To secure a sturdy project, there is a constant need for carpenters to establish perfect measurements and balance in their crafts. To do this, a woodworking square is an essential tool to have.
Whether you are about to mount a block of wood or anything that has the right measurements, a corner with the perfect angle will let anything fit nice and smooth. Woodworking squares take care of this. They are unswerving solutions carpenters can use to make sure a corner is at a perfect 90-degree angle.
Have a look at the five best woodworking squares we ranked for you. Selected for their reliability and great features, we guarantee you that you’ll get the perfect measuring tool you need for your next project.
Best Woodworking Squares Comparison & Rating
Woodworking Squares | Features |
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1. Irwin Tools Combination Square
Brand | Irwin |
Sizes | 12" |
Color | Blue |
Material | Stainless Steel, Zinc |
There is a lot to say about this Irwin square that tops our list. Besides its ergonomic design, we are really impressed with the etched measurement markings on the body of the blade. If you are just like us who are just tired of fading measurement prints, this is a great solution. You’ll easily read the marks in increments of 1/8 inch, 1/16 inch, 1/32 inch, and millimeters. The scales are printed in decent sizes which is something you’ll appreciate since most squares come with tiny markings. The square also has an inclusion of bubble level which lets you check if you have the horizontal and vertical balance needed for your projects.
2. iGaging 4" & 6" Double Square Set
Brand | iGaging |
Sizes | 4" and 6' |
Color | Stainless Steel |
Material | Satin Chrome |
This deal offers great value for your money as it comes with two squares. They allow you to choose the right size of blades fit for your project at 6” and 4” lengths of blades. This makes them pocket-friendly squares that you can bring anywhere while at work. They offer four gradations 1/64′′, 1/32′′, 1/16′′, and 1/8′′ and the markings are engraved as well to assure longevity. The durability of the squares is something to admire in this package. Besides the thick and unbreakable base and the chrome-hardened steel blades, the squares come with a case that allows easy storage and additional protection for the tools.
3. Irwin Tools Tri and Mitre Square
Brand | Irwin |
Sizes | 8" |
Color | Blue |
Material | Stainless Steel, ABS |
If you are looking for an on-the-go square you can rely on, this Irwin square that comes at an 8-inch length of the blade is the answer. The construction of the blade focuses on convenience: sturdy and rust-proof stainless steel, lightweight handle, long blade, readable markings, and other additional features. The blade, furthermore, is 1/8” thick and 1.5” wide. So, if you find yourself in constant need of checking measurements and angles, we suggest this. It is pretty handy with 8ths of an inch on top and 16ths of an inch on the bottom. You can even use its angle graduation as a protractor for most typical construction angles.
4. Swanson Tool TS152 8-Inch Try Square
Brand | Swanson |
Sizes | 8" |
Color | Brown |
Material | Brassbound Hardwood, Stainless Steel |
This Swanson square is one of the most practical measuring tools ever. No intricacies, no complexities at all. Just a plain square that does the job efficiently. The size of the blade and the handle allows it to fit in tight spaces. It has 8th's and 16th's marked on both of its edges that are etched that won’t fade at all. Just a complete package: reverse reading scale, gradations, and even brass bindings to give the handle the unwavering durability it needs. With the said features, especially the reverse reading scale, professionals who do level work and plumb would love it.
5. Moore and Wright 3” Engineer’s Square
Brand | Moore and Wright |
Sizes | 3", 4", 6", 12" |
Color | Stainless Steel |
Material | Steel |
If we are talking about the sturdiness of the tool body, this Moore and Wright square snatched it. No bending and no breakage at all. The fitting and finish will certainly impress you. Its blade is flawlessly perpendicular to the handle so you can be sure you’ll get the precision required for your project. We tested it ourselves in aligning various works and everything went really well. That being said, this tool (despite its size) promises a great deal when it comes to functionality. And if you just need the perfect tool to check alignments, this won’t fail you.
Best Woodworking Squares - Buyer's Guide
The material of the square is one of the first things you should look for in a square. The material would dictate the longevity of the tool and its durability and resistance against various elements. This is why most square blades come in stainless steel. However, the handles of the squares vary a lot.
Old models of squares have their marking simply printed on the surface. This causes them to easily fade which is a major issue when you constantly need to use the tool to measure things. This is why if you are looking for a measurement tool, it is better to have the ones that come with etched marks. This is common to newer models now as they last longer.
We all want a tool that can easily fit in our hands and won’t give us much weight while holding them. With this, make sure to check the dimensions and the weight of the product before purchasing them. This will help you have a better idea about the product.
Do not forget to make sure you have all the features you need in the product. Whether this feature will cover functionality, durability, or convenience, getting a product that has the complete set of features you need is crucial. This will help you get the best value out of your purchase.
Best Woodworking Squares - FAQs
The name was derived due to its function as a primary material or tool that you can use to “try” or check how square or how perfect the angle is.
Start by placing the blade of the tool across the material you need to check. To make the blade lie flat across the material, make sure that the handle is extended over the edge. Then, hold the handle against the edge. In this manner, you would be able to properly check the 90-degree angle of the surface.
The engineer’s square is made to specifically provide accuracy inside and outside its edges. On the other hand, a try square only provides accuracy inside its edges.
Try squares have a tolerance of 0.01 mm per cm of a steel blade. This is according to the British Standard 3322.
