The Best Squares and Angles
A square is the foundation of accurate woodworking and construction. If your square is not true, nothing you build from it will be true either. A quality combination square, speed square, or try square is machined to precision and stays accurate through years of use. These are the ones that do not lie.
This page contains Amazon affiliate links. Every purchase supports the store.
How to Choose
Test any square before trusting it. Draw a line against the blade on a flat surface. Flip the square to the other side of the line and draw again. If the two lines are parallel, the square is true. If they diverge, the square is inaccurate. Stainless steel blades resist corrosion. Cast zinc or machined steel heads provide stability. Etched markings are permanent.
Starrett 11H-12-4R Combination Square
If you only buy one, make it this one. Read the full guide below for alternatives at every price point.
Find on Amazon arrow_forwardWhat to Look For
Six things that separate the good from the rest.
Test every square before trusting it. Draw a line, flip, draw again. Parallel lines mean the square is true. This 10-second test saves hours of frustration.
Hardened stainless steel resists corrosion and wear. The blade should be stiff enough not to flex under normal use.
Cast iron or machined steel heads provide weight and stability. Die-cast zinc is lighter but still accurate. Plastic heads are not accurate enough for precision work.
Etched markings are permanent and visible. Printed markings wear off. Graduations to 1/16th are standard. 1/32nd is available on precision tools.
On combination squares, the lock must hold firmly without shifting. A lock that slips invalidates every measurement.
12 inches for general work. 6 inches for small joinery. 16 or 24 inches for framing and cabinetry.
The Picks
Starrett 11H-12-4R Combination Square
Made in Athol, Massachusetts. Starrett has been making precision tools since 1880. The 11H is a 12-inch combination square with a hardened steel blade, a cast iron head, and markings etched to 1/32nd inch. The head slides smoothly and locks firmly. This is the measuring tool that professional woodworkers trust.
The gold standard. Starrett combination squares are accurate to tolerances that most other squares cannot approach.
Find on Amazon arrow_forwardSwanson Speed Square S0101
The original speed square, invented by Swanson in 1925. A right-angle guide, protractor, saw guide, and line scriber in one stamped aluminum tool. Every carpenter and framer carries one. At this price, there is no reason not to have two.
The speed square that started it all. One dollar per year of use, and that is being generous.
Find on Amazon arrow_forwardStarrett K53-8 Try Square
A traditional try square with a hardened steel blade and a wood and brass handle. 8-inch blade for marking and checking squareness on smaller work. The blade is ground flat and the handle is machined to a precise 90 degrees.
The woodworker's marking tool. Beautiful, precise, and a pleasure to use.
Find on Amazon arrow_forward