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.

CST/berger RL25HCK and RL25HVCK Self-leveling Rotary Lasers Preview

CST/berger RL25HCK and RL25HVCK Self-leveling Rotary Lasers

We checked out the CST/berger RL25 series of self-leveling rotary lasers back in June of this year at Bosch’s 2012 Media Event. CST/berger is well-known for making serious laser levels and the USA-based (Illinois) company is always on our radar for innovative and trending laser technology. The new RL25H Exterior and RL25HV Interior/Exterior Self-Leveling Rotary Lasers are particularly of interest to us because they take the power of rotary laser and package them into a more durable product with less moving parts. These are the products you use on a regular basis if you’re doing any sort of grading, leveling or excavating work. CST/berger’s RL25 lasers are IP56-rated and have a very durable overmold. They scream “heavy duty”. Of course, they can also reach 2000 feet and have an accuracy of 3/32″. That’s tight enough tolerance for all but the most amazingly stringent applications. There are two models we checked out, the RL25H with a horizontal-only beam and the RL25HV with both horizontal and vertical lasers.