SWANSON Tool Co S0101 7 Inch Speed Square, Blue

The Swanson S0101 7-Inch Speed Square is a foundational layout tool made in the USA since 1925, designed for carpenters, roofers, construction workers, and DIY builders. It functions as a compact guide that combines the utility of five separate tools: a try square, miter square, saw guide, line scriber, and protractor. This multi-tool layout helps users quickly verify square edges, mark standard 45-degree and 90-degree angles, or guide a handheld saw along a cut line.

For framing and roofing projects, the square features specialized gradations for common, hip, valley, and jack rafters. The tool also includes a patented diamond cutout alongside 1/4-inch spaced notches, making it simple to scribe common stud widths or set up rafter seat cuts. All black gradations are stamped against a non-glare, matte finish, allowing for easy reading across different lighting environments without harsh reflections.

To simplify complex roof pitch calculations, the tool comes packaged with a pocket-sized Swanson Blue Book. This guide contains reference tables with inch rise per foot run data, allowing users to find accurate cut angles without manual math. When set along a workpiece, the solid lip also allows the square to act directly as a saw fence for truing up board ends quickly.

In terms of trade-offs, the fixed 7-inch measurement makes it ideal for framing lumber, but it might require a larger layout tool when working with wide sheet goods. Additionally, the manufacturer information focuses on standard imperial gradations, and the product data does not specify the base metal composition.

Verdict: The Swanson S0101 Speed Square is a reliable, time-tested layout guide that simplifies marking, scribing, and angle cutting on jobsites and home projects. It is an excellent choice for anyone who needs accurate, multi-functional measurements without carrying multiple separate layout tools.

A great fit if you:

• Need to mark 45-degree, 90-degree, and rafter angles quickly on framing lumber
• Want an all-in-one tool to replace separate try squares, miters, and protractors
• Use a direct edge guide to align saw cuts across boards
• Prefer non-glare, high-contrast markings for clear visibility on the job

Consider something else if you:

• Need a layout tool larger than 7 inches for wide sheet materials
• Require metric measurement markings for your building projects

Which tools does the Speed Square replace?
It integrates the functions of five separate tools: a try square, miter square, saw guide, line scriber, and protractor.

What is the included Swanson Blue Book used for?
The pocket-sized booklet provides roof pitch angle charts and inch rise per foot run data so you can determine correct cuts without calculating math manually.

How do the scribing notches work?
The tool features notches spaced at 1/4-inch increments along with a diamond cutout, allowing you to guide a pencil along popular stud widths and rafter seat markings.