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Instead, the claim is a single precision BLADE which extends fully into the handle area as opposed to conventional two-piece designs which attach a separate blade to a separate handle.Did the reviewers not look at the picture and realize the handle grips, with obligatory screws, are obviously attached separately to that single monolithic blade/body. The Starrett 20-6 uses the same single blade design, with only the blade (not handle grips) used for ultimate precision. I have used the Incra GSQR7 on several occasions (several friends have one), appreciate the design, and cannot understand the less than enthusiastic reviews. No idea how "involving two dimensions" (the definition of "planar" mentioned by another reviewer) enters into this.And, contrary to another comment, Incra does indeed provide the applicable specification - "angular accuracy is guaranteed to be less than 0.001" maximum deviation from nominal at any point along the full length of the blade." This is the same specification provided for the much more expensive Starrett 20-6.Finally, a comment was made about scratches or marks perhaps caused by electrodes during anodizing. The manufacturer made no claim about a "one piece design" tool. This latter use will often still provide above average results with these precision-oriented tools.I have compared this square to the much more expensive Starrett 20-6 owned by an associate (a fanboy unwilling to accept anything without the Starrett name stamped on it) and found no difference in either accuracy or workmanship. This requires a minor adjustment to the average work flow (the blade tilted slightly with the inside of that blade used for marking).
Did those reviewers not read the product description before purchase. With conventional two-piece designs, the often separate grips are attached to a separate handle attached to a separate blade.For truly precision results with this tool, only the blade surface (not the handle grips) should contact the work material (same with the Starrett 20-6 and similar precision designs). Absent damage or errors, there are no manufacturing imperfections which will negatively impact the performance of this tool during it's intended use. If extreme precision is not needed at any given moment, the tool can be used normally (blade flat with handle grips against the work material).
So, we have to rely on the reputation of the manufacturer and on the recommendations and critiques of others. Also, it is interesting that they specify that only the "blade" is accurate, not the handle - and yet the handle is flush with the blade on the lower side (so that inaccuracy of the handle will affect the results in actual use) and one illustration on the box demonstrates the product being used in a configuration which relies on the accuracy of both the upper surface of the handle and the blade.So, I'm disappointed. Certainly this would be less expensive to manufacture than a one piece design, but it's not what I thought I was buying. Perhaps everything is just great. So, I ordered it.It arrived very quickly via the free shipping. I don't have any easy way to verify the 2nd claim.The product did not come with any documentation other than a little card which says "Certificate of Accuracy : Incra guarantees the accuracy of this precision instrument to conform to all manufacturer's specifications. I concluded that these were probably the places where the electrodes were attached during the anodizing. Perhaps the entire unit is square on every surface to the specified 0.001".
I simply don't know. I was persuaded that it was an excellent product (although I had not previously heard of Incra). Most people who buy a precision square do not have any means of checking to see if it is precise as the manufacturer claims. Right out of the box I was a little surprised to find scratches on the square. The next realization was that, despite the prominent claim of the manufacturer that this is a "one piece design", it certainly is not.
Perhaps the handle is just as accurate as the blade. Angular accuracy is guaranteed to be less than 0.001" maximum deviation from nominal at any point along the full length of the blade."However, no "manufacturer's specifications" were supplied with the product. Before I ordered the GSQR7, I read the reviews here on Amazon. I counted 12 pieces in all (including 4 bolts, 4 nuts and a decal) and I can't imagine anybody honestly describing it as having fewer than 3 pieces - the main "L", and the two red handle pieces. If Incra is going to make a precision instrument, then they need to make precise statements about it.
I also noted that there is a threaded hole in the blade of mine, which is not shown in any of the photos on the product package nor in the photos shown here on Amazon.The manufacturer has made two claims 1) It's a one piece design.2) The blade is accurate to within 1/1000 of an inch throughout.The first claim is clearly untrue.
Yet there are more expensive squares out there and the Incras are "guaranteed" so if they are not perfect they will make it perfect. I have no way to test this tool except to use it to calibrate my tools and if the woodworking job comes out perfect then I know this tool was dead on for what I use it for. I have 4 Incra guaranteed squares(5" square, 5" 45 degree, 7" square, and 7" 45 degree) and absolutely use them religiously to calibrate all my tools (table saw, jointer, planer, miter saw, band saw, drill press, circular saw, router table, etc). If you purchase these I don't see how you will be disappointed as they are one of the best asset you can buy for quality work. While they are expensive I learned in an engineering class that you have to pay more for better tolerances and the expense here is well worth it over a cheap square.
It is accurate like the Starrett. I am tired of inaccurate try-squares. Most are a bad joke. When you set up your tools, you can count on this square to be precise. This square is the real deal.
Having a precise setup is a must for woodworking. This is definitely a must and worth the money. I have used this to square up table saw blades, jointer table, miter gauges and all other fixtures, fences and jigs.
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