The new Bosch GTL3 Laser ($173 Ohio Power Tool) is in-stock and available now. The laser comes with the very handy wall mount, target and a nice carrying case. The GTL3 has a few advantages over the currently very popular CST LM2 Laser ($128 Ohio Power Tool); for starters the Bosch features 3 lasers instead of 2 which gives a nice 45 degree line that can be very helpful. The Bosch is also much taller putting down line than can be seen at further distances. Having tested several of these layout laser tools personally I will say the pictures are a little deceiving, none of these put down a laser like you see in the pictures. Only a few feet out it becomes harder so see on a perfectly flat surface however the laser actually shows up better once you have material down such as grout, unlike a chalk line that obviously gets covered up. The tile being laid will also show the laser very clearly (even 30+ ft away) if in the path of the laser, so it’s fairly easy to line up against the laser. Checkout all the new Bosch Laser Tools and for more information on the GTL3 models see the Full Bosch Press Release below.
Mount Prospect, Ill. – Bosch Measuring Tools has unveiled the next evolution in layout laser tools. Bosch’s new GTL3 hybrid line laser is designed to move past what was possible with the traditional laser square and become the perfect companion for anyone laying out tile flooring or wall coverings.
The most visible new innovation is the ability to project 45° layout lines. The addition of 45° line capability enables users to align layouts at 0°, 45°, 90° and 135° from a single set up. The feature also allows users to keep track of straight-line and diagonal alignments simultaneously, dramatically improving precision and productivity. The GTL3 has a maximum range of 65 feet and is accurate to within 1/16-in at 20-ft.
The next significant enhancement is the design of the unit itself. Bosch’s GTL3 is significantly taller than typical laser tile squares – with good reason. By raising the laser lines from the floor or wall surface, Bosch was able to design a layout tool that projects clear, sharp and precise laser lines over obstructions on the floor or wall and on all types of surfaces regardless of the texture of the material being laid out.
Bosch also re-aligned the three laser lines to converge at a point in front of the base of the laser unit. By moving this merging position away from the unit, the laser beams are raised from the work surface and can project without interference from grout or anything else that may make the surface uneven.
Other innovations that greatly increase jobsite productivity include a steel positioning plate that allows secure attachment to work surfaces for accurate material placement. Heavy-duty magnets located on the base of the GTL3 provide secure and adjustable attachment on the positioning plate or other ferrous-metal surfaces. The tool’s sturdy outer casing is both water and dust resistant to ensure years of dependable operation.
The GTL3 is compact and lightweight (barely 1 pound), and exhibits the phenomenal accuracy that is synonymous with Bosch Measuring Tools. It comes complete with a canvas carrying case to protect the tool, the steel positioning plate, one laser target and four AA batteries.
