Speed Squares is one of the essential hand tools for woodworking projects. They accurately simplify measuring angles, help mark lines, and cutting angles.
This will showcase the best speed squares for woodworking or DIY projects. Which speed square should you buy?
I have narrowed options to top picks based on price, performance, durability, comfort, and features. These nifty tools are typically under $25. If you are a bargain shopper, check out a local discount building supply store to score some deals on tools!
Growing up, I learned a lot from my Dad and have so many fond memories of his probably 40-year-old Swanson speed square.
I used to sit at his tool bench, put his square on a stick, and twirl it around. It flew off a few times and nearly broke a window. ◸ 😫 🪟
So with what my Dad taught me and what I have learned over the years, I am here to help you discover the best speed squares for woodworking projects!
Table of Contents
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I can earn commissions. If you decide to purchase through my links, it is at no cost to you.
What are the Best Speed Squares for woodworking?
7 in. Speed Square, Rafter / Carpenter Square Layout Tool with Black Gradations and Speed Clip. It is constructed of heavy-gauge aluminum alloy and is built to last. It has 1/4 inch spaced scribing notches and a diamond cutout.
The Johnson Level Square is a cutting-edge rafter aluminum speed square with an EZ-Read™ finish. It features an anti-glare coating for clear visibility in different lighting. It is designed for accuracy with a durable aluminum body and CNC-machined edges.
The Empire True Blue Laser Etched Rafter Square is known for its permanent laser markings, providing excellent readability in all lighting conditions. Made from durable aluminum and includes features like SCRIBE-GUIDE precision scribe notches and conversion tables.
The WEN Magnetic Rafter Square is a versatile tool for carpentry tasks like framing and stair layout. This tool promises accuracy and convenience with a magnetic base, laser-etched markings, and aluminum construction.
The Milwaukee Aluminum Framing Square and 7-inch rafter square set are designed for strength and versatility, offering a 50% thicker frame than steel squares. Enhanced markings and conversion tables make this a must for your toolbox.
Review of the 5 Best Speed Squares
Let’s get something straight; the speed square is not square! It is indeed a triangle. ◸ ◸ ◸ It does, however, need to be a perfect square. Now that we have that out the way, woodworking is a rewarding hobby, bringing your creative vision to life.
But before starting any project, you need one key tool: the speed square. And, of course, some safety goggles 🥽, gloves 🧤, good music 🎵, a big glass of ice-cold water 💧, and ear protection 🎧 (just in case).
In the realm of carpentry and construction tools, Speed Square owns a renowned spot. It needs to be in a category of its own! The five best Speed Squares in 2023 have been praised for their high-quality build, durability, and precise measurements.
Swanson’s 7-inch Aluminum Speed Square
Overview
The Swanson Tool Speed Square combines five essential carpentry tools: a try square, a miter square, a protractor, a line scriber, and a saw guide. It is constructed of heavy-gauge aluminum alloy and is built to last. It has 1/4 inch spaced scribing notches and a diamond cutout.
Key Benefits
- 5-in-1 Tool: Functions as a try square, a miter square, a protractor, a line scriber, and a saw guide
- Durability: Made from heavy-gauge aluminum alloy, so you know it will last a long time.
- Easy Reading: Black gradations on a matte finish makes it easy to read to aid in scribing lines.
- Innovative Design: Offers common rafter and hip/valley rafter scales.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Johnson Level 12″ Johnny Square
Overview
The Johnson Level Square is a cutting-edge rafter aluminum speed square with an EZ-Read™ finish. It features an anti-glare coating for clear visibility in different lighting. It is designed for accuracy with a durable aluminum body and CNC-machined edges.
Key Benefits
- EZ-Read™ Finish: Anti-glare coating ensures readability in sunlight and shade.
- Accuracy: Precision machined edges guarantee precise basic measurement.
- Versatility: Features like continuous scribing notches and 2×4 board dimension markers enhance utility.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Empire 7-inch Laser Etched Aluminum Rafter Square
Overview
The Empire True Blue Laser Etched Rafter Square is known for its permanent laser markings, providing excellent readability in all lighting conditions. Made from durable aluminum and includes features like SCRIBE-GUIDE precision scribe notches and conversion tables.
Key Benefits
- Readability: Hi-visibility laser etched markings ensure lasting visibility.
- Durability: Anodized aluminum construction is more robust than diecast and won’t rust or corrode.
- Useful Conversion Tables: Includes tables for common application needs.
- Warranty: Comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Product Pros
Product Cons
WEN 7-Inch Magnetic Rafter Square
Overview
The WEN Magnetic Rafter Square is a versatile tool for carpentry tasks like framing and stair layout. This tool promises accuracy and convenience with a magnetic base, laser-etched markings, and aluminum construction.
Key Benefits
- Versatility: Suitable for framing, stair layout, guiding saws, and other woodworking applications.
- Magnetic Base: Clings firmly to metal surfaces for hands-free measurements.
- Enhanced Readability: Laser-etched degree markings and an anti-glare finish enable easy readouts.
- Convenient Conversions: Includes a helpful rafter conversion table for common framework conversions.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Milwaukee 7-inch Rafter Square and 16 inches by 24 inches Framing Square
Overview
The Milwaukee Aluminum Framing Square and 7-inch rafter square set are designed for strength and versatility, offering a 50% thicker frame than steel squares. Enhanced markings and conversion tables make this a must for your tool box.
Key Benefits
- Superior Durability: 50% thicker frame than competitive steel squares, providing lasting use.
- Versatility in Lumber Ripping: Scribe notches ranging from 1 to 13 inches.
- Enhanced Readability: High visibility laser etched markings ensure easy-to-read accurate measurements.
- Convenient Conversions: Common conversion tables are included for added utility.
- Extra Features in Rafter Square: 1-inch cutout for propping pipe and scribe notches ranging from 1-inch to 6 inches for easy rafter seat cuts
Pros
- Strong Construction: The aluminum frame is stronger than steel, providing reliable stability.
- Multi-purpose Design: Suitable for various tasks like ripping Lumber, angle finding, and pipe propping.
- Clear Markings: Graduation marks in 8th, 10th, 12th, and 16th, along with high visibility markings, enable precise work.
Cons
- Pricier: Since this is a speed square set, it will be pricier. You can opt for the speed square if you don’t need the full set.
Product Pros
Product Cons
What is a Speed Square?
A Speed Square, also known as a rafter square or triangle square, is a multi-purpose tool that carpenters and DIY enthusiasts rely on for many tasks. Asides from their typical power tool.
It’s an incredibly versatile tool that can:
- accurately mark out precise angles and angle cuts
- measure angles
- find roof pitches
- guide circular saws with precision
- create flawless miter cuts for fine woodworking
- aid in accurate measurement
- essential for roof construction to aid in measuring valley and jack rafters
The Best Speed Squares are a compact and durable indispensable companion for any woodworking project to ensure accuracy and efficiency at every step.
“You don’t need much else when you have a good speed square and a pencil.”
Erin’s Dad, Martin Dugas
The Different Types of Speed Squares Available
When measuring and cutting, having the right tools is essential. The speed square is a versatile tool that has become a favorite among carpenters, woodworkers, and DIY enthusiasts.
There are several types of speed squares available:
- The Heavy duty square: Robust, precise, and reliable for tough tasks.
- 12-inch Speed Square: more substantial and diverse tasks
- 7-inch Speed Square: smaller applications
- 4.5-inch speed square: for trim work
Whatever your project needs, there is a speed square that can help you get the job done with precision and ease.
What to know when Choosing the Right Speed Square
Choosing the right Speed Square involves careful consideration of all the features available. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice:
- Protractor Scale: A protractor scale is crucial for making precise angle measurements.
- Basic Measurements: A good Speed Square should provide basic and accurate measurements such as 45 and 90-degree angles.
- Magnetic Edge: Some Speed Squares come with a magnet, which can be handy for holding the tool in place while making marks or cuts.
- Laser Engraved Markings: Laser engraved markings are clear, durable, and easy to read.
- Pivot Point: Pivot points allow for easy maneuvering and precise positioning of the Speed Square.
- CNC Machined Edges: This process ensures high precision.
- Protective Powder Coating: This Coating on Speed Squares enhances durability and corrosion resistance.
- Bubble Level Checker: A square may have a bubble level
- Speed square size: Squares come in a variety of sizes
- Material Types: There are metal squares, plastic speed squares, aluminum speed squares, and steel speed squares.
- Diamond Cut out: Some squares have a diamond cut out, which is useful for making 45 and 22.5-degree cuts
- Pencil Notches: Make sure your square features pencil notches.
Remember, the best Speed Square for you will depend on your specific needs and the projects you’re working on.
How can a speed square make your life easier?
The perfect speed square can significantly ease your tasks by providing stability with its thick edge, enabling you to draw straight lines or make cross-cuts confidently. Its numerous scales aid in precise measurements and angle assessment.
The convenience of carrying a smaller speed square in a tool belt allows for quick measurements on the go, while a larger one assists with more detailed woodworking tasks.
A speed square simplifies precision in measurements and markings, making it an indispensable tool.
I can even see the speed square being used as a weapon in a fight! 😂 Speed square throwing anyone?
How the Speed Squares made the list
The Best Speed Squares listed here were randomly picked and selected through rigorous in-store research. As rigorous as one can with speed squares. 😝
I visited various stores, held each item, and scrutinized their quality and construction. I considered factors such as:
- accuracy of their measurement
- the clarity of their markings
- overall ease of use
I also considered whether each speed square was a tool I would purchase and use in my projects. I am partial to the speed square that reminds me of my Dad for purely sentimental reasons.
You will surely make a wise investment, no matter your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best speed square size?
The best size largely depends on the specific needs of your project, but a 7-inch square is commonly used due to its versatility and portability.
How do you pick a good speed square?
A good speed square should be made of durable materials, such as aluminum or steel. It should have clearly marked angles and lines for making accurate measurements. It should also have a smooth slide action for quick and precise marking.
Is Swanson the best speed square?
There is no clear consensus on whether Swanson is the best speed square. The best speed square depends on personal preference and specific needs.
How accurate is a speed square?
A speed square’s accuracy is highly reliable, assuming it is from a reputable manufacturer and has been properly cared for and used correctly.
What are the best speed squares for finishing carpentry?
Many woodwork squares highly rate speed squares, and Swanson and Milwaukee brands provide excellent value and quality.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Speed Squares for Woodworking
Are you looking for the best Speed Square for woodworking? Here’s the deal: precision is key! You have to find one with a machined edge for spot-on measurements.
And durability? Get yourself a Speed Square with a protective coating to handle all that regular use. Readability matters too! Look for clear, multiple scales – easy peasy measurement reading.
Size? Match it to your needs – small for portability, big for those monster projects. And last but not least, pick a tool that fits your style. Lightweight or heavy, you do you!
Considering all these things, you’ll score the best Speed Squares perfect for your woodworking game. Get crafty, my friend! 🛠️🪚😄
Further Reading: Read more on How to Use a Speed Square.
