STABILA Type 106T Extendable Plate Level, 7-12 ft Range, Cat. No. 35712

I don't like it when people mix packaging or shipping issues with a product review so I'll keep them separate. This level is the best you can get, it pays for itself even if you aren't a professional. If you are building new walls, remodeling, making an arbor or even a chicken coop, accuracy saves time and materials. No regrets. That said, I had to make Amazon send two levels. Both were packaged poorly but the first one came in a box that was mangled and while the box had no penetrations and these levels are very tough I noticed it had shelf/storage damage. It is very hard to put a dent in this level unless you drop it on a hard or sharp edge. The first one had two areas with two matching dents (falling across a sharp edge in a storage bin) and another random dent. Five dents in all, and while they were large the finish is tough so you had to look to see them. It also had a few scuff marks. Granted, the level was probably accurate but you almost have to return something like that so they learn a lesson. The second one was poorly packaged but had no damage. This qualifies as a minor inconvenience, I'm only posting this review to remind people to inspect their level. Anyone buying this level knows what they are buying, but if this is your first tool of this caliber enjoy it, nothing like a quality tool.

This level is much better than the Irwin expandable level. I purchased an Irwin to replace my 18 year old expandable that the original manufacturer and inventor had built. I had to throw it out after 1 job. It is not the same company. I took another chance on this Stabila "expandable" level, which is a requirement if you frame anywhere near the Rocky Mountain winds. I found it's much stronger and heavier than the Irwin. I like it's slide design. So far it has been accurate and it hasn't loosened up as did the other brand. So far, so good. I highly recommend.

There is no comparison for these plate levels. A must for tall walls or anything else with a big span.

I’ve been using the Irwin version for years. it was a pain in the ass. The whole thing was made from low quality materials and always had to adjust the sights for use.this 1 is amazing by comparison. It’s made with quality materials and the way it’s designed it will be hard to brake it

Typical stabila quality. Built like a tank and accurate. Just wish I could use it more but my renovation project is done.

Whatever you do, DO NOT order this item from amazon!!! It came with just stickers stuck to the level... ZERO protective packaging! For a sensitive level! Unacceptable. I came with missing parts and moderate damage. I offered to just have amazon replace the $32 part that was missing and they said they were unable to do that. Insanity. Order this great level anywhere but here.

Solid build, light weight, doesn’t bow. It’s the only choice, IMO.

As a long time superintendent, I have to measure all day. While this tool is awesome, moving from room to room is a chore to not hook the end behind me on any door frame, anything. It is not practical to retract the extension exiting every room to extend it to the next. The Stabila youtubes show to NOT impact the tool while extended, but while retracted is "nearly" indestructible. Those are their words, hence when I move from room to room i am very nervous not to strike the extended end on anything. I may be too worried, but it's $400 and i don't want to reduce it to a pry bar. Further, it has to be many pounds heavier than my 8' level. Imho, treat this well and it will treat you well. But it's a $400 dollar tool for bottom/ top plates, not to be a replacement for your 8' level to plane walls.

Arrived in time. perfect Level for building walls. Best levels on the market

Always a trustworthy brand. Great quality, currently being used for professional framing and does exactly what it’s supposed to!

Awesome tool

Outil essentiel pour gros travaux de rénovation

Excellent tool wish I purchased long time ago.