Joe wrote:
(snip)

You need to check your levels and discard ones that are off
calibration. Find a rigid flat surface longer than the level. Place
the level on it, check the bubble and note the exact location
(centering is not necessary). Reverse the level (180 degrees). The
bubble should be in exactly the same location. If the level passes
this test it is OK to use it for your projects. If it fails, put it
on the curb and get a decent level such as Johnson or similar.


1. Even a level with broken bubbles makes a pretty good and handy
expendable straight edge. Way too useful to put in the trash.
2. Some levels are adjustable.
3. For DIY use, as long as one bubble is good, just label as needed with
a Sharpie, so you know which one to use.
4. Precision levels are damn expensive. My 83 YO father has used the
same wooden brass-edged 4-foot level (Stanley?) for 40-some years, and
it is still plenty accurate enough for residential construction. I use a
5-buck 3-foot garage sale aluminum level, M-D brand, and it reads the
same both directions. If you are making money with a tool, it is worth
it to get top quality and replace it if less than perfect. If you are
just puttering around the house, you can easily get by with something
lower down the food chain.

--
aem sends...