DeWalt Spot Beam and Horizontal Line Laser

The DeWalt DW0851 Spot Beam and Horizontal Line Laser is an intriguing addition to any toolbox, designed to cater to both professional contractors and avid DIY enthusiasts. This laser level promises enhanced precision and ease of use with its bright spot beams and rear projecting horizontal line. As someone who has had the opportunity to work with this tool on various projects, I can share my insights and experiences to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the DeWalt DW0851 impresses with its robust build quality. The tool feels solid and well-constructed, with a rubberized exterior that suggests it can withstand the rigors of a busy job site. The integrated magnetic pivoting base is a particularly handy feature, allowing for easy attachment to metal tracks and steel surfaces. This base also includes a 1/4" thread, which came in handy when I mounted it on a tripod for increased stability and flexibility.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this laser level is its simplicity. Setting it up is straightforward—unlock the pendulum, turn on the device, and you're ready to go. The device projects five bright spot beams which are perfect for accurate plumb and horizontal point transfers. The rear projecting horizontal line is an added bonus for additional leveling applications. I found this feature particularly useful when aligning shelves and cabinetry.

The full-time pulse mode is another notable feature, enabling the use of a detector while maintaining the brightness of the beams. This is especially useful in larger spaces where visibility can be an issue. However, it's worth mentioning that the laser's visibility can suffer in bright daylight conditions. For indoor work or shaded areas, the beams are bright and clear, but outdoor use under direct sunlight can be challenging.

Performance

In terms of performance, the DW0851 generally lives up to its promises. During a shiplap installation on a fireplace, the laser level was indispensable in ensuring that each board was perfectly aligned. The precision was impressive, with an alignment accuracy within 1/64" over the span of the project. This level of accuracy is crucial for tasks that require meticulous attention to detail.

However, the tool does have its limitations. While it excels in short to medium ranges, its performance diminishes over longer distances. In my experience, the laser was accurate up to about 35-40 feet indoors. Beyond that range, the beams became less distinct, and maintaining accuracy over multiple floors (30-45 feet) was challenging. For projects requiring long-range accuracy, you might need to consider a higher-end model or supplementary tools.

Limitations

A few limitations of the DW0851 became apparent during use. First, the visibility of the red laser beam in daylight is less than ideal. While the tool claims a range of up to 165 feet, this is quite optimistic for outdoor conditions. In practice, the beams were barely visible beyond 35 feet in bright conditions, making it less suitable for outdoor projects unless you work during dawn or dusk.

Another point to consider is the gravity-based leveling system. While accurate, it is sensitive to vibrations. If your mounting surface isn't stable, these vibrations can affect the laser's performance. Ensuring a stable setup is crucial for maintaining accuracy.

Battery Life

Battery life is another area where the DW0851 could see some improvement. The tool runs on standard AA batteries, which are convenient to replace but tend to drain quickly, especially when using the full-time pulse mode. A rechargeable battery option would have been a welcome feature, reducing the need for frequent battery changes and making it more eco-friendly.

Practical Applications

Despite its limitations, the DeWalt DW0851 shines in several practical applications. For indoor projects like hanging pictures, installing cabinets, or laying out wall tracks, this tool is invaluable. The bright spot beams and horizontal line make it easy to achieve precise alignments, saving time and reducing errors.

For commercial and industrial use, the DW0851 also proves to be a reliable companion. Its easy setup and straightforward operation make it a time-saver on job sites. The tool’s rugged build ensures it can withstand the demands of regular use, and its accuracy is sufficient for most interior applications.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the DeWalt DW0851 Spot Beam and Horizontal Line Laser is a solid tool with a few notable strengths and some limitations. Its robust build, ease of use, and accurate short to medium range performance make it a valuable asset for indoor projects and certain commercial applications. However, its limited visibility in bright daylight and sensitivity to vibrations can be drawbacks for some users.

Would I recommend the DW0851? Yes, with some caveats. If your primary use is for indoor projects or in controlled lighting conditions, this tool is a reliable and accurate choice. Its simplicity and precision can significantly enhance your efficiency and quality of work. However, if you frequently work outdoors or require long-range accuracy, you might want to explore higher-end models or additional tools to complement the DW0851.

Overall, the DeWalt DW0851 offers good value for its price, making it a worthwhile investment for many users. Just be mindful of its limitations and ensure it aligns with your specific needs and use cases.