Customer Reviews

Stanley 43-512 Lighted Shock-Resistant Torpedo Level

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is a great little level. The vials have four lines, instead of just two, for centering, which really helps get it bubble (and therefore the level) in exactly the right place. The black rubber moldings around the tips help protect the most vulnerable areas of the tool, while making it easier to hold. It has a magnet in the base strong enough to hold it onto a pipe or other metal object. The little light inside makes seeing the bubble in low light conditions a breeze.

In short this is an excellent little level but it does have a couple of shortcomings.

Pros:
Seems to be the perfect shape and size and I have found myself using it more than any of my other (longer) levels
The light feature is very useful especially when working inside drywall or in a ceiling cavity
Price is right

Cons:
The metal edge on the top of the level does not continue over the top of the horizontal level bubble. On a number of occasions I have lined the level up and just as I am about to draw a line on the wall I realize I need to use the other edge of the level.
The taper at the edges reduces the useful width of the level. I don't see any advantage to the taper, I think I would rather have the straight edge continue to the end of the level.

All things being equal I would recommend this product but the downsides listed above hold it back from a 5 star recommendation.

This is made well. I like the lite and the fact one side is magnetic. Very nicely built level

As a builder of 30+ years I have to say I LOVE lighted levels. I can't believe there aren't a lot more lighted levels out there. There are some but not many. When you're holding a level up against a wall it only makes sense that the chances of it being dark is great especially in low lit rooms. the biggest problem with the Stanley torpedo level is the beveled ends and for that matter ANY level (which include far too many) with beveled ends. Most builders like myself find themselves many many times with the need to continue a level line from an inside corner around the room or from any solid end/start-point ...which is near impossible with a beveled end. I noticed in the past few years companies like Stabila make the plastic end caps easily removable and I suspect it's for the reason I suggested...so for the DIY or beginner crowds this is a heads up for you to think about before buying any level.

The delivery was pretty quick for the level, even with the free shipping option.
It does a pretty good job of doing small jobs around the house (i.e. hanging pictures & fixtures on walls)

If you ever have to work in a dimly-lighted place you'll absolutely love the lighted vials on this level. It's a well-made tool and is easy to read, plus the light automatically shuts off to conserve battery life. I've been using mine for a number of months now and I'm still on the original battery. About the perfect handyman's toolbox level.

I bought this level because the chimes on our grandfather clock were not working properly. I leveled the clock and it works perfectly. I have even leveled all of our pictures on our walls. The level is coated with a plastic so it won't scratch your precious items. This is a great tool at a fantastic price!!

No good. I still haven't recieved the product. I'm going to give it a couple more weeks before a file a claim!