Detector
Laser Tools' Lightgage Detector System includes a two-plane optical sensor and dual-beam positioning laser to detect the center of the laser beam within .0001 inch in both horizontal and vertical planes. This allows the user to measure straightness and flatness beyond what the eye can see. It features an LCD display with position and voltage indications, a remote sensor unit, and magnetic mounts. Cost: $4,125 (kit). 800-598-5973. www.lasertoolsco.com.
Laser Level
The FatMax five-beam self-leveling laser from Stanley features five bright laser dots, integrated magnetic universal mount, out-of-level indicator, automatic shut-off, and heavy-duty magnetic damping compensator for quick leveling and stabilization of beams. The tool is accurate to +/- 1/4 inch at 100 feet. It runs on three AA batteries and comes with plumb trivet, strap, target, and carrying case. Cost: $200. 800-782-6539. www.stanleyworks.com.
Laser Level
Pacific Laser Systems' PLS2 E System is the smallest, most powerful line laser available for indoor and outdoor use, the maker says. Outside in bright sunlight, the laser can be paired with the PLS LD laser detector for use up to 100 feet. The laser is self-leveling and can be used for horizontal and vertical layout. It comes with the detector, wall bracket, carrying case, and pouch. Cost: $495. 800-601-4500. www.plslaser.com.
Laser Line Generator
Zircon's compact LaserBall 360 laser level consists of a mounting cup that can be attached to almost any flat surface with self-adhesive strips and the LaserBall, which is placed into the cup and rotated to project a horizontal or vertical line. Line length is adjustable. It features an onboard bubble level. Cost: $20 (combo pack with StudSensor SL). 800-245-9265. www.zircon.com.
Laser Level
The RT-7715-2 two-beam level and plumb CrossLiner laser from RoboToolz features automatic leveling, variable beam options for simultaneous or independent operation of vertical and horizontal lines, a locked line angle, fan angle of 140 degrees vertical and 120 degrees horizontal at 30 feet, and out-of-level indicator. It has an accuracy of +/- 1/8 inch at 30 feet and a range of 100 feet. It comes with a multipurpose attachment accessory with magnets, tripod, and straps for attachment to a variety of surfaces. Cost: $299. 800-984-0404. www.robotoolz.com.
Laser Level and Square
Ideal for floors, paneling, wall studs, and more, CST/Berger's LaserMark LM2 90-degree interior layout and squaring laser level projects 90-degree horizontal and vertical lines on the floor and up the wall. The tool features a precision-machined aluminum base and built-in leveling feet for plumb/vertical jobs. An alignment guide allows users to easily calculate and turn angles in 5-degree increments. Cost: $159 (street price). 800-435-1859. www.cstsurvey.com.
Laser Hole Locator
New from Stabila, the HL100 laser hole locator allows plumbers, HVAC installers, and electricians to more easily drill holes in a row: Attach the unit to the first drilled hole, dial-in right and left, and dial-in level or slope, and the tool will project a red laser dot through the hole and onto the adjacent stud to mark the location of the next hole and so forth after that. The tool works in hole sizes from 7/8 inch to 4-3/4 inches. Cost: $249. 800-869-7460. www.stabila.com.
Laser Level
Ideal for interior jobs, the Pentax PLP-190 is a self-leveling horizontal/vertical visible plane laser with vertical plumb. The unit features variable rotation speed and has a 1,000-foot-radius detector range. It comes with a wall mount, a magnetic target, rechargeable battery pack and charger, and a hard case. Cost: $1,285. 800-330-3336. www.westernlatitudes.com.
Line Lasers
Designed for small-scale interior applications, DeWalt LaserChalkLine self-leveling line lasers feature a built-in magnetic bracket with a swivel function for easy rotation, a universal wall mount accessory, and an easy-to-read control keypad. The DW086K is a horizontal-beam model; DW087K is horizontal- and vertical-beam. Both lasers have an accuracy of 1/8 inch at 30 feet and feature a 45-degree cutout on the face for better performance. The DW087K also has a two-button operation panel. Cost: DW086K, $199; DW087K, $249. 800-433-9258. www.dewalt.com.
Laser Pointers
Designed for a range of interior and exterior applications, the Spectra Precision LP20 and LP40 self-leveling laser pointers from Trimble are portable and rugged, with moisture sealing, built-in overmolding, and the ability to withstand a 3-foot drop onto concrete. The LP20 projects one beam up and one down up to 100 feet. The LP40 projects four beams up to 100 feet. They operate on four AA batteries and come with a custom pouch for attachment to the user's belt. Cost: Unavailable. 800-874-6253. www.trimble.com.
Laser Range Meter
Hilti's PD 30 laser range meter measures distances from 2 inches up to 600 feet, and it can calculate area and volume, and add and subtract measurements. It has an accuracy of +/- 1/16 inch over the entire operating range. The unit is pocket-sized and has a durable housing that withstands dust and water, and rubber caps to prevent damage. Other features include a pull-out spike for measuring from inside corners, a built-in bubble level, and storage for the last three measurements or calculations on screen. It operates on a rechargeable battery system. Cost: $349. 800-879-8000. www.us.hilti.com.
