Review on Precision Laser Level: Firecore 2X360 Self-Leveling Green Beam Tool With Pulse Mode And Rechargeable Battery For Accurate Alignment And Versatile Use by Jerry Bergstad

I was recently faced with the task of leveling a railroad track. (Not kidding.) Mainline railroads have all sorts of awesome tools to do this. But, small, volunteer-driven, historical railroads rely on whatever we can use.None of the tools in my arsenal were sufficient. Partially because all of my laser levels use red lasers. Red lasers are not visible in outdoor light past about 5 feet. I needed something I could see 50 to 100 feet down track. Green lasers are much better for use outdoors, but even the most powerful green laser will diminish quickly on bright days. This laser is quite similar to a Dewalt laser I have used in the past (I love Dewalt tools) but is much more affordable.With this laser, you can expect a usable visible distance of about 75'. If the day is heavily overcast or it is close to dusk, your visible distance will be a bit further. Firecore sells laser 'receiver' that will receive the signal much further away (up to about 165'). This performance is inline with more expensive name-brand tools.The laser has selectable lines of sight (360 degree horizontal or vertical, or both as well as both vertical and horizontal lines.) The selectable lines of sight you use will depend on what you are doing.A word of warning, lasers can cause significant damage to people's eyes. Especially if they are within 50' to 100' of this laser when it is turned on. Make sure everyone on your job site knows you are using laser sighting / leveling equipment and make sure they know from which direction it is being used so that they can avoid looking directly in to it.The enclosure for the electronics and laser equipment is rated at IP65, which is very good dust/debris protection and decent water protection, just don't immerse this laser nor spray water directly at it. It can be mounted on a tripod but it includes a magnetic mount. I built a small screw mount that sits on top of a board that straddles the railroad track and I mounted the laser at a specific height. I built a corresponding board with a bright white surface that should be at the same height above the track as the laser level. This is a simple mechanism for 'seeing' the laser down-track.Laser levels are not rocket science, but they do require caution and practice. Check and recheck your measurements and validate your assumptions before you make final decisions. As you get better at using your laser level, you will be able to use it more effectively. I found with my initial use, I made a lot of mistakes and have learned to avoid them.This laser is quite a bit cheaper than brand name lasers, but thus far it is every bit as good. I have not invested in the Firecore FD20 Laser Receiver yet, this would let me taking readings further and further away, but I am planning to.