C.H. Hanson Slide Square - Review

Apparently, attempting to redefine layout tools with the Pivot Square wasn't enough for C.H. Hanson. The frantically innovative tool company has just released the Slide Square, a tool that may just replace the speed square as the back pocket tool of choice for contractors.

From what we can tell, just about everything that your speed square can do, the Slide Square can do. And on top of that there are a few tricks that the Slide Square has that can't be done with a speed square.

The Slide Square can be used to mark a straight line as well as any angle from 0 to 65 degrees (a speed square can make it all the way to 90 degrees). Also, just like a speed square, the Slide Square has all of the top cuts and hip and valley cuts marked out in an easy to read fashion.

As we said earlier, there are a few new functions on the Slide Square that can't be done with the speed square. The most significant of which is the ability to accurately mark anchor bolts on a sill plate. We won't go into details here, but you can check out this video if you want to see how it's done. The tool also has a built in caliper that can open to 4-3/4". In addition, the center opening in the tool measures 1-1/2" so you can quickly mark out both sides of a stud on a sill. The width of the entire tool is 3-1/2" wide so that can also be used as a framing reference as well.

We really like the kind of functionality that C.H. Hanson is going for with this tool. Pretty much every part, side, and edge of the Slide Square has some function and it all can fit in your back pocket

Although this is more user-friendly than the Pivot Square, it still will probably only find its way into the hands of contractors and serious DIYers; essentially anyone with a speed square.

The best part about the Slide Square is that you'll get all of this functionality for around $11. It's a little more than a basic speed square, but then again, you get a little more in return.

At Amazon

Read More in: All Reviews | Hand Tools | Measuring & Marking

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