
A 32x automatic level that levels itself and reaches 400 ft
The NCL32 is the top of NWI's Contractor Series: 32x magnification, a 400 ft working range and a magnetic-damped compensator that sets the line of sight level for you.
- 32xMagnification
- 400 ftWorking range
- 1/16 inat 250 ft
- +/-15′Compensator
Quick answer: The Northwest Instruments NCL32 is a 32x automatic level with a 400 ft working range and 1/16 in at 250 ft leveling accuracy. A wire-hung, magnetically damped compensator with a +/- 15 minute range levels the line of sight for you. It mounts on any 5/8 x 11 tripod and ships with a plumb bob, carrying case and manual.

What's in the box
- NCL32 32x automatic level
- Plumb bob
- Hard carrying case
- Instruction manual
Tripod and grade rod sold separately.
Why crews like the NCL32
Self-levelling compensator
Rough-level the circular vial and the compensator sets the line of sight level.
32x and 400 ft
The highest power in NWI's Contractor Series reaches 400 ft from one setup.
Built for vibration
Magnetic damping, a steel cage and a safety lock keep the compensator steady.
Made for
- Large slabs
- Road grade
- Foundations
- Pads
- Long runs of footings
- Drainage
Compare the NWI levels
| Model | NSL100C | NSL500C | NCL32 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Optical level | Transit level | Automatic level |
| Magnification | 26x | 26x | 32x |
| Working range | 200 ft | 200 ft | 400 ft |
| Leveling accuracy | 1/4 in at 100 ft | 1/4 in at 100 ft | 1/16 in at 250 ft |
| Transit capability | No | +/- 45 degrees | No |
| Leveling | 3 screws | 3 screws | Auto compensator |
| Includes | Case, manual | Case, plumb bob, manual | Case, plumb bob, manual |
NCL32 specifications
| Manufacturer | Northwest Instruments (NWI) |
|---|---|
| Model | NCL32 (Contractor Series) |
| Magnification | 32x |
| Image | Erect |
| Working range | 400 ft |
| Leveling accuracy | 1/16 in at 250 ft |
| Resolution | 3.5 in |
| Circular vial sensitivity | 8 min / 2 mm |
| Compensation range | +/- 15 min |
| Compensator | Magnetic damping, steel cage, wire hung, safety lock |
| Tripod mount | 5/8 x 11 thread |
| Includes | Carrying case, plumb bob, manual |
Pair it with a heavy-duty tripod
You will need a tripod and a leveling rod. Both SitePro tripods below are heavy-duty aluminum with double-banded legs and quick-release clamps, 40 in collapsed and 64 in extended, with a 5/8-11 head. Choose flat or dome.

SitePro ALQR40
Dome head, 5/8-11 thread. Often preferred for optical instruments.
See the dome head tripodQuestions about the NCL32
How far can the NCL32 shoot?
Working range is 400 ft at 32x. NWI rates leveling accuracy at 1/16 in at 250 ft.
What does automatic level mean?
You level the circular bubble roughly with the three screws and an internal compensator holds the line of sight level, so there is no vial to centre for every shot.
What is the compensation range?
+/- 15 minutes of arc, with magnetic damping to settle the line of sight quickly and a safety lock for transport.
What magnifications does the NCL series come in?
NWI's Contractor Series is offered at 22x, 26x and 32x. The NCL32 is the 32x model.
What is included with the NCL32?
The level, a plumb bob, a carrying case and the manual. Tripod and rod are sold separately.
What tripod does it fit?
A 5/8 x 11 thread, the standard on survey and construction tripods.
Flat head or dome head tripod for an optical level?
Both fit. The SitePro ALQR20 has a 5/8-11 flat head; the SitePro ALQR40 has a 5/8-11 dome head, which many crews prefer for optical instruments. Both are heavy-duty aluminum with double-banded legs and quick-release clamps, 40 in collapsed and 64 in extended.
Is the NSL100C, NSL500C or NCL32 right for me?
Pick the NCL32 if you want a self-levelling instrument with the longest reach (400 ft). Pick the NSL500C if you also need transit capability for plumb and vertical lines. Pick the NSL100C for straightforward grade work on a budget.
Does Contractors-Tools.com sell Northwest Instruments?
Yes. We are an authorized Northwest Instruments dealer, family owned and operated, with free shipping. Call 1-877-866-5721 for help choosing.
