Torpedo Level

Model 935 by Klein Tools has a few extra goodies, which is perhaps why it costs considerably more. While this level has the basics like 3 easy to read indicators (level, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees) and a magnet, the "bonus" features are the bright orange color (easy to spot in the tool bag or on conduit), the V groove (for placing on round conduit), and the top down viewable level indicator (a real knee saver!). I also like the holes on each end for hanging it on the peg board over the work bench. It's a good tool for the occasional grab-and-go tool bag. The magnet isn’t any stronger than another 9” level I own however. To be "on the level" (pun intended), I’d also like to point out I’m not a pro and only use a 9” level around the house for DIY projects (putting up curtain rods, hanging pictures, installing tv mounts, carpentry). Either way, I really appreciate that Klein Tools has made it a point to disclose on the HD website and tools’ packaging the CA Proposition 65 warning, which encourages hand washing after handling this tool. I constantly chew gum while I work, which means I eat my share of dirt. As a result, if I had to use this level every day, I’d consider wearing gloves or using a different tool as a result.

This review is for the Klein Model 935 9” torpedo level. I’m a homeowner / DIY’er not a pro tradesman, so this review comes from that perspective. The Klein is orange, making it easy to spot in a toolbox, and it offers three angles – flat, 90 degrees, and 45 degrees. The tool has a magnetic strip for holding the level in place, but my favorite feature is a top-down view bubble port. Rather than kneel down to see the bubble on a low surface you can look down on the top of the level and get a good view (see the photo below). Fit and finish is good, and the tool isn’t overly heavy, so it can be stowed in a pants pocket without dragging down on your belt. There are a couple of holes in the housing, for mounting the tool on pegboard or for attaching a lanyard. I’ve tested it against other levels that I own, and it seems to be accurate. The level isn’t made in the U.S., but offers the Klein lifetime warranty against defects and, of course, the Home Depot 90-day return warranty. HTH Regards, Jim

Perfect for my second toolbox and for hanging pictures/mirrors. The level is made of plastic mostly with aluminum providing the straight edge on the top and bottom. Aluminum rings also holds the 3 level bubbles. The bubbles are easy to read and provide a horizontal, vertical and 45 degree options. It includes a magnet on one edge. The other side has an indented v on the edge so you can rest it on a lip of something. Overall its going to meet my needs. The metal edges seem to be rigidly held on and should last a while.

A Tool Every DIYer Needs! Levels are something that every professional or weekend warrior should have, but something you don’t think about until you really need it. I have laser levels, long levels, miniature levels; however the most useful one I have ever owned is the torpedo level and this one is superb. Made by Klein tools, it is light, accurate, easy to read, and easy to transport and store. It is 9 inches in length and its bright orange body makes it easy to find among the mess that can be my toolbox. One really nice thing is that can be read from the top as well as from the sides, and the top has a “V” groove in it so it can sit on conduit or pipe and be used. The magnetic strip on the bottom is nice but not strong magnetically. This is good, as it will not pick up stray metal bits but does mean you have to touch it to the surface to get it to stick. In the picture you can see where I used it to level the base plate and router table, and is the perfect size to do this. No tool box should be without one of this, and this one is excellent.

easy, exactly what I needed

Has a strong magnet and easily visible windows

It worked really well, magnetic side is a very helpful feature.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Great level. Survives falls, tells me when things are bubble, and sticks to my shop cabinets.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This does everything I need, and survives job site falls.