A try square has a stock and a blade fixed at right angles. It is used to mark or check lines and surfaces intended to meet at 90 degrees.
What to compare
- Check blade length, handle construction and markings. Try‑square designs differ; select a blade that reaches the part of the work you need to check.
Additional angles
- Some try-and-miter squares include a 45‑degree checking face, but you should not assume that a standard try square has this feature.
Reading scales
- Some try squares combine inch, millimeter and centimeter markings. Identify the scale being read instead of mixing different units along a layout line.
When another tool helps
- When you need to copy an angle that is not a right angle, a sliding bevel can be used as an adjustable alternative. Unlike a try square, which is fixed at 90 degrees, a sliding bevel holds the chosen angle for transfer.
Sources & further reading
These links document the information used in this article. Manufacturer specifications and source research are not hands-on test results or an endorsement of a purchase.
- Reference 1
Reference checked 2026-10-30 - Reference 2
Reference checked 2026-10-30 - Reference 3
Reference checked 2026-10-30