Within the realms of carpentry, woodworking, metalworking, and even engineering, precise right angles are crucial. When you’re making furniture, cutting metal parts, or creating joinery, keeping the correct 90-degree angles will ensure the structural integrity and aesthetic perfection. This is why the try square is useful — a simple but powerful hand tool employed for long periods of time.
In this article we’ll cover all you must know about squares: their design use, applications, kinds of materials, maintenance tips, and tips on how to pick the best one for your needs.
What is a try square?
Try squares are A try square is a precise measuring tool that is used to measure and identify 90-degree angles (right angles) between two surfaces. The term “try” comes from the old English word that means “to test” or “to check.” The name suggests the tool is typically employed to test or to test the squareness of a piece of work.
The tool is composed of two major parts:
- Blade (or beam): A flat, straight edge used for marking and measuring.
- Stock (or handle): A thicker and often heavier piece that keeps the blade at an exact 90° angle.
The blade is usually made of steel that has been hardened, and the stock could be made from plastic, wood, or even metal.
Main Uses of a Try Square
1. Checking 90-Degree Angles
The most common use of the try square is to determine whether the corner or edge of a piece of work is an ideal right angle.
2. Marking Straight Lines
By putting the stock against the edge of the substance, the blade could be used as a reference to mark precisely perpendicular lines.
3. Verifying Flatness
You can try a square to determine whether the surface of a piece of wood or metal object is straight and flat.
4. Layout Work
In metalworking and woodworking Try squares, as they are necessary to lay out joints like mortise and tenon dovetails and lap joints.
5. Tool Setup
Try using squares to align tools such as fences for table saws as well as drill presses and routers.
Types of Try Squares
Try squares come in various shapes to meet the needs of specific applications:
Wooden Try Square
- The woodworking industry is a common one in the traditional way.
- It usually comes with an iron-faced wooden stock and a steel blade.
- It has a vintage feel and a good grip.
Engineer’s Try Square
- Made of steel that has been hardened.
- It is used in machining and metalworking for tasks that require high precision.
- Highly precise, ideal for applications in engineering.
Combination Square (often mistaken for Try Square)
- The head is movable and has an angle of 45° and 90°.
- Measure angles and depths over 90 degrees.
- More flexible, but slightly more flexible than a square that is fixed.
Machinist’s Square
- High-precision steel squares are used in the engineering and inspection rooms.
- Ground and calibrated to ensure extreme precision.
Materials Used in Try Squares
| Material | Description | Best For |
| Wood and Brass | Classic design, soft touch and slightly less durable | Woodworking |
| Steel | The most accurate and durable, resistant to rust | Metalworking, Engineering |
| Aluminum/Plastic | Lightweight, affordable, and less precise | DIY, Hobby Projects |
How to Use a Try Square
Utilizing a test square is easy, but precision requires a keen eye.
- Check the Tool First
- Before you use it, make sure the square is accurate by putting it on an established square surface or by using the “flip test.”
- Marking a Right Angle
- Place the stock securely on the edge of the fabric.
- Draw a line with a pencil or marking knife across the blade, drawing an angle of 90 degrees.
- Checking Squareness
- The blade should be aligned with the edge or the corner of your piece.
- If light reflects between the blade and the surface, the angle isn’t straight.
- Using for Layout
- Utilize in conjunction with measuring tapes, marking gauges, or chisels to create precise joinery work.
How to Test a Try Square for Accuracy
Here’s a quick way to verify if your square is actually square:
- Place the square on the straight edge and draw an outline.
- Flip the square to the opposite edge of the line, and draw a new line.
- If the lines are perfectly aligned, the square is precise. If not, your square is not true.
This test is easy and efficient and can be performed on paper or wood.
Try square and a combination square
Both are utilized for marking angles and checking angles; they have different functions:
| Feature | Try Square | Combination Square |
| Purpose | Fixed 90° check | 90° and 45° testing depth of check, height |
| Accuracy | Highly robust and precise | Flexible, but a little less rigid |
| Best For | Woodworkers, engineers | DIYers, general use |
| Construction | Two fixed parts | Adjustable sliding head |
If you require precise 90-degree angles, the square is the best tool.
How to Maintain Your Try Square
To ensure longevity and accuracy:
- Clean after Use: Clean the blade and the stock after each use.
- Store properly: Keep in a dry area or tool chest to prevent corrosion and rust.
- Avoid dropping: Impact can bend the blade or knock it out of square.
- Check Frequently: Perform the flip test every few months to ensure accuracy.
- Lubricate when needed: Light oil can help prevent the formation of rust on metal blades.
Top Brands That Manufacture Try Squares
Here are a few trusted brands that are known for their high-quality try squares:
- Starrett is a brand known for its high-quality, precision-engineered tools used by professionals.
- Stanley Stanley professional-grade and budget-friendly options.
- Irwin Irwin HTML0 A favorite to be used for tools that are general-purpose.
- Shinwa is a Japanese brand that is known for its precision and long-lastingness.
- Trustworthy—perfect for woodworking enthusiasts.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Try Square
When looking for a trial square, think about the following:
| Factor | Recommendation |
| Material | For precision, select steel. For traditional woodworking, choose wood and brass. |
| Size | Common sizes common sizes: Common sizes”, 6“, 9″, and 12″. Select based on the size of your project. |
| Accuracy | Look for squares that comply with the requirements of engineering or machinists If precision is important. |
| Handle Grip | Wooden handles give you more grip when woodworking. |
| Price vs Quality | Do not use cheap plastic tools for precise work. Consider investing in a quality tool. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Utilizing a damaged square: Even a slight warp or dent can alter the accuracy.
- Not paying attention to calibration: Especially in engineering tasks, you should calibrate or test your tools on a regular basis.
- Use the wrong tool: Don’t use a combination square when only an angle of 90 degrees is required.
- Marking Using a Thick Pencil: Use a fine pencil or marking knife to draw precise lines.
Conclusion
The try square is a common hand tool, but it’s crucial to attaining precision in both metalworking and woodworking. Its simple design, durability, and precision make it an ideal tool for both hobbyists and professionals alike.
