The OX Pro Tuff Level Helps You Keep A Level Head(er)
No matter what kind of construction you find yourself in, you can’t do your job effectively without a level. While there are plenty of options, some are better than others. So where does the OX Pro Tuff level fit in the grand scheme of things?
OX Pro Tuff Level Design
Construction
OX Tools makes some bold claims about the OX Pro Tuff level’s durability, and from our initial observations, it certainly does seem durable. The box level is intentionally designed with as few holes, handles, and gaps as possible so dirt and debris stay out for good.
The high-quality reinforced aluminum body has hard rubberized bumpers at each end to help absorb shock and protect it from accidental bumps and drops. This is key to ensuring the level stays accurate, ultimately extending its useful life.
But what’s going on inside to make it better than standard box levels?
Reinforcements run vertically in key sections to strengthen the level, particularly around the vials. This additional material puts it on another level of durability compared to standard box levels.
Accuracy
What good is a level if it, well, isn’t level? Expect accuracy at +/- 0.0005 inches, that’s a .5mm margin and dead-on what we expect for professional-grade levels. Sealed vial windows and solid reinforced construction help maintain the accuracy in spite of less-than-ideal jobsite treatment.
Another design choice OX employs is the milling that runs the full length on the top and bottom. This milling helps ensure better accuracy compared to a coated surface. As with any measuring device, if you take care of it, it’ll take care of you.
Visability
OX uses a light green-ish liquid in their vials as opposed to the standard yellow or clear. This vivid color shows up well, even in lower light conditions. There are other premium levels with greater visibility, but these do just fine.
Ergonomics
One thing that sets this level apart from other box levels I’ve used in the past is its complete lack of handles. At just 2.81 pounds, you’re not gaining a ton of weight by not having them, and it allows for the reinforcements to run a longer stretch without interruption. Unless you absolutely have to have handles built into your levels, the strength benefits are worth forgoing them.
OX Pro Tuff Level Price
The OX Pro 48-inch TUFF level retails for $119.99 on Amazon. That’s on the higher end of the scale and what we expect from a level built around such a durable frame.
The Bottom Line
If a level is accurate, durable, and visible, it gets our seal of approval. The OX Tools Pro Tuff level certainly checks these boxes for us while excelling in the durability of its construction. If your greatest frustration is levels that fail too quickly or easily, take a good look at what Ox has to offer.
OX Pro Tuff Level Specifications
- Model: OX P-503412
- Level Style: Box Beam
- Length: 48 in.
- Weight: 2.81 lbs.
- Accuracy: +/- 0.0005 in.
- Vial Type: Reinforced sealed acrylic
- Number of Vials: 3
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Price: $119.99
