New boy says hello

[TomG]

Yes, you do need a good 12" combination square, but not for $150. The best Starrett makes is a C33H-12-16R, which has a forged steel head and a satin chrome 16R rule lists for $146 new. I would definitely recommend getting the forged head over the cast head because when it gets dropped, it won't be damaged and it will last you a lifetime. I would also suggest that you visit the PEC TOOLS website because they offer the exact same thing for $79. In fact, if you have the money, they offer a three piece set with the center head for $109 and a four piece set with the center head and protractor for $179. Good quality tools like Starrett for less than half the money.

While you are there, they also make very nice rules and every machinist needs a 6" and 12" flexible rule with 3R graduations (16ths, 32nds., 10ths, and 50ths.).

Welcome aboard.

Tom