Dovetall gauges

Dovetails can be cut to an infinite number of angles, generally ranging between what is called “one-in-six�?about 80 1/2°) to “one-in-eight�?(about 83°). The correct angle is almost always that which the craftsman finds most pleasing aesthetically. Dovetail gauges are single-angle devices for marking pins and tails. They vary from rough-and-ready shopmade jigs to beautifully machined brass and rosewood heirlooms. Several types of dovetail gauge are available through specially woodworking retail outlets and catalogs.
For the woodworker who uses the same angle on every project, a dovetail gauge is convenient. However, an inexpensive sliding T-bevel will perform the same task just as well and is infinitely more versatile because it can be set to any angle.