5 Best Combination Squares In 2024 – Keep Them Handy!

Value for Money

Irwin Metal Combination Square

Editor’s Rating – 4.9/5
  • Get the etched scales with Black precision 
  • Highly Durable with cast zinc body
  • Rust-proof blade made of stainless steel

Sturdy and Durable

Swanson Combination Square

Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
  • Slides easily along the blade and locks
  • Chemical Etching Machined Surfaces
  • Brass Tightening Bolt 
  • Acrylic Block Vial

Most Convenient

WorkPro Steel Carpentry Square

Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
  • User-friendly
  • easier to slide
  • Detachable parts
  • Easy-to-read level vial 
  • Versatility

If you are a metal worker, wood worker, or a stonemason, you know that without the best equipment, even the most phenomenal work can also seem to be incomplete in a way.

We have done the research for you and highlighted the best features of the top-quality combination square available in the market today. If you want to know which is the Best Combination Square that you can invest in, then you have to consider certain factors.

  • Looking for a budget-friendly option? Then you should go for an Irwin combination square. 
  • Go for Swanson tools if you are looking for a combination square that is equally durable and long-lasting.
  • If you want convenience and precision, then go for the WorkPro combination square.

But first, check out why you should go for the best combination square and the factors that you need to consider before purchasing.

Reasons To Select The Best Combination Square

The combination square is regarded as a necessary tool for metal and stoneworkers.

Versatility

These are quite useful and versatile since they may be used to gauge the integrity of angles like 90 degrees and 45 degrees, as well as the center of various objects, particularly circular ones.

Vials

Additionally, these combination squares make it simple to use a spirit-level vial to determine the level and plumb.

Functionality

You can see why these tools are essential for creating stone or metalwork now. It is essentially impossible to excel at your stone masonry or woodworking work until you have the best tools in equipment parts, including the combo squares.

Since you will require this combination square for your work, you need to know which one you should purchase in order to complete the task correctly.

How To Find The Best Combination Square?

When looking for the right combination square, make sure to look for these things –

Size Of The Squares

Are you curious to know what constitutes a good combo square? You can choose combination squares that are 4 inches and 12 inches in size.

The most useful size for general use is a 12-inch combination square, which is also one of the most common sizes of the square. But larger variants are also offered.

However, if you prefer to work with something shorter and portable, you should get a 4-inch one.

Types Of Combination Squares – Which One To Get?

There are various options available when it comes to purchasing a combination square for your missionary work.

But you want to choose the perfect one that will fit your requirements and make it easier for you to outline the surface area on board and be accurate at your measurements.

Usually, three types of combination squares are used mostly, and they are 4, 6, and 12-inch lengthy squares.

Now Comes The Question of Which Combination Square to Choose

  • Woodworkers primarily use the four and six-inch double combination squares. These two help them to get more accurate measurements as they are prone to work with intricate designs and aesthetics.
  • Now, if your job involves working with stones and harder surfaces, then you can also go for a 12-inch square, as it will make the process of measuring the surface area easier for you in one go.
  • Also, the 4-inch squares are very much compact to use, and they can be easily carried around while you are traveling. 
  • Depending on the price range, you can choose anything in between these sizes. The smaller one costs less, and the larger one costs a bit higher comparatively.
  • But make sure that all the sides of the squares are equal in length, the interior angles are also equal, and they measure the right angles properly. So the perfect combination square for your needs would be the one that is portable, hardy, and helps you to make the perfect measurements.

5 Best Combination Square – Features, Pros, And Cons

Irwin Tools Combination Square

Metallic and Regular

Irwin Metal Combination Square
Editor’s Rating: 4.9 out of 5.0

The reason to place it in the first position is the metal body and the strength of the square. This one is an etched scale, and the markings have been done in black, so you can see the numbers precisely.

Also, the stainless steel blade is rust-proof, and it will make sure that you can use this combination square for a long time.

Most importantly, it is the perfect tool for measuring the 90 degrees and 45-degree angles, and also it can be utilized as a gorging tool for transferring the measurements.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Rust-proof
  • Long Lasting
  • Accurate

Cons

  • You might have to spend a few more bucks to get it delivered

Verdict

If you want something sturdy and hard for your work and you want to use it for a long time, then this 12-inch Zinc combination square can be the perfect equipment for your needs.


WorkPro Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set

Versatile and User-friendly

WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set
Editor’s Rating: 4.9 out of 5.0

The set incorporates two different types of squares, one is the 7-inch aluminum alloy square, and another is a 12-inch zinc alloy square that comes with a ruler. The combination square also comes with a steel ruler.

The most important and distinguishing feature of this set is the clearly identifiable markings and the scales that are also done with deep white graduation marks.

Moreover, the 7-inch rafter square has different kinds of graduation markings and also incorporates the features of framing, square protractor square, etc. But the combination square, which comes with the 12th-inch long metal ruler, has three types of scale values that are 1/16, 1/32, and 1 mm.

Now comes the fun part!

It will create the perfect angle with the wood or stone, and the detachable ruler is super functional whenever you need to take precise measurements with the square.

The easy-to-read scriber lines and the vials that are present on the side of the combination ruler will help you to work on versatile projects and practical scenarios. You can also use it as a perfect guide for cross-cutting and measuring the angles. According to the customers who have already purchased and used this multiple times, this is extremely easier to work with.

Pros

  • Easy to work with
  • Detachable Parts
  • Different Ranges
  • Versatile

Cons

  • The end of the ruler might get cut off sometimes
  • Some instances of getting a defective product if not bought from reputed sources

Verdict

Since graduation markings are clear, I feel it makes it easier for the worker to work. The identifiable and contrasting white color beside the blue background is perfect to help you experience better readability. When done, you can also put it back into the square, and it will help you to measure the angles in a more accurate manner. So if you want something that is easier to operate with and sturdy, it is the perfect choice for that.


Swanson Tool Co TC130

Gauging Tool and Multipurpose

Swanson Tool Co TC130
Editor’s Rating: 4.8 out of 5.0

This six-inch square is apt for your professional work. The body of the tool is made with cast zinc, the ruler is made of stainless steel, and the bolts are made of brass.

One of the most important features of this equipment is the precision-etched black gradations. The high-quality visibility of the numbers is appropriate for you if you work with intricate design.

It also incorporates the height gauge, scriber lines, and plumb level, and it will make sure that you have all the specifications in your hand while you measure your working surface. 

The acrylic vial that is placed at the handle of this device is also impact-resistant, which means you can work with it under all circumstances and weather conditions.

The bolt is perfect to hold the blades in a firm place, and they are also spring-loaded so that you can take accurate measurements.

Some people have also mentioned that it’s a bit smaller in size. But they have also mentioned that the sharp edges sometimes get difficult to work with, and they have also complained that it might be due to the poor machinery or manufacturing process.

Pros

  • Impact resistant
  • Multiple tools
  • Durable material

Cons

  • It might be smaller in size than expected
  • The metric scale included on the reverse side

Verdict

The materials used in the combination square ensure the highest quality and long-lasting longevity of this equipment. Also, the tool can be used for multiple purposes.

Considering the convenience of usage, you can definitely go for this one, and also it will be much more compact to use, and you can also take it outside of your home.


iGaging Combination Square Premium

Tempered and Stylish

iGaging Combination Square Premium
Editor’s Rating: 4.75 out of 5.0

It is extremely stylish as the body is made with Chrome black colored stainless steel, and also it does have a satin Chrome finish. Also, the square is extremely convenient and functional when it comes to taking accurate measurements. 

The entire body of the equipment is fully tempered and hardened with steel blades, and there is no possibility of developing rust on the surface. Also, it is completely etched.

The entire body of the equipment is fully tempered and hardened with steel blades, and there is no possibility of developing rust on the surface. Also, it is completely etched. When it comes to graduations, it ranges up to 64 inches. These graduations are done in a machine signifying the markings of 8, 6, 32, and 64 inches.

Pros

  • Chrome Finish
  • Hardened
  • Tampered

Cons

  • The retainer piece might get broken if not used carefully

Verdict

So if you want something that will provide you with long-term services, then this two-piece set of 6-inch long combination squares is the perfect one to choose from.


Johnson Level & Tool

Professional and Multi-Purpose

Johnson Level & Tool
Editor’s Rating: 4.75 out of 5.0

This one is made of steel, but it has a professional vibe to it. The graduation ranges up to 32 inches, and this comes with a metal square ruler that is also CNC machined to ensure better precision.

It also comes with an auto lock blade system that makes it easier for you to detach and secure the aligning tools for better usability.

The markings are done in clear English, and the graduations starting from 8 to 32 inches are permanently imprinted on the surface. The zinc head and acrylic vial make it highly durable, and the CNC machine head of the tool can also act as a stopping tool so that the lines drawn around the surface can always be square to the edge.

Pros

  • You get a ruler and a square
  • Sturdy
  • Accurate
  • Precise
  • Easy Application

Cons

  • The locking system might not work after repeated usage

Verdict

Since it is highly adjustable, it made the process easier for me to measure the square angles in a more precise manner. So, I will highly recommend using it, especially if you want to work with a professional tool that has precise markings.


FAQs – The Best Combination Square

What are the most accurate squares?

There are multiple options available in the market, but you need to consider your individual choice and preference because it is ultimately you who will be working with the squares, and it is your responsibility to make sure that it is easier to work with and more durable.
Always go with the top brands that are in the market right now, as it will ensure a better working experience.

Is the Swanson combination square good?

It is one of the highest-sold combination squares in the market today as it has a great and long-lasting bill quality and also helps carpenters and woodworkers work with absolute precision and accuracy. It is also quite affordable.

What size combination square do you need?

You can start using the 4-in combination square and gradually upgrade the tool to the 6-inch and 12-inch length, depending on your job requirement.

Choosing The Best Combination Square

These are the top 5 combination squares that I have tried personally.

I have discovered that if you prioritize versatility and durability, then you should go with Irwin and WorkPro.

If you are looking for accuracy and build quality, then Swanson is the right option to choose from.

And if you want to go for something stylish rather than functional, then you can go for brands like Johnson.

Always try to consider the accuracy, durability, and functionality of the combination square before you put your money into it, and this is how you can find your perfect one.

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