I read a review recently about two combo squares, comparing the gold standard Starrett with a $10+- Empire.

They were impressed with the accuracy of the Empire and even liked the (trademarked) blue level bubble.   I decided to get one of he 6" ones that I could keep in my shop apron.   I took it out and checked against my 12" Starrett.   Darn if it was not dead nuts on.  1/10th the price it's a keeper.

 

Thanks! I've been looking for one to replace my old Stanley

I have two  Empire levels and the blue vial is great!  One of them even has lights, works great inside a cabinet or other dark place.  

Thanks for that report Keith.  Might be time I upgraded my Stanley also, I know it's been dropped a time or ten

So I am guessing a HF one is out of the question????

 

34 minutes ago, Woodbutcherbynight said:

So I am guessing a HF one is out of the question????

 

Trust but, verify. 

16 minutes ago, Gene Howe said:

Trust but, verify. 

To you are right. Coupon was expired.

 

I always have to be careful with things like this.   I like the old squares and don't often see reviews of the newer products.  Same thing with levels.   That said, i walked past a picture SWMBO had hung, set it level, and then got a level to double check it.   Result.   WBBN picture of death ray eyes please. 

51 minutes ago, p_toad said:

WBBN picture of death ray eyes please. 

Here ya go.

 

On 1/24/2020 at 9:23 AM, Woodbutcherbynight said:

So I am guessing a HF one is out of the question????

 

Q: What do you call a square that is not square?
A: A doorstop

 

Seriously, if you can buy a perfectly accurate one for $10, why buy a suspect one for $6?

They are easy to check at the store. But, why bother if the Empire is accurate out of the box.

I have 3 Empire levels and 4 squares of various lengths and types.  Have worked well for years, never a issue.  Go acquainted with using something better than a carpenters square a number of years ago.  Till that time all I owned was 2 sizes of carpenters squares.  

 

Couple years ago my Dad gave me a Starrett 3 piece set, MAN those are nice.  Bit rich on the wallet, but a gift is always welcome.