Woodworking squares are essential tools for any serious woodworker or DIY enthusiast. These versatile instruments ensure accurate measurements and perfect 90-degree angles for various projects like furniture making, framing, and more. With so many options available, choosing the best woodworking square can be daunting. This expert guide reviews the best woodworking squares of 2024, considering factors like accuracy, durability, value for money, and user-friendliness. Whether a beginner or a seasoned pro, this comprehensive article will help you make an informed decision and elevate your woodworking game.
Contents
What to Look for When Picking a Woodworking Square
A woodworking square is an essential tool for any serious woodworker or DIY enthusiast. It is used for marking straight lines, checking for square corners, and ensuring accurate measurements. With so many options available, choosing the right woodworking square can be a daunting task. Here are some key factors to consider when picking a woodworking square:
Accuracy and Precision
Accuracy and precision are the most critical factors when selecting a woodworking square. Look for squares made from high-quality materials that are precisely machined and calibrated to ensure consistent and reliable measurements. Squares with fine graduations, such as 1/32″ or 1/64″, offer greater precision for more intricate projects.
Material and Construction
Woodworking squares are typically made from materials like aluminum, stainless steel, or cast zinc. Aluminum squares are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them a popular choice. Stainless steel squares are incredibly durable and maintain their accuracy over time, but they can be more expensive. Cast zinc squares offer a balance between affordability and durability, but they may not be as robust as metal alternatives.
Size and Versatility
Woodworking squares are available in various sizes, ranging from compact 4″ or 6″ models to larger 12″ or 16″ squares. Smaller squares are ideal for intricate tasks and portability, while larger squares are better suited for marking and measuring larger workpieces. Consider your project needs and the size of your workspace to determine the appropriate square size.
Readability and Visibility
Clear and visible markings are essential for accurate measurements and alignment. Look for squares with high-contrast markings, such as laser-etched or precision-etched graduations, which are easy to read even in low-light conditions. Some squares feature anti-glare finishes or coatings that enhance visibility and reduce glare.
Added Features and Functionality
Many woodworking squares offer additional features that can enhance their functionality and versatility. For example, some squares have built-in bubble levels for checking horizontal and vertical alignment, while others include scribing notches or rulers for marking and measuring board dimensions. Adjustable sliding tabs or set screws can also be useful for locking the square in place for repetitive cuts or layouts.
Durability and Longevity
A high-quality woodworking square is an investment that should last for years. Look for squares made from durable materials and with robust construction that can withstand the demands of a busy workshop or job site. Squares with reinforced corners or edges are less likely to chip or dent over time.
best woodworking square Overall
Swanson Speed Square
The Swanson Tool S0101 7-inch Speed Square is a quintessential tool that truly lives up to its name. Its ingenious design packs five essential functions into one compact square. As a try square, miter square, saw guide, line scriber, and protractor, it becomes an indispensable addition to any woodworker’s arsenal.
What sets this square apart is its meticulous gradations that cater to various roofing tasks. The markings cover common, hip, valley, and jack rafters, enabling precise angle marking and square cuts on boards. This level of detail is a game-changer for roofers and carpenters working on pitched roofs.
Complementing the markings is the included Swanson Blue Book, a comprehensive guide that serves as a valuable resource. It provides instructions, diagrams, and tables for roof and stair construction, eliminating the need for complex calculations. With this guide, even novice woodworkers can tackle intricate projects with confidence.
The square’s construction is a testament to its durability. Made from heavy-gauge aerospace aluminum alloy and die-cast for precision, it can withstand the rigors of a job site. The black gradations against the non-glare, matte finish ensure easy readability, even in challenging lighting conditions.
One of the standout features is the 1/4-inch spaced scribing notches and the diamond cutout, which facilitate accurate rafter seat cuts and scribing common stud widths. This attention to detail streamlines tasks and saves valuable time on the job.
While the 7-inch size may be limiting for some larger projects, the square’s compact nature makes it highly portable and convenient to carry around. Its versatility and precision more than makeup for its size limitations, making it a must-have tool for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Key Features:
- Multiple Gradations: Markings for common, hip, valley, and jack rafters to mark angles and square cuts
- Comprehensive Swanson Blue Book Guide: For making correct angle cuts on any pitched roof with rise per foot run data
- 5-in-1 Tool: Try square, miter square, saw guide, line scriber, and protractor combined
- Easy to Read: 1/4-inch spaced scribing notches, diamond cutout, black gradations on matte finish
- Made in USA: Since 1925, durable die-cast aerospace aluminum alloy construction
Pros:
- Versatile 5-in-1 design saves space and money
- Accurate gradations for roof framing and rafter cuts
- Durable aluminum alloy construction built to last
- Clear markings and matte finish enhance visibility
- Compact size for easy portability
- Includes handy Blue Book reference guide
Cons:
- Limited to 7-inch size which may be too small for some larger projects
- Gradations can seem cluttered for beginners
- Aluminum can get slippery when hands are sweaty/oily
Irwin combination square
The IRWIN 1794469 12-inch Combination Square is a workhorse tool that delivers precision, durability, and versatility in equal measure. From its robust construction to its intelligent design, this combination square is tailored to meet the demanding needs of professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts alike.
At the core of this tool lies a 12-inch stainless steel blade that is not only resistant to rust and corrosion but also ensures accurate measurements and markings. The blade’s length provides ample surface area for marking and measuring, making it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects.
Complementing the stainless steel blade is the durable cast zinc body, which offers exceptional strength and longevity. While not as lightweight as aluminum models, the zinc construction provides a solid and stable base for the tool, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use on the job site or in the workshop.
Key Features:
- 12-inch rust-proof stainless steel blade for accuracy and durability
- Durable cast zinc body for strength and longevity
- Precision-etched black scales for easy readability
- Ideal for precise 90° and 45° angle marking
- Can be used as a depth gauge and for transferring measurements
- T-bevel design for added versatility
Pros:
- Stainless steel blade resists corrosion and ensures long-lasting accuracy
- Cast zinc body provides a solid and robust construction
- Etched scales are clear and easy to read, even in low-light conditions
- Versatile tool for marking angles, taking measurements, and depth gauging
- T-bevel design expands functionality for transferring angles
- Cost-effective option for professionals and hobbyists
Cons:
- Zinc body may not be as robust as more expensive aluminum models
- Etched scales can become worn over time with heavy use
- Limited to 12-inch size, which may be too small for some larger projects
Final Thought
The IRWIN Combination Square is a reliable and accurate tool that combines durability, versatility, and precision in one package, making it an excellent choice for woodworkers of all skill levels.
Swanson framing wizard
The Swanson Tool Co T001WZ Framing Wizard is a true game-changer in the world of woodworking tools. This innovative folding aluminum framing square has been meticulously designed to combine the functionality of five essential tools into one compact and portable package. From framing to mitering, angle finding to saw guiding, and even try squaring, the Framing Wizard delivers unparalleled versatility and accuracy.
Constructed from high-grade anodized aluminum, this square boasts a durable and lightweight construction that can withstand the rigors of any job site or workshop. The precision laser-etched markings on the high-visibility blue finish create a striking contrast, ensuring easy readability even in challenging lighting conditions.
One of the standout features of the Framing Wizard is its adjustable, sliding tab that allows you to lock the blade for repetitive angles and layouts, including 12-inch on-center markings. This intelligent design not only saves time but also eliminates the need for constant remeasuring, streamlining your workflow and increasing efficiency.
Key Features:
- 5-in-1 tool: Framing square, miter square, angle finder, saw guide, and try square
- Adjustable sliding tab for locking blade and repetitive layouts
- High-grade anodized aluminum construction for durability
- Precision laser-etched markings on high-visibility blue finish
- Hinged mechanism with adjustable set screw for maintaining 90° accuracy
- Compact and portable folding design for easy storage and transport
Pros:
- Combines multiple tools into one compact and portable unit, saving space and money
- Durable aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance
- Adjustable tab and laser-etched markings enhance accuracy and efficiency
- hinged mechanism with set screw allows for easy recalibration
- Folding design makes it convenient to carry and store
Cons:
- May be more expensive than individual tools purchased separately
- Folding mechanism may loosen over time with heavy use
- Limited to smaller projects due to its compact size
Final Thought
The Swanson Tool Co T001WZ Framing Wizard is a versatile and innovative solution that streamlines the woodworking process, combining multiple essential tools into one portable and user-friendly package.
johnson johnny square
The Johnson Level & Tool 1904-1200 Johnny Square Professional Easy-Read Aluminum Rafter Square is a true testament to the company’s commitment to engineering excellence. This 12-inch square has been meticulously designed to address the unique challenges faced by builders, contractors, and woodworkers alike, ensuring precise measurements and accurate cuts every time.
Crafted from solid aluminum, this rafter square boasts a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of any job site or workshop. The CNC machined edges further elevate its precision, ensuring that each measurement and cut is executed with unwavering accuracy.
One of the standout features of this square is its revolutionary EZ-Read finish. This anti-glare protective coating diffracts sunlight rather than reflecting it, making the laser-etched graduations and numbers clearly visible in any lighting condition, whether you’re working in direct sunlight or a dimly lit workshop.
Key Features:
- Solid aluminum body with CNC machined edges for durability and precision
- EZ-Read laser-etched graduations and numbers with anti-glare protective coating
- Continuous scribing notches for ripping at 1-1/2″, 3-1/2″, 5-1/2″, and 7-1/2″
- Markers for measuring 2×4 board dimensions (1-1/2″, 3″, and 3-1/2″)
- Allows for cross-cuts, angled cuts, and stair layout with integrated scales
- Quickly marks 90° and 45° angles with ease
Pros:
- Durable aluminum construction built to last
- EZ-Read finish ensures clear visibility in any lighting condition
- Scribing notches and markers streamline ripping and board measurements
- Versatile for various applications, including framing, stair layout, and angled cuts
- Anti-glare coating increases friction for secure saw guiding
- Accurate and reliable measurements every time
Cons:
- May be more expensive than some basic rafter squares
- Limited to a 12-inch size, which may not be suitable for larger projects
- Laser-etched markings may wear out over time with heavy use
Final Thought
The Johnson Level & Tool 1904-1200 Johnny Square Professional Easy-Read Aluminum Rafter Square is a top-of-the-line tool that combines precision, durability, and user-friendly features, making it an invaluable asset for any professional or serious DIY enthusiast.
igaging double square set
Precision and accuracy are paramount in the world of woodworking, and the iGaging 4″ & 6″ Double Square Set is a testament to this principle. This professional-grade set of double squares is designed to deliver uncompromising performance, making it an essential addition to any serious woodworker’s toolkit.
Crafted from high-quality alloy steel and stainless steel, these double squares boast a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The heavy-duty, hardened, and precision-ground satin chrome blades not only ensure long-lasting durability but also provide a smooth and consistent surface for precise measurements and markings.
One of the standout features of this set is the easy-to-read marked increments, which are finely graduated in 8ths, 16ths, 32nds, and 64ths of an inch. This level of detail allows for incredibly accurate measurements, ensuring that your projects are executed with utmost precision.
Key Features:
- Set includes 4″ and 6″ double squares with 4R blades
- Heavy-duty hardened, precision-ground satin chrome blades
- Graduated markings in 8ths, 16ths, 32nds, and 64ths of an inch
- Meets strict US accuracy standards (0.0008″ per inch)
- Bubble level on the 6″ square for added convenience
- Comes with a storage case and foam insert for organization
Pros:
- Exceptional accuracy and precision for professional-grade woodworking projects
- Durable alloy steel and stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance
- Easy-to-read graduated markings ensure precise measurements
- Bubble level on the 6″ square simplifies leveling tasks
- Compact size and storage case make it easy to transport and organize
Cons:
- More expensive than basic double square sets
- Smaller sizes may not be suitable for larger projects
- Marked increments may be harder to read for those with vision impairments
Final Thought
The iGaging 4″ & 6″ Double Square Set is a top-of-the-line tool that delivers unparalleled accuracy and precision, making it an invaluable investment for professional woodworkers and discerning DIY enthusiasts alike.
What is a good square for woodworking?
When it comes to woodworking, a combination square or a speed square is often considered a good choice. Combination squares are versatile tools that can function as try squares, miter squares, and depth gauges, making them suitable for various tasks. Speed squares, on the other hand, are designed specifically for rafter and framing work, with markings for common, hip, and valley rafters.
Which type of square is more accurate?
In terms of accuracy, try squares and engineer’s squares are generally considered the most precise options for woodworking. These squares are designed with a high degree of accuracy and are often used for precision layout and checking square corners. However, for most general woodworking tasks, a well-made combination square or speed square can provide sufficient accuracy when used correctly.
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FAQs
What size woodworking square is best?
The ideal size depends on your projects. 6-inch or 12-inch squares are versatile for most woodworking tasks. Larger 16-inch or 24-inch squares may be better for framing or working on bigger pieces.
Are cheaper woodworking squares accurate enough?
While budget-friendly options exist, investing in a high-quality, precision square from a reputable brand is recommended. Inaccurate squares can lead to compounding errors in your projects.
What features make a good woodworking square?
Look for durable materials like aluminum or stainless steel, clear and precise markings/graduations, a matte finish to reduce glare, scribing notches, and added features like a built-in level.
How do I maintain and care for my woodworking square?
Keep it clean, dry, and free from debris. Avoid dropping or mishandling. Check for accuracy periodically using reliable test surfaces. Lubricate any moving parts as needed.
Conclusion
Investing in the best woodworking square for your needs is crucial for achieving precise and professional results on any project. Consider factors like accuracy, durability, readability, and versatility when selecting from top options. With the right square in hand, you can elevate your woodworking abilities with confidence.