The Swanson Speed Square

One of the most iconic tools in American construction started with one simple idea. And nearly 100 years later, the Swanson Speed Square is still changing the way we build. I traveled to Swanson Tool Company's headquarters to meet with owner Jim Allemand, learn the history of the original Speed Square, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how this legendary tool is made. And yes, I actually got to hold the very first Speed Square ever made. In this Built Pretty documentary, we're diving into the invention, engineering, manufacturing, and history of one of the most recognizable tools in the trades. We'll explore what makes the original Swanson Speed Square different, why it's been copied so many times, and how a simple tool became a staple in toolboxes across America. Because there's something I love more than learning how to use a tool. It's learning WHY it was invented, HOW it works, and WHO made it possible. A huge thank you to Jim Allemand and the entire Swanson Tool Co. team for opening their doors and sharing their story with me. Subscribe to Built Pretty for more tool history, behind-the-scenes factory tours, construction education, and stories about the people and inventions that built our world. #BuiltPretty #SwansonTool #SpeedSquare #ToolHistory #Carpentry #MadeInAmerica