starrett square vs woodpecker
The 1282 stainless might be the single most-used tool in my shop, not just because of its accuracy, but because the indexed marking notches make it very easy to scribe precise offset lines. Add a stairstep by making lines at the quarter-inch, half-inch, and three-quarter-inch of the oak blade. Were especially big fans of plastic speed squaresas opposed to metalsince theyre lighter and have much lower chances of denting or marring your workpiece if accidentally dropped. You're forgetting about the crimson red Woodpeckers options. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Irwin Tools Tri and Mitre Square : Alternative to Starrett K53-14-N 3. They built features into our newest OneTIME Tools you Kaufhof ASS-5535 Precision Steel Square 5. iGaging 4 & 6 Double Square 6. The 12-inch length is also long enough to be useful for larger measuring and marking tasks, and the black etched numerals are easy to read and wont fade or rub off over time. If you purchase a square that cannot cover the size requirement of your large woodworking project, your money will go to complete waste. Fascinated by all sort of tools, Pete loves reading and writing about all the latest gadgets and accessories that hit the market. You will select a square based on your specific projects to ensure that the square performs as needed. Rick, I don't have access to FWW. The blade is hardened tempered steel, so its durable but not brittle. Squares dont cut wood but they are used to adjust your tools. Good luck! Check out FWW #212 (Dec 2012) They test, evaluate and recommend 12 and 4" combo squares and explain what to look for when buying. The durability of a woodworking square comes hand in hand with the material used to build it. Add to Cart. Japanese Combination Square. Particularly if you find one that's NIB or LNIB, they are gorgeous and no longer made due to the unsustainable character of rosewood. The Woodpeckers 12" (1281) precision square costs $110 while the If you like, you can even detach the ruler altogether and use it as a standalone tool. You will want to consider how the measurements are placed on the blade. I am slightly in the same page with both of you, only with the difference about the price and Starrett. I have a few Woodpeckers stuff and see them as precision tools that make my job easier and I treat them with respect, not like go-to tools that are kicked around. Though Aluminum is durable enough, the steel build of Starrett squares should provide you with an extra layer of durability. You may even want to look into squares with a leveling bubble and other features to maximize precision capabilities. So You may think that you know everything there is to know about woodworking squares, but if youre looking to go pro or want the best model on the market today, you may be surprised at what you find. So, without further ado, lets begin. Given the variety of problems, there seem to be problems with quality control at the factory. A protractor head allows the blade to be set at any angle from 0 to 180 degrees. The head can be made of plastic (frequently high-impact polystyrene), die-cast zinc, or cast iron. A nice $100 Starrett square will be a family heirloom to be handed down, while a $10 Irwin won't be. I would definitely have bought the Posi-Lock T Square if it was in metric, for example. Your email address will not be published. Where the Woodpeckers Precision Aluminum Square boasts an accuracy better than .001, this Starrett square claims an accuracy to .0001 to every 6. I have the WP Delve triangle. There is no one square that is best for all woodworking projects. The pessimist says "the glass is half empty". Precision in measurement lines is another. Woodpecker 12 Precision Square $120 (aluminum, precision calculated) Well below these, in the $20 $50 range, are models from Irwin and iGaging, both also well-respected for precision and accuracy. Woodpecker and Starrett are both respected for the quality of their tools. Cut down along these lines to create a stair step design. Square is important in woodworking, as is alignment of workpieces. That way, you can find the model which is right for you, and hopefully get a great deal, too. Matt's passion for woodworking began at a young age when he would watch his grandfather in his woodworking shop. If you intend to use a square for making different angles, the speed square will be the best option for you since it is designed to create all types of angles. The true-blue bubble vial is easy on the eyes, and the draw bolt is simple to loosen and tighten back up when adjusting the head. As per customer reviews, Woodpecker squares have an accuracy of 0.001.. Over the years, he has developed a keen interest in a wide variety of DIY projects around the home. The markings every eighth of an inch will be enough for some workers, but wont satisfy everyone. With a wide variety of Hi. The blade is rigid, rust-resistant stainless steel with easy-to-read markings etched into the surface. But that really begs the question of what accuracy is required of even excellent woodwork. I love Starrett tools, I've collected a bunch of them over the years, and I'd love to have them exclusively in the shop, however, it really gets down to $$$. If you are looking for a professional steel square, the Starrett FS-24 Professional Framing Square is a good place to start. Your use of any material contained on this website is entirely at your own risk. Whether its 45-degree or 90-degree angles, youll get the most accurate measurement possible. This buyers guide can help you decide on a woodworking square. I think I may get one for my son soon, he is 12 and dropsy so this should be perfect for him. All of the components in this kit also fit neatly inside a hard-sided storage case, ensuring they wont get damaged when not being used. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. We all need a quality square in our woodworking shop. To add versatility to your toolbox, you might want to check that out. Think carefully about which side to work on to correct the angle. Combination squares are made from a variety of materials, in different sizes, and various specifications. $28782$330.20. link to TuffSkin Vs. Stoneguard For Marble Surface Protection, link to Dixie Home Carpet Vs. Shaw Carpet: In-depth Differences, Differences Between Woodraphic And Woodpeckers, Tempered steel, forged steel, and cast iron. The content contained on this site is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Your email address will not be published. DAMHIKT. Combination squares might seem like an advanced tool for professionals only, but theyre more useful for amateur DIYers and woodworkers than you might think. Even with the best materials and engineering behind, brands often fail to deliver due to proper quality control. Interesting stuff. No problem with fading on any of the other twenty or so items. $101.99 $119.99. Woodpecker and Starrett are both respected for the quality of their tools. Though that makes the price a bit high, his way both brands can offer their best through strict quality control. WebStarrett Squares - Solid & Combination Squares - Higher Precision Starrett Squares Reliable Try Square Starrett Blade Length: 6"/150mm" $178.60 Add to Cart Student Combination Squares Starrett Size: 6" $89.30 Add to Cart Cast Iron Combination Squares with Square Head -Series 11H Starrett Size: 4" $95.88 Add to Cart You do get what you pay for, and in this case, we are getting what we wanted, and are glad to have them. WebWoodpeckers Stainless Steel Squares The heart of the design is a one-piece core. Woodpecker is a pretty popular brand on the market in terms of accuracy. Thats a wrap for today. Among the wide variety of measuring tools available, a combination square is perhaps the most versatile. IRWIN Tools Tri and Mitre Square Best for the Money. Although Festool strives for accuracy in the website material, the website may contain inaccuracies. The head is cast iron with a black, corrosion-resistant finish. With scales of 1/8 inch and 1/16 inch on one side and 1 millimeter on the other, the easy-to-read TICOFTECH blade is adequate for most home woodworkers or DIYers. 103. Its design also allows it to be hung off the edge of a board without falling. I use it continually, and it is neither red nor anodized. Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. Flip the square around and strike another line. Empire tools are always a great choice, and this combo square is a fine option for amateurs as well as professionals. While this models design isnt horrible, these problems will drive most people crazy, and theyre enough to drop it to fourth place. Irwin Tools Combination Square, Metal-Body, 12" Not only is this Irwin 12-inch combination Our only gripe with this model is that it sometimes comes under-machined. Irwin Tools Combination Square, Metal-Body, 12, Mr. Pen- Combination Square, 12 Combo Square, IRWIN Tools Combination Square, Metal-Body, 6-Inch, iGaging Premium 4-Piece 12 4R Combination Square, WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set, TICOFTECH 12-Inch Combination Square, Inch/Metric, iGaging Combination Square Premium 2-Piece 24 4R, Johnson Level & Tool 12-Inch Metal Combination Square, iGaging Premium 4-Piece 12" 4R Combination Square, iGaging Combination Square Premium 2-Piece 24" 4R, The Most Important Things to Keep in Your Tool Kit in 2020, 6 Beginner Ways to Use a Woodworking Router. The head is sturdy die-cast zinc with a bubble level and scriber included. But once you get to test the quality, versatility, and ease of use of the tools, the investment will be worth it. Starrett is available in so many sizes like 2, 4, 6, 12, and 18 inches. The blade on these squares meets Fed. You will flatten it down all the way to the marking line once you are finished cutting. 0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. I haven't had any wear or wear off issues with my Woodpecker's stuff. In that list, there are products from Starrett and Woodpecker too. In between those extremes, lots of different-size combination squares are designed for remodelers, furniture makers, welders, hobbyists, and more. The divisions are only in 1/8-inch and 1/16-inch segments, but the reverse side of the blade has a metric scale in 1-millimeter divisions. To prevent that catastrophe, both Starrett and Woodpecker come with excellent accuracy. For example, its Precision Aluminum Square is well-rated as an accurate, well-crafted measuring tool with a blade and base machined from a single aluminum block. Pasted as rich text. So is the clarity of the measurement lines and your ability to see and read them clearly. On the other hand, Woodpecker squares dont have those variations, and they only have the base variant to offer. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The rustproof stainless steel blade and cast-zinc body of this model make it nice and durable, even when used frequently. I am Ralph Wade and welcome to my blog. A woodworker's first 6" square is Starrett the second 6" square could be WP or BCT or Vesper or Starrett guarantees the accuracy of its fixed squares to 0.0002" (two-tenths of a thousandth). For setting up tools I use an Empire 122 Aluminum tri square I bought at home depot. Are Toothpaste Tubes Recyclable? The metal they use wears a lot faster causing inaccuracies. Starrett 6" Double Square. Squares dont cut wood but they are used to adjust your tools. Since it provides so much quality at such a low price, its the best overall value for the money on our list. Hard to say. Depending on the work as everyone else said. I have the 12'' and its dead on.great square. Moreover, most squares also include a simple bubble level. Whats the main purpose of a carpentry tool? Quality tools will last many years, but budget models must be replaced more frequently. Any that u guys like? In the case of Starrett, its high manufacturing standards are enhanced by the materials But until now, no one has done much to make the combination square better. The Woodpeckers product development team wanted more than just a “me too” product. Select a woodworking square type based on your intended use. This model comes with a bubble level built into the handle, making it one of the best choices for those looking to do more with just one tool. Upload or insert images from URL. Starrett 12" Combo Square $100 SOLD Starrett 6" Combo Square $65 SOLD Starrett 4" Combo Square $70 SOLD Woodpeckers 1281 Square $100 SOLD Copyright 2023 House Grail. I am still considering a woodpeckers one for the accuracy making layout lines. Woodpecker tools have been at the top of the game since its foundation when it comes to quality and performance. I use my combo squares constantly Not just for square or 45, but for measuring distance, depth, offset, and thickness, but also marking out, math calculations, and checking pretty much everything I'm working with. The Starrett K53-14-N Stainless Steel Try Square doesnt live up to its name, which is a shame since its a simple model which isnt saddled with extras, you wont use. WebThe Woodpeckers 36" SERX straight edge rule costs $60 while the Starrett equivalent (387-36) costs $503. The modern versions do not have that notch and still comes with a scriber. Its also cast from a single block of aluminum. I didn't even think about them till you brought them up to me because I don't have any of my own due to only coming in imperial. Couldn't resist. I'll second the recommendation for the "blemished" PEC squares at Harry J. Epstein. Regardless of your skill level, a combination square is an essential piece of a woodworker's toolkit. Thats why, if you want a square thatll withstand the abuse of your woodworking projects and serve you for a long time, considering the material is a must. To reduce the risk of serious injury and/or damage to your Festool product, always read, understand and follow all warnings and instructions in your Festool product's Instruction Manual. AN ELITE CAFEMEDIA LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER. I'll also add to the chorus for the Woodpeckers stainless steel squares. Personally I don't think the adjustable squares are good for setting up tools. A scriber and bubble level are included. Read our entire Affiliate Policy. Woodpecker uses a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) method for automating control of machine tools through the use of computer software embedded in a microcomputer that is part of the machine tool itself. To test the squares accuracy, use a piece of board with a flat, machined edge, such as plywood or MDF. How to Properly Dispose of Them, Drywall and plywood measurements and cutting. HeyRalph is here! Flip the combination square over, so the head creates a mirror image. They are known for their high manufacturing standards for accuracy, as well as quality control and consistency, just as much as Woodpecker. Of the Woodpecker tools I own, I probably use the SS 642 square the most. As an Amazon Associate, I Earn From Qualifying Purchases. The die-cast zinc body is corrosion resistant and in Irwins trademark blue. Hard to say without knowing about what they have in the shop/garage already and what their woodworking plans or experience are. Grub Screw vs. Set Screw: What Are They? Fine markings like these usually indicate a precision tool. Clean out the excess wood within the mortise using a chisel. Make the square more versatile by using interchangeable heads, which are often included in four-piece combination sets. Do this with both squares individually. .css-v1xtj3{display:block;font-family:FreightSansW01,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:100;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-v1xtj3:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-v1xtj3{font-size:1.1387rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-v1xtj3{line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-v1xtj3{font-size:1.18581rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-top:0rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-v1xtj3{font-size:1.23488rem;line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.9375rem;}}Amazon Has So Many Clever Gadgets for Under $50, Best Video Doorbell Cameras for Surveillance, Keep Cool With These 10 Wearable Air Conditioners. Cast iron head, nice blade. Still, if youre looking to get a great tool and save some money, this is the model for you. All of my Woodpecker Tools are in metric and I actually just recently ordered a couple of the Stainless Steel Squares in metric. A built-in scribe also allows you to make quick markings, even when you cant find a pencil. Maybe not. The head is made of heavy-duty cast iron, and thanks to a wrinkled finish, makes it comfortable to maintain a sturdy grip while you work. Other experience with Swanson vs Empire: My Swanson 7" rafter square is dead on, while my Empire 12 incher is not (found this out when checking against my Starrett). When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. It seems to be more versatile and cost-effective compared to the Woodpeckers tool. This tool is accurate, precise, and longer-lasting. PEC seconds are another good pick that is being recommended by the users in a lower range of price. Starrett C11H-12-16R Combination Square is another tool of the same or a lesser price range to consider. Graduations use 4R scales. Manufacturing Even with the best materials and engineering behind, brands often fail to Do I really need it? Numerous models are available, which can make choosing the single best combination square a challenge. You wouldn't want to drop either one, but especially the Starrett. My wife bought me the stainless steel paolini set a couple years back as a OTT, I was afraid to use them at first, but they are great. I leave my My Starett tools hold up very well to daily use and i have never had any issues. Buying a square will be more convenient and possibly more precise, but you can make your own woodworking square if you would like. And if you need even cheaper than that, you can consider these cheaper Woodpecker tools substitutes. Using the piece of cherry wood, grab your straight edge and razorblade. Thanks again. I bought two for my son in law. JavaScript is disabled. Woodpecker suggests this aspect of its machinery results in a higher degree of square than what is usually turned out from the more typical two-piece design. Apply wood glue to the blade and wiggle the oak blade into the cherry handle. I'm with Bigshaw, I love my Paolini stainless rules. His other interests include astronomy, hiking, and fishing. This Swanson kit includes a 6-inch combo square as well as a speed square, making it a great gift for a beginner woodworker. So, if the marking is not high quality, it can wear out pretty easily, and your square will be pretty much obsolete. This model comes with separate rulers on each side so that you can measure from the outside or inside line without having to reposition or do quick mental math. This feature comes in especially handy when you need to duplicate a mark or measurement on projects like installing drawer slides, or creating a perpendicular line along the edge of multiple workpieces. Weve been using Irwin tools for years, and have always been impressed with the quality they deliver at reasonable prices. This rustproof stainless steel blade offers clear etched divisions at 1/8 inch, 1/16 inch, and 1/32 inch. The blade is rust-proof stainless steel with clear, sharply etched 4R scales. Whether any tool is worth the price or not is very subjective and individual. The 7/8-inch fence also can be used as a circular saw guide when crosscutting lumber. Pen combination square features a rustproof die-cast zinc head. This model comes in both Imperial and Metric versions, so you can get the variety with which youre more comfortable. These adjustable squares come with steel frames. But that being said squares/rules are always useful and there's a useful offering from Woodpeckers for any gift budget. NOTE: Popular sizes and lengths are listed here. The combination square includes a cast iron head with black wrinkle finish. WebThe Starrett 20 Master Precision Square is the finest precision-checking square. Starrett C11H-12-16R Combination Square is another tool of the same or a lesser price range to consider. Woodraphic Precision Square Bundles are picked by so many users as an alternative to the Woodpecker tools. They cost less than the Woodpecker tools, which are being given the most consideration while the measurement seems also very correct. bc6619 6 mo. My favorite Woodpecker tool is probably their least expensive - Incra Precision 3 x 2 Pocket Rule ($11.95). Learn how your comment data is processed. The WORKPRO rafter square is 13/64-inch-thick aluminum. Professionally-made squares will be more precise, and they may offer more functions to enhance usability and accuracy. Btw, I saw where wood magazine rated the Swanson 12" a great alternative to the starrett but I've actually read poor reviews on them elsewhere. To ensure your measurement is right, proper marking on the square is important. He has spent over 20 years honing his skills, learning new techniques, and perfecting his designs. I personally have used an age-old 8" combination square and find it to be a good length, but I have little confidence in the square. Thanks everyone for all of the help. The blade is a little thin, as is the head casting, so it may not be as durable as a higher quality tool. I think it really depends on how you work and how often you really use a square. A little flex is unlikely to cause a problem for general carpentry tasks, but its undesirable on workpieces that demand high accuracy, such as in engineering applications. It offers layout tools, squares, woodworking rulers, T-squares, and more woodworking tools. If you had to pick just one which one would it be? Place the oak blade beam on the cherry handle to mark the mortise thickness. Item 07F11. You can use the ruler to check length or the handle as a base for checking height or depth recesses. Woodpecker tools are among the most highly respected tools for their high manufacturing standards for precision and accuracy, as well as quality control and consistency, but they are not the only such tools on the market today. Much of which has been in use for ten years or so. The engineer says "the glass is twice as big as it needs to be". Precision is the sole purpose of a woodworking square, making it the most important factor to consider when buying a model. Work slowly and check it frequently until the issue is resolved. After reading this thread, should the topic be: What's the 2nd Best Combination Square? It depends on what you use these tools for and whether they give you the result you desire. Woodpeckers 1281R-300 Square : Premium Pick Other Great Picks 4. However, this model does come with a heat-treated stainless-steel blade, which may be one of the strongest and most durable blades on our list. Is Woodpecker's MFT Square worth its price? Make sure to get the stainless version. If both those pass the square test, you're doing it wrong, If the blade on the Starrett isn't square on BOTH sides, make sure you mark the side that IS square. I think it really depends on how you work and how often you really use a square. So the main objective here is that in your woodworking project, every measurement goes precisely. The WORKPRO combination square features a stainless steel blade that offers etch-marked 1/32-inch and 1-millimeter divisions. Dead on and about $20. Yeah that probably woulda been more appropriate, The second best combo square if you aren't getting a new Starrett is to. So, before that happens, make sure you buy the right size according to the project. When he's not in his workshop, Matt loves spending time with his family. Markings are machine etched into the surface, so they wont wear off. In the end, I would say whichever square you choose; you wont notice any compromise in terms of precision. A 12-inch combination square, probably the most practical size for general-purpose use, is the most popular. If you don't use it a lot, an expensive square is a waste. Most woodworking squares come with measurements printed on, but other models include etched on measurements. Some woodworking square blades are longer than others. Go here: http://store.harryepstein.com/c/ProductsEngineering.html. So, in that regard, both brands have engraved marking on them. 0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. The two lines should be parallel. Both manufacturers claim that their squares have an accuracy of . We dont like to skimp on measuring devices, as accuracy and precision are too important to our projects. Among the tool brands that many serious woodworkers rely upon in all of these respects is Woodpecker. Festool USA does not pre-approve the contents of this website nor endorse the application or use of any Festool product in any way other than in the manner described in the Festool Instruction Manual. It is a difficult decision, not knowing how they work. The IRWIN Tools Tri The blade can be removed and used as a ruler. Plus, the markings are etched on the blade, so theyll be long-lasting and easy to read, even years after your purchase. So, the best thing to do here will be to get the product that suits your need most. What square should I get if I need to make different angles? I had several different knockoffs before I bought my Starrett and keeping them square is the problem. If not, please tell me how I can improve this article. Learn more. Product descriptions can sometimes be misleading, and it can be hard to compare apples-to-apples and be sure that youre getting a good deal for your money. We found a video that is an overview of Woodpecker measuring tools. During my time as a residential and commercial carpenter, I used a combination square almost every day, for a variety of tasks and project needs. The sharp point seems to dig into the wood grain, and its quite difficult to create a clear, straight line. Maybe. Starrett may be a name that you recognize from its long line of great squares, but this model doesnt live up to those expectations. Complaints about this models failings vary widely, from rough operation to pieces which dont fit together right and throw the whole device out of square. I guess I am an outlier here. Starrett has been manufacturing precision measuring tools since 1880. So, here we are at the final question, which will be the suitable choice for your work? If its not square, it can be adjusted by hitting with a center punch at the apex. All that being said I know Rob Cosman just had in a video that PEC Tools has nice squares, he was referred to them by another woodworker that has experience with them.
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