All bent out of shape: seeking square advice

[reubenjames]

Thanks, everyone, for the advice on this thread. I'll close it out by reiterating that I got a Starrett combination square, and I went through all of the alignment procedures, so we'll see how things shape up. Everyone's been very helpful, as always!!

[putttn]

Did you end up getting the new fence with the new table?

[reubenjames]

I did. You still in the market for my old one? Sorry for the delay.

[putttn]

No but thanks for the offer. I am going to build a fence for resawing using my Incra Original jig.
I also will get the aluminum table as you did. Since resawing for small boxes is going to be the main function I'm going to gear it up for that.

[reubenjames]

I think it's a good upgrade. I've been happy with it as I've played around with it more.

[putttn]

Was it the Kreg upgrade or SS?

[reubenjames]

Was it the Kreg upgrade or SS?

I just went with the SS version, as I wanted the table extension and circle cutter. Could have gone with just the SS table and then the Kreg system, but that would still have been more than I wanted to spend. I don't do a ton of resawing, but the testing I've done with the SS fence, once aligned, is a bit smoother than with the miter gauge like I was doing before on the cast iron. That being said, if I did a lot of resawing, I think the Kreg might be the way to go. If you do the Deluxe Kreg package with the resawing guide and all that, plus the table, you're in $336 to the MS, which is about $100 over what I paid, and I was already spending money I shouldn't have.

[putttn]

I'm hoping to get by with the SS table and build the extension to be able to use my Incra Original jig.

[keakap]

I've had the ShopSmith 6" steel square for many years and am quite pleased with it. I'm sure it is not a coincidence that it is just the right size for setting up the SS Bandsaw.
It is also well priced and used to come with a functional protective box.

My favorite squares are Bridge City Tool Works, the only ones that are, to my best knowledge, better guaranteed, more accurate and prettier than Starrett (or any other). Took me years, tho, before I could just pull one out of its drawer or box and use it, without having to then clean off all fingerprints, re-wax, etc.

[keakap]

...I just put it on the jointer table and press the calibrate button before I check it. It's magnetic so both ends stick to the table which makes it easy to zero.

YEAH! Now THAT is my kind of calibration check!