curves.
2. Quality
Before purchasing a scribing tool, the quality should always be taken into consideration. Taking the time to ensure your Scribing Tool is of high quality ensures accuracy and quality results each time the tool is used.
Such tools deliver precise results without crumbling or producing unsatisfactory work. It also guarantees longevity, so you can always be sure to have a tool that is dependable and long-lasting.
Ultimately, purchasing a high-quality tool not only increases productivity but also decreases frustration when dealing with low-grade products.
3. Sharp Point
The sharpness of the point at the end of the leg can make all the difference between a high-quality finished product and something that has imperfections or blemishes along the edges. So, you need to make sure that the scriber tool is made of diamond or tungsten carbide so the point is hardened and durable enough to stand against any surface you are working with.
Fortunately, it is relatively easy to tell if a scribing tool has a sharp enough point just by examining and testing it before you buy it. This will ensure you have everything you need for an even and precise finish every time.
FAQs:
Yes, they are. Although you can draw the designs with some other tools, you can’t get the exact precision.
Use a scrubber tool when you need accuracy and precise measurements.