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ToolGuyd > Hand Tools > Layout & Measuring

Layout & Measuring

96-inch Level Recommendations?

Apr 5, 2010 Stuart 1 Comment

Reader Don sent us an email asking for help in finding 8-foot level reviews and recommendations. If you have expereince with an 8-foot level, do you prefer to use a box level, or an I-beam level, and why? I would think that an I-beam level may be lighter and easier to use (not to mention cheaper), […]

Layout & Measuring

Big Johnson Power Tape Measure

Feb 25, 2010 Stuart 14 Comments

Johnson Level’s 16′ Big Johnson Power Tape is one heck of a nice tape measure! The Big J is durable, extremely easy to read, has a great locking mechanism, and includes a handy detachable belt clip.

Accessories

Thread Checkers, Screw Gauges, & Size Identification

Jan 21, 2010 Stuart 8 Comments

After posting about Lee Valley’s new thread ID tool, we started thinking about other thread-identification tools that we’re familiar with. Identifying a thread is usually done in one of two ways – by matching an unknown thread to a fastener of known thread, or by measuring and comparing the diamater and thread pitch of a fastener.  Following are a few types […]

Accessories

Lee Valley’s Nut & Bolt Thread Identifier Tool

Jan 18, 2010 Stuart 5 Comments

Lee Valley’s most recent newsletter featured a new nut and bolt thread identifier tool that they’ve just begun carrying. From now until January 24th, the tool is being offered for $13.50, and the regular price is said to be $18.50.

Layout & Measuring

C.H. Hanson Precision Ball Level Review

Nov 10, 2009 Stuart 16 Comments

Two months ago to the date, we shared with you our very positive first impressions of C.H. Hanson’s Precision Ball Level. Since then, we have used the level quite a bit for various projects and tasks, and not only has it not disappointed us yet, it has exceeded our most demanding expectations. Following is our […]

Layout & Measuring

6 Inch LCD Digital Calipers for $12

Oct 18, 2009 Stuart 9 Comments

We found a 6″ digital caliper that is priced at about $12 over at Amazon. While we strongly prefer quality calipers over ones like this, cheap digital calipers are definitely better than no calipers. Included are the caliper, two batteries, and a storage case. The tool seems to be well reviewed – out of 54 reviews, 32 give it […]

Layout & Measuring

CH Hanson Precision Ball Level First Impression

Sep 9, 2009 Stuart 12 Comments

About three months ago, we posted about CH Hanson’s new Precision Ball Levels. We now have one of these new 24″ levels in our possession, and thought you would appreciate a few first impressions until we can offer a full review. We handed the level to a few colleagues, and following are their initial reactions. Holy [expletives]. […]

Awesome & Cool

Clever Marketing Images of Swanson Speed Square

Jul 25, 2009 Stuart 1 Comment

We just wanted to share with you the clever marketing images we found on Swanson’s website. Keep reading to see three more.

Layout & Measuring

Swanson Speed Squares

Jul 23, 2009 Stuart 4 Comments

Swanson Speed Squares can be used as a try square, miter square, protractor, line scriber, and saw guide. In other words, it’s a pretty handy layout tool that should be found in every home and shop. At the very least, it makes an excellent straightedge. We’ve been using an orange Swanson Speedlite square for about […]

Swanson-Mini-Surface-Level

Accessories

Swanson Mini Surface Level

Jul 21, 2009 Stuart 2 Comments

Swanson’s mini surface level is suitable for two-axis leveling tasks that do not quite require extreme precision. This type of level is extremely easy to use – hold or fasten it to a workpiece that needs to be horizontally parallel, and then adjust the workpiece until the level’s bubble is perfectly centered. Although this level […]

Layout & Measuring

C.H. Hanson’s Innovative New Precision Ball Level

Jun 1, 2009 Stuart 5 Comments

C.H. Hanson just released their precision ball level – a 24″ level which uses a rotating ball compass design. One of the level’s main selling points is that it eliminates some of the guesswork normally associated with reading a traditional bubble level. While greater ease of use is a good thing, we are even more impressed […]

Hand Tools

Craftsman “Digital” Micrometers

Jan 5, 2009 Stuart 5 Comments

These hybrid micrometers are somewhat of a cross between standard vernier micrometers and those with electronic readouts, and offer quick measurements at a relatively low price. Although the “digital” claim is quite literally true, in today’s age, “digital” implies an electronic readout. While we’re not comfortable still seeing these described as “digital” micrometers, such a description is still common practice […]

Layout & Measuring

Stanley Powerlock Tape Measure Review

Dec 26, 2008 Stuart 2 Comments

It can be quite tough to find a good tape measure these days – unless you have access to a Stanley Powerlock, that is. Powerlocks have a classic no-frills look and feel which make them easily recognized amongst hobbyists and pros alike. Although tape measures are extremely ubiquitous, they’re not all built the same. In fact, there are […]

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