What Is The Best Perforation Gauge Or Tool?

From using the search function I could really only find different gauges mentioned but not anything I would consider a review. I would propose a Stamp Perforation Gauge review. I am looking for a gauge that is capable of measuring not only perforations but stamp designs for those certain stamps that require their measurement for proper ID and also one with a millimeter rule on it. Basically I am in effect asking your professional opinions on different types and styles of perf gauges and tools.

I only have at my disposal at moment is that plastic lighthouse one and an the old metal black and white UNITRADE gauge. I was really eye-ing up that Precision stamp gauge that can do grills and design measurements and all sorts of neat stuff but unsure about dropping almost 20 bucks on it sight unseen. Below is a link to the gauge I am referring to.

Thank you for any responses as it will be a great guide to buying the right tool. -Jeff

http://www.slingshotvenus.com/PDFs/...ataSheet.pdf

I am buying the Instanta perf guage $16.95

I've an old brass/black painted Correcto Gauge that I use for quick, measurements, but for more exact and accurate close measurements for perfs., design size, grills, etc. the Sonic Imagery Labs Precision Gauge is an excellent tool. A bit pricey, but for me, money well spent.

I vote for the Instanta. Full retail in the U.S. is just under $10.

I've used the Precision multi-gauge for identifying early US issues. I have used features 1, 2, 6, 7, and 9 for the reasons described in the link you posted, and it worked well. Its pretty straightforward. Read the descriptions of each function and if you need the specialty functions, then buy the gauge. Otherwise get something simpler. I'm not aware of any other gauge specialized for US stamps.

Other than the US specialty purposes and measuring several early Swiss stamps, however, I use the very simple and cheap Unitrade gauge ($1.90).

Worth mentioning?
The Instanta is clear plastic, one can measure stamps on cover.

EZ Perf

Here is the MULTI-GAUGE thats being discussed ..

Hi

For individual stamps I use a plastic see through perf gauge. If I am doing a lot of stamps, like Mexico, I use the Lindner Phila-Combi-Box:
http://www.lindner-usa.com/philatel...mbi-box.html
It is very accurate. Hint: when using it I found that placing the stamp "face down" makes it easier to read the markings.

Jerry B

Thank you this has been very useful! I think I'm going to spend some of my moldy money on the precision multi gauge.