The Empire E280 16-inch True Blue Combination Square is a 16-inch combination square built for measuring, marking, and checking level and plumb during layout work. This is a combination square designed for accurate measuring, squaring, and scribing in carpentry and woodworking. Model Number: E280. If you need one tool that can handle 90-degree and 45-degree layout lines, basic level checks, and repeatable measurements, this is the kind of square that earns a permanent spot in the pouch or on the bench.

What sets this Empire combination square apart is how the core features actually help in use. The stainless steel blade has etched graduations on both edges, so the markings stay readable longer than printed scales that wear off with use. The 16-inch length gives you enough reach for common trim, cabinet, and general carpentry tasks without becoming awkward to carry. Empire also uses a Blade Lock self-aligning bolt, which makes it easier to slide the blade, set your measurement, and hold that setting securely while you mark.

The head is a heavy-duty machined design with precision milled edges, and that matters more than flashy branding ever will. A square is only useful if it stays accurate where the head meets the work. The machined head is built to give reliable 90-degree and 45-degree references, so you're not second-guessing your lines before a cut. For users doing repetitive layout, that kind of consistency saves time and helps avoid material waste.

This 16-inch layout square also includes a durable acrylic True Blue vial for checking level, plumb, and even 1-degree and 2-degree slope. That gives it more flexibility than a basic square with no vial. On punch-list work, trim install, shelf layout, light framing corrections, or shop setups, it is handy to verify alignment without reaching for another tool. The onboard hardened scriber adds another useful function, letting you mark surfaces directly when a pencil line is too thick or too easy to smear.

Material and build are straightforward and job focused. Source data lists steel construction, with supplementary data calling out a stainless steel blade and zinc/stainless steel material mix. Either way, the important point is the working edge and measuring blade are built for durability and clean graduations. At about 0.81 lbs, it has enough heft to feel solid without becoming a nuisance for everyday carry. That balance makes it a good fit for both jobsite use and bench work.

The Empire E280 16-inch True Blue Combination Square is best suited for carpenters, remodelers, woodworkers, installers, and serious DIY users who want a reliable measuring and layout hand tool rather than the cheapest square on the rack. If your work involves trim, cabinetry, shelving, casework, or general mark-and-cut tasks, this tool covers a lot of ground with one setup. If you only need a basic square for occasional rough work, it may be more tool than necessary. If you care about repeatable accuracy, readable markings, and faster adjustment, it makes a lot more sense.

A shop staple that earns its keep fast

The Empire E280 16-inch True Blue Combination Square is a solid step up from throwaway layout tools, especially if you care about readable markings, a dependable head, and quick adjustments that stay put.

• Who it's for: Carpenters, cabinet installers, remodelers, woodworkers, and DIY users who do regular measuring and layout work.
• Why it stands out: The machined head, etched stainless steel blade, Blade Lock system, vial, and scriber give you real utility beyond just checking square.
• Worth knowing: This is a hand layout tool, not a specialty precision machinist square. For jobsite and shop carpentry work, though, it covers a lot of bases in one piece.

• What is the primary use of this tool? It is a combination square used for measuring, marking 90-degree and 45-degree lines, and checking level and plumb during layout work.
• Does the blade have permanent markings? The blade uses etched graduations, which are designed to stay visible longer than surface-printed markings.
• Does this square include a vial? Yes. It includes a True Blue acrylic vial for checking level, plumb, and 1-degree and 2-degree slope.
• Is the blade adjustable? Yes. The Blade Lock self-aligning bolt is designed for quick adjustment and secure blade holding.