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2022-09-10 11:29:16 By : Mr. Amy Chen

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This complicated-looking tool isn’t just for roofing; it’s a much more versatile measuring instrument.

The Speed Square is arguably one of the most useful tools when it comes to building. Originally designed to be used in framing homes, and sometimes referred to as a rafter square, it facilitates layout operations. It features markings that help speed up repetitive common procedures when framing walls or cutting rafters. Though it was originally developed by the Swanson Tool Company, there are dozens of companies making similar rafter squares now. However, Swanson’s Speed Squares are typically packed with more features than others.

If you get the Speed Square Pro, as I did, it comes with Swanson’s Blue Book, which contains instructions and explanations of the geometry, calculation, and layout of virtually any rafter configuration. If you’re not a builder by trade, framing every day, it’s a fantastic resource. Aside from framing though, the Speed Square sees use on just about every woodworking project I do—it’s one of my most-used tools. Build sheds, shelves, firewood racks, picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, work benches, saw horses. You name it, and a Speed Square will be useful making it.

While some folks find all the markings on the Speed Square a little intimidating at first, they’re not difficult to understand once you see how they’re used. Below, we’ll explain the tool’s eight most common uses.

That’s just a sampling of what you can do with Swanson’s Speed Square. For more complex configurations, check out the brand’s Blue Book I mentioned.