An engineer is only as good as his tools. This is a very true saying that every engineer should take seriously. When first embarking on your journey as an engineer, knowing what tools are best to invest in may be daunting. Investing a lot of money in low-quality or unnecessary tools is something that no one wants. Here at Mechanical Engineering HQ, we have compiled several lists of the best options on the market for everyday tools including this list of the 5 best square sets for engineers.
This guide focuses on square sets, their attributes, quality, and which company sells the best ones. While many people would not invest in a tool that isn’t multifunctional or necessary, these square sets are a perfect investment for an engineer who wants to ensure their work is precise, accurate and done as quickly as possible. Tools like square sets will help you reach that goal.
If you are in the market for investing in one or a set of squares, then look no further. We have researched and picked out the 5 best square sets for engineers that will get the job done and stand the test of time.
Swanson Speed Square
This Swanson speed square is the classic speed square option that is nearly one hundred years in production, so it is never a bad idea to go with a brand that’s trusted. It has multiple uses, including a try square, a saw guide, a line scriber, a protractor, and a mitre square. On the square, there are measurements in a quarter of an inch increments. There is also a place for an adjustable locking pin.
This speed square is available in two sizes with imperial and metric measurements. With this speed square, marking and cutting out 45 and 90-degree angles is effortless. It even comes with a guide to instruct engineers on how to make the most of this useful tool. The Swanson speed square should be in every engineer’s tool bag to ensure every measurement is correct and accurate.
Irwin Tools Stainless Steel Combination Square
The Irwin Tools Combination Square is twelve-inch in length and made from stainless steel. It is an investment as it is built for durability and longevity. It is an incredibly precise tool as it comes with a zinc anvil. This pairing makes for easy marking and easy measuring. The measurements on this square are quick and easy to read and will not fade over time, which ensures it is always fit for purpose.
Unlike the Swanson square, the Irwin tools option comes with metric and imperial measurements, so it suits both sides of the water. It is made from thicker steel than most squares and is an excellent investment for any engineer. It makes all measurements easy to complete at a quick and fast pace. This is a great option for design engineers as it is incredibly accurate, but all engineers would benefit from investing in this combination square.
Johnson’s Johnny Square
The Johnson’s Johnny square is clear to read and an easy tool to use. It is an excellent option for engineers who use saws, drills or other tools that require measurements on a daily basis. It is made from aluminium and glazed to prevent any glares that prohibit the user from incorrectly measuring or making a measurement. The measurements are etched into the surface of the square, which also maintains optimum visibility.
The edges of the square are created by a CNC machine, which gives them high accuracy. One edge is especially thick to act as a saw guide when cutting a piece of wood or other material. The square is made from aluminium, which is very durable and long-lasting. This square will give you precise results for years or even decades. For an engineer having a precise and accurate square is a must-have when using power tools. The Johnson’s Johnny square is an excellent option for every engineer.
WorkPro Square Tool Set
This WorkPro square tool set will work for a variety of applications which can be challenging to find. This set includes a seven-inch speed square and a twelve-inch combination square. The speed square has anti-glare properties for precision cutting. The combination square contains a bubble level so the engineer can measure and check that whatever they intend to cut is also level. It is a multifunctional tool which is great for on-the-go engineers.
They are made with high-quality aluminium but are reasonably priced, making these square toolsets great to buy and use. It has big numbers to help with reading the squares quickly and efficiently. It is sturdy, well made and does not move when used for measurements or cutting. It is an excellent tool to have with very little financial investment.
Groz 3-Piece Set of Machinist Square
For any engineer that is looking to invest in a set of squares, then the Groz 3-Piece machinist squares are a perfect choice. Within the set are three different-sized squares; 2-inch, 4-inch and 6-inch. They are fabricated from polished, high-quality steel, meaning they will last a very long time. Like the Swanston, this set comes with an instructional manual to ensure the engineer understands the optimum way to use these tools to get the best results.
The blade and stock are ground which ensures incredible accuracy. These squares even adhere to BS 939 Grade B accuracy standard, which ensures that the measurements detailed on these tools will always be within 16 microns or 0.00063 inches. This high accuracy is due to how Groz involves extreme care within its manufacturing process. The only issue is that some customers have found that the pins that hold the base and the blade together can get loose over time. But overall, this is an excellent set for any engineer looking to invest in a square set.
A square set is a tool that most people could do without, but once you have one in your toolbox, it is a piece of equipment that you will reach for time and time again. Here at Mechanical Engineering HQ, we have compiled a list of great options for any engineer in the market to invest in one or a set of high-quality square sets.
Thank you very much for being here and reading this list of the 5 best square sets for engineers, we appreciate you taking the time to read our content. If you have any other tools or working accessories you would like to add, or if you have used any of these previously that worked well, please let us know with a comment below!
You can also follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram so you can stay up to date.
