A machinist square is a tool that can be used in many ways in the workshop. It’s important to select the best machinist square for the job at hand, as they come in different sizes and shapes. In this article, we are going to have a look at seven of the best machinist squares on the market today. We’ll discuss what makes each one special and how they can be best used in the workshop. So, whether you’re a professional machinist or just starting out, read on to find the perfect square for your needs!
What is a Machinist Square, and What are its Uses?
A machinist square is a measuring tool that is used to ensure accuracy when creating or working with metal parts. The blade of the square is set at a perfect 90-degree angle to the stock, which allows it to take precise measurements. Machinist squares can also be used as straightedges, and many have built-in level bubbles for even more versatility.
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Groz 3 Piece Set of Machinist Square | 2-inch, 4-inch, and 6 Inches blades, 0.00063 inch accuracy | Check Price |
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Gohelper Mini Small Square Center Finder | 3.93 Inches x 2.67 Inches body, 0.0005 inch accuracy | Check Price |
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Kinex 8 Inches x 5.25 Inches Solid Machinist Square | 8 Inches x 5.25 Inches body, 0.0008 inch accuracy | Check Price |
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Taytools Machinist 4 Inches x 3 Inches Engineer Solid Square | 4 Inches x 3 Inches body, 0.0005 inch accuracy | Check Price |
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Kinex 4 Inches x 2.75 Inches Solid Machinist Square | 4 Inches x 2.25 Inches body, 0.0005 inch accuracy | Check Price |
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DCT 4 Inches x 2.5 Inches Machinist Engineer Square | 4 Inches x 2.25 Inches body, 0.0006 inch accuracy | Check Price |
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Accusize 6 Inches x 4 Inches Bevel Edge Blade Machinists Square | 6 Inches x 4 Inches body, 0.0003 inch accuracy | Check Price |
Machinist Square Vs. Woodworking Try Square
The main difference between a machinist square and woodworking try square is the size of the blade. Woodworking squares have much longer blades, which makes them better suited for taking measurements on larger wood projects. Machinist squares have shorter blades and are primarily used for marking and measuring smaller pieces of metal projects.
Another must noticeable factor is that a machinist square is more accurate than a woodworking square. Everybody wants to have 100% accurate squares, but wood can be expanded or shrunk due to the humidity. So very few inaccurate squares don’t matter in a woodworking project. But you have to be 100% accurate during machinist work as it doesn’t get changed after completing the project.
Know More: 5 Best Clamping Squares for DIYers and Carpenters
What to Avoid When Purchasing Machinist Squares
You know that the first thing to do before purchasing a machinist square is checking the square is that actually 90 degrees. The maximum linear error of the machinist square should not exceed 0.0002 in. Otherwise, it will not be useful for your projects as a machinist.
The square’s metal should not be so thin and bendy that they will become warped over time. A warped metal square can provide inaccurate measurements. A few companies make their particular try squares with mixed metallic and wooden body. You should not be investing in this kind if you don’t have complete control of atmosphere conditions in your workshop. Wooden construction could be expanded or diminished as a result of humidity, leading to a distorted reading.
You must avoid adjustable try squares for machinist work. Adjustable try squares are not 100% accurate and also get damaged under overuse. The more it gets damaged, the more it becomes inaccurate. So, you should buy a simple design 100% accurate metal square.
Something more regarding machinist squares is their body. Some brands make gorgeously designed squares bodies. But it could be dangerous for machinist work. Sometimes you may not have sufficient measures of the metal due to the body design. You can’t place your square precisely because of the uneven surface. So, it is best to avoid that type of square in machinist work.
The Top 7 Best Machinist Squares on the Market Today
No matter what your needs are, there’s a machinist square out there that’s perfect for the job. So, let’s take a look at seven of the best machinist squares on the market today!
1. Groz 3 Piece Set of Machinist Square
This set of 3 machinist squares from Groz is a great choice for anyone who’s looking to buy a set of three necessary machinist squares. The set includes 2-inch, 4-inch, and 6 Inches (50, 100, and 150 mm) machinist squares. All of them are made of hardened, tempered, and polished steel and are manufactured by a highly reputable company. The set comes complete with an instruction manual, which will help you learn how to use each one correctly.
Both the blade and stock are ground which ensures straightness and parallelism. According to the BS 939 Grade B accuracy standard, it is guaranteed that the squares meet this standard within 16 microns or 0.00063 inches of individual error.
Outer and inner measuring faces are 90 degrees to the blade. This accuracy is due to the fact that Groz takes extreme care when manufacturing its products. This set is a great choice for anyone looking for an all-around great set of machinist squares.
The structure and design of these machinist squares are durable, reducing the risk of failure and decay. So, you can readily use it without having to worry about it getting damaged or losing precision over time.
It’s great for setting a table saw blade and fence, as well as a bandsaw blade and fence.
Pros
- Set of three machinist squares
- Made by a highly reputable company
- Hardened, tempered, and polished steel construction
- It comes with an instruction manual
- Guaranteed to meet BS 939 accuracy standards
Cons
- Some workers have found the pins that hold the base and blade together to get a little bit loose over time
2. Gohelper Mini Small Square Center Finder
Made with top-quality aluminum alloy and stainless steel, the Mini Small Square Center Finder tool is a must-have in every toolbox. With an extended body profile measuring 3.93″ x 2.67″ x 0.59″, it’s the ideal tool to help see that woodworking project to the perfect conclusion.
The well-laid-out design of this tool makes it perfectly suited for helping you find that detailed precision-centered position. This in turn ensures that you can manage the finer details of your project with an economy of effort.
Serious woodworkers are also likely to greatly appreciate the fact that this tool lends itself easily to a wide array of uses. As an example, this device comes with two extra pins in the box.
What this means is that you’ll be able to do things like determine the exact centers of the edges of boards more accurately as well as ensure that the edges of the boards are square to face faster, too.
In addition to that, this tool can also function as a near-perfect honing guide which can prove invaluable if you plan to do any drilling on this project.
It also helps that the Mini Small Square Center Finder comes with laser engraving that’s clean, clear, accurate, and made with durability and longevity in mind.
And, for all these amazing functionalities, this device is still small and lightweight enough to be moved around comfortably.
Pros
- It has a useful extend design.
- It has a nice and durable build.
- It’s a laser engraving scale and is very clear to read.
- It’s easy to carry.
- It serves multiple functions efficiently.
Cons
- The measurement ticks are on the side of the tool so it may take some getting used to for some people.
3. Kinex 8 Inches x 5.25 Inches Solid Machinist Square
This machinist square is perfect for any precision work. This machinist square features a larger size, at 8 inches x 5.25 inches, making it the perfect tool for cutting and measuring with precision. This machinist square features durable construction that makes it suitable for heavy-duty use. The machinist square is made of solid blanks, making it extremely strong and rust-resistant.
This machinist square is constructed of one-piece metal that is .625” wide by 0.310″ thick” in thickness. The base and blade are joined together without any joints, which makes for a more accurate measurement. You don’t have to worry about getting joint-related inaccuracies with this machinist square.
It is also extremely precise, with an accuracy of 20 microns or 0.0008 inches. The German accuracy standard DIN875 is also applied to this machinist square. This means that you can be sure of its precision and accuracy.
This machinist square is also easy to use, with smooth surfaces that make it easy to get accurate measurements. You’ll be able to use this machinist square with ease, and you can be sure that it will give you the precise measurements that you need.
Pros
- Larger size for precision work
- Durable construction
- Made of solid blanks for strength and rust-resistance
- One-piece metal construction for accurate measurements
- Precise and accurate
- Easy to use
Cons
- Little bit expensive
4. Taytools Machinist 4 Inches x 3 Inches Engineer Solid Square
This machinist square features precision engineering that ensures that your work is done correctly. This machinist square features sturdy metal construction, which makes it more durable and stronger than other machinist squares. The machinist square is also rust-resistant, making it perfect for use in any workshop. This particular machinist square features smooth surfaces to ensure that you get an accurate measurement every time.
The metal machinist square is .625 by .220 “wide and 1 unit thick, with a stationary base and blade. Consequently, there is one more constant throughout length measurement. There is no need to worry that the joint in the measurement might introduce an inaccuracy.
According to the standard German DIN875, this machinist square is accurate to within 15 microns or 0.0005 inches of accuracy that you can trust. You don’t need to worry about making a mistake with this machinist square.
This machinist square is also easy to use, with its smooth surfaces and lack of joints. You’ll be able to get precise measurements every time without any hassle. The structure of this machinist square won’t get damaged due to hard construction. You can be sure that you’re getting a quality product when you purchase this machinist square.
Pros
- Precision-engineered
- Sturdy metal construction
- Rust-resistant
- Smooth surfaces for accurate measurements
- Accurate to within microns
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not accurate with length measurement.
5. Kinex 4 Inches x 2.75 Inches Solid Machinist Square
This handy machinist square is perfect for any workshop. This machinist square features a smaller size, making it more convenient to use in tight spaces. The machinist square is made of solid blanks, making it extremely strong and rust-resistant.
One-piece 0.210″ thick, the blade and the base are welded together; there are no joints, which makes the machinist square more precise than counterparts with joints. You don’t need to worry about making a mistake with this machinist square. The smaller size of this machinist square also makes it more portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go.
The accuracy of this machinist square is also amazing, with an accuracy of 15 microns or 0.0005”. This means that you can be sure of its precision and accuracy according to the standard German DIN875.
This machinist square is also easy to use, with smooth surfaces that make it easy to get accurate measurements. You’ll be able to use this machinist square for long periods of time without any issue.
Pros
- Smaller size for convenience
- Solid blanks for strength and rust-resistance
- Welded construction for accurate measurements
- Precise and accurate
- Easy to use
- Portable
Cons
- Some people have complained about the finish.
6. DCT 4 Inches x 2.5 Inches Machinist Engineer Square
This is another great choice for a machinist square. This machinist square is made of hardened steel, making it extremely durable. The machinist square is also rust-resistant, making it perfect for use in any workshop. This particular machinist square features smooth surfaces to ensure that you get an accurate measurement every time.
The top of the base of the blade is 1/16 inch (15 mm) thick, and its side is 3/8 inch (8 mm) thick. Two pins connect the blade and the beam. The joint is strong enough to provide a lifetime accuracy without getting weak.
The machinist square is accurate to within close to 0.0006 inches or 16 microns, which is one of the best on this list. This means that you can trust its precision and accuracy by relying on the standard German DIN875.
Many professionals have used this machinist square for a long time, and it is still going strong. You can be sure that you’re getting a quality product when you purchase this machinist square. It will be a great addition to your workshop.
Pros
- Hardened steel for durability
- Rust-resistant
- Smooth surfaces for accurate measurements
- Accurate to within microns
- Strong joint for lifetime accuracy
Cons
- Some people have said that the finish could be better.
7. Accusize 6 Inches x 4 Inches Bevel Edge Blade Machinists Square
This machinist square is perfect for anyone who needs a very precise and accurate square for their work. Its size is 4 inches, and it has a 6-inch blade. The machinist square is made of hardened steel, which makes the piece extremely durable and rust-resistant.
The machinist square also has a one-piece construction with no joints, which means that there is no risk of inaccuracies due to joint-related issues. The machinist square also features smooth surfaces to ensure that you get an accurate measurement every time.
This particular machinist square is also extremely accurate, with an Inside angle with a relative precision of 0.002756 inches; an outside angle with a relative precision of 0.000315 inches. These are the best accuracies that you can find in a machinist square.
If you purchase this machinist square, you can be sure that you’re getting a quality product that will last you for a long time. It is an essential tool for anyone who needs a precise and accurate square.
Pros
- Hardened steel for durability
- Rust-resistant
- One-piece construction for accuracy
- Smooth surfaces for accurate measurements
- Extremely accurate
Cons
- The price is a bit high.
How to Choose the Best Machinist Square for Your Needs
There are many different sizes, designs, and shapes of machinist squares on the market, so it’s important to select the best one for the job at hand. For example, some machinist squares have longer blades that are better suited for taking measurements on larger pieces of metal. Others have shorter blades that are better suited for taking measurements on smaller pieces of metal. And still, others have adjustable blades, so you can set them to the exact size you need for the job at hand.
Material
Material is an important consideration when selecting a machinist square. For example, some machinist squares are made from carbon steel, which is durable and resistant to rust. Others are made from stainless steel, which is also durable and resistant to rust but is less likely to show scratches or other marks.
Size
The size of the machinist square is also an important consideration. For example, some machinist squares have blades that are only a few inches long, while others have several feet long blades. If you’re working on a large project, you’ll need a machinist square with a longer blade so you can take accurate measurements.
Shape
The shape of the machinist square is also an important consideration. For example, some machinist squares have rectangular blades, while others have triangular blades. If you’re working on a project that requires precise measurements, you’ll need a machinist square with a rectangular blade so you can take accurate measurements.
Design
The design of machinist squares should be simple. A machinist square with a complex design can be difficult to use and may not take accurate measurements.
Thickness
Thin squares get damaged and curved over time. So you should buy a machinist square that is not too thin.
Maximum Linear Error
The maximum linear error of a machinist square should not exceed 0.0002 in/in. Otherwise, it won’t be useful for your machinist project.
Price
Of course, price is also an important consideration when selecting a machinist square. You’ll find that machinist squares range in price from around $20 to $200. If you’re working on a large project, you’ll need a more expensive machinist square so you can take accurate measurements.
How to Use a Machinist Square Properly
Now that you know how to select the best machinist square for your needs, it’s important to learn how to use it properly. First, you’ll need to identify the measurement you need to take. For example, if you measure whether the corner is 90 degrees or not, you’ll need to use the blade of the machinist square. If you’re measuring the length of a piece of metal, you’ll need to use the ruler on the side of the machinist square.
Once you’ve identified the measurement you need to take, you’ll need to place the machinist square on the surface of the metal. For example, if you’re measuring the corner of a piece of metal, you’ll need to place the blade of the machinist square on the surface of the metal and align it, so it’s perpendicular to the edge. If you’re measuring the length of a piece of metal, you’ll need to place the ruler on the surface of the metal and align it, so it’s parallel to the edge.
Once you’ve placed the machinist square on the surface of the metal, you’ll need to take your measurement. For example, if you’re measuring the corner of a piece of metal, you’ll need to use a ruler to measure the distance between the blade of the machinist square and the edge of the metal. If you’re measuring the length of a piece of metal, you’ll need to use a ruler to measure the distance between the end of the metal and the beginning of the machinist square.
Now that you know how to select and use a machinist square, you’re ready to start your next project. With these tips, you’ll be able to take accurate measurements and create precise cuts. So get started today and see what you can create!
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most out of Your Machinist Square
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your machinist square
- Use a sharpie to mark the measurements on the blade of the machinist square. This will help you take accurate measurements.
- Place a piece of tape on the surface of the metal before you measure. This will help you get a precise measurement.
- Use a caliper to measure the thickness of the metal. This will help you select the best machinist square for your project.
Frequently Asked Questions are Answered
1. How Do I Get the Best Machinist Square for My Project?
You need to find a machinist square that will fit your needs. The most important factor is the size of the blade. There are many different sizes of blades for machinist squares, and each type has its own unique characteristics. Some are thicker than others, and some are thinner.
2. What is a Machinist Square, and What Does it Measure?
Machinist square is a tool used to accurately measure the thickness of metal. The blade of the square has several graduations on its edge that allow you to measure the thickness of metal with precision accuracy.
3. What is a Square Tolerance, and How Can it be Used to Measure Metal Thickness?
Square tolerance is the difference in thickness between two adjacent edges of a blade. A machinist square has a special mechanism that allows you to measure the difference in thickness between two adjacent edges.
4. How Do I Sharpen a Machinist’s Square Blade?
The blade of a machinist square is used to measure the thickness of metal. This blade is not meant to be sharpened like a pencil or knife blade. To sharpen the blade, use an abrasive wheel with sandpaper.
5. What is the Best Way to Store My Machinist Square?
Machinist squares have an unlimited life span. If you do not use your square often, it is best to store it in a plastic case with a protective cover on it.
6. How Do I Clean My Machinist Square?
A machinist square is designed to be used in a very dirty environment. Therefore, the machinist square can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. However, if this solution gets on the blade of the machinist square, it will scratch the blade. You can also clean your machinist square with a damp cloth.
7. What is the Best Machinist Square for a Beginner?
A beginner should use a machinist square that is fixed to the board. This way, they will not be able to move their workpiece into the wrong position and ruin their project. A beginner should also purchase a machinist square that has a smaller blade than other machinist squares.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our article on the best machinist squares. With these tips, you’ll be able to select the perfect machinist square for your needs and take accurate measurements. So get started today and see what you can create! Thanks for reading!
