You should have a knowhow of these the best framing squares. They are very simple in design but you get accurate measuring of corners and edges and they will play a vital role in your most complex DIY projects. They just look like two rulers fused. You may be surprised to know that they can play a role of calculator in the field. We have reviewed a few of them so that you can know their importance in your inventory.
We have just reviewed 10 of them. But, there are many of them in the market. We have given a slight hint in the conclusion that what to look in when buying a framing square.
Best Framing Squares Review
1. IRWIN Tools 16 By 24-inch Framer Square
IRWIN Tools Framing Square, Hi-Contrast Aluminum, 16-Inch by 24-Inch (1794447)
This is a professional’s tool. This is a perfect tool for professional tasks. Use it properly and you will get a precise measure of angled cuts similar to any other framing square. The colour used in it is comfortable to see and the letters can be read easily. You will be given a professional set of tables on the square. It is made by aluminium it is very lightweight, also it does get very hot when left in the sun.
The tables are also written in Aramaic to make it more understandable by the DIYers. Hobbyist cannot understand its tables. But the thing which is loved by professionals is its price. It is one of the best framing squares 2024.
2. VINCA SCLS-1208 Carpenter L Framing Square
VINCA SCLS-2416 Carpenter L Framing Square 16 inch x 24 inch Measuring Layout Tool
We can say that this is the best framing square to buy. Because it has a very affordable price. It gives accurate results. It is made out of steel which increases its lifetime. Which means we are getting best out of our investment.
You cannot easily read it. This is a drawback of this framing square. It will also get hot when left out in the sun.
3. Starrett RS-24 Steel L-Shaped Rafter/Framing Square
Starrett Tempered Steel Rafter Square
It is made out of steel and weighs only 1.89 pounds. It is L shaped. This the best framing square offered by Starrett.
This tool has incremental markings. The scale ranges from 8th, 10th, 12th, and 16th. It has an octagonal measuring scale in front, and the rafter’s information is also on the front. This tool is very reliable.
To add more, this Starrett framing square comes with rafter information, it also has an octagonal measurement system in the front.
4. Johnson Level And Tool Professional Steel Carpenter Square CS10
Johnson Level & Tool CS10 Professional Easy-Read Steel Carpenter Square, 8′ x 12′, Original Version
This is a premium grade tool and it is made through high-grade steel. The weight is only 8.8 ounces. As it is lightweight you can work with it with ease. It is ergonomically designed we can carry it anywhere without any issue.
The numbers are easy to use as they are thermally bonded in this professional tool. Its measuring system is very easy to understand it tackles with all problems like stair works, roofing and laying out the pattern.
To get a good grip on the surface it comes with a forged tip, because of this tip you can also get a firm grip without stripping off.
The etched on it has a thickness of 1/8”. Its amazing feature is that it is easy to read and has comfortable grips. You should add it to the list of best framing squares for woodworking.
5. VINCA Carpenter L Framing Square SCLS-2416
VINCA SCLS-2416 Carpenter L Framing Square 16 inch x 24 inch Measuring Layout Tool
Hardened steel is used in its manufacturing. The weight of this tool is only 27.2 ounces. As it sturdy and hefty it will not get out of the space.
On this hardened steel background, the numbers are marked in black, they are punched in and at the last they are given rustproof treatment.
If you are liking its hardened steel, you might not like its visibility. There are black numbers on its bare metal body. The reading will not be easy in low light. It is not recommended for those who work in low light.
Another drawback is its heating. As it is made out of steel you should not be left it out in the sun. It will hot very soon. Still, it is one of the best framing squares construction.
6. Woodpeckers Precision Woodworking Square 1281R
Woodpeckers Precision Woodworking Tools 1281R Woodworking Square Imperial
If you need a premium square, then this is the right tool for you. It has two versions one imperial and metric version. So, you can use the version which is comfortable for you. It is made out of aluminium. Aluminium makes it lightweight and also strong. These characteristics are good enough to take it in the list of best framing squares construction. It can easily hang through the edge of the board and will not fall. So, you can make accurate lines up to the edge of the board.
It has rulers on both side, it saves a lot of time. The only thing that is bad about it is its price. But it is one of the fines products in the market. This is a tool which can do the job pretty quickly.
7. Irwin Tools 12-inch Combination Square
Irwin Tools Combination Square, Metal-Body, 12′, 1794469
It is a nice tool, but it is not accurate as the other tools available. But, it is made out of heat-treated stainless steel. This is the strongest framing square in our list. It is 12-inch long. It has a handle so you can measure accurately the distance. The marking is etched on the blade they are very easy to use. It could last even for years.
This model lacks quality control. If the handle comes off the blade it is not easy to reattach. While its design is not bad. In-fact it is one of the best quality framing squares.
8. IRWIN Tools Tri Mitre Square
It is a reliable square for woodworkers. It has a bubble level which is built in the handle. It is a great choice for those who interesting in doing more than one tasks using just a single tool. It is made out of very strong stainless steel. Also, it is corrosion resistance so it will stay with you for years. The etched markings are also not going anywhere for a very long time. It gives very precise measurements.
Due to its low price, it is a nice square for money. But the bubble level is not strong enough. But if you want to save some money then this is your tool.
9. Starrett FS-24 Steel Professional Framing Square
Starrett FS-24 Steel Professional Framing Square, 24′ x 16′ Length
As Starrett is a great manufacturer so have taken in its another product. It is another professional tool. It is made out of one-piece solid tempered steel which means there are no joints. It has a clear coating which prevents it from rusting. Due to the use of steel, it has a long-lasting life.
Its L shape is completely balanced. To give quick calculations the numbers are etched on both sides. The black colour makes them easily readable. The only problem is that it is made of steel so it can be bent. Otherwise, it is one of the best framing square made.
10. Stanley 45-300 Aluminium Carpenters Square
12′ Carpenters Square (HEAVY DUTY HARDENED STEEL) 12 Inch / 30 CM Framing Square – 90 Degree Angle with Combination Handle – Rafter Tri Mitre Square – Perfect Tool For Carpenters, Roofing, More
These are very lightweight tools. It is made of aluminium, so it is a bit soft. You have to take care of it otherwise it might break. If you have a low budget, then you can buy this tool. It is cheap but not much reliable. The numbers are written in black which are very difficult to read on a metal surface. If you want professional quality, then you will have to pay more. If you need to use a framing square now and then you can rely on this tool.
Conclusion
A framing square is a reliable tool. It eases the measurement work. It is a professional tool for woodworkers. It eases many measurements. But what to consider when buying a framing square? There are cheap and expensive framing squares. But you should see the character’s visibility and the material used in the construction. As, you will not be wanting to have a headache just by focusing on the characters. And if the material is good then it will last long enough to work with you.
Let us answer some of the most frequently asked questions about framing squares.