A speed square is the quickest way to mark a square line or a 45 degree cut across timber, and this collection holds metric speed squares, rafter squares and framing squares in sizes from 150 mm to 500 mm. It suits roofers, deck builders, framers and home woodworkers who want a square that can be read fast and dropped without going out of true.
Choosing a speed square
- Size. The Dewalt Premium Rafter Speed Square 18cm DWHT25227-0 fits a tool belt and marks most dressed timber. The 30cm DWHT25228-0 reaches across wider boards and rafters in one pass.
- Metric or imperial. Both Dewalt squares and the MilesCraft MC Square 150 (Metric) and MC Square 300 (Metric) are graduated in millimetres, which saves converting from a plan drawn in metric.
- Framing and stairs. For stair stringers and roof layouts you want the longer L-shaped tool: the MilesCraft Framing Square 300 Metric or the larger Framing Square 500 Metric.
- Small and pocketable. The UJK Compact Speed Square is a precise little square for bench work and marking out small parts.
Speed square, rafter square or framing square?
A speed square and a rafter square are the same triangular tool. The lipped edge hooks over the timber so you can mark 90 degrees instantly, the hypotenuse gives 45 degrees, and the pivot lets you swing to any angle for rafter and hip cuts. A framing square is a larger L-shaped square with no lip, used for laying out stairs, checking large frames and squaring up cabinets. For 45 degree checking on mitres, see mitre squares.
All of these squares are in stock at Power Tool Services in Claremont, Cape Town, with nationwide courier delivery. Our staff use these daily and can advise on size. Pair one with a tape from our tape measures range.
