Pacific Laser Systems PLS 3R 3-Point Red Kit | Three-point layout and alignment

This is our go to Laser tool for our guys in the field

Check height for brick work

Pin point laser dot, dead on accurate. You pay for quality.

First of all, keep in mind this is not one of those spinning lasers that will throw a beam of light 360 degrees around a room so you can install a drop ceiling or something similar. This device has 3 lasers. One points straight ahead, and the other two are for plumb, and point up and down. So technically, you could use this to install a drop ceiling or to hang some shelving. Just place the unit on a tripod or on top of a step ladder, spin it manually, then take as many points as you need, knowing they'll all be level. I could have used this on my last project where I had a shed roof and needed to add some wall partitions underneath. I had the line marked on the ground for the plate but needed a mark on the 2x6 underneath the roof for the sill. The plumb-bob this laser offers would have been a huge help. I wish there was more documentation, or more YouTube videos with instructions on how to use this level to it's fullest. The enclosed instructions consist of a few images and I get the general idea, but I'd like to see the tool in use on a job site. As far as construction, this is a solid tool. It takes 3 AA batteries (included). The cover for the batteries is a bear to get off and it took me a while to figure out the locking mechanism. You have to press down really hard on the black tab on the top of the unit. Spend the extra money and get the kit because the carrying case is nice to have. There are two red see-through plastic plates with calibration markings included, but I haven't figured out what they're for. I think they measure how far out of level something is. Overall this tool is a keeper and I'm sure I'll find plenty of uses for it, even as a home owner.

The classic plumb bob is a brilliant piece of ancient engineering that still works today. However, it is slow and requires some patience because it likes to swing when people are in a hurry. This PLS 3R kit, which also comes in green for better visibility with a bit worse battery life, does the job of a bob. The kit version comes with a little floor and wall mount, which does not need to be level. It internally levels itself as long as you get close, and has an indicator to warn you if you are not. Aim it at a point on the floor to get the matching points straight up and forward. It is that simple. It can also be locked for use out of level. While not as cheap as a point bit on a string, for a tool that can take some drops, the price is not bad at all. I would highly recommend it if you find yourself needing to find plumb very often.

I am a big fan of the FLUKE brand, I’ve used their meters for many years. This was not quite what I was looking for though and appears to be far more technical for my purpose. I needed something I could shoot a level line around a room to hang a new drop ceiling in the basement but this is not a simple leveling tool. Unfortunately, it didn’t come with instructions, you pretty much need to know how this works before you get it. It comes in a nice solid case and it is very solid construction you expect from FLUKE but I am not experienced with this kind of tool and have not been able to put it to practical use. I’m hoping my contractor can help me figure this out. If I do, I’ll come back to let you know how it works. Would have been nice to have clear instructions for using this included.

I have a few lasers but this three point laser is my favorite, it’s easy to use. Handy weatherproof carrying case, the laser is perfect for measuring ceiling fixtures on the ground without a ladder, before installing it. I highly recommended it when doing a significant amount of renovation, especially tile, electric and plumbing when you need accurate measurements.