Tool basics
Measuring & layout
Browse the tool types in this family. Open an available guide or see what is coming next.
Generic family illustration
Available guides
Combination Square Guide
Understand the purpose, selection considerations and limits of a combination square.
Read the basicsSteel ruler Guide
Understand the purpose, selection considerations and limits of a steel ruler.
Read the basicsTape Measure
Get to know blade markings, hook movement, retraction control, and the measuring habits that support consistent layout.
Read the basicsMore tool types
Guides in preparation
- Folding ruleGuide in preparation
- Speed squareGuide in preparation
- Framing squareGuide in preparation
- Try squareGuide in preparation
- Spirit levelGuide in preparation
- Laser levelGuide in preparation
- Laser distance meterGuide in preparation
- CalipersGuide in preparation
- MicrometerGuide in preparation
- Marking gaugeGuide in preparation
- Sliding bevelGuide in preparation
- ProtractorGuide in preparation
- Chalk lineGuide in preparation
- Plumb bobGuide in preparation
- Marking knifeGuide in preparation
- Carpenter pencilGuide in preparation
Illustrations are schematic, unbranded depictions; designs and variants differ. Tool basics explain the type of tool. For a particular model, check its instructions and specifications. About our guides.