A 26x transit level that shoots grade and checks plumb
The NSL500C adds transit capability to a 26x level: a +/-45 degree transit, three leveling screws and a 5/8 x 11 mount that fits flat and dome tripods. A plumb bob and carrying case come with it.
- 26xMagnification
- +/-45°Transit
- 200 ftWorking range
- 1/4 inat 100 ft
Quick answer: The Northwest Instruments NSL500C is a 26x optical transit level with an erect image, +/- 45 degree transit capability, a 200 ft working range and 1/4 in at 100 ft leveling accuracy. It mounts on any 5/8 x 11 tripod and ships with a plumb bob, carrying case and manual.
What's in the box
- NSL500C 26x transit level
- Plumb bob
- Hard carrying case
- Instruction manual
Tripod and grade rod sold separately.
Why crews like the NSL500C
+/- 45 degree transit
Tilt the telescope above and below level to set vertical lines and check plumb.
Plumb bob in the box
Hang it from the instrument to centre quickly over a point.
Same 26x erect optics
A bright, upright 26x picture with a 1:100 stadia ratio and 3.5 ft minimum focus.
Made for
- Plumb checks
- Footings
- Forms and walls
- Posts
- Grade stakes
- 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 |
NSL500C specifications
| Manufacturer | Northwest Instruments (NWI) |
|---|---|
| Model | NSL500C |
| Magnification | 26x |
| Image | Erect |
| Stadia ratio | 1:100 |
| Transit capability | +/- 45 degrees |
| 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, 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 NSL500C
What is the difference between the NSL100C and NSL500C?
Both are 26x levels with a 200 ft range and 1/4 in at 100 ft accuracy. The NSL500C adds +/- 45 degree transit capability and includes a plumb bob.
What is the working range of the NSL500C?
200 ft.
How accurate is the NSL500C?
NWI rates leveling accuracy at 1/4 in at 100 ft.
What is transit capability used for?
It lets you sight above and below level, so you can set vertical lines and check plumb on walls, forms and posts in addition to shooting elevations.
What is included with the NSL500C?
The transit 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, so flat-head and dome-head tripods both work.
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.
