Ever wondered how woodworkers get those perfectly straight lines and sharp corners on their projects? It’s not magic, it’s a tool called a try square! Think of it as a builder’s best friend for making sure everything is square and true. But with so many different kinds of try squares out there, how do you pick the one that’s right for you? It can feel confusing, and picking the wrong one might lead to wobbly shelves or crooked picture frames.
Choosing the best try square means your projects will look professional and strong. You won’t waste time and materials on mistakes. This blog post is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a good try square and how to find the perfect fit for your needs. Get ready to learn how to make those perfect 90-degree angles every single time.
Our Top 5 Try Square Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Try Square Detailed Reviews
1. IRWIN Combination Square
Rating: 8.5/10
The IRWIN Combination Square, 12”, 45-90 Degree Marking, Stainless Steel (1794469) is a handy tool for any DIYer or professional. It helps you make accurate lines and check angles on your projects. Its strong build means it will last a long time.
What We Like:
- The black, etched scales are easy to read.
- The body is made of strong cast zinc, so it won’t break easily.
- The stainless steel blade resists rust, keeping it looking good.
- It’s great for marking both 90-degree (square) and 45-degree angles.
- You can use it to measure and transfer measurements to other spots.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the locking nut a bit stiff at first.
- While durable, it’s not as lightweight as some plastic alternatives.
This IRWIN Combination Square is a reliable tool that helps you get precise results. It’s a solid addition to any toolbox for a wide range of marking and measuring tasks.
2. Swanson Tool TS151 Try and Miter Square 8-Inch (Plastic Handle
Rating: 9.2/10
The Swanson Tool TS151 Try and Miter Square is a handy tool for any DIYer or professional. Its 8-inch size makes it versatile for many projects. The stainless steel blade is built to last, and the plastic handle is comfortable to hold. This square helps you get accurate measurements and straight cuts every time.
What We Like:
- The stainless steel blade has clear, black markings that are easy to read.
- The handle is made of strong plastic and includes a small level for quick checks.
- It’s made with a special lightweight material, so it’s easy to carry around.
- The reverse reading scale is a neat feature that can be helpful in certain situations.
- It is very affordable, making it a great value for its price.
What Could Be Improved:
- The plastic handle, while comfortable, might not feel as sturdy as a metal one for very heavy-duty work.
- The 8-inch size is good for many things, but some larger projects might need a longer square.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, so you might have to search for it.
This Swanson square is a solid, budget-friendly option for accurate marking and measuring. It offers good features for its price point and is a useful addition to any toolbox.
3. WORKPRO 8 Inch Try Square with Aluminum Handle – Woodworking Square Precision for Professional Carpentry Use & Premium Stainless Steel Ruler
Rating: 9.2/10
The WORKPRO 8 Inch Try Square is a handy tool for anyone who loves woodworking. It helps you draw perfect straight lines and right angles. This square is built to last, with a strong aluminum handle and a sturdy stainless steel ruler.
What We Like:
- The aluminum handle feels good in your hand and won’t break easily.
- The stainless steel ruler part is tough and won’t rust.
- The markings on the ruler are clear and easy to see, even in dim light.
- It’s super light, so it’s easy to carry around your workshop.
- You can measure in both inches and centimeters.
- There’s a handy 45-degree angle mark on the handle.
- It has special holes to hold your pencil for easy marking.
- The ruler part is attached very securely, so it stays straight.
- The ruler is thick enough not to bend easily.
- The design makes it comfortable to use without straining your wrists.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1cm and 19cm marking points might not be ideal for every single measurement.
This WORKPRO Try Square offers excellent precision and durability for all your woodworking projects. It’s a reliable tool that makes marking and measuring much simpler.
4. Kapro – 353 Professional Ledge-It Try & Mitre Square – For Leveling and Measuring – Features Stainless Steel Blade
Rating: 9.2/10
The Kapro 353 Professional Ledge-It Try & Mitre Square is a powerful tool for anyone who needs to measure and mark accurately. Its smart design makes projects easier and more precise, whether you’re building something or just drawing plans.
What We Like:
- The retractable ledge makes it easy to hold the square in place without using your hands. This is a big help when you’re working alone.
- The stainless steel blade has clear markings that won’t wear off. The first few inches are marked in tiny 1/32-inch steps for super-fine measurements.
- You can mark lots of common angles with the special holes. It also has openings to help you draw parallel lines easily.
- This square is built tough with an aluminum handle and a sturdy blade. It works well for many jobs, from hanging drywall to detailed drawings.
- Kapro makes tools that are both smart and reliable for all kinds of builders and makers.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 8-inch size is handy, some users might wish for a longer blade for larger projects.
- The specific angle markings are for common angles, so if you need very unusual angles, you might need another tool.
The Kapro 353 is a very useful tool for getting precise measurements and markings. It’s a great addition to any toolbox for both serious projects and smaller tasks.
5. POWERTEC L Square 3pc
Rating: 8.7/10
The POWERTEC L Square 3pc set is a woodworking essential. It gives you three different sizes of L-shaped rulers to help you make perfect 90-degree angles on your projects. These squares are super useful for many different jobs around the workshop. They help you build things that are straight and true. The built-in bubble levels add another layer of accuracy, making sure everything is not just square but also level.
What We Like:
- Comes with three sizes: 6-1/4”, 10-3/16”, and 16-1/8” for different project needs.
- Super accurate for both standard and metric measurements.
- Bright green bubble levels are easy to see.
- Made from strong aluminum that won’t rust, so you can use them inside or outside.
- They are lightweight but built tough for long-lasting use.
- Hanging holes make them easy to store neatly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The markings, while clear, could be a bit bolder for even quicker reading in all lighting conditions.
- While durable, the anodized finish might show minor scratches over time with heavy, rough use.
This POWERTEC L Square set is a fantastic tool for anyone who needs precise angles in their work. It’s a reliable addition to any toolbox, helping you achieve professional-looking results every time.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Perfect Try Square
So, you’re looking for a try square, huh? This handy tool helps you draw straight lines and check corners for perfect angles. Whether you’re a beginner woodworker or a seasoned DIYer, a good try square makes your projects much easier and more accurate. Let’s dive into what makes a try square great.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out a try square, keep these important features in mind:
- Beam and Blade: The beam is the longer part, and the blade is the shorter one that forms the 90-degree angle. Look for a beam that is long enough for your typical projects. A longer beam helps you draw longer, straighter lines.
- Marking Holes or Slots: Some try squares have small holes or slots along the blade. These are super useful for marking lines at set distances from an edge. It’s a neat little feature that saves you time.
- Etched Markings: Clear, easy-to-read markings on the beam and blade are a must. These help you measure accurately. Look for markings that won’t rub off easily.
- Comfortable Grip: While not always a feature, how the square feels in your hand matters. Some have thicker beams or molded grips that make them more comfortable to hold for longer periods.
Important Materials
The material a try square is made from really affects its durability and accuracy.
- Steel: Most good try squares use steel. Stainless steel is excellent because it won’t rust, which is great if you work in a damp environment or tend to forget and leave your tools out. Hardened steel is also a good choice for strength.
- Aluminum: Some lighter-weight try squares are made from aluminum. They are usually more affordable, but they can bend more easily than steel.
- Plastic: You might find very cheap try squares made of plastic. These are generally not recommended for serious work because they can be inaccurate and break easily. Stick with metal for better results.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a try square better or worse.
- Accuracy of the 90-Degree Angle: This is the most important thing. A good try square has a perfectly square corner. Manufacturers check this carefully. A slightly off angle means your lines and cuts won’t be straight.
- Smoothness of Edges: The edges of the beam and blade should be smooth and clean. Rough edges can snag on your material or make it hard to draw a clean line.
- Tightness of Construction: The beam and blade should be firmly attached. There shouldn’t be any wobble or looseness. This ensures stability and accuracy.
- Finish: A good finish, like a satin or polished surface, helps reduce glare. This makes it easier to see your markings and lines. A poor finish can be distracting.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a try square is pretty straightforward, but knowing how and where to use it makes all the difference.
- Drawing Lines: The most common use is to draw straight lines across wood, metal, or other materials. You hold the beam against an edge and draw along the blade.
- Checking Squareness: You can use it to check if corners are truly 90 degrees. This is crucial when assembling furniture or building frames.
- Layout Work: For more detailed projects, the marking holes or slots help you quickly mark parallel lines or repeat measurements.
- Beginner Projects: It’s essential for basic woodworking, like building shelves, birdhouses, or simple boxes.
- Advanced Projects: Even experienced craftspeople use try squares for fine-tuning, marking precise joinery, and ensuring accuracy in complex designs.
A good try square is a tool that will serve you well for many projects. Choose wisely, and happy building!
Frequently Asked Questions About Try Squares
Q: What is a try square used for?
A: A try square helps you draw straight lines and check if corners are exactly 90 degrees. It is a useful tool for woodworking and DIY projects.
Q: What is the most important part of a try square?
A: The most important part is the accuracy of the 90-degree angle between the beam and the blade. It must be perfectly square for precise work.
Q: What materials are good for try squares?
A: Steel, especially stainless steel or hardened steel, is the best material for try squares. It is strong, durable, and resists rust.
Q: Can I use a plastic try square?
A: Plastic try squares are usually not recommended for serious projects. They can be inaccurate and break easily. Metal try squares are much better.
Q: What are the marking holes on a try square for?
A: The small holes or slots on the blade allow you to mark lines at specific distances from an edge. This makes marking repetitive measurements faster.
Q: How do I know if a try square is good quality?
A: Look for a perfectly square angle, smooth edges, and a sturdy construction with no wobble. Clear, etched markings are also a sign of quality.
Q: What is the difference between a try square and a combination square?
A: A try square has a fixed blade at a 90-degree angle. A combination square has an adjustable head that can be set to 90 or 45 degrees, and the blade can slide.
Q: How long should the beam of a try square be?
A: The length depends on your needs. For general woodworking, a beam between 6 and 12 inches is common. Longer beams are better for larger projects.
Q: How do I keep my try square accurate?
A: Treat your try square with care. Avoid dropping it or bending the blade. Clean it if it gets dirty, and store it in a safe place.
Q: Can I use a try square for metalworking?
A: Yes, a good quality steel try square is excellent for marking metal. It helps ensure accurate cuts and bends.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.