Hand Tools: Combination square

Reviewed by:
Scott Gibson, Contributing Editor

A combination square lays out only two angles - 90 degrees and 45 degrees - but its movable head makes it useful for drawing a precise layout line parallel to the edge of a board.

These squares typically come with a short scratch awl that fits in the head of the tool that can be used to metal (a sharp pencil works better on wood). Theres also a small vial level that should be accurate enough for rough work.

Its stamped-steel blade will work smoothly with an occasional coating of paste wax. The 12" model was available online from Aubuchon Hardware for less than $10 in September 2004.