Hand Tools: The original SPEED® Square

Reviewed by:
Scott Gibson, Contributing Editor

The Swanson SPEED® Square, a registered trademark of Swanson Tool Co., Inc., combines attributes of a miter square, saw guide, miter square and protractor. Its die-cast aluminum alloy body is durable and light, and markings are blackened to improve visibility.

The SPEED® Square makes laying out roof rafters especially fast and reliable. A lip along one edge of the tool can be hooked over the edge of a board, making the square a sturdy guide for cutting framing lumber or trim with a circular saw.

At 7" x 7", it also takes up less room than a conventional square.

There are knock-offs aplenty, but this is the original. It was available on-line from Tools Plus in September 2004 for about $8.