Timber Framers Guild Forums Tools Tool Forum Help choosing a suitable (bubble) level?

I'm trying to choose a replacement for my 48" aluminum level( Mastercraft brand eh!) It was OK for building a deck, etc but it has issues.
I'm thinking a 60 or 72 inch might be useful for timber framing as well as foundation and general construction. What would the timber framers out there recommend as to length and brand preferences? Thanks in advance

Ken

Hi chance:

Just an observation, there is nothing wrong with a good quality 48 inch level it has many good uses. The old timberframers used only solid wood levels of 30inches, stanley was one of the earliest to produce them, and can still be picked up and put in good order.
My advice from experience is to obtain a good quality brass plumb bob, and use it to plumb your frames. just hang it where ever you can and it will give you an unmistakably true vertical line that might be impossible using a level on a sawn or hewn wood surface.
NH

the plumb bob is an awesome tool, never needs to be checked for accuracy, plus it helps to develop your eyes for you.
AND, I would say that mastercraft aluminum levels are as good as you need, probably better than you need if you work carefully. A six foot level or straightedge would definitely be an asset for TF layout.

Thanks to Northern Hewer and Mark Davidson for responses to my questions. I have a couple of plumb bobs which as you say are always useful. As far as the level goes, I suspect I went a bit overboard, but I went with German engineering and bought a 59"
Stabila set from KMS tools(no affiliation) . I'm sure it will be useful for timber framing as well as
foundation work and interior work(doors, cabinets etc. The set includes a 16" bonus?? level.
Thanks again, If I can't build straight, plumb and level with the stabila, boy will I be red faced.

Stabila 8 foot. A little pricey at $165, but well worth it.

I had been a long time plumb bob fan but I invested in a Stabila extendable level (6'-10')

Best thing since sliced bread

The lasers are now pretty good as well. Have used them in lots more ways than originally envisioned with good results. Just an expensive plumb bob, but can be set up quick and run easily. Right angle features are nice.