Switched from chalk line to laser for long runs, wish I did it years ago

For like 8 years I was all about the chalk line on long layout marks. Snap it, hope the wind doesn't mess it up, re-snap it three times. Last month I borrowed a buddy's rotary laser for a 40 foot deck frame and honestly it took me 20 minutes less just on marking. The line is dead straight every time even in the sun. I still use chalk for short stuff cause the laser feels like overkill, but for anything over 15 feet it's just better. Anyone else make the switch late and feel dumb about it? Or is there a downside I haven't hit yet with battery life or calibration?

1 comments

1 Comment

ray_burns13d ago

Man, I felt this one in my bones! Same exact thing happened to me last year on a patio job, and I still kick myself for all those years of blowing chalk dust in my face.