1/2 in. x 1/2 in. Poplar Square Dowel

Tried to use these for a soffit....but they were such garbage...!!!! Ok for some stuff but not for soffits!

I read the only 2 posted reviews that this 1/2-in square dowel had before placing my order. Since both were "excellent" reviews, I decided to place an order for 6 pieces. After receiving the dowels, I went back to check the reviews again, thinking that probably I had read the reviews for some other product! What a disappointement! This is what I received: Out of the 6 pieces, 5 are warped througout their entire length; one has an attonishing "S" form. The only piece that is not warped measures 1/2-in x 1/2-in on one end, but tapers to 3/8-in x 1/2-in on the other end. There is a second piece (a warped one) that is also tapered at one of its ends. The measured nominal side widths within each piece have an average variance of 1/32nd of an inch; and around 1/16th on an inch between the 6 pieces. The original intended plan for using the dowels has been aborted. These definetely do not meet the required consistency in shape, form and dimensions for their purpose. On my second round reading the 2 customers' reviews I noticed that these had been posted back in 2012. So, I am guessing that what was available 2+ years ago is probably totally different than what HD is selling now. The "SKU" barcode label adhered on each dowel clearly states the phrase "Made In China". Maybe this product is intended for building bird cages. If you have plans to build one, I could probably see the potential using these dowels for that purpose... Good luck!

Purchased these for a garden project next Spring. Not a lot to say about dowels - but these are the size I needed and are straight and nicely finished, so should work fine.

I was a little board so I bought this four footer!