Professional Tool Reviews for Pros

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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.

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.

Zircon MetalliScanner MT6 Review
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Zircon MT6 MetalliScanner Review

by Thomas Gaige

Ever wonder if they put all the hurricane strapping in your house or if your concrete slab is reinforced with steel? Well you don’t have to wonder any more if you use a Zircon MT6 MetalliScanner. This tool will locate and indicate the approximate depth of both magnetic and non-magnetic metals up to 6″ deep in most all nonmetallic construction materials. With this tool, you can figure out where the metal is before your expensive drill bit or saw blade does.

Swanson TS149 9” Sliding T-Bevel Review
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Swanson Sliding Bevel TS149 Review

by Thomas Gaige

The Swanson TS149 9″ Sliding T-Bevel is a classic yet modern tool that the craftsman can use everyday for all types of woodworking projects, either as an angle finder or as a square. The T-Bevel is especially handy when trying to duplicate an odd angle of an existing condition.

Swanson T001WZ Framing Wizard Review
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Swanson Framing Wizard T001WZ Review

by Thomas Gaige

Swanson took the age old framing square and made it into a folding, 5-in-1 layout tool they are calling the T001WZ Framing Wizard. This new tool makes space and functionality top priorities! Forget about trying to figure out where to keep your old square; now that you have this one available, you can fold it in half and throw it in your tool bag. With its versatile use, you can just whip it out and use it as a framing square, tri-square, miter square, angle finder or as a saw guide.

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