12 Innovative Ways to Use Your Starrett Combination Square for Precision Tasks

Ever wondered if that combination square sitting in your toolbox is just a simple right-angle checker? Think again. Stumpy Nubs, the woodworking guru behind the wildly popular YouTube channel, James Hamilton, is here to blow your mind with the untapped potential of this 150-year-old tool. By the end of this article, you’ll be questioning how you ever managed without these ingenious tips. Let’s dive in!

Why You Need to Know About Combination Squares

Combination squares have been around for almost 150 years, yet most woodworkers barely scratch the surface of their capabilities. Sure, you can use them to check a 90° angle, but did you know they can do so much more? Stumpy Nubs breaks it all down in his video, and we’re here to give you the full scoop. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, these tips will elevate your woodworking game.

Two Sizes, Twice the Power

Stumpy Nubs swears by two sizes: a 6-inch square for quick tasks and a 12-inch version for more complex jobs. The 6-inch fits snugly in your apron pocket, always within reach. The 12-inch, on the other hand, is your go-to for larger projects. The longer the rule, the easier it is to spot any deviations from squareness. So, which one do you currently have in your toolbox?

Beyond Right Angles

Yes, any tri-square can check a 90° angle, but only a combination square can handle the second most common angle in woodworking: 45°. Stumpy often removes the body from his 6 or 12-inch square to set up angles on his table saw, band saw, or jointer. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for angles. Ever thought about using your combination square this way?

Depth Gauge Extraordinaire

Need to measure the depth of a mortise or a slot for sliding dovetail joint? Your combination square has got you covered. It’s an excellent depth gauge that ensures your measurements are spot-on. Transfer those measurements to your router table, and you’re golden. Can your regular tape measure do that?

Machine Setup Made Easy

Setting up your table saw, jointer, or any other machine? Use your combination square to ensure blades and fences are square. Stumpy even uses it to set the height of bits and blades. Stand the rule on end, raise the bit until it touches the body, and voila! You’ve got a precise setup. Ever struggled with blade height adjustments? This tip is a game-changer.

Fine-Tuning Your Machines

To fine-tune your table saw, place the edge of the square’s body in a miter slot and extend the rule until it touches a tooth on the blade. This ensures the blade is parallel to the miter slot—a critical setting for any saw. You can also use this method to check if your fence is parallel to the slot. Don’t forget to ensure your jointer outfeed table is even with the apex of the cutters. Stumpy’s got it all covered.

Checking for Flatness

A good combination square has a rule that’s ground precisely straight. Use it to check a workpiece for flatness or even the sole of a plane. The clear, precise graduation marks on the scale are far more accurate for layout work than a measuring tape. Ever found yourself frustrated with inaccurate measurements? Switch to a combination square.

Drawing Lines Like a Pro

One of Stumpy’s favorite tricks is drawing lines parallel to an edge. Set the body to the mark on the scale, place a pencil on the end of the rule, and drag the body against the edge. This method also allows you to draw a line perpendicular to an end or edge that’s much longer than the length of your rule. Who needs a T-square when you’ve got a combination square?

Precision Positioning

Use the square’s head in conjunction with both the ends and edges of the rule to precisely position parts during project assembly. This ensures everything is square and even parallel to an edge. It’s like having an extra pair of hands in your workshop. Ever had to redo a project because of misaligned pieces? This tip will save your sanity.

Finding the Center

Need to find the center of a round object? Many combination squares come with a center-finding attachment. Even without it, you can still find the center by making a guess, checking from the opposite side, and then splitting the difference if the marks don’t match up. This method works on both round and square stock. Who knew finding the center could be so easy?

Measuring Any Angle

Some combination squares come equipped with a protractor, allowing you to measure and mark any angle, not just 90° and 45°. This feature opens up a whole new world of possibilities for your projects. Have you ever needed to measure an odd angle and didn’t know how? Now you do.

Hanging Picture Frames and Cabinets

Many combination squares also come with a small level. It’s perfect for smaller jobs like hanging picture frames and cabinets. Sure, it’s not for framing a house, but it’s ideal for those precise tasks that require a keen eye. Ever struggled to hang something straight? This feature is a lifesaver.

The Secret Scribe

Here’s a little-known feature: many combination squares have a tiny scribe hidden inside the head. Use it to scratch a line when a pencil isn’t available. It’s like having a secret weapon in your toolbox. Who would’ve thought?

Take Good Care of Your Square

Stumpy emphasizes the importance of taking good care of your combination square. A well-maintained square will serve you well for a lifetime. So, how do you currently care for your tools?

Final Thoughts

By now, you should see your combination square in a whole new light. It’s not just a simple tool—it’s a multi-functional powerhouse that can handle a myriad of tasks in your workshop. Stumpy Nubs has shown us how to maximize its potential, and we hope these tips will do the same for you. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your combination square and start exploring its full capabilities today!

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