On 1/17/2013 9:24 AM, Bill wrote:

Let me rephrase my question:

My only "fine measuring stick" is a 12" Starrett combination square.

Do I need more tools for setting up an 8" jointer or table saw properly?

Depends upon the tool being setup, and to a point, the precision to
which it is capable of being setup.

IOW, a high quality cabinet saw or jointer may allow more precision than
most of the cheaper contractor saws or jointers ...

... although there is really only one way to adjust the miter slot to
be parallel to the fence on most table saws, and that is by loosening
the top, and banging it into alignment with all the precision of a
hammer/mallet ...

As contrary as Ed Bennett can be, he makes one of the finest tools for
woodshop tool setup that can probably be found on the planet.

The T-S Aligner Jr:

http://www.ts-aligner.com/tsalignerjr.htm

Not something that you will use all that often, but it is indeed the
"Premier" tool for the job, and well worth owning if you're really
serious/AR about precision setup.

And yes, I do own one, and value it to the extent of having made a
custom case for it:

http://e-woodshop.net/images/TsAlignerCase.JPG

--
eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)