Ridgid Contour Gauge

Navigating the world of DIY projects and home improvements often leads to the need for precision tools. One such tool that promises to make life easier for those tricky, irregular shapes is the Ridgid Contour Gauge, model FT7006. I recently got my hands on this tool to see if it lives up to its reputation.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Ridgid Contour Gauge makes a decent one. The 10-inch length is quite practical for larger areas, making it versatile for various applications, from flooring to woodworking. The tool is constructed from durable plastic, which offers a lightweight alternative to the metal versions. However, durability is a mixed bag. While the plastic body feels robust enough for everyday use, the metal pins used for contouring are another story. They tend to be somewhat fragile, bending easily under pressure and sometimes even falling out if not handled with care.

Functionality and Performance

The primary function of the contour gauge is to replicate shapes accurately for cutting materials like tile, laminate, and wood. The gauge does a commendable job in capturing basic contours. Pressing the pins against an object creates a profile that you can then transfer to your working material. This is particularly useful for fitting flooring around door frames, pipes, or any irregular shapes you might encounter.

However, the tool's performance isn't flawless. The pins require a fair amount of force to push into place, which can be problematic when working with softer materials. This stiffness can lead to inaccuracies, as the pins may not settle exactly where you want them. Additionally, the lack of a locking mechanism means you have to be extra cautious while transferring the contour to avoid losing the shape. A simple sliding wedge to lock the pins in place would have been a game-changer.

Precision and Accuracy

Precision is where the Ridgid Contour Gauge shows both promise and limitations. The pins are around 1/2 millimeter in diameter, which offers a reasonable level of detail. For most DIY applications, this is sufficient. However, if you require higher precision, such as in fine woodworking or intricate tile work, the gauge may fall short. The pins create a "stair-stepped" outline, particularly on curves, which can lead to minor inaccuracies. These imperfections are generally manageable but can be a deal-breaker for projects demanding high precision.

Ease of Use

Using the contour gauge is straightforward but not without its quirks. The tool is intuitive; you press it against the shape you want to replicate and then transfer that shape to your material. However, the stiffness of the pins can make this process cumbersome. You might find yourself manually adjusting each pin to ensure they align correctly, which defeats the purpose of a quick, accurate tool. Moreover, the base of the gauge is relatively thick compared to the pins, so it needs to hang off the edge of your working surface to lay the teeth completely flat for tracing.

Versatility

One of the strong suits of the Ridgid Contour Gauge is its versatility. Whether you're working with vinyl, wood, porcelain, or ceramic tiles, this tool can handle it. I've used it for various projects, from fitting baseboards to creating templates for woodworking, and it has generally performed well. The tool is particularly useful for flooring projects, where fitting around door moldings and plumbing fixtures can be a nightmare. The contour gauge simplifies this process, saving both time and material.

Durability

Durability is a critical factor for any tool, and here, the Ridgid Contour Gauge has room for improvement. The plastic body is sturdy enough, but the metal pins are prone to bending and even falling out. In one instance, I dropped the gauge, and several pins came loose, requiring manual reassembly. This fragility raises concerns about the tool's long-term reliability. If you're a frequent user, you might find yourself replacing it sooner than you'd like.

Final Thoughts

The Ridgid Contour Gauge is a handy tool with notable strengths and some weaknesses. Its 10-inch length and durable plastic construction make it versatile for a range of applications, from flooring to woodworking. The tool excels in capturing basic contours and is particularly useful for projects involving irregular shapes. However, its performance is marred by the stiffness of the pins and the lack of a locking mechanism, which can lead to inaccuracies and make the tool cumbersome to use.

Would I recommend the Ridgid Contour Gauge? Yes, but with reservations. If you're a DIY enthusiast tackling occasional projects, this tool can be a valuable addition to your toolkit. It saves time and effort in creating templates for irregular shapes, making your projects more efficient. However, if you require high precision or plan to use the tool frequently, you might want to look for a sturdier alternative with better pin quality and a locking mechanism.

In summary, the Ridgid Contour Gauge is a useful tool that performs well for most DIY applications but has limitations that might make it less suitable for more demanding tasks. If you understand its constraints and handle it with care, it can be a reliable companion in your home improvement endeavors.