Adjustable Squares

[Coop]

I’ve had a least four or five 6” adjustable squares at one time or another and now the only one that shows up is a cheap metric 45*/90* square that the locking mechanism leaves a lot to be desired. When it wasn’t important at the times, people have made mention of quality 2nd’s of a certain brand. I particularly like double squares. This or any other good brand recommendations that doesn’t break the bank? 

[wtnhighlander]

You looking for these?

https://www.harryepstein.com/collections/squares

[Coop]

That’s the ones. Thanks

[fcschoenthal]

I've bought a couple of PEC blemished squares from Taylor Tools, but in checking, they don't seem to carry blemished anymore. I've never bought through Epstein before.

[legenddc]

Harry J Esptein is a great place to buy from. I've bought things a few times from them without any issues. If you can wait until July 4th, they have a sale through GarageJournal. Looking through my email, in 2024 I bought a few different PEC rulers from them at 50% off. The 4"square I got was full price at the time. If you order around that sale shipping will take longer than usual.

They have so much random stuff that it's hard to stay focused. I ordered a dental pick in 2024 too and I've found it handy a number of times. 

[gee-dub]

Similar experience from Harry J Esptein.  I have a few 4" and 6" PEC blem double squares bought during various sales.  It's nice to have them a couple of places around the shop and I carry a 4" in my apron.

[Von]

I've been happy with igaging. You can also find vintage ones on eBay and at flea markets though the amount of wear/use varies wildly. If you aren't set on a Starett you can find good deals.

https://www.woodcraft.com/products/igaging-combination-square-set-12-and-6

[Botch]

Happy iGaging customer here too.  

[Botch]

On 5/20/2026 at 8:51 PM, wtnhighlander said:

You looking for these?

https://www.harryepstein.com/collections/squares

Crap.  WHY did I click on that link?!?  

[Coop]

My friend @richard arveaux saw me whining and is sending me a couple of his!! Thanks Rick! 

[Beechwood Chip]

On 5/20/2026 at 10:11 PM, Coop said:

I particularly like double squares.

I've only ever used combination squares.  What's the advantage of a double square over a combo square?

[Coop]

I like them as you can use one side as a fixed measurement and the other side as a square. Seldom do I ever use the 45* feature and I have a square for that when I do need it. 

[Tom King]

I won't buy a combination square that I can't get my hands on.  I have some of the small adjustable ones too, but I like for the locking mechanism to work easily and flawlessly.  My favorite for probably over 20 years is a Craftsman with stainless steel blade.  I bought it back when Sears had stores you could walk in and handle their tools.

I think it was one of ten or 12 hanging on the wall.  It was the only one that unlocked easily, but stayed locked securely without extra effort on the knob.

I have a bunch of Starrett and other good machinist brands from an inherited lot of machinist tools, actually a whole toolbox drawer full, but they don't have stainless blades, so I can't leave them laying out, and none of the locking knobs work the same.