Try square vs. machinist's square

i use machinist squares. rockler sells the ones that are have measurements on them. the ones at woodcraft don’t.
i’ve never tried a try square.

-- Joey, Magee, Ms http://woodnwaresms.com

Hi david,

That Incra Square does not have wood in its construction. It is a solid anodized aluminum billet. Is it worth over twice the price of the steel machinist square? Only if you like the difference in fit and finish. In use, I think they are functionally the same. That Incra is pretty and it won’t rust or stain from being handled.

As for the wooden ones with the steel blades. You are correct, it is a tradition thing. I have one I bought long ago. I never use it (it’s not square) but it sure looks pretty up there on the rack by the rosewood marking gauge.

-- Scott - Chico California http://chicowoodnut.home.comcast.net

We use the stanley try squares in class. All metal construction, and they have measurements on them. I have not ever used a machinists square. Have had success with the squareness of both the metal and wood handled try squares. Other than that I don’t know much difference, it probably is just preference. One other note, all of our textbooks refer to a try square, but only the books with metal working sections refer to the the machinist square. Probably the tradition thing.

I have always used machinist’s squares. 30 years ago I used to be a machinist and I still have all the tools.
Never needed anything else.

I don’t see any downside and the are inexpensive. You can buy a set of 4 at grizzly for $17.

http://grizzly.com/products/4-pc-Machinist-s-Square-Set/H2993

-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.

If the size is convenient and you check them for square, what difference could it make?

-- Sharp tools and thin whispy shavings make woodworking a joy.