If I have to pick one, Starretts Combination Square is the most accurate square on the market, with excellent performance and backed up by excellent customer reviews. Woodpeckers quality, materials, and workmanship are equally respected, though. The retaining nut for the blade is sprung, so it prevents the blade from falling out even when loosened. For the price you can't beat the Empire I paid 12 bucks for it and it's dead on. Woodpecker offers what it calls OneTime Tool opportunities where a specific tool, not a part of its regular tool product line, is offered for a limited time at a fixed price. It costs more than plastic, so its the material of choice for most combination square heads. You may even want to look into squares with a leveling bubble and other features to maximize precision capabilities. It seems to All of my Woodpecker Tools are in metric and I actually just recently ordered a couple of the Stainless Steel Squares in metric. I'll also add to the chorus for the Woodpeckers stainless steel squares. I also made sure to include a range of sizes, so whether you just need a compact tool to keep in your tool belt, or an extra large square for larger projects, youll find an option that works for you. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Making your own woodworking square can be fun and challenging, but it is generally recommended to by a square to ensure precision and accuracy. The die-cast zinc body is corrosion resistant and in Irwins trademark blue. Festool doesn't have one for $300. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Maybe not. If there is any excess glue, wipe it away to perfect the look. The combination square includes a cast iron head with black wrinkle finish. It is also made of hardened steel, manufactured to last forever, vs. the aluminum (anodized) of the Woodpecker model. But due to so many good options available, buying one becomes tricky. Reassemble and check it again following the procedure in the previous answer. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Many squares contain a bubble for checking the level, usually encased in a plastic vial. Some are designed as general-purpose tools, while others are for more detailed engineering tasks. Starrett K53-14-N Stainless Steel Carpenters Try Square : Woodworking Square 2. Starrett Square It comes with an adjustable handle which allows you to precisely measure out the distance you need to mark. Squares dont cut wood but they are used to adjust your tools. Plastic heads cost little to produce, reducing the price of the combination square. I just saw it at Woodcraft for $35. I'm with Packard on this onethe Starrett's more accurate and more flexible. Not like these are things that get beat on. Only 5 left in stock - order soon. However, the prices for Woodpecker measuring tools is well below that of Starrett, while at the same time well above other competition with such others as Irwin and iGaging. TuffSkin and Stoneguard are popular products that protect natural stone surfaces, such as marble and quartz. You could certainly do worse when it comes to squares than you could do with this model, but you could also do far better for the same price. It holds the two together while allowing them to slide easily when loosened. Both these brands are equally popular. Large Saddle Square. However, this model suffers from quality control concerns. So is the clarity of the measurement lines and your ability to see and read them clearly. Starrett is available in so many sizes like 2, 4, 6, 12, and 18 inches. The Woodpecker PRO is specifically designed for all types of hard wood. If it still doesnt align properly, adjust the blade groove with fine metal sandpaper wrapped around the blade itself or a fine needle file. In a combination square, size generally relates to the length of the ruler section, which is called the blade. Blades can run from 4 inches on the smallest models to 24 inches on the largest. If you need to check, measure, or create a range of angle measurements, this comprehensive set could be just what youre looking for. The low price of this kit is another reason we included it, and could be a smart grab if you just want a compact square to back up a larger model. S. o, you really cant differentiate these squares in terms of accuracy. The WORKPRO combination square features a stainless steel blade that offers etch-marked 1/32-inch and 1-millimeter divisions. Work slowly and check it frequently until the issue is resolved. Starrett 4" Double Square. Your email address will not be published. Master Precision Square Tim's Work Shop 2.57K subscribers Join Subscribe 19K views 3 years ago In this comparison we look at a couple of 6 inch We found a video that is an overview of Woodpecker measuring tools. The longer the blade, the more area you will be able to measure. While divisions go down only to 1/32 inch, it also has a centimeter scale in 1-millimeter (1/10-centimeter) segments. Learn more. Current systainer to productivity ratio: very high. They also come with a great case. The head is sturdy die-cast zinc with a bubble level and scriber included. Pen combination square features a rustproof die-cast zinc head. My wife bought me the stainless steel paolini set a couple years back as a OTT, I was afraid to use them at first, but they are great. This feature comes in especially handy when you need to duplicate a mark or measurement on projects like installing drawer slides, or creating a perpendicular line along the edge of multiple workpieces. Blades are usually made from hardened or stainless steel. "We, the willing, led by the unknowing, are doing the impossible, for the ungrateful. Is a Starrett combination square worth the price? Squares dont cut wood but they are used to adjust your tools. Thats the sole purpose of this model, and if it doesnt work in that regard, its not worth anything. Accuracy depends on both the tools material and manufacturing technique. The blades are marked in different ways. Woodpecker You can post now and register later. Many are manufactured to tolerances of 0.001 inch; however, friction can eventually impact the screw threads and guideways, which become looser over time. As an Amazon Associate, I Earn From Qualifying Purchases. The content contained on this site is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Before clamping the pieces together, use a regular try square to ensure that your square is precise and square. I've always considered the gradations on any square to be there for rough framing only. Sometimes the parts dont fit together well, requiring lubrication or a little sanding to start to work smoothly. While smaller, 6-inch squares are great for keeping in your .css-3wjtm9{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.125rem;text-decoration-color:#1c6a65;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;}.css-3wjtm9:hover{color:#595959;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;}tool belt and are convenient for small tasks, they might not be long enough for tackling bigger jobs. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. This model comes in both Imperial and Metric versions, so you can get the variety with which youre more comfortable. Both brands have a variety of carpentry squares, and you can choose one according to your choice. Starrett has been manufacturing precision measuring tools since 1880. In terms of longevity, both should last for years. A scriber sits alongside it. I started out with just one, but then it was so useful that I got about ten of them when Rockler had them as an advertising promotion for $4.00 each. That allows you to make careful, measured lines all the way to the boards edge without having to guesstimate. Yes, Starrett fixed squares are more accurate than Woodpeckers ones (which are only guaranteed to 0.0085, or 0.0009" on a 6 inch square), but Starrett's To assure that your square will last a long time, select a model with measurements etched onto the blade. The head is cast iron with a black, corrosion-resistant finish. Fine markings like these usually indicate a precision tool. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. Honestly Home Depot sell the Irwin I think it has a blue package. It includes a metric scale in 1-millimeter increments. 08-30-2021, 09:54 AM. Although Festool strives for accuracy in the website material, the website may contain inaccuracies. So I have looked at Woodpecker items serveral times and also have looked at their OTT, They dont seem worth the price. Of course, there is a premium to be paid for such precision and high-quality tooling of their products, and Woodpecker tools are higher priced than many of their competitors. This rustproof stainless steel blade offers clear etched divisions at 1/8 inch, 1/16 inch, and 1/32 inch. In comparison between this two, Starrett seems a bit more expensive than Woodpecker squares. By the way, that goes not only for WP. DIYers can buy protractor heads with the tool. During my time as a residential and commercial carpenter, I used a combination square almost every day, for a variety of tasks and project needs. Square That manufacturing method lends it an incredible mix of both strength and lightness, making it one of the best models on the market in that area. In terms of longevity, both should last for years. Along with the blade and standard head, a center finder head makes it easy to find the middle of round or cylindrical objects. Of course, comparing two products can be tricky when youre shopping online. HeyRalph is here! To add versatility to your toolbox, you might want to check that out. His other interests include astronomy, hiking, and fishing. link to TuffSkin Vs. Stoneguard For Marble Surface Protection, link to Dixie Home Carpet Vs. Shaw Carpet: In-depth Differences, Differences Between Woodraphic And Woodpeckers, Tempered steel, forged steel, and cast iron. Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Of the Woodpecker tools I own, I probably use the SS 642 square the most. For example, its Precision Aluminum Square is well-rated as an accurate, well-crafted measuring tool with a blade and base machined from a single aluminum block. It depends on what you use these tools for and whether they give you the result you desire. Woodpecker's is really no different than any other brand in the sense that some think their tools are the best, most accurate tools and some don't. These will last longer than printed markings and will be generally impossible to rub off, so youll always be able to make precise markings with this tool. TuffSkin Vs. Stoneguard For Marble Surface Protection. I would definitely have bought the Posi-Lock T Square if it was in metric, for example. The printed measurements will be less expensive, but they will eventually wear off and throw off the devices precision. If you have a variety of square needs, consider buying more than one square. It is the combination of well-made, long-lasting, and precision that sets Woodpecker tools apart. You will want to consider how the measurements are placed on the blade. So, did you find this article useful? Is it just me??? With a wide variety of Hi. To reduce the risk of serious injury and/or damage to your Festool product, always read, understand and follow all warnings and instructions in your Festool product's Instruction Manual. Web641-851 Square Combo, 6 and 8 Inch SKU: 641851I . document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The length is completely up to you. If you are looking for a professional steel square, the Starrett FS-24 Professional Framing Square is a good place to start. Starrett Starrett C11H-12-4R $121 at Amazon Pros Trusted reputation Extremely precise Heavy-duty construction Cons Very expensive Length: 12 inches Its The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Use a combination square for a wide range of measuring and marking tasks, both in the workshop or on the job site. The value of a quality square is not just the tool itself, its not having to worry about a whole bunch of cuts being off before you notice, or a glue up being out of square, or all the other frustrations that happen when a tool goes out of square and you don't realize till its too late. The list includes various price, size, and material options. With scales of 1/8 inch and 1/16 inch on one side and 1 millimeter on the other, the easy-to-read TICOFTECH blade is adequate for most home woodworkers or DIYers. Fr unsist das Beste gerade gut genug! The following guide investigates all the key issues and discusses how to use the tool. The blade is stainless steel with clear markings. Woodworking Squares in 2023 I took my 123 blocks to HD and bought 2 of them and they were both dead on. I bought two for my son in law. Starrett 12" Combo Square $100 SOLD Starrett 6" Combo Square $65 SOLD Starrett 4" Combo Square $70 SOLD Woodpeckers 1281 Square $100 SOLD Apart from that, whichever option comes within your price range and serves your purpose, you should purchase that carpentry square. These tools are promoted as special one time offerings not to be repeated, generating a sense of urgency and specialty, and we found many skeptics in our research for this article. The degree of measurement breakdown, the scale of the measuring tool not just 1/8ths, but 1/16ths and 1/32ths, can make a difference in joinery and assembly of your project. Plus, the markings are etched on the blade, so theyll be long-lasting and easy to read, even years after your purchase. Every project is different in size, and so does the size of the square. However, given the variety of tools available and the various uses for them, a number of questions may remain. It also comes with a stainless-steel blade. So I returned it and bought a 12" Starrett, the forged 3 heads combo set. But that isn't really a wear and tear from use issue. In the segment below, I have talked about different aspects of a carpentry square and discussed the differences of each manufacturer in detail. Among the wide variety of measuring tools available, a combination square is perhaps the most versatile. As I mentioned before, squares are meant to give you an accurate measurement. Cheaper Alternatives To Woodpecker Tools: And Good Are They? Regardless of your skill level, a combination square is an essential piece of a woodworker's toolkit. 0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. Both manufacturers claim that their squares have an accuracy of . To ensure your measurement is right, proper marking on the square is important. The result is a standardized and uniform process that turns out a consistent unit that is consistent throughout the manufacturing process. Your link has been automatically embedded. The head can be made of plastic (frequently high-impact polystyrene), die-cast zinc, or cast iron. While Starrett offers photo-engraved markings, Woodpecker square has laser-engraved markings on it. The thick die-cast zinc head provides substantial support, and it includes a bubble level and scriber. Go here: http://store.harryepstein.com/c/ProductsEngineering.html. Then, you will need to create a mortise, which is the groove that the blade will fit down into. The versatility offered by a combination square is one of its main attractions. Though Aluminum is durable enough, the steel build of Starrett squares should provide you with an extra layer of durability. This square also comes with etched markings. The only thing that Starrett has that comes close is a 6 inch rule with end gradations. One other thing if you don't want to shell out the money for a quality square and don't care if its a combo square do a search for Precision Steel Squares at ptreeusa, they only have a 3 pc set but I know I have seen them elsewhere individually for about thirty dollars, they are one piece so they can't go out of square. But knowing the differences will make it easier to make an informed decision. Loosen and remove the blade. Its square head includes a bubble level and a scribe, and the 24-inch blade length should be able to handle even large-scale measuring jobs. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Now that you have some general idea about the differences from the comparison table lets move forward. If the result is what you want, it gives you satisfaction to use them, and they make your work better, it's always worth it to me. I guess I am an outlier here. Once all your markings are precise, use the rip saw to create the cuts for the mortise. Let the square dry for several hours. If so, please leave a comment and let me know. The finely ground bearing surfaces help ensure accurate angles. There are less expensive measuring tools that can still do the job, of course, and if your budget is tight, you can still outfit your shop with tools that will serve their purpose well. having come down from my Grandfather. Congratulations on your friend's upcoming retirement, and for having you as a friend! If youre looking for a reliable way to store your woodworking tools, consider investing in a workbench with drawers at DycoVentures.com (bonus they are made in the USA). 5.0 out of 5 stars 3. I don't want to drop $100 on a starrett if there is a comparable alternative? Together they weigh about a pound, which isnt terrible, but since theyre made from steel, theyll be some of the strongest models you can find on the market today. These two tools will cover most of your bases when it comes to 90 and 45 degrees measurements, and the speed square is essential if you want to get into roofing projects. Its also cast from a single block of aluminum. It also comes with good overall material quality. Any that u guys like? Matt is an experienced woodworker and a devoted family man. Quality tools will last many years, but budget models must be replaced more frequently. Could just be something down in the seating area that's throwing it off. Among the tool brands that many serious woodworkers rely upon in all of these respects is Woodpecker. To prevent that catastrophe, both Starrett and Woodpecker come with excellent accuracy. If you do, you'll appreciate smooth movement, the ability to set and hold settings, etched and engraved markings, and swappable parts every time you use the good tool. Spec. Replace your try square, miter square, depth gauge, height gauge, center-point finder, and level. After it dries, give the blade slide a light wipe with paste wax to lubricate it. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The blade is stainless steel, so it wont rust, but the graduations are punched rather than etched. Starrett 6" Double Square. Some day wood shop work may be at a level that requires this type of implied accuracy, so I want to find that you tube video of how to adjust it, Rick M, http://thewoodknack.blogspot.com/. Most woodworking squares come with measurements printed on, but other models include etched on measurements. Do this with both squares individually. A protractor head allows the blade to be set at any angle from 0 to 180 degrees. The premium price paid for Woodpecker measuring tools is primarily for their accuracy. These squares allow for great precision, allowing for measurements down to 1/64th of an inch, which is more than most people will need. Quantity. Although its 16-inch length makes it well-suited for longer measurements, it may be less convenient for smaller tasks that require a less bulky option. http://www.starrett.com/metrology/product-detail/metrology/metrology-products/precision-measuring-tools/precision-rules-straight-edges-parallels/Precision-Rules/C404R-48, http://www.starrett.com/metrology/product-detail/metrology/metrology-products/precision-measuring-tools/squares/Solid-Squares/20-12, Quote from: HAXIT on December 26, 2017, 12:42 PM, Quote from: HarveyWildes on December 26, 2017, 02:15 PM, http://www.incrementaltools.com/default.asp, Quote from: SRSemenza on December 26, 2017, 02:27 PM, Quote from: HarveyWildes on December 26, 2017, 02:53 PM, Quote from: SRSemenza on December 26, 2017, 07:30 PM. Quality craftsmanship in design and manufacture are at the top of that list. Hardened steel, and built to last, Starrett has the reputation of being life-long tools in a woodworking shop. We cover each model in detail, showing you the best and worst attributes so that you know what youre investing in before you buy. Squareness accuracy to .0001" (0.0025mm) every 6" (150mm). VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. The IRWIN Tools Tri and Mitre Square is another great square for woodworkers. The models with satin In between those extremes, lots of different-size combination squares are designed for remodelers, furniture makers, welders, hobbyists, and more. It can not only measure length and depth, but also check square and 45-degree angles. A little flex is unlikely to cause a problem for general carpentry tasks, but its undesirable on workpieces that demand high accuracy, such as in engineering applications. woodpeckers The Stig Yes, it is true, at least some part of it.. He has spent over 20 years honing his skills, learning new techniques, and perfecting his designs. I also have the woodpeckers precision triangle, which I use for checking square on smaller cases/boxes. This guide provides a comprehensive description of the key features in the best combination squares. Starrett, Incra and Woodpeckers squares | LumberJocks How to Properly Dispose of Them, Drywall and plywood measurements and cutting. Particularly if you find one that's NIB or LNIB, they are gorgeous and no longer made due to the unsustainable character of rosewood. All of the components in this kit also fit neatly inside a hard-sided storage case, ensuring they wont get damaged when not being used. Festool makes no representations about the accuracy, reliability, completeness or timeliness of the material on this website or about the results to be obtained from using the website. You can use the ruler to check length or the handle as a base for checking height or depth recesses. The 7/8-inch fence also can be used as a circular saw guide when crosscutting lumber. The best quality combination squares feature cast-iron heads with finely ground bearing surfaces and precision-etched blades. It seems to be more versatile and cost-effective compared to the Woodpeckers tool. This tool is accurate, precise, and longer-lasting. PEC seconds are another good pick that is being recommended by the users in a lower range of price. Starrett C11H-12-16R Combination Square is another tool of the same or a lesser price range to consider. Festool makes no representations about the accuracy, reliability, completeness or timeliness of the material on this website or about the results to be obtained from using the website. I got mine from the 'bay and for a song (and a dance roughly $30) and some evaporust/scrubbing I was in business. Its design also allows it to be hung off the edge of a board without falling. Buy vintage if you're on a budget, just We dont like to skimp on measuring devices, as accuracy and precision are too important to our projects. Die-cast zinc is considerably tougher and doesnt rust, and its bearing surfaces can be accurately machined. Are Woodpecker Tools Worth It? | Obsessed Woodworking If youre looking for a premium square, then youll be very happy with the Woodpeckers Precision Woodworking Square 1281R. Hard to say. Highly accurate, highly reliable, very long lasting. The bubble level is made of impact-resistant acrylic, and it includes a scriber. There is no one square that is best for all woodworking projects. All rights reserved. Periodically disassemble and clean the components with a nonabrasive scourer and a little spirit or rubbing alcohol to remove deposits. By If you like, you can even detach the ruler altogether and use it as a standalone tool. Its aimed at occasional DIY users and hectic job site environments in which rough wear and tear on the tool is inevitable. You will find that in many forums people are praising the output of the tools of this brand. The manufacturing standards that iGaging employs when making their 24-inch combination square helps provide accurate measuring and marking of larger projects. LEDGE-IT Square - 8" Precision Engineer's Square Set - 3 Piece. I contacted Empire's customer service and got no response whatsoever. If they form a shallow V, the square is not accurate and should be calibrated. If youre frequently moving from job site to job site, or you just want to make sure that youre taking care of your tools when theyre not in use, youll be very happy with the sturdy case which comes with these squares. It's a rafter square anyways, doesn't need to be absolutely square, but still hurts each time I use it. The following guide delves into their specifications and should make selecting the right tool easier. Our only gripe with this model is that it sometimes comes under-machined. It offers layout tools, squares, woodworking rulers, T-squares, and more woodworking tools. From different aspects, one brand seems to surpass another, which is good for us as consumers. So, its inevitable that the accuracy number will be something astonishing. Obsessed Woodworking considers the higher cost to be well worth the purchases, and were happy to include them in our shops tool inventory. The 12-inch combination square from Johnson Level & Tool is designed for basic marking and measuring. Your previous content has been restored. Combination squares are made from a variety of materials, in different sizes, and various specifications. To help prevent rust, some combination squares also are chrome plated. The package includes three die-cast zinc heads, including a standard head with the typical bubble and scriber; a centering head with 90-degree jaws to rest on the edge of a round or cylindrical workpiece; and, finally, a protractor head, which adjusts to 180 degrees and is reversible. Which Woodpecker Tool for a Gift? I'll second the recommendation for the "blemished" PEC squares at Harry J. Epstein. Referring back to the Precision Aluminum Square, Woodpecker claims the accuracy of the square is better than .001 over its 8x12 size. So, the best thing to do here will be to get the product that suits your need most. This Swanson kit includes a 6-inch combo square as well as a speed square, making it a great gift for a beginner woodworker. WebWoodpeckers Stainless Steel Squares The heart of the design is a one-piece core. Having confidence in yourself to measure twice is one thing; having confidence in the measuring tool you use is another.