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Levels, Squares & Measuring Tool Reviews & Buying Guides

The following reviews of measuring tools includes the best tape measure, box levels, squares, and laser measuring devices. That last category is becoming more and more extravagant. Advanced laser measures can be used for both distance as well as calculating volume and area from multiple measurements. For the best laser level reviews, new measuring tools include laser systems that can generate horizontal, vertical, and plumb lines simultaneously. Aside from the tools mentioned above, we also review new smart tools with Bluetooth functionality so tradesmen can understand what works—and what’s gimmicky. As technology improves, our reviews continue to analyze and compare modern tools against the trade and true performers. In this way we can see if new advances improve or just make more complex the tools we use. The last thing we want is to slow down the process of layout and measuring.

Johnson Level 1707-4800 level vials
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Johnson Level 1707-4800 Glo-View Aluminum Box Level Review

by Thomas Gaige

The new Johnson Level 1707-4800 48-inch long Glo-View Heavy Duty Aluminum Box Level can definitely help you get things straight, even in a dimly lit room, thanks to its glow-in-the-dark level vial surrounds. The other feature of this level – one that is almost better than the glow-in-the-dark feature – is the domed level vial that offers 320 degree visibility. With a oversized aluminum box frame, precision machined edges and faces and large size hand holds, this level is a carpenter’s dream.

Johnson Level 40-6001 Laser Distance Measure Review
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Johnson Level 40-6001 Laser Distance Measure Review

by Thomas Gaige

The Johnson Level 40-6001 Laser Distance Measure is a compact, feature rich hand held tool that will make it a breeze to accurately measure nearly anything indoors or outdoors by yourself. Estimators, painters, flooring companies, contractors, engineers and architects are just a few types of the folks that will find find a tool like this invaluable once they learn how to use it. No more stretching out 100 foot tapes and having someone hold the dumb end of the measure.

Ridgid micro IR-100 Infrared Thermometer Preview
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Ridgid micro IR-100 Infrared Thermometer Preview

by Clint DeBoer

Have you ever tried to stick a thermometer into an A/C register? It’s easy when you can stand 20 feet away and just beam a laser where you want to measure. The Ridgid micro IR-100 Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer provides simple, quick and accurate surface temperature readings at the push of a button. You simply squeeze the trigger and point the ultra-sharp dual class II lasers at the surface being measured.

Ridgid micro CD-100 Combustible Gas Detector Preview
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Ridgid micro CD-100 Combustible Gas Detector Preview

by Clint DeBoer

The Ridgid micro CD-100 Combustible Gas Detector provides simple and quick readings to identify the presence of combustible gases. The micro CD-100 is designed to detect Methane, Propane, Butane, Ethanol, Ammonia, Hydrogen and many other combustible gases. With adjustable sensitivity, even low-levels of gases can be detected in seconds. The Ridgid micro CD-100 Gas Detector is the tool for ensuring proper gas line installations, checking for maintenance and repair needs or quickly pinpoint combustible gas leaks.

Ridgid micro LM-100 Laser Distance Meter Preview
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Ridgid micro LM-100 Laser Distance Meter Preview

by Clint DeBoer

The Ridgid micro LM-100 Laser Distance Meter provides simple, quick and accurate distance readings. Simply push the measurement button to turn on the Ultra-Sharp Class II lasers, point the device at at the spot to be measured to, and push the measurement button. The distance reading will appear on the easy to read LCD display. We’ve reviewed several other laser distance measures, and Ridgid’s version of this rugged, compact, portable instrument enables professional tradesman to quickly determine run distances in a variety of scenarios.

Porter Cable QuickJig 560 Pocket Hole Joinery System First Look
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Porter Cable QuickJig 560 Pocket Hole Joinery System First Look

by Clint DeBoer

Porter Cable just announced the Quick Jig 560 Pocket Hole Joinery System. We don’t do a ton of these, but it actually looks to be very flexible and built like a tank, so you don’t have to worry about drift when using it repeatably over several pieces. In addition, the 560 has an automatic depth control system that allows for easy set up for different material thicknesses (up to 1-1/2″ thick). That means less setup time and a whole lot less computations on where you’re going to place your holes. There’s even a repeatable self-adjusting clamp that adjusts automatically. Variable spaced bushings allow a variety of positions for the pocket holes and a handy screw length gauge recommends the appropriate screw length for the material thickness.

Swanson 24" Magnetic Lightning Level Review BLL24M
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Swanson 24″ Magnetic Lightning Level Review BLL24M

by Clint DeBoer

Everyone needs a good level. When you’re working in dimly lit areas such as walk-in closets, attics or work sheds, a lighted level seems just the thing to make a common task much easier to manage. Swanson’s most recent line of levels, including their Savage line of torpedo levels, have always done a good job of capturing a great amount of the available light within their vials – making them easier to view. With their new Lightning Level, however, Swanson Tools takes it to a new level and uses a couple of AAA batteries to send this level where few have gone before.

Bosch GLR225 Laser Distance Measure Preview
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Bosch GLR225 Laser Distance Measure Preview

by Clint DeBoer

Bosch Measuring Tools has introduced the GLR225 laser distance measure, the latest addition to its award-winning line of laser measuring tools. The GLR225 laser distance measurer is a quality product that downloads accuracy into a tool designed to fit into a pocket or tool pouch. Able to perform a wide variety of distance measuring tasks, the GLR225 is ideal for builders, remodelers, project estimators, appraisers, architects, flooring contractors, interior decorators, plumbers, electricians, HVAC contractors, real estate agents and more.

Bosch GLL2-80 Dual Plane Leveling and Alignment Laser Review
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Bosch GLL2-80 Laser Level Review

by Thomas Gaige

The Bosch GLL2-80 Dual Plane Leveling and Alignment Laser gives users the functionality of a much larger rotary laser level combined with the convenience of a compact jobsite tool. To make it even better, Bosch gives you both horizontal and/or vertical 360 degree planes with just the push of a button. You can use this tool alone, with the mount included in the kit, or with a tripod depending on your needs.

Black & Decker BDL170 BULLSEYE Auto-Leveling Laser Review
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Black and Decker BDL170 Bullseye Auto-Leveling Laser

by Thomas Gaige

The Black & Decker BDL170 BULLSEYE Auto-Leveling Laser is just the ticket if you are trying to put up chair rail, install wallpaper borders or hang pictures in a row. What’s even better is that it comes with a temporary hands free mount so that you can stick it on a wall and then use both hands to make marks or mount what you need on the wall. The auto leveling feature makes it a cinch to use too.

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