Combination Square Reviews

Prompt Part 1:

**Introduction**

The combination square is one of the most indispensable tools in a craftsman’s toolbox. It is a triple threat tool, allowing you to measure, mark, and check the trueness of your work. This review guide will take you through ten combination squares currently on the market. Each review will cover product features, list the pros and cons, and provide an in-depth breakdown, making it easier to choose the perfect combination square for your needs.

**Product-by-Product Breakdown**

**Product Title: Swanson Tool Co S0101 7-inch Speed Square Layout Tool with Blue Book**
The Swanson 7-inch Speed Square is a handy layout tool perfect for carpenters and builders focusing on roofing and framing work. It combines 5 tools in one including a try square, miter square, protractor, line scriber, and saw guide.

Pros:
– Five tools in one for multitasking
– Comes with a step-by-step instruction book
– Cast aluminum construction for durability

Cons:
– 7-inch size might be big for small projects
– No metric measurement available

This well-built tool is made from die-cast aluminum, ensuring longevity and reliability. With its black gradations contrasting with a bright polished surface, readings are easy to take. However, its size and lack of metric measurements might turn off some international users or those involved in smaller projects. Its best used by professionals in construction and roofing.

**Product Title: IRWIN Combination Square, Metal-Body, 6-Inch (1794468)**
The IRWIN Metal-Body Combination Square is ideal for hobbyist woodworkers or DIY enthusiasts looking for reliable accuracy and a sturdy design.

Pros:
– Durable all-metal body
– Integrated bubble level for horizontal checks
– Affordable price

Cons:
– Locking mechanism could be better
– 6-inch size might not be suitable for larger projects

The IRWIN model sports a rust-proof stainless steel blade, and its body is also metallic for enhanced durability. A built-in level allows for precision. The unit is slightly cheaper than other models but some users have found issues with the locking mechanism. This product is generally best for hobbyists and home DIY-ers who don’t require heavy-duty usage.

**Product Title: Starrett Try Square TS-2 8-Inch**
The Starrett Try Square is ideal for those who appreciate vintage craftsmanship and need a specialty tool for finer woodworking tasks.

Pros:
– Beautifully made with hardwood handle and brass hardware
– Excellent accuracy
– 8-inch length is versatile for many projects

Cons:
– Higher price point
– Limited to a try square only

With a hardwood handle and brass bound body, this tool screams quality. This American-made square is a bit pricier than other squares but offers unbeatable precision. As a vintage-line tool, it can be seen as a bit of a luxury purchase, which makes it great for woodworkers who enjoy traditional craftsmanship or want a limited use tool.

**Product Title: Johnson Level & Tool CS10 Professional Easy-Read Steel Carpenter Square**
This Carpenter Square from Johnson Level & Tool is a budget-friendly option for everyday use and large, rough construction projects.

Pros:
– Budget-friendly price
– Large 12-inch size for bigger projects
– Weather resistant coating for durability

Cons:
– Less precision compared to other squares
– Rough finish can make reading difficult

This 12-inch size tool is constructed from long-lasting, weather-resistant steel. While its accuracy may not be as precise as more expensive squares and the finish can be a bit rough around the edges, it’s a functional option for those engaged in building or larger carpentry projects where exact precision is less critical.

**Product Title: Fowler 52-330-012 Steel Combination Square Set, 3-Piece**
The Fowler Combination Square Set is all about variety and versatility and serves professionals who require different sizes for various tasks.

Pros:
– Three different sizes for versatility
– Solid cast iron heads for durability
– Comes with a fitted case for storage

Cons:
– More expensive because it is a set
– May require calibration out of the box

This unique set provides a 4-inch, 6-inch, and 12-inch square, all featuring durable solid cast iron heads. However, the cost can be a hurdle to some. With its range and quality, this set is best suited to professional woodworkers or carpenters who are often confronted with a variety of tasks.

Prompt Part 2:

**Product Title: Stanley 46-071 Premium Quick Square Layout Tool**
The Stanley Premium Quick Square Layout Tool is designed for both the serious DIY-er and professional. It serves as an invaluable tool for quick, accurate measurements and cutting guides.

Pros:
– Versatile with multiple built-in scales
– Strong and durable plastic material
– Affordable price

Cons:
– Some users find the material less professional
– Might not be as accurate as metal squares

The Stanley Quick Square is made from ABS plastic ensuring lightness and resilience. It posts several integrated scales enhancing its versatility. Though some may find the plastic feel less professional and others question its accuracy compared to metal squares, this square provides great value for money.

**Product Title: Empire Level E250 12-Inch Heavy Duty Professional Combination Square**
The Empire E250 is meant for top-end professionals who value durability and precision in their tools. It’s a premium product with a range of high-quality features.

Pros:
– Machined square head for precision
– All-metal body and ruler for durability
– Integrated bubble level

Cons:
– Higher price point
– Some users found the locking mechanism difficult to use

The Empire E250 combination square features a machined square head, tough metal body, and ruler making it a solid choice for professionals. An added bubble level helps with accuracy. While its higher price and reported issues with the locking mechanism may deter some, it’s an excellent choice for professionals seeking durability and precision.

**Product Title: Craftsman CMHT37225S 12-Inch Combination Square**
The Craftsman Combination Square is all about convenience and compactness, ideal for homeowners and hobbyists who need a compact tool for smaller projects.

Pros:
– Compact and lightweight for easy use
– Corrosion-resistant coating
– Comes with stainless steel etched ruler for durability

Cons:
– Some users find the ruler difficult to read
– Squareness might need calibrating

Made from heavy-duty aluminum, this tool is compact and lightweight for easy portability. A corrosion-resistant coating contributes to its longevity, and a stainless steel etched ruler lasts longer than painted ones. Although accuracy might need calibration and the ruler may be slightly hard to read, this is a solid option for casual DIY users.

**Product Title: Woodstock D4089 Machinist Square Set, 4-Piece**
The Woodstock Machinist Square Set offers precision and versatility for professionals and experienced craftsmen who need an array of sizes.

Pros:
– Multiple sizes for versatility
– High level of accuracy
– Made from hardened and tempered steel

Cons:
– Higher price point because it is a set
– Not ideal for larger projects due to size limitations

The varied sizes in this set offer excellent versatility for different tasks—each square made from hardened and tempered steel ensures accuracy and durability. Despite the higher upfront cost and limitations on larger projects, this set is perfect for professionals or craftsman who demand precision.

**Product Title: Mitutoyo 180-906B Combination Square Set**
The Mitutoyo Combination Square Set is designed for precision engineering tasks. This six-piece set caters to professionals who need the best in accuracy and measurement.

Pros:
– Six tools for complete versatility
– Made for professional engineering tasks
– High level of precision

Cons:
– More expensive
– Not suitable for hobbyist or DIY use

This superior set contains a center head, protractor, blade, square head, straight edge, and scriber—all made from hardened steel for enhanced durability. The set provides remarkable accuracy but with a steep price. Given its specifications, it is best suited to professionals, particularly precision engineers, and less ideal for hobbyists or DIYers.

**FAQ Section**

**Q: Who needs a combination square?**
A: Any DIY enthusiast, woodworker, or builder will benefit from a combination square. They’re handy for measuring, marking, and checking the trueness of your work.

**Q: Are combination squares accurate?**
A: Yes, combination squares are generally very accurate. However, their accuracy can vary from brand to brand.

**Q: Can I use a combination square for angle measurements?**
A: Yes, most combination squares have angle measurements and can be used for 45-degree and 90-degree angles. However, for more precise angle measurements, a protractor might be needed.

**Q: What sizes do combination squares come in?**
A: Combination squares typically come in 4-inch, 6-inch, 7-inch, 12-inch sizes, with some sets offering multiple sizes.

**Q: Are combination squares hard to use?**
A: No, combination squares are quite easy to use. Most of them come with clear measurements and user-friendly features, although some might require calibrating out of the box.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right combination square can make a significant impact on the precision and quality of your projects. With such a selection of squares—from versatile sets like the Fowler 52-330-012 and Woodstock D4089, to affordable single squares like the IRWIN Combination Square, or premium models like the Empire Level E250—there is a square for everyone.

Remember, the right choice is based on your unique requirements. So don’t hesitate—enhance your toolbox with a combination square today. After all, a good tool defines the outcome of a great project.