Different leathercraft tools can be used to cut straps, belts and long lengths of leather. An ordinary utility knife and a steel ruler can work but is not an ideal way to cut straps. Strap cutters and plough gauges can be used. There is however another tool that is just as effective. Its called a Draw Gauge.
A Draw Gauge is a handheld strap cutting tool made of steel or aluminium and consists of a handle, trigger, ruler or measuring guide as well as a sharp replaceable blade. It can be used to cut very thick leather by positioning the blade and pulling the draw gauge towards yourself.
The Draw Gauge, once mastered can be a fantastic strap cutting tool to use. It takes a bit of practice if you are a beginner, but once you get the hang of it you will be cutting straps and belts in no time. If you would like to know more about the draw gauge, how much it costs, how to use it and where to buy it then post below has all the info.
What is a Draw Gauge used for.
A Draw Gauge is a metal tool, usually made out of aluminium that is used to cut out straps, belts and strips of leather up to 4″ inches wide (10cm). It is suited for use on thicker leather if the blade is fairly sharp. Just like a strap cutter, a pulling motion is used when using a draw gauge. The blade will need to be stropped and sharpened regularly. Most draw gauges come with extra blades but new replaceable blades can also be bought.
How Much do Draw Gauges cost.
Draw gauges vary in price depending on their quality. They are available from a wide variety of online stores including Amazon. Prices start from as little as $20 and can be as much as $260 for a top of the range draw gauge. Please see my review of some of the draw gauges below to get an idea of what is available online.
Advantages of using a draw gauges
Like all tools you have a choice to get the budget option or the absolute top of the range which has been finely crafted with all parts that are well designed. Here are some of the top selling draw gauges available from various manufacturers
CS Osborne Draw Gauge
This draw gauge is made of aluminium with a handle and trigger. It’s made in the USA and will cut straps up to a maximum of 4 inches wide. The price is normally about $69.99.
Springfield leather Company Draw Gauge.
This draw gauge is made out of aluminium and brass handle. It can cut straps up to 4 inches wide. It comes with replaceable blades. The price is usually around $ 72.80.
Craftool Draw Gauge by Tandy Leather
This is a draw gauge made out of aluminium with polished handle. it’s made by Tandy Leather and will cut a maximum width strap of 4 inches. The price is usually about $44.99
Weaver Leather Supply Draw Gauge
The Rolls Royce of draw Gauges. A finely crafted tool made out of Aluminium with a wooden handle. It’s made in the USA and can cut straps up to 4 inches wide. It goes for a whopping $255!!!
What are the different parts of a Draw Gauge.
The draw Gauge is made up of different parts: Here is a summary and explanation each part:
- Handle. The handle is ergonomically shaped to suite the users hand comfortably. Some Draw Gauges have a trigger as part of the handle which aids in giving a better grip to the user.
- Ruler. The ruler is adjustable and usually made out of steel or aluminium. The Draw Gauges i have used generally allow a maximum width strap of 4″ inches to be cut. If you would like to cut wider straps then the best tool to use is a Plough Gauge.
- Blade. Blades must be kept sharp at all times in order to give a nice clean cut and edge. The blade can be easily removed by undoing the screw on the side of the ruler. Blades are inserted in the slot and the screw is tightened. The blade must be straight and aligned in the correct position.
- Screws. Screws are used for securing the ruler in place and securing the blade in place.
How to use a Draw Gauge
A Draw Gauge takes a bit of getting used to for a new user. As the blade is exposed and situated very close to the users fingers you need to exercise caution when using it.
The first step is to set the width of the strap you wish to cut by loosening the screw and sliding the ruler to the correct measurement.
Next tighten the screw so the ruler is fixed in position. Now position the edge of the leather against the side of the draw gauge handle and directly behind the blade. Take note in the video below which direction the blade is facing in order to cut the leather. Make sure the blade is screwed tightly and secure in its position. Once in position hold the edge of the leather with your left hand. Hold the draw gauge in your right hand and gently begin to pull it towards yourself. Repeat this step until you have cut out your entire length of strap.
I have included a video showing exactly how a Draw Gauge is used.
Tips when using a Draw Gauge
Always keep the blade as sharp as possible. Blades aren’t always 100% sharpened when bought from the manufacturer. Be very careful when the using the tool as the blade is exposed and its fairly easy to cut yourself should your hand slip.
Conclusion
Its a great tool for cutting thicker leather and its not too difficult to master. Always keep the blade sharp and you shouldn’t have any problems. If you would like to learn a bit more about leathercraft tools please check out my other post on the Strap Cutter. Happy crafting!!