Rules(Steel rule):

It is a most common measuring tool.

In the shop often improperly referred to as scale.
The accuracy depends largely on the user’s ability to
read.
Not intended for accuracy in terms of thousandths of
an inch.
Lines called graduations inscribed on the face of the
rule.
Made of steel and are either rigid or flexible.
Steel rule:
Type of graduations:
Different graduations are used on each edge of rule
which are identified by a number from 1 to 12.
No. 4 is the most popular with eighths and sixteenths
on one side and thirty seconds and sixty fourths on
other side.
Types of rules:
1-Standard steel rule
2-Flexible rule
3-Narrow rule
4-Hook rule
5-Shrink rule
6-Short rule
Standard steel rule:
Made of tempered tool steel 3/64” thick,3/4” wide and
6” long. With No. 4 graduations.
Flexible rule:
Made of tempered tool steel about 1/64” thick, 1/2”
wide and 6” long.
Available in many graduations, no.3 and no.4 most
popular.
Used for general work and measuring curved work.
Narrow rule:
Made of tampered tool steel about 3/64” thick,3/16”
wide and 4 to 12 “ long.
 It has graduation combinations nos. 10 or 11.
Useful for measuring in small openings and spaces.
Hook rule:
As shown, a hook is attached to one end which makes
it easy to take measurements from inside edge when it
is not convenient to see the end of the rule.
A narrow hook rule is made for measuring in holes as
small as 3/8” in diameter.
Shrink rule:
Made of tempered tool steel.
Similar in size and appearance to a standard rule.
It has No.4 graduations.
It differs from other rules in that the inch markings on
the face are slightly longer than actual inches.
It is used by pattern makers.
Short rule:
Usually a set of small rules made for measuring in
small spaces where other rule can not be used.

The set of rules consists of a ¼” 3/8”, ½”, 3/4” and 1”

rule together with a holder.

The rule may be held at any angle.

It is secured by turning the knurled nut at the end of

holder.