As we have started framing the garage at the new home site our foundation contractor recommended that we purchase a laser to lay out the level lines for the walls. So after some research I purchased this CST/Berger unit at the Borg for $399 + tax. I must say that I am inpressed with this laser. It only took about 5 minutes to establish the level lines for the side and back walls of the garage. The unit is very easy to operate. It levels manually but takes only a minute or so to do it. The system comes with the rotary laser, tripod, laser detector and measuring pole. As a first time user of this type of tool, it was very easy to use. I tested it at our current home and was able to detect the laser on the receiver at a distance of 200 ft and maybe more but thought that sufficient for anything I would do.

I believe this is the bottom of CST/Berger's line of lasers but I couldn't see paying twice as much and only getting the automatic leveling feature. This unit has two large (1") thumbwheels that are used to level the laser. The movement is in very small increments so it is easy to dial in the two axis levels.

All in all I am impressed with its features. The fit and finish is excellent and it comes in a very nice molded case. It also came with laser safety glasses and a magnetic laser target which is not mentioned in the owner's manual and as yet I have not determined its use. It also has a ceiling mount for the laser. I guess that's for the dancing at the party after the house is finished. (Think Disco) The manual covers operation in adequate detail but as a first time user it would have been nice if there had been some examples of how to use the laser for various purposes. The laser has 5 modes of operation: high speed, low speed, single point, 90 degree and also shoots a vertical beam.

While I doubt everyone needs one of these tools I thought I would post this in case anyone is considering purchasing one. For us I know it will pay off in time saved using a level for all the various construction involved in a new home like walls, windows, siding, electrical cable runs, cabinet installation, leveling doors and the list goes on. Hope this was helpful for someone.