Bosch just announced that they will be releasing two new laser range finders to complement their short and medium-range platforms. The two new laser distance measuring tools, GLR500 and GLR825, are capable of quickly and accurately measuring in 11 different modes of distances of 500 and 825 feet, respectively.
Outdoor Measurements
Over extended distances, both models are accurate to within 0.04 inches (1.0mm)! The new range finding tools are sure to be a hit with builders, architects, engineers, carpenters, inspectors, law enforcement, and many other professionals.
As with Bosch’s other laser measuring tools, such as the DLR165 and GLR225, the tools’ zero-points can be set at the their front, back, tripod-mount, or from the multi-functional extension pin. New to these tools is the capability to be used in 11 modes, compared to the 7 modes of previous models.
Indoor Trapezoidal Mode
Measuring Modes
- length
- area
- volume
- min/max
- continuous
- indirect length
- double indirect
- combined indirect
- stake out
- trapezoidal
- multi-surface area
- timed measurement
Both new tools have built-in memory capable of storing up to 30 individual measurements and results. The units also feature a glass lens, ceramic optic carriers, and are IP54 rated to protect against dust and water. Rubber-padded surfaces provide a secure grip and help protect the units from damage. Both units come with a soft belt-loop case, hand strap, and four AAA batteries.
Bosch GLR825 Laser Range Finder Outdoor Use
The GLR825, with a maximum range of 825 feet, features a 1.6x magnifcation viewfinder for precise laser sighting in outdoor or long-range applications, even in brightly lit conditions.
Optional accessories include laser view-enhancing glasses (DLA001) and a laser view-enhancing target (DLA002). Expect to find the new laser range finders this month through Bosch distributors.
Bosch GLR225 Laser Distance Measuring Tool via Amazon
Bosch GLR500 Laser Distance Measuring Tool
Bosch GLR825 Laser Distance Measuring Tool
Product Info via Bosch (the new tools are not currently listed, but they will be)
What happens when you use a long range finder for short distances? Is there a larger margin of error? I’m just curious if one needed both small and large distances measured, would they need two.
I can think of no reason why a long distance range finder could not be used for shorter distances as well.
The minimum range for all three tools (GLR225 medium-range and the two new long-range units) is specified as 2 inches.
Jeff – The quick answer is no. The main issue is choosing a range finder that’s appropriate for how you intend to use it most often. Why spend the money on a super-powerful range finder like the GLR825 if you can count on one hand the number of times in a 5-year span you have to measure distances greater than 100′? Bosch’s DLR130 or DLR165 would be perfect in those applications. But if you’re working on larger projects most of the time and need to perform complex calculations in the process, the two new tools have you covered and will still perform great in short-distance applications.
I spent some time at Bosch’s UK training centre earlier this year being shown all the new laser and measuring (IMT) products from Bosch. We did a few videos and a few interviews with their guys, most notably Dip Powell who heads up the IMT division. They are all available on our blog.
Here’s a demo of the DLE70 (known in the US as GLR225):
http://www.toolstop.co.uk/blog/2010/01/11/dip-powell-demos-the-bosch-dle70-laser-range-finder/