10 Best Framing Squares and Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know
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Whether your project is a tiny little fixer upper or a massive remodel, we’ll show you the right framing square for any job. With reviews, tips and strategies on how to choose the best framing square.
A framing square is a tool used in carpentry to help make sure that corners meet at right angles. A good framing square should be large, sturdy, and high quality, so it does not break easily. It also needs to have an accurate blade for measuring purposes and depth measurements on one side of the edge.
With the recent boom in home renovations, more and more people are taking on projects they have never done before. One of those projects is installing drywall to create a new space or adding insulation for a warmer winter. When you’re working with drywall, one of the essential tools to have is your framing square. It’s not just any old tool; it will help you make sure everything is level and ensure that all four corners are at 90° right angles!
Framing squares are also an excellent tool for ensuring that all of your measurements for cutting wood or other materials, whether to frame out a room in the house or to create a new garden plot in the backyard, come out ideally and look exactly how you imagined.
Finding the perfect framing square can lead to many hours of research. This article will help you find the right one for your needs.
Here’s what we cover in this best framing square review article:
- First, we compare our top 10 picks side-by-side in an easy-to-see table. Ideal if you’re short on time.
- Next, we take a deep dive into each model and share their main features and benefits we think you’ll love
- Then, we explore the drawbacks of each framing square we believe you should know about
- And finally, our buyers guide will give you a greater insight into the product range so you can easily see which one is best for your needs.
Sound good? Great, let’s begin!
Buy on AmazonOur Favorite Framing Squares | Compared
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Model | Buy | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top  | Johnson Level & Tool CS12 | Click Here | 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) |
  | Mr. Pen Steel Carpenter's Square | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 (Best Value) |
  | Irwin Tools Framing Square (1794447) | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 |
  | Powertec Rafter Table Square 80008 | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 |
  | VINCA (Model SCLS-1208) Carpenter L Framing Square | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 |
  | Swanson (Model SVL123) 12-Inch Savage Builders Square | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | Starrett (Model FS-24) Steel Framing Square | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | Empire Level (Model e1190) Professional Framing Square | Click Here | 4.5 / 5 |
  | Milwaukee MLSQ024 Framing Square | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | Mayes Level (Model 10222) 12-Inch Utility Steel Square | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
Related reading: 5 Best Woodworking Squares for the Money | Reviews & Buying Guide
10 Best Framing Squares | Product Reviews
1. Johnson Level & Tool CS12 (Best Overall)
- At the top of our list is this fantastic creation from Johnson Level & Tools. This is definitely not your first time coming across this brand if you have been following up on our reviews. It is not currently available in several online stores, which shows just how much of a hotcake it is.
- A quick look reveals a stainless-steel body, which is sturdy enough for heavy-duty usage. Its stainless nature also keeps it free from rust, one of the greatest destroyers of metals. You can be sure that your framing square will serve you for a long duration.
- This product has essential informational tables such as the rafter, brace, and board foot tables. It also incorporates an octagonal scale to help you make a more accurate measurement. Isnt this what you need for your projects?
- It is also worth mentioning that it has English graduations for more accurate measurements. You will also notice the permanently etched EZ and number graduations which increases visibility. It weighs only 1.8 pounds and is therefore light enough for increased portability.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2. Irwin Tools Framing Square (1794447)
- Our second product is a fantastic option from Irwin, a brand that has been around for quite some time. This is a professional tool that will come in handy during your woodworking and general construction projects.
- Users love the permanent deep stampings, which are also durable. These ensure that you can use your framing square for long without the graduations fading or coming off. While still on durability, it is worth mentioning that this product has a rust-proof aluminum body.
- We have also noticed the multiple scales, which will help you make accurate measurements. For ease of reading, it has yellow markings on blue background. You definitely understand the role that visibility plays in a measuring tool.
- Some of the included features are rafter tables, brace and octagon scales, and an Essex board measure. It is highly versatile and can be used as a saw guide, ruler, or protractor, giving you the level of functionality you need.
- Given the nature of the material used in the construction, this product is light enough for easier portability, making it an ideal carpentry square.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
3. Powertec Rafter Table Square 80008
- Our third option is a framing square that comes with rafter tables. It is a 16 by 24-inch L-shaped tool that comes in handy in several projects. It boasts of several positive reviews that forecast its usability.
- Users have noted that this is a highly versatile product that comes in handy in several projects. It is commonly used in carpentry and framing projects as well as the laying of rafters and stairs. You can also easily create square and accurate dimensions for all your applications using this tool.
- Some of the notable features are its steel square profile and graduated scales, which help in easier visibility in different lighting conditions giving you the level of convenience you need in the ideal framing square.
- Depending on your intended purposes, you can use this as a straight edge or for finding and establishing the right angles. You can also cut off work on wide stock. Its black frame is made of solid steel, which offers you the level of wear-resistance and durability you need.
- This product also weighs 1.25 pounds, which is light enough for easier portability and usage.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
4. Mr. Pen Steel Carpenter’s Square (Best Value)
- This is one of the cheapest options on our list. We highly recommend this fantastic creation from Mr. Pen if you are shopping on a budget. You will get a black framing ruler upon purchase, whose shorter leg measures eight inches on the outside and 6.5 on the inside.
- The longer leg measures 12 inches outside and 11 inches inside. Users love that this ruler has imperial units on one side and 1/16 graduations and metric units on the other graduated in millimeters. This should help you quickly obtain readings since you can choose the scale you are conversant with.
- One of the most significant considerations that people need to make when buying a framing square or any other measuring instrument is its visibility. Luckily, this product has easy-to-read markings thanks to the bright white on black design.
- We should also mention that this is a highly versatile option. It serves several carpentry applications such as roofing, stair casing, and making layouts and patterns. You can also use it as a straight edge if you need to determine how flat a surface is.
- It has a high-quality R-ruler made of carbon steel, which makes it highly durable. The nature of the material also protects it against rusting, known for destroying metals. From the several positive reviews, many customers have observed that this product is highly accurate.
- From the look of things, this product offers more value than its cost.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
5. VINCA (Model SCLS-1208) Carpenter L Framing Square
- Our fifth option is an L-shaped 8-inch framing square from the VINCA store. With several positive reviews, this product is worth looking at. It is reasonably priced, which serves those shopping on a budget or intending to save some money.
- It has several features that will prove helpful during usage. First, it is pretty durable owing to the type of material used in its construction. This is a higher quality 1cr13 hardened steel that allows users to enjoy prolonged usage.
- For easier visibility and accuracy, this product comes with durable, punching, and press finished graduations. You will enjoy accurate measurements for as long as the product exists, eliminating the need a getting a new one.
- Users love the both-sides measurable design, which measures in inches. This helps obtain readings quickly when working on your projects. For enhanced durability, this item has a rust prevention treating finish. This is a good pick if you need a product that will serve you well in outdoor applications.
- Finally, this product is recommended for both DIY and professional use.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
6. Swanson (Model SVL123) 12-Inch Savage Builders Square
- With lots of positive ratings, this sixth recommendation comes off as a worthy option. However, it is pricier than most of the options on our list. It is crafted by Swanson, a renowned tool producer responsible for some of the best industrial tools in the market. Let us now dive into its features.
- This product has a premium construction, which assures consumers of durability. It boasts of an anodized aerospace aluminum frame that can withstand longer usage durations. Also, given that it is made of aluminum, this product is heavily lightweight for enhanced portability.
- Of all the positive reviews on the product page, its ease of reading stands out tall. This product has white etched gradations embedded on a highly visible orange finish that offers the level of contrast needed for effective scale reading in different light conditions.
- The gradations also make this option accurate. This is a well-made tool that comes at an affordable price.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7. Starrett (Model FS-24) Steel Framing Square
- Starrett is known for some of the best professional tools in the market. It has been around for decades, which is a testament to its reliability. However, note that most of its products are highly-priced owing to the quality producers get.
- When it comes to overall construction, Starrett does not miss. This product is not only aesthetically pleasing but also sturdy enough for heavy-duty usage. It has a one-piece tampered steel tongue which helps you obtain accurate readings.
- It also has a clear special coating that keeps off rust, making it a good option for outdoor applications. This also gives it an attractive finish in case you are a picky buyer. The 1/8’’ graduations on the face and back are pretty noticeable and support better readability.
- Even with these qualities, a look at the product’s customer review section on Amazon reveals not-so-happy buyers. Therefore, we urge that you take some time and go through it before buying it. This should help you make an informed purchase.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
8. Empire Level (Model e1190) Professional Framing Square
- Our third last option is a solid, well-labeled framing square from Empire Level. This is a professional framing square in case you intend to work on professional projects. Let us look at some of its features and ascertain whether it is worthy of the professional status.
- This product is highly visible, thanks to its deep stamped graduations, which are also long-lasting. You do not have to live in fear of them fading away, thus denying you the chance to make accurate measurements.
- Based on the manufacturers specifications, this product is made to last. It has an anodized aluminum rust-proof construction, making it suitable for outdoor and harsh-condition use. You do not want to lose your expensive framing square to rust, forcing you to make plans for another one abruptly.
- Out of all the recommendations, this is the only one that comes in different colors. The blue and black options are picked randomly during shipment. Both offer you the level of visibility you need when making readings, thanks to their anti-glare features.
- Owing to the material used in its construction, this product is light enough for portability and long-duration usage.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
9. Milwaukee MLSQ024 Framing Square
- Our list of recommendations could not have been complete without a Milwaukee product. This is one of the most trusted brands when it comes to general usage and specific tools. Therefore, it was pretty apparent that it would reserve a place on our list.
- Milwaukee maintains that this creation is more robust than steel, assuring consumers of high durability and value for money. Several users have observed that this is a highly versatile product that goes beyond ordinary woodworking.
- Its notable thicker frame also makes it more durable than most options in its category. It has scrubbing notches that allow you to rip lumber easily. For high visibility and easy readability, this product boasts of laser-etched markings. The multiple graduations further enhance this.
- One notable feature is its angle fighting capability that makes setting common angles easy. Despite the thick blade and heavy-like build, this product is pretty lightweight for extended usage and easier maneuverability.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
10. Mayes Level (Model 10222) 12-Inch Utility Steel Square
- Our last option is this reasonably priced incredible option from Mayes Bros. It has an array of features that customers find helpful in their day-to-day operations. A glance reveals a high-quality construction with an attractive coating.
- It is made of high-grade steel, which makes it durable and suitable for heavy and repeat applications. The black powder coating keeps off rust, allowing you to leave your framing square to outside elements.
- Mayes Bros made this product with a level of precision. It took care of storage by incorporating balanced hang holes, an area that most manufacturers ignore. It also used high-grade steel to ensure that it stays square for optimum usage.
- For better readability, this product has several graduations in 8ths, 16ths, 10ths, and 12ths. The markings are easily visible thanks to the white on black design and the anti-glare coating. Due to its size and overall construction, it can fit in the tightest of spaces. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty that Mayes Bros offers in its products.
- This tools manufacturers primary mission is to build the perfect tools for skilled professionals and to answer whether it achieved that with this model; the answer is yes.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Related reading: The Ultimate Best 10 Speed Squares Showdown | Reviews & Buying Guide
Video: Framing Square Pro Tips
Framing Square Buying guide
Even though we have covered some of the best framing squares to obtain in the market, we understand that you may have your preferences. Therefore, we want to ensure that you make an informed decision before spending your hard-earned cash.
This part of the article looks at some things you ought to consider before getting a framing square. Remember, several critical factors dictate the quality and usefulness of a product, and in this case, a tool.
Here are the features to look out for in a framing square:
Material of construction
Most framing squares are usually constructed using aluminum and steel. However, you still need to take some time and ascertain what the framing square is made of since it plays an essential role in the tool’s accuracy and sturdiness.
Your woodworking project will flow smoothly if you have a stable, sturdy framing square. Tools made of aluminum are lighter and easier to operate compared to those made of steel. Whereas this may sound enticing, tools made of steel also come with their fair share of advantages.
They are usually sturdier and more accurate than their aluminum counterparts. However, they get hot faster when exposed to sunlight for longer durations, hindering most outdoor work.
Intended purpose
One of the reasons why people love framing squares is because of their great versatility and functionality. Even with that, one must ask themselves the intended purpose of the framing square.
Whereas some models work best for woodworking projects, others come in handy during construction projects. Therefore, if you need a framing square for more delicate tasks, get yourself an option with several functionalities and all the features you need. This should guide you in every tool purchase you make.
Blade
The blade is by far an essential part of the framing square. Therefore, when buying one, make sure that it has the best edge. We advise that you keep off products with thin and soft blades as they are vulnerable to damages. Such tools also move out of place, which may make readings challenging.
We advise that you pick a product with a sturdy blade. This ensures that you will be comfortable while using the tool. Also, such blades stay in place while working on your project for high levels of accuracy.
Warranty
Does the manufacturer cover your product of choice? Most people overlook the product warranty under the belief that measurement tools do not need one. However, it plays a vital role in the overall usage of the product.
We advise that you settle on models which have lifetime or extended warranties. Note that most products lack this as manufacturers bank on the belief that it is not necessary. You need to be sure that the company will replace or repair the square if it is deformed or encounters any problem.
Note that products with extended warranty periods cost more than their counterparts.
Readability
How easily can you obtain the readings? This depends on the graduations and markings on your framing square. Ensure that these are easy to read and clear enough to give you an easy time obtaining readings.
Do not pick an option that will be hard to read during low light. Also, the graduations should be able to last throughout the lifecycle of the product. Your tool will be of no value if all these fade away after some time.
Therefore, make sure that you know how the framing square’s graduations and measurements are marked before spending your hard-earned cash on a framing square.
Inch divisions
Given that a framing square is a measurement tool, different models have their inches and sub-divisions. Therefore, we advise that you identify the different inch-divisions and subdivisions of the inch markings before picking on one. Ensure that you settle on something that you are well conversant with.
Informational tables
The framing square has necessary informational tables to help you measure delicate layouts. These offer an arithmetical guide needed for this role. We advise you to settle on one with an array of these tables to help you make accurate measurements.
If you are wondering where these are located, check the tongue of the tool, its front or back. Ensure that you look out for rafter tables, Essex board measurement tables, and a conversation table, converting inches to decimals and vice versa.
Measurement System
The last factors that you ought to look out for are the measurement system and scale range. Sadly, you will not find much information on the measurement systems when looking for the right tool. Different squares have different measuring and scale systems. The two standard scales are the octagonal and the square scale. The octagonal scale comes in handy when cutting an eight-sided figure.
Other features that you may need to consider are the brand and the money-back guarantee. However, we do not advise that you rely entirely on the brand if you are not a brandophile, as you may miss the chance to enjoy a quality, reasonably priced option from a lesser brand.
All in all, make sure that your purchase counts and you get all the features you need in a framing square.
Framing Squares Conclusion
There are many framing squares on the market today, and it can be challenging to choose which one is best for you. This article reviewed ten different framing squares to help you find the perfect one for your woodworking and project needs.
For those of us who are not carpenters or professionals in construction, these tools might seem confusing at first glance. But don’t worry! We are confident our product reviews and buyer’s guide will teach you everything there is to know about framing squares so that you can make an educated decision when deciding which one to buy.
Our Best Overall choice is the Johnson Level & Tool CS12 framing square offers stainless steel construction for durability, toughness, and strength. The frames are permanently etched with EZ Read graduations measuring 1/8″, 1/10″, 1/12″, and 1/16″. It also includes octagon scales, rafter tables, brace tables.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on: Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Best Value framing square we could find is the Mr. Pen Steel Carpenter’s Square which is an affordable framing ruler that is designed with a long leg and a shorter one to help with calculations; the 8-inch side of this L ruler measures outside at 8 inches and 6.5 inches inside, while the 12-inch side reflects 11inches outside and 11 inches inside. It’s made of carbon steel material for durability against rusting, so whatever you put it through, it will be as reliable as when it had first come out from its package. Its easy-to-read markings are bright white against a black background so that you won’t have any problem.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Here are some other articles you may like:
Best Basin Wrenches for the Money | Top 10 Reviews and Buyers Guide
Top 10 Combination Squares for Everyday Woodworking | Reviews & Buyers Guide
5 Best Woodworking Squares for the Money | Reviews & Buying Guide
Here are our favorite combination squares
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
Image Model Buy Walts Rating Top 
Irwin Tools Combination Square Click Here 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) 
Johnson Level & Tool Metal Combination Square Click Here 4.8 / 5 (Best Value) 
Starrett Combo Square Click Here 4.8 / 5 
Swanson Tool Co Speed Square Click Here 4.7 / 5 
WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Set Click Here 4.6 / 5 
DUEBEL Combination Square Click Here 4.1 / 5 
iGaging Combination Square Set Click Here 4.5 / 5 
TICOFTECH 12-inch Combo Square Click Here 4.4 / 5 
Brown & Sharpe Combination Square Click Here 4.2 / 5 
BEETRO Zinc Alloy Combination Square Ruler Click Here 4.6 / 5
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When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!
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