A reliable set square is a must-have tool for any woodworking project, whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just starting. This simple yet essential tool helps ensure accurate angles, straight edges, and precise measurements, making it easier to achieve professional-quality results. From framing and cabinetry to smaller DIY tasks, a set square can be a game-changer in your workshop.
In this guide, I’ll explore the best set squares for joint woodworking projects. I’ll look at key features like material quality, accuracy, and ease of use to help you find the perfect tool for your needs. Whether you’re building a new piece of furniture or tackling a home improvement project, a good set square is the key to getting things right. Let’s find the one that works best for you!
Best Set Squares
1) Best Overall: IRWIN Combination Square, 12", 45-90 Degree Marking
- Black precision-etched scales
- Durable cast zinc body
- Rust proof stainless steel blade
- Perfect for 90° and 45° marking
- Can be used as a gauge for transferring measurements
The Irwin combination square is a must-have in any toolbox. Its durable cast zinc body ensures it will last through all your projects. Additionally, the black precision mark lines ensure you get the right angle every time and are easy to read. This tool has greatly improved the accuracy of the angles and lines for most of my DIY projects.
It also has a rust-proof stainless steel blade to prevent degradation and endure the duties of any job site. Additionally, it fits anywhere a 12-inch square won't, so it's adequate for smaller projects and helps regulate the precision of cutting machines. Since it's a multi-use measuring tool, I also use it to measure depth and material thickness. Lastly, it also has a built-in bubble level for when you need to check your level at a glance.
As one of the most versatile tools, this square set is heavy and reliable. Additionally, it doesn't bend awkwardly like other combination squares, giving you very accurate readings. It is a little heavier than expected, and the blade is a little flimsy, but it does the job. I have no regrets about buying this combination square.
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2) Best Value: WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set
- Durable Material - The rafter square is die-cast from heavy-gauge...
- Clearly Identifiable Scale - The rafter square finishing features...
- Multiple Graduation - 7-inch rafter square has many kinds of...
- User-Friendly - Lipped fence allows you to easily brace the...
- Wide Versatility - Easy-to-read level vial and a metal scriber on...
This is one of the top combination squares for any activity that might require a set square. The WORKPRO Square is suitable for both professional carpenters and woodworking enthusiasts. Its user-friendly nature and accurate measurements make it ideal for a wide range of woodworking applications, including cabinetry, furniture making, framing, and more.
This is the perfect set square to start with if you want to try a set square. Moreover, it is made from durable aluminum, powder coated to prevent the markings from rubbing off. Also the handle offers an aluminum construction that provides a comfortable grip for better overall control during use. Plus, this try square has all that I need for professional carpentry work and precise woodworking work.
The graduation on the set square is easy to read, and its accuracy is further improved by a semi-circle gap through which you can hang a plumb line. Whether you need to mark and measure 90-degree angles, check the squareness of joints, or ensure a straight line or precise cuts and layouts, I would recommend trying square markings for accurate results.
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3) Best Choice: Swanson Tool Co TC130 6-inch Combo Square
- 6 in stainless steel blade features precision-etched black...
- Multi-tool: square, depth gauge, height gauge, plumb level,...
- Impact-resistant acrylic vial in handle
- Spring-loaded bolt holds blade in place for firm, accurate...
- Durable die-cast zinc body for durability
This is one of the best combination squares for any job you might want to tackle. I was blown away by its etched markings and accurate metric measurements. It is more accurate compared to some other combination squares I have had over the years. Additionally, no adjustment was required since it's accurate right out of the box.
The graduations on the combination square are clear and readable. Additionally, the blade lock bolt works smoothly and effectively, while the brass locking thumb nut is easy to grip and loosen as many times as you would like. Its stainless steel blade cuts fence to blade without a problem. Furthermore, this 6-inch combination square set is smaller than what I would normally get, but it gets the job done.
All the rough edges might need to be softened, but it is a nifty little combo square set that will not disappoint. It also has a very snug fit, so there's no chance of a misalignment that could throw off your entire project. Additionally, your woodworking projects will be more enjoyable with one of the best combination squares in the market.
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4) Best Budget: Mr. Pen- Combination Square, 12" Combo Square
- 12-Inch Heavy Duty Combination Square
- Combo Square with Durable and Rust-Proof Stainless Steel Blade...
- Spring Loaded Brass Bolt to Assure Accuracy
- Brass Scriber and Level
- Accurately Measure and Draw 90 Degree And 45 Degree Angles
Anyone who does construction knows that a set square is the basic essential of any project. Therefore, it goes without saying that it's an important addition to your tool apron. These squares are of quality and durable construction. Not to mention, they are very easy to read, and I found their readings to be very accurate for 90-degree angles.
Aside from that, this square has everything you might need to measure the length or miter, level tri-squaring, scribe right angles, and height and depth gauge. In addition, the center head with a straight edge makes it easy to determine the center point of circular objects when working. Furthermore, the measurements on each side of the square increase its user-friendliness as a straightforward measuring tool.
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5) Best Upgrade Pick: Beslands Aluminum 12-inch & 7-inch Rafter Square
- [Size]:12-inch:12x12x17 inches（310x310x430mm); 7-inch: 7x7x10...
- [Features]: It has the characteristics of frame angle, triangle,...
- [Made of high-grade aluminum alloy]: It is rust-resistant,...
- [Accurate and convenient] Checking the angle of the triangle...
- [Scope of use] Suitable for timber projects and Woodworking, but...
This well-constructed metal square ruler is a dependable little tool for all types of construction work. If you find yourself dropping tools, then you don't have to worry about dropping this one since the points don't dent easily. As far as inexpensive combo squares go, this gives you the best value. I prefer to use a 12-inch combination square to determine the center of the square and round objects for accurate construction.
Larger projects like patio refurbishing require larger squares. Additionally, the painted markings on the gradation are clear and easy to read, so you don't have any inaccurate readings. You can also read the metric scale from any direction, making it adjustable to various angles. Furthermore, the conversion table on it makes it easier to convert inches to feet.
While it's not of stainless steel construction, it's made of aluminum, which is also durable and flexible. This makes it easier to lay out when measuring length and angles on a flat surface to minimize measurement errors.
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What to Consider When Choosing the Best Set or Combination Square
1) Size of the Blade
There are multiple sizes of blades. Most popularly, standard sizes include 4, 6, 12, 16, and 24 inches. Each has features that make it suitable for different types of projects. For starters, 12-inch rulers are the best for most projects since they can extend a square line over 10.5 inches, which is common for most pieces of wood.
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16 and 24-inch squares are usually cumbersome since they are large and unmanageable. You might need an extra person just to position it better. On the other hand, a 6-inch square might be small for most projects. However, they are an excellent addition to your tool belt for DIY projects around your home. The 12-inch might be the industry standard, but the 6-inch is a helpful and nifty little tool for around-the-home projects.
2) Readability and Markings
Etched or carved markings are the best for set or combination squares. Additionally, drawn-on markings fade over time with constant use. If you don’t use the square head regularly, one with painted markings will do just fine, as long as they are easy to read and depict accurate results. Accuracy is the most important aspect of using a square.
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On the other hand, carved markings last longer than their drawn-on counterparts. Engraved gradations are excellent for workpieces and projects that require precision and accuracy, like complex wooden pieces and engineering applications. A small difference might cause a problem in either application and throw your whole project out of focus.
3) Accuracy
Accuracy is compulsory when it comes to woodworking or technical drawing projects. A high-quality square should measure accurately to within 0.001 to 0.005 per inch. If you want to ensure the accuracy of your new square, place it firmly with the blade locked in place before taking a measurement. You might need to adjust it to get the most accuracy.
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Calibrating your best combination square is important when you first receive it. It’s a fairly simple test where you first:
- Adjust the ruler such that it’s slightly inset from the anvil, and tighten the knob
- Next, hold the square in the corner of a box to ensure the 90-degree angles are aligned.
Your square is inaccurate if the 90-degree angle isn’t aligned perfectly. You might want to buy another one or use it as it is and make up for the discrepancies by adding or subtracting.
4) Build Material
Most set and combination squares are made of steel. However, a stainless steel ruler is guaranteed if you are looking for a set or combination square that will last you a lifetime. Remember, a steel blade will rust and corrode to the point the markings won’t be visible if the chip-resistant coating wears off. This also applies to hardened steel. Both materials are a little excessive for home use but excellent for worksites and other tools like miter saws. Of course, other materials like cast iron, aluminum, and zinc alloys also exist.
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Keep in mind that a zinc alloy is one of the best squares you can use. Not only are they reliable and easy to calibrate, but they are also very flexible. Even if they bend, they aren’t expensive to replace. By the time they are damaged enough to replace, you will have gotten many years of use. Furthermore, when properly calibrated, they are very accurate for general use.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Set Squares
1) What is the best set and combination square?
The best overall set square is the Irwin combination square, which is versatile and reliable for the best and most accurate readings. It is made of stainless steel and is very durable.
2) What is the best size for a combination square?
A 12-inch square is the best size for a combination or set square. It is the industry standard for most woodworking, masonry, or construction jobs.
3) Which tool is best suited for square 45 and 90-degree angles?
A set or combination square is one of the best suited for drawing 45 and 90-degree angles accurately. These squares are also great for any project and might be used with any precision tool.
The Bottom Line
A set square is one of the most versatile tools in any toolbox. Additionally, they last long and are made with durable materials. Some of the most common jobs they can help you accomplish are checking for square, striking 90-degree and 45-degree lines, scribing lines for rip cuts and joinery, measuring material thickness, adjusting tool heights, and setting saw blades at 90-degree angles.
