We usually receive novel tool innovations from the big manufacturers because they have the resources and expertise to bring them to market. But those innovations that prove successful are judged on the jobsite by the folks whose livelihood is made with tools. Every so often, we run across an improvement that comes to us from outside the regular big manufacturer channel that is so clever and helpful – like the How Far Out Universal Level Gauge and Positioning Device that we can’t help but draw your attention to it.
Our Take
From finish carpenter and cabinetmaker Mike Schuler comes the How Far Out Universal Level Gauge and Positioning Device designed for trim carpenters, cabinetmakers, remodelers, installers, glaziers, designers and anyone else who works in “real world out-of-level, out-of-plumb conditions.”
Mr. Schuler ‘s observation was that a level is most useful in new construction where you make things level and plumb but less useful in existing work where you have to work with things that are not so level and plumb. A level can indicate the work is not true but not how far out of true it is – until now. By installing the universal receiver onto the end of your level in a minute or so, you can snap the level gauge into the receiver and adjust it until level or plumb. The gauge indicates how far out of level or plumb so that you don’t have to go through a cumbersome fitting and scribing process.
Although the Fastcap did bring the How Far Out Universal Level Gauge and Positioning Device to market, it looks like Mr. Schuler still does much of his own marketing as well as selling the product on his own website, www.howfarout.com. We think Mr. Schuler ‘s idea is “far out” (as in, really cool). How far out?
Enough that we think our finish carpenter friends will be quite interested in this solution to the age-old problem of working with things that just aren’t quite level, plumb, or square.
Tell us what you think about the potential applications. Leave us a note in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!
How Far Out Universal Level Gauge and Positioning Device Key Features
- Leveling screw positions level precisely
- Calibrated gauge provides instant measurement
- Magnetic Quick-Coupler for rapid deployment
- Extra Adapters allow use on multiple levels
- Installation takes just seconds
- Universal Setup: $50
- Stabila Setup: $35
