The Empire 220 12-Inch Combination Square is a layout and measuring hand tool built for marking, checking, and setting square and 45-degree lines. This is a combination square designed for general layout, measuring, and angle checking. Model Number 220. If you need one tool for shop setup, trim work, light fabrication, or everyday bench measurements, this is the kind of tool that earns a permanent spot in the toolbox.

The big reason combination squares matter is speed. Instead of juggling a rule, a try square, and a separate angle reference, you get one tool that handles common layout work in a cleaner, more repeatable way. On the job that means faster markups, better fit-up, and fewer small errors that turn into wasted material later.

This Empire combination square uses a 12-inch rule, which is a practical size for a wide range of work. It is long enough for cabinet parts, trim stock, and general shop measurements, but still compact enough to carry easily. For a lot of users, 12 inches is the sweet spot because it covers everyday tasks without feeling oversized at the bench or in a tool bag.

This is a POLYSTEEL combination square. That matters because tools in this category are bought for durability and repeatability, not for show. The rule and square head need to hold up to regular handling, ride in a pouch or drawer, and still give you a dependable reference edge when it is time to mark or verify a cut.

The built-in level vial adds another layer of usefulness. It does not replace a dedicated level for larger work, but it is handy when you are checking small assemblies, aligning hardware, or doing quick setup work where grabbing another tool just slows you down. For punch-list jobs, trim fitting, and bench work, that convenience is worth having.

This hand tool makes the most sense for carpenters, woodworkers, remodelers, maintenance crews, and serious DIY users who need one straightforward measuring tool that can handle daily layout duty. If your work depends on square cuts, clean fit-up, and repeatable marks, a good combination square is one of those basics you end up using far more than you expected.

Empire 220 12-Inch Combination Square Gets The Basics Right

If you want one layout tool that handles square checks, angle marks, and quick measuring without taking up much room, this is an easy one to keep close.

• Who it's for: Carpenters, woodworkers, remodelers, maintenance techs, and DIY users who need a dependable everyday combination square.
• Why it stands out: The 12-inch size is practical, the built-in level vial adds convenience, and the Empire 220 12-Inch Combination Square covers the layout tasks most people actually do.
• Worth knowing: This is a straightforward measuring and layout tool, not a specialty precision instrument, which is exactly why it makes sense for regular daily use.

• What kind of tool is this? This is a combination square used for measuring, layout, and checking square or 45-degree lines.
• How long is the rule? The rule length is 12 inches.
• Does it include a level vial? Yes. The square head includes a built-in level vial.
• Who is this best suited for? It is well suited for carpentry, woodworking, remodeling, and general shop or home layout work.