Swanson Tool S0101 7-inch Speed Square Layout Tool with Blue Book

Product Information

To gain the best performance and use from your speed squares, you must understand what each marking represents and exactly what speed squares are used for. On the first side of speed squares, you will see markings measuring inches, similar to a ruler. On the second side, you will see a raised edge or a lipped fence. Finally, on the third side, which is the longest side of speed squares, you will see degree markings, which is the side you use with a miter saw. If you need to draw a straight line across a board to rip it down, it is super simple to do so with a Speed Square! Albert J. Swanson invented the A Speed Square in 1925 as a carpenter's layout tool. He later founded Swanson Tool Company to produce it. [3] Today, Swanson Tool Company still manufactures and distributes the Speed Square and other carpentry tools from its headquarters in Frankfort, Illinois. Made in the USA from decent gauge aluminium alloy, they’re lightweight, rigid, and thankfully non-reflective. You get the full range of roof pitches, angles, and hip values etched and then inked onto the surface of the metal, so you know they’re not going to rub off.

Embedded degree gradations on the tool eliminate the need for trigonometric calculations and allow for lines to be more easily made.We have a 30-plus crew who use combination squares,” one reviewer wrote, “and the Empire E250 is a very good quality tool for the money.” Reviewers comment that this tool is suitable for both fine woodworking and metalworking. It comes highly recommended from customers, including one who wrote that, “if treated with care and respect as it is a precision tool, it will last forever.” We hope our review of the best speed squares has been helpful. For more suppliers of related products, including carpenters' woodworking wood chisels, chipping, pneumatic, and hand chisels, millwrights’ chisels, and diamond point chisels, consult our additional guides, or visit the Thomas Supplier Discovery Platform. The diamond presented on a speed square can be used so that you can mark a birdsmouth or a notch. The diamond can also be used proficiently during rafter work. Expert Tip As well as drawing a straight line, this position will additionally help you to draw a 45-degree angle. Speed squares can also be used as a protractor, allowing you to position the tool and create a pivot point, enabling you to accurately draw precise angles. Did You Know?

Using a Speed Square for leveling is a little more complicated than using a level but it can be done in a pinch. You’ll need a plumb bob or a string and nut.A speed square is a hand tool used in woodworking and carpentry projects. Its triangle shape is well suited for marking accurate 90-degree and 45-degree lines. Speed squares are also referred to as carpenter or rafter squares. Regardless of the name, they’re all the same tool. Saw Guide– One of the other common functions of the speed square is as a guide for cross-cutting lumber at an accurate 90° or 45° angle. By firmly holding the fence against the edge of a board, you can use the other right-angle or 45° angle edge as a fence for your hand or circular saw. Find sources: "Speed square"– news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR ( May 2021) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message) One customer wrote that they use it for tile work, wood trimming and other everyday tasks. They appreciate that it’s lighter and easier to handle than the metal square they used previously. Another reviewer who chose to build their own furniture explained that “this tool has been invaluable for marking lines for cross cuts, using as a saw guide for my jigsaw, and a handful of random applications.” The term “Speed Square” is trademarked by Swanson Tool Co., Inc. but is commonly used as a generic name.