What Are Try Squares Used For

What Are Try Squares Used For? A Comprehensive Guide

Try squares, often overlooked in the average toolbox, are precision instruments crucial for accurate woodworking and metalworking. Understanding their uses can significantly improve the quality and efficiency of your projects. This article will explore the various applications of try squares, from simple checks to intricate alignments, helping you appreciate their versatility.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about try squares, including their types, how to use them, and their importance in various crafting disciplines. We'll delve into specific applications and troubleshooting tips to maximize their effectiveness.

What is a Try Square?

A try square is a simple hand tool consisting of a blade (typically made of hardened steel) and a stock (usually made of wood or metal), joined at a precise 90-degree angle. This right angle is the key to its functionality, allowing for accurate marking and checking of squareness in materials. Unlike speed squares, which offer multiple angles, the try square's strength lies in its single, perfect 90-degree reference point.

Types of Try Squares

Several types of try squares cater to different needs and preferences:

• Wooden Try Squares: These are often preferred for their durability and the ability to grip workpieces without marring the surface. They are also typically more affordable.
• Metal Try Squares: Metal try squares, usually made of steel or aluminum, are more durable and precise, especially for heavy-duty work or frequent use. They are less prone to wear and tear.
• Combination Squares: While not strictly try squares, combination squares incorporate a try square function along with other measurement tools, offering versatility in a single tool.

Key Applications of Try Squares:

Try squares are indispensable for a wide range of tasks, including:

• Checking Squareness: This is the primary function. It verifies whether a workpiece, such as a piece of lumber or a metal plate, is perfectly square. This is vital in ensuring that joints and connections are accurate and strong.
• Marking Square Lines: The try square allows for precise marking of lines perpendicular to an edge, essential for accurate cutting, drilling, and shaping.
• Setting up Joiners: Use a try square to ensure that the fence and table of a jointer are perfectly aligned for a smooth, accurate cut.
• Aligning Workpieces: This is crucial in tasks like setting up accurate miter joints or ensuring that components are perfectly square before gluing or assembling.
• Checking Tenons and Mortises: Ensuring the precise fit of tenons and mortises, common in woodworking, requires accurate squareness checks using a try square.
• Laying Out Accurate Angles: Though primarily used for 90-degree angles, a try square can be used in conjunction with other tools to help lay out precise angles for complex cuts.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

• Blade Alignment: Regularly check the blade for alignment with the stock. If it's not perfectly square, it will render your measurements inaccurate.
• Blade Sharpness: A sharp blade ensures crisp, clean marking lines. Sharpen the blade as needed to maintain accuracy.
• Stock Condition: Keep the stock clean and free from damage to ensure a good working surface.

Conclusion

The try square, despite its simplicity, remains an essential tool for any woodworker, metalworker, or anyone involved in precise construction or crafting. Its ability to ensure accuracy is crucial in achieving high-quality results and avoiding costly mistakes. Understanding its various applications and proper maintenance will significantly improve your work and ensure the longevity of this valuable tool. Mastering the use of a try square is a fundamental step in achieving precision and excellence in your craft.