Craftsman  12 in. Combination Square

12" Combination Square deserves to belong in every tool box large and small. Made in USA.

I bought this combination square to replace a generic one I bought at a discount tool store. That tool didn't slide well and it rocked in the track a little as well. Huge difference between that combination square and this Craftsman one. Just to the touch it is more rugged and durable. Don't make the same mistake I did and get the Craftsman Combination Square from the get go. It makes a big difference.

Amazing that a few tools have not changed appreciably in decades--simple designs that engineers with their computers haven't been able to improve. Put this square right up there with the other classics (claw hammer and carpenter's ruler) that every carpenter carries all the time. Fits in your back pocket, draws straight and 45 degree lines for cuts on boards, used in a pinch as a level, check plumb on corners, draw a line parallel to an edge (adjust cross piece to length desired, hold a pencil at the end of the square and slide the square down the workpiece). I've used this gem for over 40 years as at least two generations before me did.

There are a few basic tools that are critical to have in any collection. They include a hammer, a pair of pliers, a basic set of screwdrivers, well you get my point... These tools are almost iconic and have come to symbolize the term TOOL.

Well, in my opinion, this 12" Combination Square deserves to belong in that group. I remember my father had one very similar to the product offered here. It had a 12" blade with etched markings to denote fractional inches. It featured a heavy machined head that could be held tightly against the edge of the worksurface and you could trace a perfectly square line across your work-piece.

In the 40+ years since my father's woodworking shop generated sawdust - not much has changed. This time honored tool still serves it's purpose well. There have been a few enhancements along the way including the addition of a stainless steel blade to resist rust, but the basic concept has remained.

A true tool icon!

As a carpenter, one of the most important tools I use on every job is my Craftsman 12 inch Combination Square. In fact, I have two of them I use them so often (I purchased the second one dirt cheap at the flea market). They are easy to read and I have yet to miss a 90 degree cut or 45 degree miter when using them for layout chores. I usually have one with the handle removed simply for the straight edge while I use the second one to make repetitive marks at a specific depth. I would truly be lost without these in my shop.

The Craftsman 12 inch tri-square is one of the first squares I learned to use because it carried easily in a nail belt and did multiple things.

The working block of these squares can be loosened with a knurled release wheel and the block slid to each end as needed or completely removed from the 12 inch rule. Seperated you have a metal 12 inch ruler as needed and a stand alone level of small stature that is usually used in front to back leveling of narrow items.

As assembled when slid all the way one direction the square can be placed flat along material to create a 45 degree angle for marking and/or cutting. The other direction gives the opportunity to mark 90 degrees.

While the block is at the end at 90 degrees the square can also be set in a position so that the ruler is pointing up giving the ability to check for plumb.

These few instances give only the most used abilities for the tri-square. Your uses are many and for one tool to be so versatile and yet carry easily is a builders dream.

In today's world of electronic digital measuring equipment where every tool has a laser attached to it this combination square stands out as a testament to just plain good design.  In my work, I have frequently had to layout cuts and bends in sheet metal (aluminum) for one-off repairs.  This tool makes that task easy.  Super precise 90 degree and 45 degree angles, accurate ruler, and a handy spirit level makes this combi square a keeper.  I used to carry one in the tool bag I took out on the flightline.  Yes, its awkard shape and size was a pain-in-the-bag but I found that I was always using it.  It is also one of those tools that can be helpful in the most unexpected places daring you to find some unconventional use for it.

Durable?  Heck, yes!  Stainless steel, corrosion resistant, inert when chemicals are poured on it.  I hate to tell Craftsman this but I won't be buying one any time soon, the one I have had for 25 years is still going strong.

This is one tool you will wonder how you ever got along without.

"Sacramento" Bruce Conklin

I have two of these, they are very handy on woodworking projects. I just used mine today while making sure a cabinet door reveal was the same all around.

Craftsman Made in the USA quality and forever warranty. It doesn't get any better than that. Yes, you pay more for that, but this might not be made in the USA for long.

This square has everything that you would look for in quality. Engraved numbers on the ruler, tight lock, and even a marking pin. Buy one and you wont be sorry.

By far this has to be one of the best squares i've ever purchased. While working at my Mothers house I noticed the square my Bother had. It was the same one. I absolutely love the fact that there isn't any metric ******* it! That way, you have standard scales on each side if you need to use both sides. You don't have to flip the blade to the other side to get away from the metric scale! The square head is machined beautifully with chamfered edges unlike the chinese **** you see. The brass nut tightens and loosens smoothly. The etched marks and numbers are deep enough in the stainless steel that you shouldn't have to worry about them wearing out. Also with them being black, you can see them better. When it comes to tools, i always try to buy American for obvious reasons. Hang Tough America!!!