[VoodooChile]

We've have been looking into adding a laser level to the arsenal, and found the zip level intriguing.

Ziplevel.com

The zip level appears to have several advantages over traditional lasers: 1) ease of setup, 2) intuitive read-out, 3) never needs calibration, and 4) fewer components that can fail.

I am wondering what the disadvantages might be?

Zip levels cost about the same as a basic laser level package, but I know good folks like Paul recommend upgrading out of a laser package with a fiber-glass/Aluminum tripod and direct reading rod...So the zip level would run round $850 (Northern Tool)and a mid-level laser setup would be at least a couple hundred more (Gemplers).

One website mentioned that after three years the Zip-level will require a gas-recharge, but that's better than calibrating laser levels twice a year like Bill Schwab does...

We do mostly residential paths and patios, and I'm looking forward to the efficiency improvements and quality improvements high-tech offers of strings, stakes and bubbles under glass.

Anyway, any information would be great.

[AZTLANLC]

If it were wireless it would be ideal.

That cord is the only and major thing I'd be concern about.
If you get a laser get one that is self leveling.

[Island Time]

I watched the video. Unfortunately it wasn't very instructional. The idea looks good, but the zippy deal doesn't seem practical. My laser is quick to setup and has an accurate range over 300', without the cord. I don't mind taking a few moments to make sure my math is on. Keeps us sharp. But, I am curious to know if you get it how you like it.

[Paul]

Even the weakest laser can give you a 500' radius, our oldest one was good to 750' and our latest was good to 1500' (machine control to 1200') . What you need and what I need are two different things. I need to place grades to specific elevation by plans from engineers. You are working from drawing that may or may not have those kind of rules. Your not in the business of machine grading and slopes can be graded by eye or rough measurements. The one caveat that I must say is with a laser your not limited to a cord, that could get run over or broken.

As for price I've seen single slope lasers in the under $1K price range making the difference between the two mute except for the flexibility the laser gives you.

[jamesn162]

Havnt tried but have heard a little bit about them from my buddies and they say ok sytem but the cord is a huge let down and still everyday they use the laser system. I gotta say laser is still king

[VoodooChile]

We wound up going with the Lasermark LMH-800 Dual Slope Laser Package for a little less than a grand. It was hard to say no considering the increased flexibility for an extra $150.

[Paul]

It looks like a nice set up. Does it have a window that gives you the grade % set in it?

[VoodooChile]

I'll find out when it shows up and let you know.

The specs state it sets grades in both planes up to 10%. Can't wait to play with it!

[LerchBros]

I bought the Zip Level in June 07' I didnt tell anyone I was using it out in the field (estimates, grade shots). After a while they started to catch on b/c I was reporting back to the office with elevation changes faster than ever. Now I never see it b/c it is always with the estimator. He never lets it out of his sight. The cord can be a little bothersome but there is 100' of it. I cant say enough about this machine. It calibrates itself and has infinite reach. The best part about the unit is the 1 man operation and the ease of set-up. No leveling or stick reading. We will be purchasing (3) in the next couple weeks. Not only is it compact, but it eliminates the problems some crew members have with adding and subtracting fractions (if you know what i mean).

If you have any questions I would be glad to answer them.