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 The sequel to the AngLevel Review is here. There were a few folks who challenged the first review and also added some of their own opinions and information. To refresh your memory, the AngLevel is a Multi-purpose Measuring Tool from TopLineInnovations. This tool basically combines 7 tools into one: it measures angles and pitches, works as a torpedo Level, speed Square, t-level, and plumb bob plus more "thus increasing the tradesmen's efficiency while performing additional functions that other tools simply do not". Read on for more information about this clever little measuring tool.
Regarding how we tested the bubble level in the original review:
Set it on a flat surface and note where the bubble ends up. Then flip the level end over end. If the tool is accurate, the bubble should fall in exactly the same place.
Reader's Response:
We did some testing the way you stated below, and the only way we find that this happens is when: 1) The ruler is slightly higher/lower than the surface of the leveling surface, so when you flip it over if the user will see that the level is in a different place. This is actually how we measure using the 1/4 and 1/8 inch Pitch by resting the ruler on a pipe or a roof and then leveling the base of the tool. Once the base reads level you can see what pitch the pipe or roof line is at or what degree of angle it is on. 2) The other way I guess would fall under some common sense, if the surface is not flat, the torpedo level can "see-saw" a bit favoring a side depending on the downward pressure the user applies or what side our ruler is on which can act as a counter weight. So it goes without saying that to level a surface it should be flat enough to get an accurate reading.
Manufacturer's Response:
I think perhaps the user in the test saw number 1 above, perhaps forgetting about the rulers edge protruding from the Levels surface. I assume he/she would have prevented #2. There is of course always a chance that there is a bad seed in a lot, but we have not found any defects in our levels to date and are tested at the source and with us.
As for the speed of the bubbles movement and sticking, there are different vials that can be used which alter the speed of movement of the air bubble for different applications. Some move quite fast and are meant for very fine differences in angles some move very very slowly meant for coarse adjustments and are easier to get centered. In a carpentry type environment say framing you would not want to spend a lot of time getting your tool to level, vs a machine shop environment or robotics application. So we found what we though was the best movement speed for a contractor, as we own a contractor business with framers, siders, plumbers and electricians. We had many samples and chose this one in the design phase.
What we have done, and no other level provides is the ability to remove these vials for the user to choose there own. The level cover can be removed by removing 2 screws on the bezel and the user can replace with whatever speed vial they choose, or with a varying pitch vial with multiple lines. The vial slot is longer than needed to allow different brands which generally vary in length but not in diameter, so the vial will "snap" into place. Also if you break the vial or the lines where out in other levels you need to go buy another tool, not so with ours.
Regarding the flush Thumb Screw tightening:
From the original review: "The screw doesn't lock down to 90 degrees or lock down at all, so I'm concerned about accuracy when using it as a speed square."
Manufacturer's Response: If you look at sliding t-bevels the majority use a wing nut to tighten the metal extension, we decided to use a flush thumb screw since it would fit in more places like inside J-Channel when Vinyl siding and you need an angle measurement. Our ruler locks down as much as you can tighten the thumbscrew, which is more than what is available on most all angle finding tools, save the ones that are fixed at 1 or two angles.
So basically, this tool does much more than our original reviewers even imagined! The manufacturer, "Topline Innovations™ LLC, is a start up manufacturing and marketing company. Their belief is that "there is no end to making life easier and as such, they strive to design and produce only the highest quality products that fulfill their beliefs." For more information about this innovative and growing company, go to www.toplineinnovations.com
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