Abstract: A method and apparatus for scribing a severance line around the circumference of a pipe employing a protractor with a rotative arm and alignment guide pin; and a laser beam producing a vertical line beam. The protractor is mounted on the pipe to be cut so that the protractor is parallel with respect to the longitudinal center line of the length of the pipe. Once the protractor is parallel and set to the desired angle, the laser beam is energized to project a line upon the pipe which is in alignment with the alignment guide pins. The projected line is chalked on the pipe and the pipe is cut in any conventional manner.