Regardless of your skill level, a combination square is an essential piece of a woodworker's toolkit.
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Combination squares might seem like an advanced tool for professionals only, but they’re more useful for amateur DIYers and woodworkers than you might think. Their 90-degree handle is not only useful for ensuring your angles are square, but the adjustable design also allows you to lock in precise measurements. This feature comes in especially handy when you need to duplicate a mark or measurement on projects like installing drawer slides, or creating a perpendicular line along the edge of multiple workpieces. If you like, you can even detach the ruler altogether and use it as a standalone tool.
What to Consider
When considering which combination square to choose, you should first think about what you’re going to use it for. If you’re just going to be making sure angles are square and using the ruler for measurements, then you can probably purchase whichever option fits within your budget.
Size is another factor to take into consideration. While smaller, 6-inch squares are great for keeping in your tool belt and are convenient for small tasks, they might not be long enough for tackling bigger jobs. If you know you’ll be working with oversized workpieces, you might want to consider a 16- or 24-inch model.
If you’re a first-time woodworker, or looking to expand your existing toolkit, you might also consider purchasing a kit that comes with a speed square as well. These two tools will cover most of your bases when it comes to 90 and 45 degrees measurements, and the speed square is essential if you want to get into roofing projects.
How We Selected
During my time as a residential and commercial carpenter, I used a combination square almost every day, for a variety of tasks and project needs. I used this experience to put this list of the best combinations squares together, making sure to add the brands that I have come to trust over the years, and excluding any options that I've had quality-control issues with in the past. I also made sure to include a range of sizes, so whether you just need a compact tool to keep in your tool belt, or an extra large square for larger projects, you’ll find an option that works for you.
Pros
Low price- Easy to use
Cons
- May not be accurate enough for professional use
Length: 12 inches
We’ve been using Irwin tools for years, and have always been impressed with the quality they deliver at reasonable prices. The rustproof stainless steel blade and cast-zinc body of this model make it nice and durable, even when used frequently.
The 12-inch length is also long enough to be useful for larger measuring and marking tasks, and the black etched numerals are easy to read and won’t fade or rub off over time. It features both metric and standard measurements, too — one on either side of the blade — making it more versatile when using it as a simple measuring tool.
Pros
- Trusted reputation
- Extremely precise
- Heavy-duty construction
Cons
- Very expensive
Length: 12 inches
It’s priced considerably higher than most other combo squares, but if you prioritize maximum precision, this model could be worth the investment. Starrett measuring tools like this one are prided for their extremely precise accuracy, in both overall construction as well as their numerical markings on the blade.
The head is made of heavy-duty cast iron, and thanks to a wrinkled finish, makes it comfortable to maintain a sturdy grip while you work. The satin chrome finish of the blade also makes it nice and easy to read, and the integrated spirit level is always a nice perk.
Pros
- Easy to read markings and level
- Metric and standard measurements
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- May be too bulky for smaller jobs
Length: 16 inches
Empire tools are always a great choice, and this combo square is a fine option for amateurs as well as professionals. The true-blue bubble vial is easy on the eyes, and the draw bolt is simple to loosen and tighten back up when adjusting the head. The square features both metric and standard markings, and at just 12.8 ounces, it's still lighter than you might think for such a large unit.
Although its 16-inch length makes it well-suited for longer measurements, it may be less convenient for smaller tasks that require a less bulky option.
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4
Best Combo Kit
Swanson Tool Co., Inc Swanson Tool Co S0101CB
Pros
- Good value for what you get
- Compact size is easy to store and transport
Cons
Length: 6 inches
This Swanson kit includes a 6-inch combo square as well as a speed square, making it a great gift for a beginner woodworker.
Although both of these tools are useful for a variety of small and medium-scale jobs, the included blue book is also essential for getting started on roofing projects as well. Plus, the compact size of this combination square is perfect for fitting in your pocket or tool belt while on the job.
A built-in scribe also allows you to make quick markings, even when you can’t find a pencil.
Pros
- Includes protractor head
- Satin chrome finish
- Storage case
Cons
- Expensive
- May be overkill for beginners
Length: 12 inches
If you need to check, measure, or create a range of angle measurements, this comprehensive set could be just what you’re looking for. It features center, square, and protractor heads, allowing you to use it for a wider variety of projects than a typical combination square. Its square head includes a bubble level and a scribe, and the 24-inch blade length should be able to handle even large-scale measuring jobs.
All of the components in this kit also fit neatly inside a hard-sided storage case, ensuring they won’t get damaged when not being used.
Pros
- Compact size
- Stainless steel blade
Cons
Length: 6 inches
We’ve been carrying this exact model in our tool belt for years, and its accuracy and durable construction has served us well. Its compact size makes it perfect for most basic tasks, and the draw bolt makes it easy to adjust the head and lock it into whatever position you prefer.
The stainless steel blade should resist rust and corrosion well, and the 4.8-ounce weight won’t weigh down your belt or tool bag much. If the square you receive does happen to have any issues with squareness or accuracy, Empire’s lifetime warranty should have you covered.
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Pros
- Low price
- Etched blade numbers won’t fade over time
Cons
Length: 6 inches
This combo kit from Empire includes both a combination square as well as a speed square, making it a great choice for anyone just starting out in woodworking.
We’re especially big fans of plastic speed squares—as opposed to metal—since they’re lighter and have much lower chances of denting or marring your workpiece if accidentally dropped. The low price of this kit is another reason we included it, and could be a smart grab if you just want a compact square to back up a larger model. The high-visibility colors of both these tools also make them easy to find in a cluttered garage or tool bag.
Alex Rennie
Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider's Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.
