Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measure

The Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measure sits in the mid-range of laser measures with a nice, compact size and relatively simple control set. Let’s take a tour through its functions and see if it’s the right fit for your measurement needs.

Pros

• Compact form factor
• 1/16″ accuracy
• 165′ range
• Sub-$100 price point ($89)

Cons

• Not a rechargeable system

Accuracy and Range

Baseline laser measures like the Bosch GLM15 only gives you 1/8-inch accuracy. I like that Bosch steps up the game here with 1/16-inch confidence. The GLM165-40 will read in 1/32-inch increments, just keep in mind that those are +/- 1/16-inch.

Some laser measures start with just 50′ of range and even less on some DIY models. Those are great for residential interiors, but you need more for outdoor and larger construction applications. With up to 165 feet of measuring, you’ll get those larger areas, though there are models that will extend your range even further.

Walking Through the Functions

Bosch says their functions are simple to learn and use, so I put it to the test to see if I can sort them out without consulting the manual. As it turns out, it only takes 10 – 15 minutes to orient yourself with how to work it.

Real-Time Measurement

This one’s easy – just turn the Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 on and point the laser at what you want to measure. Both the power button and arrow button will work.

Speaking of the arrow button, it will hold up to 10 of your most recent measurements, storing one every time you press it. To access them, press the “Func” button until you see the icon that looks like a computer disk. Your measurements are numbered 1 – 10, just press the “+” and “-” keys to scroll through them. As you record new measurements, the oldest ones will automatically cycle out.

Add/Subtract

From real-time measurement, grab your first distance by pressing the arrow button. Then hit the plus to start the addition process. Press the arrow button to start measuring again and one more time once you have your second measurement lined up. Last, press the plus button to get the calculation.

If you’re subtracting, use the minus button instead of plus.

Area, Volume, and Indirect Measurement

Once the meter is on, press the function key until you get to the rectangle (area) on the display. Press the arrow button to get your first distance and a second time to get the next. As soon as you record the second measurement, the GLM165-40 will give you the total area in ft² to the nearest thousandth.

Volume works exactly the same way except you’ll take three measurements and your results are in ft³.

For indirect measurement, you’ll run through the same process as area. The difference is you’ll measure the distance straight to the base (leg) and to the top (hypotenuse) to get the height (second leg) of the object in fractional feet and inches.

You won’t get a real-time measurement for any of these three functions. However, as long as you can see the red laser point, it’s measuring. Also, the distances you measure and the results of the calculations all store in the memory. Just keep in mind that 10-measurement limit.

Field Notes

The Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measure kicks on and starts measuring very quickly. However, I did notice that there’s a lag if the laser is on something close to me and I immediately switch it over to a longer measurement. It’s not a big deal and it only takes the meter a couple of seconds to sort itself out.

If you’re measuring the area or volume of a series of rooms, you’ll eat up that 10-measurement storage capacity pretty quickly. Go ahead and jot the results down along with recording which room it is on a notebook or in your phone/tablet.

Price and Value

The GLM165-40 runs $89. One of its closest competitors is from Milwaukee (48-22-9802). It has slightly less range at 150 feet with a couple of extra features and a price that’s $10 higher. DeWalt’s comparable model (DW065E) is also $99 with the same range and accuracy as Bosch. That puts the Blaze Pro is a pretty nice position for value.

The Bottom Line

If you’re not ready to make the jump up to connected laser measures, the Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measure is a solid all-around option with a medium range and excellent accuracy. About the only thing you might want as an upgrade will be a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. With an $89 price tag, that’s certainly not a major complaint.

Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measure Highlights

• Easy to fit in your pocket or tool belt
• Backlit display
• Real-time measurements
• Distance, add/subtract, square footage, volume, and indirect measurement functions
• Stores up to 10 measurements
• IP54 rating
• Includes a wrist strap

Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measure Specifications

• Model: Bosch GLM165-40
• Power Source: 2 AAA batteries
• Accuracy: +/- 1/16″
• Range: Up to 165′
• Weight: 0.39 lbs
• Dimensions: 4.125″ x 1.625″ x 1.0″
• Warranty: 2 years
• Price: $71.99