Menu
 

BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details

Best Dovetail Markers

Updated August 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Newkiton Dovetail Marker
Newkiton
Dovetail Marker
Check Price
Most Comprehensive
Bottom Line

Aluminum dovetail marker with 4 slope proportions marked for hardwood or softwood.

Pros

This handy aluminum woodworking tool can easily hand-mark an accurate dovetail layout. CNC machined for precision. Offers 4 kinds of proportions marked for hardwood or softwood. The manufacturer offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Reasonable price.

Cons

Does not come with any instructions.

Best Bang for the Buck
HNBun Dovetail Markers, Set of 2
HNBun
Dovetail Markers, Set of 2
Check Price
Budget-friendly
Bottom Line

This set includes 2 dovetail markers that are well-made and come at a price that makes them a solid deal.

Pros

Pack of 2 dovetail markers that are made of sturdy aluminum. Feature 4 proportions marked for both hardwood and softwood marking. Both sides are clearly marked to enhance ease of use. Available at an appealing price.

Cons

If you are new to using dovetail markers, you'll be disappointed that no instructions are included.

Taytools Solid Brass Dovetail Marking Jig
Taytools
Solid Brass Dovetail Marking Jig
Check Price
Simple yet Solid
Bottom Line

Solid brass dovetail marker with 2 slope proportions, 1 for hardwood and 1 for softwood.

Pros

The small and handy tool allows precision and ease in completing layout lines for hand-cut dovetails. The template portion is CNC machined from solid brass. Use with stock up to 1-inch thickness. Has a 1-to-5 slope for softwoods and a 1-to-8 slope for hardwoods. Slope markings photo-etched into the tool. Reasonably priced.

Cons

A few said it didn't meet their expectations.

Housolution Dovetail Marker
Housolution
Dovetail Marker
Check Price
Best for Beginners
Bottom Line

This quick and easy-to-use dovetail marker is constructed of copper and stainless steel and features 4 slope proportions for different types of wood.

Pros

Easy-to-use, perfect for beginning woodworkers. Has 4 kinds of proportions marked for different types of wood and needs. Made of premium durable copper and stainless steel. Most buyers say it feels solid and well-made. Adopted laser-cutting molding. Small and portable. Quick and accurate marking of dovetail slopes.

Cons

Tool doesn't have markings, which might make it harder for beginning woodworkers to use.

Clarke Brothers Dovetail Marker
Clarke Brothers
Dovetail Marker
Check Price
Patented Design
Bottom Line

This is another quality dovetail marker with dual sides that can be used for marking hardwood and softwood.

Pros

Boasts a patented design with strong aluminum construction. The anodized finish will hold up well to years of use. Double-sided. Four proportions are marked for hardwood and softwood. Large size is easy to handle. CNC machined for durability and accuracy.

Cons

Although rare, a few faulty models have been reported.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

51
Models
Considered
93
Consumers
Consulted
18
Hours
Researched
Category cover

A dovetail marker is designed to provide quick, accurate marking of dovetails. It may be precision-machined at 1:5 and 1:8 angles, which are typical angles of softwood and hardwood dovetails. A dovetail marker is intended for use by beginner and expert woodworkers. It enables you to make large and legible markings as needed. Markers are small, lightweight, and portable. Various markers come equipped with slope markings that are photo-etched into the marker for added convenience. Markers often consist of aluminum, copper, and other types of metal. Some markers offer 4 kinds of proportions. They may be sold with a money-back manufacturer's guarantee.