Bosch GLL 2-15 Cross Line Laser – Toolstop's Report
Posted by Toolstop Colin on 9th Jan 2015
Could the Bosch GLL 2-15 cross line laser be the perfect laser for anyone fitting kitchen, installing ceilings, plumbers, electricians and tilers? Our report presents the facts.
Cross-line lasers aren’t a new concept, but we’re always impressed with Bosch’s offerings to the market, particularly as the devices are getting smarter and more robust. So, what will you be able to do with the GLL215?
Our exclusive GLL2-15 demo video Toolstop TV is the first place to start.
Bosch GLL 2-15 Compact Cross Line Laser – What’s the Spec?
For starters it’s worth noting that this is a very easy cross-line laser to handle, in part thanks to the rubberised protective housing, but equally because of Bosch’s design. One button on top cycles you through the various laser line options.
Talking about the housing, the GLL 2-15’s protective housing means that it is rated IP5X against dust and water ingress.
With regards to tech-spec, here’s what you need to know:
- Laser diode: 635 nm, < 1 mW
- Operating temperature: -10 – 50 °C
- Storage temperature: -20 – 70 °C
- Laser class: 2
- Working range: 15 m
- Leveling accuracy: ± 0.3 mm/m
- Self-leveling range: ± 4°
On the underside of the device is a 1/4″ and 5/8″ tripod mount, so you can pop it on top of most standard tripods. However, bundled in the carry case, along with the batteries and a laser target, is the BM3 wall mount. This screws into the threaded tripod mount and it’s a fantastic addition to your kit.
It serves as a rudimentary table-top/work surface stand thanks to the extendible legs, as you can see above.
But more than that, you can screw it onto a wall, or even clamp it onto a ceiling fixing, making it perfect for suspended ceiling installers.
Bosch GLL 2-15 Compact Cross Line Laser – What Are the Benefits?
In addition to the BM3 mount, the IP5X rating, the leveling accuracy of ± 0.3 mm/m, there’s a few great features that certainly add to the benefits of owning the Bosch GLL2-15 cross-line laser, particularly if you need a stable slope!
As Eric demonstrates in our video, 3 presses of the button on top of the device brings up a red LED light indicating that out-of-auto-leveling-range warning has been disabled. You’re now able to use the GLL2-15 to set slopes, perfect for working on access ramps, handrails, etc. Cheaper products will shut down the laser lines if you try to work at an angle that would trigger out-of-range warning, or the “professional” ones blink the laser lines, making it almost impossible to use.
But the GLL2-15 gives you the flexibility to work with any angle of laser line you need.
On top of that, the sole button on the device gives you the ability to work with one line at a time, vertical or horizontal. This is a great battery-saving option. I
f you don’t need crossed lines, you don’t need to have them, just choose vertical or horizontal. Therefore, longer battery life when you’re just working with one line.
All in all, then, if you’re working in a trade that depends upon accurate lines for fitting power sockets, tiling, installing ceilings, etc, we reckon you should take a close look at the Bosch GLL2-15, a much improved cross line laser from the German giants. Get more spec and details here, along with our best price.