A 26x optical level for foundations, footings and grade stakes
The NSL100C is a straight-ahead optical level: 26x erect-image telescope, three leveling screws and a 5/8 x 11 mount that fits flat and dome tripods. Set it up, level it, and shoot elevations out to 200 ft.
- 26xMagnification
- 200 ftWorking range
- 1/4 inat 100 ft
- 3.5 ftMinimum focus
Quick answer: The Northwest Instruments NSL100C is a 26x optical construction level with an erect image, a 200 ft working range and 1/4 in at 100 ft leveling accuracy. It has a three-screw leveling head, mounts on any 5/8 x 11 tripod and ships with a carrying case and manual.
What's in the box
- NSL100C 26x optical level
- Hard carrying case
- Instruction manual
Tripod and grade rod sold separately.
Why crews like the NSL100C
Bright 26x erect image
The rod reads right-side up, and 26x pulls a distant grade stake in close.
1:100 stadia ratio
Read the distance to the rod right off the stadia lines, no tape needed.
3.5 ft minimum focus
Focus down to 3.5 ft, so you can work tight around the instrument.
Made for
- Footings
- Slabs
- Fence lines
- Grade stakes
- Decks
- Site layout
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 |
NSL100C specifications
| Manufacturer | Northwest Instruments (NWI) |
|---|---|
| Model | NSL100C |
| Magnification | 26x |
| Image | Erect |
| Stadia ratio | 1:100 |
| Working range | 200 ft |
| Leveling accuracy | 1/4 in at 100 ft |
| Minimum focus | 3.5 ft |
| Leveling head | Three leveling screws |
| Tripod mount | 5/8 x 11 thread, fits flat and dome tripods |
| Includes | Carrying case, 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 NSL100C
What is the working range of the NSL100C?
200 ft. For best accuracy keep shots inside that distance, with the rod held plumb.
How accurate is the NSL100C?
NWI rates leveling accuracy at 1/4 in at 100 ft.
What magnification does the NSL100C have?
26x with an erect image, so the rod reads right-side up.
What tripod does it fit?
The NSL100C mounts on a 5/8 x 11 thread and fits flat-head and dome-head tripods.
Is a tripod or rod included?
No. It ships with a carrying case and manual. Order a tripod and leveling rod separately.
Is the NSL100C a transit?
No. The NSL100C is a level. If you also want transit capability, see the NSL500C.
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.
