Replies

1. 
   calvin | Jul 31, 2005 04:46am | #1

   There's a member here that has the pls5x and loves it.  I have just rcvd a pls2E exterior version of the pls2.  About 475.00 if it does all you want it to.  Worth checking out at least.  And hope you hear from the 5x owner.

   Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.

   Quittin' Time

1. 
   davidmeiland | Jul 31, 2005 05:34am | #2

   I've got the 5x. There are times when it's a magic tool. I built and set some bases and tops for FG columns recently, and I can't imagine doing that without the laser. Also shot some elevations around the room, and into adjoining rooms on the same job, using a tripod, in about 60 seconds. Have shot form elevations for footings and stemwalls with it, positioned ceiling fixtures from floor layout, shot shingle and siding elevations around houses, etc. etc. There are basically some things that I could not really do without it, or only do slowly and with very poor accuracy. You could get a transit but then you need two guys and you need to level the thing too.

1. 
   bri | Jul 31, 2005 02:15pm | #3

   Thanks for the avice. Seems like i'll go w/the pls5x. I work mostly byself so i think it's a good addittion to the collection. you mentioned looking @ the pls2x. my feeling is i only want to buy one laser, so i'm leaning towards the 5x. I've got a basement remodelk coming up. This is what i'll be using it for first. By myself i should be able to transfer top plate to floor, lay-out walls. My question is can you straighten walls with this laser?? Thanks for your assistance. Write you back after i get and use it.

1. 
   davidmeiland | Jul 31, 2005 07:35pm | #4

   A laser can be used as a sort of electronic dryline. You need to position it very carefully, and getting the beam parallel to two points that are far apart takes some patience. I usually make a 'target' at one end with an X on it, then set up the tripod on the other end and line it up. Usually string works about as well as the laser for lining. Where it really excels is in plumbing up.

2. 
   NickNukeEm | Jul 31, 2005 09:40pm | #5

   I first bought the 5x, and if you're working outside, it's superior than any other.  I use it to layout decks, and it works great.

     Earlier this year I bought the PLS2 exterior version, and use that on almost every interior project.  The PLS2 is more versatile for most interior tasks, IMHO, because it throws out a plumb, or level line (as opposed to just a dot,) or both together, and you can also lock the crossed lines in place. 

   I tried using the PLS2 outside, and even though it was advertised for exterior applications, I was dissappointed; you definitely need the laser reciever, and even then it was hit/miss.

   So you have to decide what the primary function of the laser will be.

   Either way, buy a good elevating tripod (Stabila has an excellent one for about $160) to take full advantage of the laser, and you will probably need an mounting stud adapter to attach the laser to the tripod.  (In addition to the Stabila, I bought a cheap camera type tripod that is very usefull at lower elevations, as the Stabila is pretty tall.  In addition, Fast Cap Third Hand and laser adapter are great for interior use.  And list can go on, and on, and...)

    

   I never met a tool I didn't like!
1. 
   TommyB | Jul 31, 2005 10:55pm | #6

   I use a PLS5 for layout plumbing walls and leveling. its the greatest thing since nail Guns. I can layout for plating a foundation by myself in a mattetr of minutes it will pay for itself in just a few jbs dont hesitate to get one if you are framing

1. 
   gdavis62 | Aug 01, 2005 12:00am | #7

   Describe your methods, please, for plumbing walls, with the PLS5.  We were using a Tajima plumb-rite plumbob, until my pard sprung for one of the $225 Stabila extendable plate levels.  Popping on the level and reading the vial has proven quicker than climbing up, mounting the bob case, then waiting for the bob to settle down.

   We've got a PLS2, but are forced to use it real early am and late pm.  In full daylight, we cannot pick up the lines.Gene Davis, Davis Housewrights, Inc., Lake Placid, NY

    

    

1. 
   TommyB | Aug 01, 2005 12:28am | #8

   the PLS5 shoots a beam up and down . I line the laser over my bottom plate on the inside edge ... It will shoot a vertiIcal beam up to the top plate. I will move the wall until the beam hits the inside edge , corner is plumb I string the wall from corner to corner .. very easy

2. 
   NickNukeEm | Aug 01, 2005 02:43am | #9

   Ditto the pls5 on plumbing walls.  Tried to use the pls2 for installing doors, but went back to my Tajima plumb bob and Stabila jamber level.  Maybe you can make an old dog learn new tricks, but you better bring some bones.

    I never met a tool I didn't like!

1. 
   TommyB | Aug 01, 2005 03:15am | #10

   Nick
   I will use the PLS5 to plumb my wall in my door openings on the higher end frame jobs I do works great ..... best money I ever spent i think... framing away in the midwest
   Tom