Swanson Tool S0107 12-Inch Speed Square Layout Tool with Blue Book

Product Information

Scribe the line. Holding the lip of the speed square tight against the board, slide it along the edge of the board with the pencil in place, marking the cut line. Most speed squares are pretty accurate, but the average homeowner does not need absolute perfection for every project. However, detailed work requires accurate tools. For example, most woodworking requires complete accuracy. Readability

Speed squares are vital for carpenters, woodworkers, and DIYers. They are incredibly simple to use and affordable. However, they can come with various features, which can make it challenging to choose the best one for you. Out of all those we reviewed, the Johnson Level & Tool RAS-1 Rafter Angle Square was the best overall. It is accurately crafted, and the numbers are pretty easy to read. Overall, this speed square should serve you well for several years.Size. Many speed squares are about 6 inches long; however, there are bigger speed squares for larger projects - some with a twelve-inch side or folding extension piece. This aluminum speed square is popular among reviewers, with one person writing that it “draws a clean, straight line and with the extra extension up to a foot.” It’s a perfect tool not only for roofing, but for wood laminate floors as well. Instead of flipping the square to match the first line, you can “just fold down the extension” for a single clean line. Even if a speed square is accurate, it isn’t useful if you can’t read the numbers. Because of that, many companies etch the numbers into each square on top of painting them. This makes them easier to read and keeps them readable for a long time. 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.” Lip or Fence.The speed square lip allows you to brace it against the side of the board, ensuring you get a firm hold and a straight line.

Framing squares are used by carpenters, metalworkers, engineers, hobbyists, DIYers and roofers. Conclusion Speed squares come in a variety of sizes and materials, allowing users to choose between a lightweight or heavy duty speed square. No matter what size or material though, the speed square is an essential tool to have in any toolbox. Material.Most speed squares are built from aluminum or durable plastic to withstand drops while staying perfectly square.In this example, I needed to cut curves on the ends of these cornhole board legs so they can pivot in the corner of the frame. This will allow the legs to collapse for easier storage.

The speed square is a small triangular measurement tool that allows you to mark straight lines, find angles, and determine pitch. The term “Speed Square” is trademarked by Swanson Tool Co., Inc. and it is commonly referred to as a triangle square, carpenter's square and rafter square. Grab a small magnetic level (torpedo level). With the level resting on the lip of the speed square, place the lip on the edge of your roof (or any sloped structure).

My Top Recommended Speed Squares

Size:The right speed square size will depend on the task at hand and the materials being used. Sizes are available from less than four inches to as large as 12 inches. A professional speed square collection may have one in each size, or consolidate with an extendable square. Find the pivot point. With the lip of the speed square against the edge of the board, the pivot point will be the notch where the straight edge meets the lip.Draw a straight line from the pivot point to the other side of the board. Pivot the speed square. Hold the corner of the square with the pivot point against the edge of the board. Rotate the rest of the square off the board until the degree you want lines up with the same edge as the pivot point. Readability:A high visibility speed square is a must for any job. Whether it’s changes in lighting or flipping the square from left to right, it needs to be readable at any time. Look for a rafter angle square with a strong color contrast between the scale and the markings, and markings on both sides of the tool. In particular, laser-etched markings will last the longest.

Hammer a small nail into the center of the circle, and place a pencil in the appropriate scribe notch. Rotate the speed square on the nail to draw a curved line! Now you can use your circular saw or jigsaw to cut down the waste side of your line! How to Use a Speed Square for Angles Look at the "common."On the inside of the speed square, an area is marked "common." These are the common roof pitch angles. Whatever number in the common area lines up with the roof's edge is the rise in inches. So, if the number is 3, your roof has 3 inches of rise for every 12 inches of run. In the example below, I'm marking a 15 degree cut at the bottom of the board for a 2x4 bench. The pivot point is lined up with the end of the 90 degree line, and the speed square is tilted until the edge of the board is lined up with the 15 degree mark. How to Use a Rafter Square to Find Roof Pitch Whether measuring angles or marking straight lines on dimensional lumber, the speed squareis the tool to get it all done. Also known as a triangle square due to its shape, this tool is an excellent tool for woodworkersand craftspeople, both professionals and hobbyists alike. It plays the role of protractor, saw guide, line scriber, and even precision level. It helps provide accurate measurements and easy rafter seat cuts.

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.”