Bosch GLL 30 S Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Kit is Picture Perfect

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Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser

What's This?This post is sponsored by The Home Depot. The Bosch GLL 30 S Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Kit provides everything you need to determine level and plumb – including the two required AA batteries. When is the last time batteries WERE included? In addition to the AA batteries, the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Kit includes a carrying case and a MM 2 flexible mounting clamp for versatility of use. Join us as we explore this affordable, laser-filled tech to keep you level-headed (and your projects level and plumb).

Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level Shines On

The Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level projects two lines, making a cross-line projection. This provides a wide array of level and aligning uses. The versatility of both vertical and horizontal lines makes it more functional than a typical single line laser. With a simple single switch operation, leveling and alignment tasks are done quickly and correctly. While the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level lines are visible up to 30 feet, they are more clearly visible at a closer distance. They also sell special glasses to aid in viewing the laser lines.

Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level, case, mounting bracket and AA Batteries all included in the kit!

Along the lines of seeing the laser, it should be stated that you should never look directly into or at a laser. Whether it is the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level or any other type, lasers can be harmful to the human eye.

laser visibility
The lasers show up well but resist any temptation to look directly into the beams.

Smart Pendulum System is at its Core

The Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level is self-leveling and self-locking but don’t worry, you are still needed. The Smart Pendulum System self-levels and indicates out-of-level condition to help ensure an accurate layout. When you turn the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level off the Smart Pendulum System locks into position and is safe for transportation and storage. As soon as you turn it on, the laser lines turn on and the Smart Pendulum System releases – enabling it to find level.

Bosch Cross-Line Laser Level
The red laser lines form a crisp intersection of a true level or horizontal and plumb or vertical lines.

If you are beyond 4 degrees out of plumb/level, the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level will flash in intervals of 3 seconds on and 1 second off. With a subtle adjustment to get within the range of self-adjustment, the laser lines will return to a steady projection letting you know that the Smart Pendulum System has successfully self-leveled.

Bosch GLL 30 Switch
The Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level has one switch to activate the Smart Pendulum System or to turn it off and lock it into position.
Bosch Cross-Line Laser Level in use
Here you can see a shelf that is not quite level with the lights on. The laser line extends the full length of the shelf and wall.
Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
Here is the same shelf showing the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level lines with the lights off. (No, I was not having a rave).

Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level Features

• Cross-line mode projects 2 very bright lines that are perfectly level and plumb
• MM 2 flexible mounting device clamps to multiple surfaces and provides micro fine height adjustment
• Smart pendulum system self-levels and indicates out-of-level condition
• Secure transport pendulum locks when switched off
• Ergonomic, compact and lightweight, easy to use, easy to store
• Features 1/4 in. 20 tripod thread for use with MM 2 mount, BM 3 magnetic mounting bracket or tripod
• Belt pouch for convenient transport and easy accessibility
• Includes: MM 2 flexible mounting device, belt pouch and AA batteries

Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
The base of the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level can attach to the included clamp or to any standard camera/video tripod for added ease of use.
Laser level size
The size is very comparable to that of any standard tape measure and can slip into the case designed to attach to your belt.
Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
Unlike Christmas – here the batteries ARE included. If you aren’t going to be using the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level for a while, it is always a good idea to remove the batteries.

The Laser Level Manual Mode Myth

I found several online references to a “manual mode” and/or the option to ‘lock the laser at any angle.’ The Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level does not have this as an option. You cannot lock the laser pendulum in any position other than the off and safe for transport position. If you wanted to set the laser lines at an angle other than zero or level, it will continue to project the laser line but it will also continually flash in the 3 seconds on and 1 second off interval.

Laser appearance
Here you can see the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level line shine straight across the shelf. Notice how it also shines on the bench top and continues down the cabinet face in one continuous line.

Bosch GLL 30 S Mounting and Sensitivity

The included MM 2 Flexible Mounting Device provides adjustment with the two ball swivel points and allows the laser to be clamped onto any surface from 1/2 in. to 2-1/4 in. thick. I clamped it onto a step ladder to use on the shelf and I clamped it onto a door that opened into the room I was working in but using it with a standard camera tripod is definitely the most user-friendly application.

Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
The Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level is clamped onto my step ladder while dialing in my 8 foot long shelf.
Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
The knobs clamp down on two ball fittings that allow for fine tuning of the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level.
Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
Two knobs: one to clamp it onto a solid surface and the other to lock the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level into place.

Adjusting the height and angle is possible using the provided Flexible Mounting Device but it should be noted that the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level is a highly sensitive device. Having a controlled rotation of a camera tripod will allow more control in dialing the laser line onto the picture frame that you are working to adjust or align. With regard to the sensitivity of the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level, while testing it out in our living room I found that the device picks up any and all vibrations and shows those vibrations in the form of shaking laser lines. It was sensitive enough to pick up the vibrations of my walking across the floor – insert fat joke here. This confirmed that the Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level is not meant for use in a full-blown construction zone or in a room with a compressor running.

Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level
The Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level can conveniently get you spot on, (+ or – 5/16″ up to 30′), without monkeying around with a traditional level.

Bosch GLL 30 Laser Sets You Straight

Bosch does offer a wide variety of self-leveling laser levels. Ranging from 30 feet simple models like the GLL30, or more feature filled and longer distance versions like the GLL3-300 triple line, 360 degree, 200 foot laser we recently reviewed. Bosch makes levels that meet both DIY and the professional grade applications. The Bosch GLL 30 S Cross-Line Laser Level does work well at a great price point, about $80, for the DIY-er or the pro looking for a handy, inexpensive cross-line laser for close quarters.

Buy the GLL 30 S Cross Line Laser for around $80

Buy Now - via Home Depot

I acknowledge that The Home Depot is partnering with Home Fixated in sponsored content. As a part of the sponsorship, Home Fixated is receiving compensation for the purpose of promoting The Home Depot. All expressed opinions and experiences are our own words. This post complies with the Word Of Mouth Marketing Association (WOMMA) Ethics Code and applicable Federal Trade Commission guidelines.

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About Bob

Bob was raised in a DIY household - he later learned it was because they were economically disadvantaged (poor). Bob has worked as a machinist, general contractor, landlord/handyman and most perilously as a high school math teacher. His strongest attribute? He has never been smart enough to be afraid.

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