We have quite a few combination sets made or rebranded by a top name brand. "S"
These see pretty heavy use by our layout department.
The scale alignment tabs keep wearing down very rapidly and seem to be made of soft powdery metal. "junk"
I've made sure the edge of the scales are smooth and not causing the damage but I believe the problem is the material the scale slides against.
Anyone know of a brand that still uses good metal to make these?
That's tragic. Yes. All of them if you but order properly.
"Real Machinists" often
had those "brand S" goods. Ground and black-wrinkle finished Cast IRON and steel. Not ZAMAK, Different SKU number. Higher price, of course.
But didn't ordinarily USE them enough in forty years to have to care. Carpenters nor cabinet makers, either. Most weeks, they were but "decorator" grade box top-tray-filler-outers.
Go off and get you the "usual suspects" as actually did the
daily WORK.
Brown & Sharpe, Lufkin, Scherr-Tumico, Czech Kinex or Polish VIS. Starrett only if you have a gambling addiction.
Precision squares in hardened alloys of STEEL. Throughout, not just partly, and in various options to suit "various" but common needs.
EX:
Measuring - Squares - Machinist / Engineer - Taylor Toolworks
Of COURSE they have competition.
No need to slide, then have to go and vet them against a master, each go.
One had several FIXED sizes as HELD whatever they had, be that great, good, or just passable.
Easier and faster to handle. Lower risk of scrap. Paid for "Real Soon NOW" off those savings.
Do not.. take-on "real jobs", pay "real wages", then CRIPPLE honest craftsmen by issuing the same
shite that goes into a 7-year-old's Christmas "big boy, now" so-called toolbox!
The little kid at least has the sense to brand his Dad a cheapskate, and the option to sneak-off and use his Uncle or Grand Dad's GOOD ones! DAMHIKT
End of problem, either way.