New Ox Tools Speedframe levels have launched at Lowe’s.
Described as a “next-gen extendable measuring tool,” the Ox Pro Speedframe is part level, part story stick, and part tape measure.
It features a twin rail system for “smooth, rigid, and easy point-to-point measuring.”
There are 2 sizes, a 29″ level that can be extended to 48″, and a 53″ level that can be extended to 96″.
The shorter level is intended for cabinet installations, trim, and outlet alignment, and the longer level is for rough framing, door, and fence installations.
Each features an erasable memo panel where you can jot down measurements.
There’s an extension lock so that you can transfer measurements to your miter saw.
Price: $150 for the 29″ level, $200 for the 53″ level
Discussion
Tool brands have been launching “next-gen” layout tools with modern features such as digital controls and Bluetooth connectivity for app integration.
The new “next-gen” Ox Speedframe levels have a “memo panel” where you can manually jot down measurements with a construction crayon.
Ox Tools describes how their new level takes over where tape measures fail, such as measuring the height to a tall ceiling.
I can see how their new extending level can be used to take such measurements. But a laser distance measuring tool would work well for such applications.
Ox is righty on how it’s difficult to read a tape measure from many feet away. If you’re not a laser distance measuring tool kind of person, you could try a digital tape measure such as Reekon’s – see Tools of the Year: Reekon T1M Digital Tape Measure.
Extending levels are useful.
But are extending levels really “the measuring tool pros have been waiting for?” At $150 for the 29″ to 48″ level or $200 for the 53″ to 95″ model?
At those prices, why aren’t the levels digital?
And what if you need to measure between 48″ and 53″? Pros will still need to carry other tools for measuring larger windows and cased openings.
I think these would be a lot more interesting if the prices weren’t so high.
Also new from Ox Tools: Is this Ox Tools Replaceable Tip Wood Chisel a Good Buy?
