Buying Guide

ROTARY LASERS:
Rotary lasers are used to kick off nearly every professional construction job. Their
applications range from grade work (digging foundations), to layout and masonry. Both
dual-slope and single-slope rotary lasers are used to continue a desired pitch across a
large area. The desired pitch might be level for finding grade or when using a reference
line. Dual-slope means that the line will move along both the X axis and Y axis. X mode is
used often to “walk” the line in vertical mode for aligning metal track. Y is used to angle the
line in horizontal mode for setting slope or setting pitch on a driveway.
From an accuracy standpoint, DEWALT offers a rotary laser that works up to 2,200 feet
with an accuracy of 1/16 inch at 100 feet. This laser is the 20V MAX* Tool Connect™ Green
Tough Rotary Laser (DW080LGS). This rotary laser is extremely durable with the ability to
withstand up to a 6-foot drop, and an IP67 rating for water and dust protection. Connect it
to the Tool Connect™ app via Bluetooth® technology for features including tool tracking,
bump notifications, fall and drop indications, and changes in slope and line detection.
LINE AND ROTARY DETECTORS:
There are 2 types of detectors used in the construction industry: Line and Rotary. Since
line lasers and rotary lasers work on different wavelengths, they require specific
detectors. The detectors are also color-specific. This means a red line laser requires a red
line detector. For both rotary lasers and line lasers, detectors are not a requirement, but
they do come in handy when the beam is no longer visible. For DEWALT, the standard
visibility range on our line laser levels is 50 to 100 feet. While using the detector that
range is extended out to 165 feet. Rotary laser detectors allow for detection up to 2,200
feet with the DW079 and DW080 series.
GRADE RODS:
Grade rods are used in conjunction with rotary lasers for digging or leveling earth. You
must move the detector up or down on the grade rod while the rotary is spinning until you
identify the laser line. When that laser line is found you have then established “grade” or
level. If you are looking to dig a hole that is 3 inches deep, for example, you would move
the detector 3 inches up the grade rod. After you dig 3 inches down and place the grade
rod in the hole, you should hear a beep and read that the laser is hitting the detector. This
is verification that you have dug the 3 inches deep.