How to Use a Draw Gauge

[@daverooni7763]

Finally, something more dangerous than a head knife 🎉. Great video Daniel, this was a good overview of what a draw knife can do

[@maddawgnoll]

I've cut 12oz leather with my strap cutter. Stripped (belts) a whole side. The blade gets dull fast. This was before i got a draw knife. The draw knife is a lot harder to use but it cuts easier if you have the right blade. I haven't used a razorblade in it even though it came with some along with the CS Osborne

[@MrBassman313]

Just ordered my 1st draw gauge from Bruce Johnson Leather tools!

[@erikjensen6503]

I learned with the draw guage and have never even used a strap cutter. It's my great aunts and as long as it's sharp it will cut. Totally agree with not watching the blade but the edge touching the tool! Thanks for sharing

[@Terry-n1i]

Thanks!! Being new, wasn't sure exactly what this contraption was used for, other than cutting leather.. did not know its made for heavier leathers!! Very informative!

[@leathermule4824]

Great explanation for the beginners ! Only time and projects determine the needs. Great video

[@mattphipps1368]

My draw gauge is an antique Osbourne that was originally owned by the senior furniture designer for Thomasville Furniture here in North Carolina. I discovered quickly how scary and dangerous this tool can be and I have begun to start taping off the top 1/2 inch of the blade and any of the exposed blade underneath the bar. Basically it's about as safe as I can make it. I've also started to "nick" the leather about 1/4 inch in with my box cutter to give the blade a chance to "bite" without having to struggle to start the cut.

[@bradykincaid9095]

Hey, bro I've always heard "never whittle towards yourself and to never pee into the wind" so I've turned the blade around and pushed it through. I've found it safer and easier to watch what you're doing. Jus sayin...

[@DanielReachCreations]

That's an interesting approach. Wouldn't have thought of that. I'll try it next time I use it. Thanks!

[@1a1u0g9t4s2u]

Nice to have a "How to use" video on specialty tools. When a project needs heavier leather, I will know there is a special tool for that. Wonder why the blade is the length it is so much longer than the thickness of the leather to be cut. I imagine two solutions, first is to make the blade match the thickness better. Second provide a guard or an attachment to cover the exposed blade which is above the leather.

[@thomasbeckett1245]

A plow gauge or French gauge are better in heavy strap weight leather. Look to antique auctions for that sort of tool. They are common enough, but haven’t been manufactured for eighty years.

[@ffotograffydd]

They are still manufactured, though it’s expensive for new ones. If you can find a good antique one that’s probably the better option.

[@alaskankare]

that looks like a dangerous tool. why dont they just make a super sized version of the other cutter?

[@ffotograffydd]

I think I’d rather go with my plough gauge for heavy leather, the draw gauge looks like a good way to lose a finger.

[@ronny5489]

*Promo SM*

[@bigbossimmotal]

Unless it is designed to cut 2 and 1/2 inch thick leather, making it with a pointed 2 and 1/2 inch blade is just the height of stupidity. Shorten the blade, round the tip of the blade. It just seems like common sense to me.