Tools of the Trade: Tool Tests and Reviews

Tool Test: Affordable Line Lasers

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:15:13 EST

For this article, my crew and I tested 11 self-leveling line lasers that can be purchased for $300 or less – an amount any tradesperson should be willing to spend for a tool that can pay for itself. Our pricing came from reputable online dealers; you may pay more or less based on when and where you buy the tool. We chose not to include point-to-point (dot) lasers, mostly because they're not as applicable to the tasks contractors perform every day.

Tool Test: Affordable Line Lasers

Mon, 7 Jan 2013 07:15:01 EST

Tool Test: Combination Lasers

Mon, 7 Jan 2013 07:13:40 EST

My first encounter with construction lasers was 20-plus years ago on a commercial job site, where a subcontractor was using a rotary laser to level the track for a suspended ceiling. The tool obviously saved a lot of time, and even though it could only shoot level, I was jealous that my company couldn't afford the $3,000 it cost to buy one. Since that time, lasers have fallen greatly in price and become much more versatile. I now own several and can't imagine trying to compete without them.

Tools Up Close: SawGear Automatic Measuring System

Mon, 7 Jan 2013 07:13:27 EST

The SawGear consists of an aluminum measuring bar (or fence), a flip stop, and a power head with a digital LCD screen and keypad. Unlike most length stops, which must be positioned by hand, this one moves along the measuring bar in response to dimensions entered on the keypad.

Green Grass Group DoubleVsquare

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 12:26:29 EST

Green Grass Group's DoubleVsquare ($25) — which consists of two triangular-type aluminum squares hinged down the center — makes it easier to transfer marks around corners