I while back I posted requesting thoughts on 4" double squares. I ended up ordering the 4" model from highland hardware.
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was really disappointed. It will be going back. There were 3 things that I found to be disappointing.
- Size. This is my fault for not properly visualizing this thing. I foolishly assumed that Starrett would use the same knurled knobs on their double square as on the combination square. Not so. The whole tool is scaled down significantly. The cross section of the rule is 5/8" by 1/16" compared to 1"x 3/32" on the C-square. I do not have large hands but this tool generally felt "delicate" rather than "substantial".
- Ergonomics. My Starrett C-square is ergonomically superlative. With the fence resting in my palm, the thumb falls naturally onto the ample knurled knob. Conversely, the smaller knob on the double-square is set into a the base which is a bit too narrow (15/16") as it is impossible to turn the inset knob without rubbing one's fingers against the interior lapped (slightly sharp) edge of the fence casting.
- Damage. The were a couple of dings in track of the rule. They are not visually obvious, but are functionally significant. The most significant one was in the center of travel and felt like a very pronounced detent. It's hard to imagine that the track on the side of the rule would be damaged with casual contact. It's just not a very exposed edge. There were also some fine scratches on one of the faces of the fence casting. I could care less about the scratches except that it suggests that this tool may has been used and and a minimum, significantly "handled".
I believe that this tool was used and returned. It may have been returned because of a manufacturing defect, or possibly damaged by the original purchaser. Maybe it was a store display item. It is understandable to see how an item with such a flaw could make it back into inventory.
I must admit that I had a very high expectation of quality. 1 and arguably
2, are "on me". 3, however, I believe is unacceptable at this price point ($47). I'm sure that Highland hardware will take care of me, but I'll have to eat at least some shipping costs.I thought I would share. Hopefully someone will find this useful.
-Steve