Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 3 Tools and Equipment 33 built vertical and level. It is the most delicate piece of equipment that a mason uses. See Figure 3‑18. Several spirit bubble vials are built into the level to permit plumb (vertical) and level (horizontal) use. The vials are adjusted precisely and are generally embedded in a plaster of paris setting. Masonry levels are usually 24″ to 48″ in length. A good level is lightweight and absolutely straight. It may be made from wood, metal, or a combination of the two. Figure 3‑19 shows a 2′ level, which is used in loca- tions where a shorter level is needed. This level is made of bamboo wood with metal bands to protect the edges, and it also has a rubber bumper on each end to aid in protection. Level cases are used to protect delicate levels when not in use or being transported from one jobsite to an- other. Level cases come in different style and sizes. See Figure 3‑20. Electronic Levels Electronic levels can be purchased in 2′ and 4′ lengths. Other lengths may be available depending on the man- ufacturer. An electronic level usually has a reading port in the middle of the level. The measurement of angle that is displayed in the reading port can be adjusted to set in different readings—degrees, percent, inches/ feet/fractions, inches/feet/decimal, or metrics. Elec- tronic levels are extremely accurate. Certain models have a lighted display for use when conditions warrant. Rotary Laser Levels Rotary laser levels are extremely accurate and time- saving construction tools. See Figure 3‑21. Applica- tions of laser levels in the masonry field include site Stanley Goldblatt Figure 3‑18. Common type of 4′ wood level used in masonry work. Johnson Level and Tool Manufacturing Company, Inc. Figure 3‑19. 2′ wood level with three sets of vials used in masonry work. Timothy L. Andera Figure 3‑20. Shows a black case for a 2′ level and has a snap lid. The yellow case is for a 4′ level and has a twist top that locks in place. Both are made of a plastic composite that is sturdy and resistant to damage.