My old Sears transit finally gave up and I need a new one. Since I am retired and only need it for building my own house I don’t want to spend big bucks.
I have been looking at CST/Berger Models 54-135K and 54-136K. I like the 136 better, but is about $50 more.
Has anyone had experience with either of these, or can someone suggest another. I will pay about $250, may $300 in necessary.
I have looked at inexpensive laser units, but question if they will work in bright sunlight.
Any comments greatly appreciated.
Bob
Replies
Bob .. i have an old K&E builders transit.. yeoman service since 1972..
but i bought a laser about 5 years ago and the transit only comes out once in a blue moon..
the laser is hard to find sometimes.. but usually a piece of dark plywood as a backer can overcome that...
ours has both right angle and plumb... and it's self leveling...all three features are a must in my book
our laser cost about $600 then .. but it has certainly been worth it
Mike Smith Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore
I have a Stabila, Works well in the sun and there's some fancy rose colored glasses with it that are supposed to help too. They do, but they're a pain in the butt.
I had it for a long time, don't know what they cost now. Are newer lasers brighter?
Sounds like you probably have the tripod, you might be able to get off pretty cheap on this.
Joe H
I've never used a laser level. But, given you have only one project you expect to use it on, and that you're an old hand at the transit, I don't see any advantage to getting a more expensive laser unit. Unless you are measuring angles, you don't even need a transit, a builder's level would suffice.
I've used several CST/Berger instruments and was completely satisfied with the quality. I'm not familiar with the particular models you mentioned.
I have the older Berger 326. Can't see why the 136 wouldn't work for you. See attached link.
http://www.instrumentsales1.com/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/online-store/scstore/transit-04.htm?E+scstore
Bob, ebay has this http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3806312178&category=42298&sspagename=STRK%3AMEBWA%3AIT&rd=1View Imagethis is the Stabila transit I have. Works well for me, this should fit your tripod with no trouble.
Joe H