The Best American-Made Drywall Squares

Drywall Squares

• A drywall square consists of a T-shaped head perpendicular to a blade that's at least 4 feet long, and usually adjustable to the depth of the cut. The head is held against the edge of the drywall to hold the blade in place for layout lines, and as a guide for cuts. The best drywall squares have enough heft to maintain stability against the board while it's being cut, and retain an accurate edge over time, without warping.

Swanson Adjustable Drywall Square

• Swanson Tools Manufacturing Inc. sells an aluminum, adjustable drywall square that can be used to lay out 30-, 45-, 60- and 75-degree angles, and folds up compactly as one piece. The tool is marketed as heavy-duty, and Pro Tools Reviews noted that its weight allows it to rest comfortably against the boards while cuts were made, eliminating the need to mark lines. Pro Tools rated it 7 out of 10 for performance and value.

Marshalltown

• Marshalltown Company manufactures drywall T-squares with blades 47 7/8 inches and 54 inches in length. Each square has a notched head, which enables cutting the board in one pass, and 16-inch increments for finding studs are measured on the tool. The ability of the squares to retain a stable edge is maintained with rivet fasteners. The squares are made with a silver anodized -- corrosive-resistant -- finish, with painted black epoxy numerals. Two heavy-duty styles are available.

Empire Level

• Empire Level produces a line of drywall squares, in professional and heavy-duty grades, and a version with high visibility. The first two styles are made with anodized aluminum, and the last one has a bright blue finish. The professional grade and blue squares both have heads riveted to the blade, but the head of the heavy-duty square can be adjusted to 30-, 45-, 60- and 75-degree angles. The blade is available in 47 7/8-inch and 54-inch lengths in the professional grade.