Thread: Squares: Clenton vs Vesper

For those who do not know Chris Vesper is bringing out his own squares. See them here.

They have a unique support tab in the base of the stock to hold the square's own weight on the edge of a board which slips out of the way when checking around a corner.

I am not sure how useful the tab would be. The ability of the Colen Clenton recalibratable squares to be squared up seems to be more useful. I have handled a Vesper 7" Sliding Bevel, I liked it sure feeling in hand, thanks to the weight and construction. I would have preferred a Solid brass column version of the Colen Clenton recalibratable square.

Step away from the computer and leave your credit card alone . . . .

Why do you lot have to add to my list of drool worthy toys

The advantage of Colen's is that they are recalibratable ... if you need to recalibrate. They are also beautiful.

The advantage of Chris' is that they do not need to be recalibrated and the blade is steel (better if used with a knife). They are also beautiful.

I don't think that you can lose either way. Chris is the New Guy on the Block, Colen is the Old Master. Both are splendid people and very skilled craftsmen.

I have Colen's 6" square and mitre square (Colen swapped the mitre square for my marking knife/awl set).



I have Chris' sliding bevel.



Regards from Perth

Derek

That's a nice set of toys you have there Derek.

I have a Vesper sliding bevel and it really is a beautiful and solid piece of kit. Part of me likes the idea of a matching square. Part of me likes the look of the Clenton a bit better more timber).

I had also been thinking about whether the brass blade would be a concern when using a knife, as you mentioned.

I guess in reality, I feel like I can't go too far wrong with either of these guys & it's going to be personal preference.

Hi Gonty,
buy the lot ... one of everthing Colen and Chris make...life is too short not to enjoy these lovely tools. (add one of each of the HNT Gordon Planes from Terry and a Set of Harold & Saxon chisels from Trent then you've done your bit for the Oz ecconomy ...its only money after all)
Then...
make a set of your own in every timber you can lay your hands on.

Honestly, you can't go wrong with any of the stuff these guys make. Truely lovely tools to inspire you to lift you own skill set.
all the best.
Kevin

In my humble opinion the quality of the Clenton squares justifies their purchase - I bought 2 after visiting his workshop - along with the cutting gauge and awl. The fact that the squares can be recalibrated and individual parts can be replaced if the unthinkable happens make sit a no-brainer. The only down side of the visit was that I now feel inadequate as my workshop was larger than his but the output is negligible by comparison.
Cheers
P.S. I do intend to buy a Vesper marking knife

Originally Posted by Wood Nut

In my humble opinion the quality of the Clenton squares justifies their purchase - I bought 2 after visiting his workshop - along with the cutting gauge and awl. The fact that the squares can be recalibrated and individual parts can be replaced if the unthinkable happens make sit a no-brainer. The only down side of the visit was that I now feel inadequate as my workshop was larger than his but the output is negligible by comparison.
Cheers
P.S. I do intend to buy a Vesper marking knife

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