What are the working tools of an Entered Apprentice Mason?

The working tools of an Entered Apprentice are the twenty-four-inch gage and the common gavel.

The twenty-four-inch gage derives from the operative tool used to measure stone 1. In speculative Masonry, its twenty-four divisions represent the hours of the day, symbolizing time well spent by devoting eight hours to the service of God and a distressed worthy brother, eight to usual vocation, and eight to refreshment and sleep 1. Mackey notes that a twenty-four-inch gaffe is sometimes employed as a substitute in giving this instruction 1.

The common gavel is modeled on the pointed stonemason's hammer used to break off the corners of rough stones 1. Symbolically, it represents the means of divesting the heart and conscience of vices and superfluities to reveal the inherent perfection within 2. Beyond its moral instruction for the candidate, the gavel serves as the principal emblem of authority retained by the Worshipful Master to govern the lodge and maintain order 21.