I'm in the market for a toolbelt that isn't too bulky, but I know that going smaller means fewer pockets and less capacity. If you could only pick one square to keep in your toolbelt, would you go for a 7" speed square or a 4.5" trim square, considering both options have a built-in bubble level? I've heard many professionals favor the 4.5" square, but I'm curious how that perspective holds up for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and handymen who tackle various tasks, in contrast to framers or finish carpenters. Thanks for sharing your insights!
3 Answers
It's not really a straight choice between the two; they serve different purposes. I use my 4.5" square way more often, but I wouldn't give up my 7" square. If your goal is to reduce what you carry, go with the 4.5", especially if it's all you can fit in your new belt. Just keep the 7" for times when you really need it!
Considering your budget, you can find decent speed squares pretty reasonably at places like Harbor Freight. For indoor projects, the smaller 4.5" square gets a lot of use, but when I start working on decks, I definitely grab my larger square more often.
I actually recommend getting a combination square—those 15" ones can be super versatile. They can cover a lot of different tasks depending on what you're working on, so they might be worth considering if you have the space.
Totally agree! I already have a 7" square too, but I’m specifically looking for a smaller toolbelt that only holds a 4.5" square. I’ve never used one before, though, so I’m just wondering if I can manage with the 4.5" for most home tasks without constantly running back to grab my larger square.