The most common problems caused by moisture in wood are finishes that don’t stick, joinery that breaks apart, and boards that take on new and unwanted shapes after milling. The solution to all these problems is to use wood that has been dried to the right moisture content, between 8% and 12%. And the easiest way to determine moisture content is to use a moisture meter.

Moisture meters use either pins or an electromagnetic plate (pinless) to measure moisture. Some pin-style meters take deep readings with hammer probes; others take readings from 5/8 in. or less. Both styles leave marks. Pinless meters leave no marks but require the wood surface to be smooth; they detect moisture down to about 5/8 in. I looked at a dozen meters priced from $60 to $350 and was surprised to find that their overall accuracy is quite good.

The Protimeter BLD-5700 Timbermaster has a long and slender shape that fits easily into a pocket. It comes with a calibration device and remote sensor and provides detailed digital readouts. It’s also the only meter reviewed that comes with a remote temperature-sensing probe that automatically corrects for temperature.

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Rockler Deluxe Panel Clamp

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Stanley Powerlock 16-ft. tape measure

With its smooth lock, tough case, compact size, and excellent accuracy, this Stanley tape is perfect for workshop use.

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Veritas Standard Wheel Marking Gauge

A wheel-type gauge is the easiest to use, and this wonderful Veritas model is a steal at $38.

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