How to use a speed square | Why it might be the most important tool you own

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 ต.ค. 2024
  • Don’t just pretend you know how to use your speed square... really learn how to use it and build awesome stuff! This unassuming tool can do at least a dozen things if you know how to use it. Take it to tutorial trom master builder Erik Perkins has he explains some of the common and not so common uses for a speed square. Once you know how to use this thing correctly you can cut rafters, birds mouth cuts, measure degrees, and even use it as a notepad :-). Once you know the basics of the common and hip/valley scales, you will be able to cut rafters like a pro! #roof #framing #explained
    Check out our online store!
    You'll get cool merch and our kids will get to eat.
    teespring.com/...
    Irwin speed sq: amzn.to/2mD3TA2
    Swanson speed sq: amzn.to/2myJU5j
    #ad: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

ความคิดเห็น • 2.5K

  • @jamesparish2937
    @jamesparish2937 2 ปีที่แล้ว +355

    You may not realize how mind-bogglingly informative this was. For those who know, great. But for me, I was stunned by the tons of genius built into this tool!

    • @nbasavages3566
      @nbasavages3566 2 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Lol ya my dad works in construction and I work for him! When I started out I said the same thing 😂 lol

    • @thorgomez1625
      @thorgomez1625 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      That's too funny!!! 🤣🤣🤣

    • @kylewilliams6090
      @kylewilliams6090 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

    • @acaughey09
      @acaughey09 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      It really is pretty amazing, and most of these guys didn't really do well in geometry, they learned it on the job with practice and real world experience

    • @jamesparish2937
      @jamesparish2937 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@acaughey09 I remember having one when I was younger and thought, "what on God's green earth could I possibly do with this contraption". Got rid of it along with a bunch of other stuff that now, many years later, I would like to have back.

  • @fernandchristiaens5349
    @fernandchristiaens5349 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +244

    Thank you for your kind words about this product. th-cam.com/users/postUgkxgmlSSlIRNE_C2UjNrRD8KfUXsZIM7WNF I'm pleased to hear that you have found the plans to be informative and helpful. This product aims to provide you with a variety of shed designs and styles, each with a clear picture and a detailed diagram. You can easily visualize and build your own shed, or get inspired by the different options available. I hope you enjoy your shed building experience with this product. blush

  • @Foomba
    @Foomba 5 ปีที่แล้ว +840

    I spray painted mine with orange paint and immediately wiped it off. Left a nice orange paint fill in the numbers and made them easier to read.

    • @clarkeugene5727
      @clarkeugene5727 5 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Thanks for the insight. I will do the same, but gotta go with green paint on mine.

    • @tomsenft7434
      @tomsenft7434 5 ปีที่แล้ว +83

      Also you can keep other Carpenters from steeling your square.

    • @trapavisionfilmz
      @trapavisionfilmz 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Good idea

    • @robertbeirne9813
      @robertbeirne9813 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Clark Eugene I see what you did there. 🇨🇮

    • @BädelAndre
      @BädelAndre 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      I used a hacksaw and fine file to cut 1/4 deep lines down the inch marks and 1/8th marks down the 1/2, the rest, I just slightly passed a thin hacksaw blade down the rest.
      The grooves help keep the tip of the pencils from wandering off down into a crack and around a knot.

  • @HerrenGamingNews
    @HerrenGamingNews 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you so much! I'm a 1st year Carpenter and now I know how to use my speed sqaure!

  • @newgeneration3496
    @newgeneration3496 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I watch these vids even tho Iv been a carpenter for 25yrs, you always can pic up new tricks or be reminded of forgotten ones👍🏻

  • @timdouglass6491
    @timdouglass6491 4 ปีที่แล้ว +399

    As a 70 year young carpenter. The speed square wasn't around when I started. Everybody carried a Tri-square. Thank you for your well made short straight to the point very helpful videos. I wish You Tube was around when I started.

    • @hardboiled7774
      @hardboiled7774 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      I have a speed square from my grand father dated from 1937. So it might have not been a nation wide thing, but reading off Swanson Tool Company, Inc website says it was around since 1924. Also wish youtube was around even 10 years ago lol, I had to learn the hard way or figure it out 100% of the time. But thats what makes a good carpenter anyways, figuring out problems yourself and solving them with out getting the answers. also opens up new ways in getting the job done.

    • @marshallferron
      @marshallferron 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@hardboiled7774 TH-cam has been around for 15 years.

    • @hardboiled7774
      @hardboiled7774 4 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      @@marshallferron Yes I know, but there weren't very many, if any informational videos 15 - 12 years ago, maybe they trickled in around 2008 - 2009 though, but nothing compared to the last 3 years when it comes to trade-craft and skill based videos.

    • @mikeking7470
      @mikeking7470 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @C life 403 Is that the big Johnson or the little Johnson?

    • @user-nu3vc9xd7o
      @user-nu3vc9xd7o 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@mikeking7470 the old long Johnson

  • @NobleNobbler
    @NobleNobbler 5 ปีที่แล้ว +373

    Thanks for just busting through the basics and not spending time talking about garbage

    • @dirtbikedementia9369
      @dirtbikedementia9369 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Roodoeowoossisisiissisiisisiisisoosoiooioiiiooodooeowo90wp0111900100qq0qpopqqoqoookw. Eksjhhjjjsjsjkskksksoowowoeooo1oq9owooeoeooowoowiwiooal0aaa00qoao
      878w9wonhs CBbBBVAQ+KWIWIIOKakjjskjqwjsoi1iaoqi1ihhhqhhahajjaauqjqujaajajwiiiooosoiwjwhwhwhwwiw88isi r15 kkkwwkakKKkzjwjw×+kwjjiiiqiiaiaiaueiiaiqquuui18iqi1wiwiiww8wowomwmskalalallajuiuulwppqp0089qo99uuuiiwii1i1i1

    • @johnlamb95
      @johnlamb95 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      DirtBikeDementia ha ha ha

    • @NobleNobbler
      @NobleNobbler 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@dirtbikedementia9369 omfg garbage !!!

    • @seanmahan9157
      @seanmahan9157 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@dirtbikedementia9369 HhHHkLkHjKKkhHjllLjHh. Wkellwoollllo&/‘anannnnabd
      1$$&@@1126272&1&12$3!3!’wqllllallskfje. W
      ...?.!...?.!.....?..)).).).).?/?22-?-?-?-?.?!!
      !&&/$$/&&/)(2&&2&/&&2@@/@@1@2@:&&/&!$3&&//$$3!
      HHHjKhJkHHHhKkHjHHhkK

    • @gmanchurch
      @gmanchurch 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Amen to that brother!

  • @thomasmanuel1136
    @thomasmanuel1136 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1975

    My uncle once told my cousin to go get me that square , cousin said you ain’t tricking me that’s a triangle 😂

    • @johnlecorchick2039
      @johnlecorchick2039 5 ปีที่แล้ว +70

      has he ever asked your cousin to grab the board stretcher? cuz prolly too slick for that one...

    • @EO-McLoud
      @EO-McLoud 5 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      @@johnlecorchick2039 I'd love to have a bucket of corner mortar.

    • @brandonfrancey5592
      @brandonfrancey5592 5 ปีที่แล้ว +77

      @@johnlecorchick2039 I've cut this board 3 times and it's still too short.

    • @johnfoge1742
      @johnfoge1742 5 ปีที่แล้ว +31

      Go get me a box of toe nails.

    • @EO-McLoud
      @EO-McLoud 5 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      @@johnfoge1742 i think you'll find that right next to the sledgehammer grease. :)

  • @SuperAngelles
    @SuperAngelles 4 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    Hey this is a very very good vid. Im prior service Army Combat Engineer. In Advanced training they never touch on using a speed square, yet in our varing missions we were often tasked with temp building build outs when tents would not sufice. This was back in the 1980s and early 1990s when I served. Prefabed buildings were not a thing then like they are now. And I was lucky enough to have had a sergeant when I was a lower ranker enlisted that had serious construction knowledge. One of the many things he vehamitly insisted that we knewing was to 100% know how to incorporate the use of a speed square. The other was knowing by heart the various basic demolition calculations for various applications.
    Seeing this video was great and This retired Army Vet 100% approves this informative video. This young man kbows very eell what he isxtalking about 👍

  • @portugezemonster
    @portugezemonster วันที่ผ่านมา

    This sets a benchmark for informative videos. Get right into it, no BS intro or videos of you drinking coffee or jabbering away, packed full of info. Thank you.

  • @druid799
    @druid799 4 ปีที่แล้ว +141

    “I’m not worthy !” Been using one for years , didn’t know even a quarter of the shit you can do with it ! You are a star !!!!!

    • @gfoursux9
      @gfoursux9 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dig that. i didn't know as much as you.

    • @robertbeirne9813
      @robertbeirne9813 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      druid799 don’t feel bad, unless you’re framing roofs, you’ll never use all of its features.

    • @GeorgieCt
      @GeorgieCt 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Robert Beirne ahh not all true. Still need angles for allot of other things. Or if you gotta cut an angle you can just get the pitch and then put it on another board. But you’re right when it comes to rafters, those are a need to know. I started out framing new construction so learned that pretty quick but i guess since I knke that’s maybe why I use them for more things. Also stairs as well but typically use a 2’square for those. Crown molding too if the angles aren’t perfect 22.5, 45 degree angles also.

    • @MegaFunnyman86
      @MegaFunnyman86 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      😂 I really hope you are not a carpenter then

    • @robertbeirne9813
      @robertbeirne9813 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Terry Priestley I’m not a carpenter, but i do some carpentry and I do use a speed square. I’ve not had to calculate bird mouths on a rafter.

  • @alexandergrahamcracker5581
    @alexandergrahamcracker5581 3 ปีที่แล้ว +43

    I just recently got into woodworking/ carpentry. I knew the speed square was important and bought a good one..... only to find out in this video how much I was missing. Thanks

  • @rickhinojosa5455
    @rickhinojosa5455 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I was a handyman for twenty years and NEVER thought to use the speed square as guide for my circular saw!! What can I say? I taught myself all i knew and did pretty good. Never had a single problem with the work i did. All happy customers. But using that speed square as a circular saw guise would have helped me a lot! Great video! Thank you!🙏

  • @jackfrost3588
    @jackfrost3588 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've been building a upcycled room 2m by 2m I don't have any experience building everything I've learned has been from TH-cam by far your video has helped me the most

  • @12thDecember
    @12thDecember 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I'll be building a tool shed next year, and I'm learning ahead of time so I'll be ready in the spring. Info like this is priceless, thank you!

  • @ericbengtson3490
    @ericbengtson3490 4 ปีที่แล้ว +403

    You forgot scraping ice and snow off your lumber in the winter

    • @0thers1d3
      @0thers1d3 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      😂😂

    • @Framer_Mike
      @Framer_Mike 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Just scraping off foundation before squaring and snapping.. lol

    • @ericbengtson3490
      @ericbengtson3490 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@Framer_Mike nice!

    • @maertsaidaem2106
      @maertsaidaem2106 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      or sometimes mud in the spring.

    • @ericbengtson3490
      @ericbengtson3490 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@maertsaidaem2106 indeed we do!

  • @nathansharp3193
    @nathansharp3193 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Good video. I have a tip for you that you may already know. Peel the label off your tape measure and sand the plastic with some fine sandpaper. Write your measurements on your tape and erase them with your sweaty thumb. The fine sandpaper is the key - it holds the pencil markings until you actually try to rub them off, but if you go too coarse the marks are difficult to remove.

  • @thefireball2004
    @thefireball2004 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    This guy rocks. He’s the Cliff Notes of the instruction manual! I’m a metal fabrication guy. Custom bumpers, heavy farming equipment, one off tools because you can’t buy them, etc... The speed square applies as well to my craft. I honestly keep three to four laying on the fab table at any given time. Thanks for doing our homework for us buddy!

  • @sheenascott5405
    @sheenascott5405 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank yoooouuuu!! I bought a speed square over a week ago as im waiting on my drill and saw before I start trying out all these beginnner projects. I didn't know that it could do so many things. Thank you so much for this. I'm saving this video and I'm very sure it will come in handy!

  • @jkrohmer60
    @jkrohmer60 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    I like the speed square so much I got the larger one. I've been a carpenter for 42 years and have used the speed square to do cut roofs, including hip roofs, for my entire career. I started in production framing and had no time to make a second line during layout. Everybody understood the stud goes on the X side of the line. At openings, S is for stud and C is for cripple.

    • @dennisclay9103
      @dennisclay9103 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Me too

    • @freeradical431
      @freeradical431 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Not S for stud, K for king stud on the header, T for trimmer under the header, and C is for cripple, they hold up the sill. An adjustable speed square is your best friend on the roof!

    • @michaelgarrow3239
      @michaelgarrow3239 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Free Radical - I think it’s a east coast- west coast thing.

    • @freeradical431
      @freeradical431 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@michaelgarrow3239 so is holding headers down! lol

    • @michaelgarrow3239
      @michaelgarrow3239 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Free Radical - I’m guessing your out west?

  • @michaellawless3538
    @michaellawless3538 5 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    He actually drew a 50 degree angle in relation to the edge of the board. It was 40 degrees from a line drawn perpendicular to the length of the board. Still a great video. Learned a lot even though I use one almost every day.

    • @kymana01
      @kymana01 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I don’t understand can you explain a little better it looks like 40 degrees. Thank you

    • @Ruslan-S
      @Ruslan-S 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@kymana01 At 3:08 imagine him aligning the speed square with the 10 degree mark instead, and you'll see what these 10 degrees will be in relation to. Definitely not to the board, as the line will be almost perpendicular to the board. Only 10 degrees off the actual perpendicular line (that's not drawn). That's what these degrees are in relation to - the line perpendicular to the length of the board.

    • @thrashercharged
      @thrashercharged 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@Ruslan-S I see what you mean! So these marks are actually degrees from the (imaginary) line perpendicular to the board edges (let's call them X degs). So 90-X degs= degree angles relative to the board edges. Since the line he drew was 40 degs from a perpendicular line) that line would actually be 50 (90 minus 40) degs relative to the board edges. Thanks for the explanation!

    • @vonwilson668
      @vonwilson668 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ruslan-S can you explain the 10/12 he was talking about? I get he had it on the 10 degree mark but where and why did the 12 come into it? 12 what?

    • @Ruslan-S
      @Ruslan-S 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@vonwilson668 that's for a common rafter cut for a roof pitch of 10 inches vertically to 12 inches horizontally. 12/12 would be 45 degree roof, so 10/12 is around 40 degrees and 6/12 is around 25 degrees relative to the ground. See Roof pitch calculator online. Not sure why 12 is a common denominator in the US but likely traditional, because there's 12 inches in a foot, and also 12 divides well.

  • @secretwoodproject
    @secretwoodproject ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Being new to woodworking I have learned so much from this video and it has been really helping a lot in the shop. Thank you for doing this.

  • @davida1679
    @davida1679 4 ปีที่แล้ว +260

    The 3/16” thickness of the speed square is also a good way to space the next top board when building decks

    • @chrisreynolds2410
      @chrisreynolds2410 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      It sure is.........if you suck at life.....go right ahead

    • @codycregger229
      @codycregger229 3 ปีที่แล้ว +45

      Maybe on composites, I’d just treated I always lay them tight because they’ll shrink a 1/4 within a few weeks, anybody else

    • @AaronWanamaker91
      @AaronWanamaker91 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Using it to space decking is one way I’ve used mine more often. That’s mainly because I haven’t had much practice with layout/cutting yet. I’m hoping to get into carpentry soon (framing specifically). And have been trying to learn the skills I need while I look for a job. Videos like this help me a lot more than reading a book.
      Thanks for posting!

    • @richardbuttkiss1091
      @richardbuttkiss1091 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      They will shrink so no gaps is the way to do it

    • @michaeldorse8023
      @michaeldorse8023 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I would always place a nail between them before I nail it to give it just a tiny about of space but the guy is right about it shrinking. The salt water in the treated wood drys out within a few days then it's water seal time. I miss doing carpenter work. It's a trade that not all men can do.

  • @duaneross9271
    @duaneross9271 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Whoever invented the speed square,sure did the world lot's of favors,my time involved,and ease of use.

  • @mjac8373
    @mjac8373 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is my first video. I'm 72 was a framer at 19. Speed square wasn't invented yet. So I'm checking off all the other tools in the belt, red bull wasn't invented yet but we had coffee all day long. then the HOT SAUCE?? You guys are nuts. and I'm gonna try to follow how to use the Speed Square cause I got one in my shop! Love the energy of your presentation.

  • @colejohnson1960
    @colejohnson1960 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I remember trying to make sense of the instructions when I purchased my speed square whereby it became a straight edge. Now at least I have a clue as to what all those numbers stamped on the thing are for. Now we will see if I am smart enough to put some of this info to use. Thanks for the great vid.

  • @Sam_splatter
    @Sam_splatter 4 ปีที่แล้ว +396

    “This is my spare in case something happens to this one”.
    *Instantly throws good square like a ninja star into ground*

    • @JohnDoe-jc3cl
      @JohnDoe-jc3cl 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Sam Splatter - Right! I noticed that too!

    • @birdinandshroomin
      @birdinandshroomin 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      and then the mud was cake on the thing for the rest of the vid. fuck me

    • @MrStaygolddg1
      @MrStaygolddg1 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Yes definitely not square after that!! 😂 😂 this guy

    • @engelbertcabenian5605
      @engelbertcabenian5605 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      "..(just) in case.."

  • @HayabusaRydr
    @HayabusaRydr 3 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Just a quick correction. When you marked the 40 degree line (3:00), you mentioned it was in reference to the base of the board (3:11) but in fact it is in reference to the perpendicular to the base of the board. Notice when you set the square at 0 degrees that is the reference point in which the angle is coming off of. Then rotate to desired angle and that is the angle between the starting point and finish point.
    Otherwise great video

  • @bigjeff7877
    @bigjeff7877 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’m a union carpenter in the United brotherhood where we do more industrial and commercial, I grew up doing residential construction from 8 years old as a gopher for my grandpa!! You’re video just “learned me a lot” about the other functions… I didn’t know how to use the top cuts!!! Lol but we do mostly metal stud framing and my older years framing in my 20’s were all production houses so no need to know all that stuff it’s a puzzle kit basically on a slab!! I really enjoyed learning something new

  • @oldscrubgamer1853
    @oldscrubgamer1853 5 ปีที่แล้ว +336

    As a drywaller, I can confirm that this video is necessary. All framers should watch this lol.

    • @fuckgoogleandyou8779
      @fuckgoogleandyou8779 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      OldScrubGamer hahahaha

    • @badboyvids1
      @badboyvids1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +66

      im a finish carpenter and you drywallers should watch some videos. lol

    • @drfixit1554
      @drfixit1554 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Yeah! I've run into some framing situations during remodels, (mainly in condos) that leave me like !WTF! I couldn't frame this bad if I tried. So........keep shimming lol.

    • @oldscrubgamer1853
      @oldscrubgamer1853 5 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      @@badboyvids1 the drywall follows the wall... not sure what you're insinuating here. I can't imagine a taper so bad that it interfered with the finish carpenter. There are alot of DIY guys that try to pretend at being in the trades though... so I guess it's possible. I saw a guy do butt joints with just a hawk once. No trowel... just a hawk.

    • @badboyvids1
      @badboyvids1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@oldscrubgamer1853 true to a point however drywallers love to float the walls to make them look straight. just saying no need for anger issues. There was a lol after my comment

  • @justinschmitz4714
    @justinschmitz4714 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I used mine to help move, clear and level dirt under an outdoor step I was replacing at my father in laws. It worked beautifully!

  • @scottsaylordoesmortgages
    @scottsaylordoesmortgages 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Damm man, I’m 46 years old and you taught me more in 7 min than all my years of hacking up my rentals!😂😂😂💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

  • @ToniLovesSkateboarding
    @ToniLovesSkateboarding 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    i was building some skate ramps for the garage today and pulled my square. once I learned about the angles and some of the other uses it was game over!!!! made it so much faster. the level is my fav tool but today, the Speed Square moved up in rank a lot!

  • @TheSnekkerShow
    @TheSnekkerShow 5 ปีที่แล้ว +73

    Great video. They're also handy for ensuring your sawblades are squared to the tool.

    • @PerkinsBuilderBrothers
      @PerkinsBuilderBrothers  5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      The Snekker Show yes they are.. I have a video coming up about that

    • @mansardmanor3869
      @mansardmanor3869 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Well not that square after he throws it.

    • @paddymack3224
      @paddymack3224 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s what I use em for too

  • @shagintoo
    @shagintoo 5 ปีที่แล้ว +62

    I got lost out in the woods one time but thankfully I just happened to have my speed square with me and navigated my way out. Life saver believe me.

    • @matttradie1341
      @matttradie1341 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      shagintoo ooohhh did you have the Bear Grylls certified one???

    • @10lhskater
      @10lhskater 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Lmfao!

    • @Gabriel-x2y
      @Gabriel-x2y 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Well its got degree on it and if you have a watch.. you can navigate with degree minute. One of the first thing you learn in the army bud.

    • @PaddyInf
      @PaddyInf 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      If you had your hot sauce you'd never have gotten list in the first place.

  • @glennhighcoveexploresstuff
    @glennhighcoveexploresstuff 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    That was a heck of a demo. You sold me, I'm buying one asap and I don't even need it right away. That was an excellent lesson, well-shot and edited.

  • @georgechubbs6992
    @georgechubbs6992 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just watched 3 other videos on how to use a speed square. Yours was shortest but most informative. 👍

  • @raypreseau5360
    @raypreseau5360 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I just want you to know how much your video helped me. I was able to build perfect rafters on my addition. Im an amateur caprenter, but im one major step ahead because i can properly read a speed square, as opposed to using as nothing more than a straight edge to get a line.

  • @lauraweiss7875
    @lauraweiss7875 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I own one of the original Speed Square prototypes, handed down to my husband from his grandfather (via his dad), who knew and worked alongside Al Swanson on the south side of Chi-town. Thanks for your upload!

    • @livinglies167
      @livinglies167 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Laura Weiss wanna sell it

    • @ericlietz5594
      @ericlietz5594 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I grew up with his grandson in Oak Lawn, Illinois. He made his first ones in his basement and sold them on the jobsite.

    • @lauraweiss7875
      @lauraweiss7875 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      j g , no thanks. Passing it down to one of my kids.

    • @gaylehiner9511
      @gaylehiner9511 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@lauraweiss7875 do you have a picture of it, thanks

  • @ruuubarbski
    @ruuubarbski 5 ปีที่แล้ว +106

    This is great, I've had one for years and never knew most of what you just explained.

    • @katedaphne4495
      @katedaphne4495 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Lmao.

    • @AusWorkshop
      @AusWorkshop 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same, and I probably won't remember this anyway, plus I can't stand working in inches so it all just went over my head. If the world was imperial things like this would be useful. Instead it's yet another tool stuck in the dark ages and should have gone metric by now.

    • @psidvicious
      @psidvicious 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @ Andrew Wilkerson - They don’t make metric speed squares?? Somebody’s missing the boat! Just send residual earnings checks to my TH-cam address.
      🤜🤛

    • @AusWorkshop
      @AusWorkshop 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@psidvicious it's to do with quantity, mass produced in China. We end up with all the cheap American designed imperial tools even if there are metric equivalents out there hiding away in some hardware store in Germany. No one imports them to Australia because imperial is far cheaper and produced by the millions. We are taught metric at a young age then spend our lives frustrated with imperial crap.

    • @psidvicious
      @psidvicious 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @ Andrew Wilkerson - That is so interesting to me! So in AUS, you buy an imperial marked speed square (made in China) and use it in a metric society and, I’m guessing you chisel out your own marks on it to suit your metric needs? That makes me want to laugh and ‘cry’ all at the same time, if I’m understanding you right. Mate! 😂😢
      🤜🤛

  • @Khananyahu
    @Khananyahu 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Shalum
    The only thing you missed is the use of the degrees side of the square... For example if you are making a back cut(this is were an angled board is setting on another angled board... ie facia on a common rafter). Now your square becomes a calculator... Every angle derives from a 90° right angle so if the rafter pitch is on a 10 common which is equivalent to a 40° angle you would subtract 40° from 90°=50° on a back cut. Great video thanks

  • @davidf9630
    @davidf9630 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks man ! I’m getting ready to build my backyard shed and you just made it a WHOLE LOT EASIER! Cheers
    CMF

  • @sporttracnation9359
    @sporttracnation9359 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    As an electrician we don’t really use a speed square. So I don’t have very much experience with that and I always wondered how to properly use a speet square. I am only 20 years old with four years in the electrical field so this is still very new to me to certain point of the construction scenario. Watching this video has really given me a lot of knowledge and it is a great informational video how to use the speed square thank you very much.

    • @KJ110813
      @KJ110813 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Focus on learning how to use a broom first.

  • @timlecount8690
    @timlecount8690 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Great speed square advice! One practice that I found to keep your fingers farther out of the way when you’re using a Skillsaw, is put the edge of the speed square on the bottom instead of the top like you had it. Keeps your fingers where you can see them easier:)

    • @buckethead1928
      @buckethead1928 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The reason you put it the way he did is because the saw will catch it the other way, plus as you push the saw the square can move more easily away from the board making it out of square cut.

  • @KJ110813
    @KJ110813 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    3/16" thickness... THANKS! Been doing craftsman style finish work lately with 3/16" reveals for doors and windows and using a combination square to mark (or 3/16" block cut from drop until it gets lost in the depths of my pouch). Realizing I can just use my speed square should produce some pretty noticeable increases in efficiency.

    • @Youtubsucks5
      @Youtubsucks5 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      A 16 penny nail works just as good

  • @brooksbrooks6805
    @brooksbrooks6805 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I learned how to use one in my high school woodshop class, we used it everyday. Then a year later at university, one of my friends hot me a standard swanson speed square which was one of my FIRST tools I ever owned and I now have a full shop of almost every tool I will ever need and I STILL use the same square every time im working in my shop 👍

    • @nbasavages3566
      @nbasavages3566 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Lol I learned how at 4 years old

    • @nbasavages3566
      @nbasavages3566 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Not even kidding

    • @nbasavages3566
      @nbasavages3566 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We lived on a farm and I helped my dad build a shed,clubhouse,our house, and fencing for our animals

  • @lorollinls
    @lorollinls 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is hands down the best speed square vid on TH-cam!

  • @Potrvlb
    @Potrvlb 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Been several years since I last watched this. Just as exciting and fun to watch as first time as you do such excellent work. I actually learn and no better way than to watch a guy who is like myself and who appreciates well made, very handsome very practical tools. Excellent video, friend.
    Victor from Gresham, Oregon USA 🤩🙌

  • @akrocuba
    @akrocuba 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I also have used my speed square as a straight edge for small concrete projects like sealing holes in concrete walls
    Great vid!

  • @snwlcke3
    @snwlcke3 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Good information, straight and to the point. But it's still better to use a framing square for rafters since the extra length allows you to mark the drop and width of your rafter tail easier. Not to mention they have the step down for common pitch roof hips on them. Do a video on them

  • @Ljaysauz
    @Ljaysauz 4 ปีที่แล้ว +202

    I have no idea why this video was recommended to me (i'm the furthest thing from carpenter) but god damn was it fascinating anyways

    • @MegaFunnyman86
      @MegaFunnyman86 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      The furthest thing from a carpenter? A peace of wood?

    • @chrisreynolds2410
      @chrisreynolds2410 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      A lot of guys that call themselves carpenters are not carpenters either....so no harm
      Matter of fact you are now more educated about how to use a square than probably 95% of “carpenters”

    • @dudeistpriest1
      @dudeistpriest1 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I just bought a miter saw and got this

    • @Bob-bm6fn
      @Bob-bm6fn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Cursing necessary?

    • @MrBaconwhopper
      @MrBaconwhopper 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm in that same department 😂

  • @T.E.P.
    @T.E.P. 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hello from Friday, August 27, 2021. this video has 3,060,898 views and 324k subscribers. We all know by now Erik found the speed squares in the construction belts of his friends and company. Very thorough vid on the mysteries of the Speed Square!

    • @T.E.P..
      @T.E.P.. ปีที่แล้ว

      HI you! It's me YOU!. Hello from Friday, November 4, 2022 and over 600k subs in one year!!!

  • @chatao007
    @chatao007 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I've just started my capertender course and I realized that Im wasting my money. I think I will send this video to the School's Office to showing then ( mainly to my impatience teacher) how to teach / explain smth !!! Thank you !! I've already addicted to your videos !!

  • @alexrod714
    @alexrod714 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This video was very informative and simply very very helpful to me. Thank you for sharing it with us all.

  • @bigger680
    @bigger680 5 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Great video here is a few more tip's. To figure out what the pitch is to an existing rafter set your pivot end on top of the rafter take your torpedo place on top of square and raise square until level then you'll have your common rafter cut. The other is to teach them how to do a long cut for a valley rafter lay on. Lastly explain how to get the bevel degree for your saw using the numbers off your speed square for said valley rafter long cut, you can also use the pivot on your speed square plus your chalk line to form a plumb bob. I'm the cut guy on our crew. Lol

    • @ducaking
      @ducaking 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      please do a video!!!

    • @davidconran9851
      @davidconran9851 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ya do a video, Sounds like mega carpentry smarts

  • @stephenrichards4171
    @stephenrichards4171 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Doing a career switch next year, always wanted to do carpentry. This was an amazing video, only really knew a few of these uses prior. Thanks a ton my guy!

    • @Datanditto
      @Datanditto 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah, Im a carpenter but Ive been thinking about getting into brain surgery. Im going to start next week.

    • @joshuabarbour5278
      @joshuabarbour5278 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Don't share your dreams. People will just shit on you for it. For what it's worth, I'm getting ready to do the same as you.

    • @thepewplace1370
      @thepewplace1370 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well, it's a year later according to TH-cam. Did you take the steps to start doing what you want to do?

  • @brookestuart8592
    @brookestuart8592 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It's pouring rain and freezing right now, but this video makes me want to go, right now, and build something awesome.

  • @eydielf
    @eydielf 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Who are the people giving this a thumbs down? Totally helpful video, simply explained, and steady camera when filming. Trolls giving it thumbs down need to get a life. Thanks for the video. Exactly what I was looking for to figure out how to do the pitch and bird cuts for the roof of a garden shed I was adding to the outside of my shed. Well done!

  • @Davelon420
    @Davelon420 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Adding to the stud layout tip, the base of the square also has marks in 1/4" increments (small triangle inside) and 90 side to opening for inner triangle is 1". Hold the square at mark and mark 2 over = 1 1/2" tick, scribe and scoot.

  • @DalaiRanch
    @DalaiRanch 5 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    Extend and Hang your snap line to the "pivot” at the top of the square, you now have plum and angle level utilizing the degrees along the bottom of the square.

    • @tylertelesk3223
      @tylertelesk3223 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      fredrick brown..another one of my favorite tricks with a speed square. I’m surprised it wasn’t in the video

    • @natenissan1339
      @natenissan1339 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      I have done the same thing!!!

  •  5 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Thanks I learned a lot. I didn't realize how little I knew about these..

  • @tom_olofsson
    @tom_olofsson 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent explanation. When I was a carpenter, many years ago, I used it constantly.

  • @ricardoturin5858
    @ricardoturin5858 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video!! I've been doing construction since 1974 and still going. I always have 2 or 3 speed squares available. Really good advice. Bravo

  • @deejay6869
    @deejay6869 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thanks so much, man. I learned so much from this video, given that I didn't even know the most common uses for a speed square. Or even that it was called a speed square. I always just called it the triangley-looking thingy.

  • @donpegar2645
    @donpegar2645 5 ปีที่แล้ว +176

    I used to build houses and after hits in the Army I started working in a weld shop the boss looked at me like I had a third eye when I brought my speed square to work next thing I know we have speed squares all over the shop

    • @davidthegood
      @davidthegood 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      That is awesome, Don.

    • @BGraves
      @BGraves 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Angles? Not sure what else it would be good for. Tubing has radius so it rarely grabs the edge right. Maybe you're referring to a shop that uses inches over feet values such as in a structural beam shop.

    • @stevenlemerson534
      @stevenlemerson534 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      @@BGraves ummm, he didn't imply that he was working with round pipe. Speed square would have as many uses on metals as well

    • @bryanrmcnair01
      @bryanrmcnair01 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Use mine on pipe...have cut the "corner" out to measure ya 90 running socket pipe!

    • @BeAware3
      @BeAware3 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yea dude, I'm an industrial maintenance technician at a heat treat facility and I use mine atleast once or twice a week when I'm fabricating something

  • @landonhurt9036
    @landonhurt9036 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I am 16 and I am looking into being a general contractor and.... your videos help out so much like wow

    • @paulrobinson5833
      @paulrobinson5833 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Become a carpenter first then become a useless contractor.

  • @ebk304
    @ebk304 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for sharing this! It will help so many people, shared knowledge helps everyone. Much appreciated brother.

  • @zebrainfart
    @zebrainfart 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have used a speed square for years and never realized a couple of thing you showed in your video. Thanks.

  • @0017Bulldog
    @0017Bulldog 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    This was really great. I own one and didn't know why. Loved the humor as well!

  • @donready119
    @donready119 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video and fun too. I find mine really useful for small length measuring, easier than a tape. Also, make sure the base is 1/8 of an inch, makes it easier to adjust your measurement when the square is standing on the base.

  • @Gixzer04
    @Gixzer04 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    The best video I’ve seen on said tool man. Some reason nobody else can use a pencil n strike lines with that thorough n complete of explanations. Well done 👍

  • @Deisel76
    @Deisel76 ปีที่แล้ว

    I am just getting into woodworking...cutting, measuring, nailing, screwing, etc. Your video was great for beginners, even though I prob will never use a speed square for roofing, it was the first tool batch that I bought along with my hammer, tape measurer, and knife. Thank you so much. I look forward to watching more of your vids.

  • @KAH734
    @KAH734 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm self building a recreational cabin for when my seasonal work is over. This video has helped immensely figure out the angle usage of the square. Thank you.

  • @petelloyd73
    @petelloyd73 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    The speed square is the best tool I’ve ever got. I don’t have a clue how to use it but it makes me feel useful 😁😁

  • @ronaldlewis6062
    @ronaldlewis6062 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Thanks for sharing I always wanted some one to show me how to use the tool. Everybody says I don’t know!! I got 2 of them and I got to go to work on my roof!!

  • @jeffreybritton3338
    @jeffreybritton3338 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I know nothing about carpentry, but the youtube algorithm brought me here. This was great. I’m thinking why do they not teach this in school.

  • @chaceakina9273
    @chaceakina9273 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This is a great video! Like how you put pictures with the video to explain what your cutting. I'm a new union apprentice in Hawaii

  • @KindCreature1
    @KindCreature1 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a speed square, but mostly use it as just a square for making 90 degree cuts. I'm learning the guitar, and think about Jaime every day with his challenge. Thank goodness for that Naked Prosthetic device. Mike in Oregon

  • @mrmaldoon8362
    @mrmaldoon8362 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome, 4yo qnd still showed me more than other recent ones. You the man.

  • @davidmckibbin5556
    @davidmckibbin5556 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    My first day as a carpenter, the master carpenter I was working with threw my speed square across the job and handed me a framing square. He said a speed square was for marking 90 degree cuts and that a real conventional roof framer should use a framing square. I still use the speed square when accuracy isn't as necessary, but in exposed conventional rafter framing, a framing square and a small sharp pencil are definitely a requirement.

    • @jkrohmer60
      @jkrohmer60 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      What a dick! I'm a master carpenter with 42 years experience and a degree in construction technology and I've used a speed square exclusively to do cut roofs, including hip roofs. I even have a larger speed square for 2 x 8 and larger stock. I've only met one person in my entire career who used an Essex board table for rafter layout (that's what the layout table is called on a framing square) and he was in his seventies back in the early eighties. I use my framing square to do stair layout (with stair buds) along with a big pair of calipers to keep everything consistent.

  • @Bralph888
    @Bralph888 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This video is a jem!!
    Thank you kind sir, i wish we were neighbors, you are good stuff!!

  • @markchalk6751
    @markchalk6751 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    These guys are the best around by far..Fantastic work always!!

  • @tonyisaacs9618
    @tonyisaacs9618 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best explanation on use of square that I have very seen! Great job!

  • @comelordjesus4078
    @comelordjesus4078 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I enjoy using my square and all I do is make architectural models. But gosh it is so useful. Totally recommend

  • @jodaddysworkshop786
    @jodaddysworkshop786 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Good info. I just now realized I knew almost nothing about speed squares.

  • @clevername4781
    @clevername4781 5 ปีที่แล้ว +74

    I used mine to open a gallon paint can once

  • @Patrick-pl8wv
    @Patrick-pl8wv 5 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I keep a 7" speed square in my tool belt and a 12" one at the cut station. The bigger square keeps my fingers well away from my saw blade.

  • @gtamediaproductions1
    @gtamediaproductions1 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just received a set of two different size speed sqares that I ordered. Already making good use of them. Very handy and a must have.

  • @totallynottrademarked5279
    @totallynottrademarked5279 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is helping me a lot. I got suckered into helping my parents build a coverd lean to. The one thing they picked out of the book of course did not have plans available. It did not give you the height or distace from the front for the offset rafters. Your string trick on another video helped me get the height and offset. The limited drawings in the book even have the birdseye cut short of the top plate width. So it was throwing us off so much.

  • @jojoargento
    @jojoargento 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    WHOAH! MIND BLOWN!!! Thank you for the excellent video... I am so much smarter now :)

  • @StuccoPlastering
    @StuccoPlastering 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Cool video my friend, always wondered what that thing was for, even though I used it a lot.
    Kirk Giordano Plastering

  • @HugeHaakon
    @HugeHaakon 5 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I learned something really nice right tehre. You place the pencil before the square so you dont have to think about the thickness of the tip. Wish i thought of this years ago

  • @nattyp7801
    @nattyp7801 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    🙏🏾 learn something new everyday...excellent illustration..

  • @eduardoflores438
    @eduardoflores438 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I am a new framing worker, and your videos hep me a lot

  • @donwold1622
    @donwold1622 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    When using the speed square for a straight-edge against the saw shoe, the square can be set on the edge closest to the operator and held more securely on the same end as you show.

    • @Darkpassenger2012
      @Darkpassenger2012 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      If I put the square on that side my saw hits the high edge of my square. To do it the way you suggest I would have to raise my blade making it harder to make a true cut.

  • @miningexcavator
    @miningexcavator 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Great videos! probably the best reference building my deck at!

  • @mbahomeimprovement
    @mbahomeimprovement 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    The only complaint I have is that when you're making a cut on a board with a skilsaw, the base plate of the saw should be on the longer portion of the board to keep the cut smoother and helps protect not only the blade from unnecessary wear from blade flutter but also less wear on your saw's bearings from blade flutter.

    • @TheIdeasGuy
      @TheIdeasGuy 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I know your comment is 2+ years old but for anybody else reading this, old mate’s above comment is really only applicable to people with little to no experience using circular saws. It’s not difficult to learn to hold your saw flat to a board with very little baseplate purchase on that board. It really just comes down to experience and practice.

    • @ZingaraJoe
      @ZingaraJoe 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Try getting an 'other handed' skill saw. I am constantly cutting from thin edge.

  • @monster4585
    @monster4585 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you so much, this video was extremely informative. I am a carpenter apprentice and still learning. This video helped to make me more quicker and accurate with my cuts on the job

  • @BeckyAlter
    @BeckyAlter 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ok this was awesome! I want to follow you around for a day or three and learn more tricks. Thank you so much!

  • @Portergetmybag
    @Portergetmybag 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ok so I watched this months ago and it changed my life. Humanity as a whole was uplifted with this. You know what made me a better person? That straight cut trick. I don’t cut nuthin without my speed square. Someone’s gonna see me do it like that one day and be like dam. He must be pro.