My 10-foot straightedge snapped clean in half on a Friday job in Tacoma

Everyone says to buy the heavy aluminum ones, but mine failed right when I needed it most. What's a more reliable brand that won't bend or break under pressure?

3 comments

3 Comments

jasonp303mo ago

Baker.ben is right, Tajima levels are tough.

baker.ben3mo ago

Had a Johnson level snap on me years ago, total nightmare. Switched to a Tajima box beam level and it's been solid ever since, even on long concrete pours. The thing is built like a tank and hasn't given me a hint of flex. What kind of work were you doing when yours broke?

emma7681mo ago

Man, that's rough. I've seen Johnson levels go bad too, especially on rough job sites. Honestly I think the Tajima is the way to go for concrete work. I haven't had one flex on me yet but I always keep a second level in my truck just in case. @jasonp30 nailed it saying they're tough, they really are built different. The box beam design just holds up better than a standard I-beam when you're dealing with wet concrete and heavy forms. I'd say check the vials once a month too even on a good level, they can shift over time.