Large Square

suds

Member
Joined
Aug 25, 2008
Messages
415
I'm about to invest in a large square and wondered if anyone has any suggestions.  I have a Starrett 12" but would like a precise 12/24 framing type of square.  I want something dead on as the old one I've been using is off a bit. 
 
Not sure what you're going to do with it but I use an 18" 45 degree acrylic drafting triangle for squaring fences, saw guides, tablesaw miter slots, etc.  It works fine for my modest needs.  24" drafting triangles exist but you'll have to dig a little.  I like acrylic triangles because they're very accurate, inexpensive and hold up to moderate abuse. 
 
I'm going to be starting with shop cabinets and general around the house small projects and hopefully start learning to do cabinets.  I'm learning how to do all this and Festool has made my learning and projects much faster/easier.  I'd like to have measuring instruments up to the level of Festool.
 
Not sure what you're going to do with it but I use an 18" 45 degree acrylic drafting triangle
+1.  These are cheap and very accurate (a REAL drafting sqaure).  The only downside is that they only work for flat work (can't stand on edge by themselves).
 
Yes, but you can cut a slot in a block of wood and that should hold it up fairly well. 

For accurate linear measurements I love my Bridge City Tool Works rulers.  I have had them for over 15 years and they are great.  I think Woodcraft is now selling some higher quality etched steel rules under their name now too.

Best,
Todd
 
I must have bad luck, not a single T-square or drafting triangle I've bought has been right on. I tried to use them to set my crosscut fence on the sliding ts and other such duties - not accurate enough.  It's really apparent when I set up a cut with one and it's >1/32" out over 24". Checked them with my Incra reference square and sure enough there's a slight error.
 
Back
Top