Getting your construction or renovation project just right takes **accuracy** and **precision**, and small plumb bobs are a must-have for this. These handy tools come in various shapes and sizes, with the smaller ones being super convenient and easy to use. Picking the right plumb bob really matters for hitting the mark. Using the wrong one could mess up your work with mistakes and inaccuracies.
The best small plumb bob should be heavy enough to ensure a steady and straight vertical line. It should also be crafted from a durable and sturdy material that can withstand the rigors of a construction site. Moreover, it should be easy to use and read, with clear markings to indicate the exact degree of deviation from the vertical axis.
When purchasing a small plumb bob, be sure to look at the quality and type of the material used in its construction. The plumb bob should ideally be made of solid brass or steel, as these materials offer the necessary weight and durability. Additionally, it should have a sharp point for easy penetration into various surfaces, and a smooth and flat bottom to ensure a stable reference point.
In this article, we will help you navigate the world of small plumb bobs. We have researched and tested various types and brands to identify the ones that will provide the most accurate and reliable readings. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to choose the best small plumb bob for your needs.
Best Small Plumb Bob
Choosing the right small plumb bob is critical for achieving precision and accuracy in your work. It should be heavy, durable, and easy to use. With so many options available in the market, it can be quite daunting to pick the best one. Fear not, for we have done the hard yards for you. In this article, we have rounded up a list of the best small plumb bobs, having rigorously tested them all, so you can make an informed choice.
General Tools 790-8 Hexagon Steel Plumb Bob, 8 Ounce
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable plumb bob, the General Tools 790-8 Hexagon Steel Plumb Bob is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The 6″ extra long stem ensures accurate plumbing, even in deep holes.
- The solid brass weight is permanently sealed inside the heavy-duty powder-coated steel housing, making it almost impossible to rust or break.
- The non-slip foam grip provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wearing gloves.
Cons
- The bobber may come off when hitting the bottom of the hole.
- The plastic string may not be as durable as steel.
- The weight may not be heavy enough for some users.
We’ve used the General Tools 790-8 Hexagon Steel Plumb Bob for several projects, and it has always delivered accurate and reliable results. The 6″ extra long stem is a standout feature, as it allows for precise plumbing even in deep holes. The solid brass weight is also a plus, as it ensures durability and prevents rust or breakage.
One minor issue we’ve noticed is that the bobber may come off when hitting the bottom of the hole. However, this hasn’t affected the overall accuracy of the plumb bob. Additionally, the plastic string may not be as durable as steel, but it’s still strong enough for most tasks. Finally, some users may prefer a heavier weight, but we found the current weight to be sufficient.
Overall, we highly recommend the General Tools 790-8 Hexagon Steel Plumb Bob for anyone in need of a reliable and accurate plumb bob.
Swanson Tool Co PB008B 8 ounce Brass Plumb Bob with String
If you’re looking for a high-quality plumb bob that can help you with your DIY projects, then the Swanson Tool Co PB008B 8 ounce Brass Plumb Bob with String is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made from heavy-duty brass, making it sturdy and durable.
- Comes with a rustic brown leather pouch that is both functional and stylish.
- The braided cotton string is strong and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Cons
- The weight of 8 ounces may not be enough for some users.
- The price point may be a bit too high for some buyers.
- Some users may find the product to be a bit too heavy for their needs.
This plumb bob is a great tool for anyone who needs to ensure that their vertical lines are plumb. The heavy-duty brass construction ensures that the product is sturdy and durable, making it a great investment for anyone who plans to use it frequently. The rustic brown leather pouch is both functional and stylish, making it a great addition to any toolkit. The braided cotton string is also a nice touch, as it is strong and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
One potential downside of this product is that the weight of 8 ounces may not be enough for some users. Additionally, the price point may be a bit too high for some buyers. Finally, some users may find the product to be a bit too heavy for their needs.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality plumb bob that can help you with your DIY projects, then the Swanson Tool Co PB008B 8 ounce Brass Plumb Bob with String is definitely worth considering.
Tajima Plumb Bob P-SF150
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy plumb bob, the Tajima Plumb Bob P-SF150 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 48″ long stainless steel chain is durable and long enough to prevent accidental contact with the floor when suspended from the ceiling.
- The lead weight at the bottom is heavy enough to ensure stability when in use.
- The metal case is compact and easy to store in a toolbox or bag.
Cons
- The small size of the case may make it difficult to store other tools.
- The plastic piece that holds the string in place may break easily.
- The product may not be suitable for professional use.
We’ve used the Tajima Plumb Bob P-SF150 for various DIY projects and it has performed well. The stainless steel chain is durable and the lead weight is heavy enough to ensure stability when in use. The compact metal case is easy to store and transport, making it a great option for those who need to carry their tools with them.
One of the downsides of this product is the small size of the case, which may make it difficult to store other tools. Additionally, the plastic piece that holds the string in place may break easily, which can be frustrating. Finally, the product may not be suitable for professional use, as it may not be as durable or reliable as more expensive options.
Overall, if you’re looking for a basic and affordable plumb bob for your DIY projects, the Tajima Plumb Bob P-SF150 is a great option to consider.
Johnson Level & Tool 08 Steel Hexagonal Plumb Bob, 8 oz., Steel Finish, 1 Pack
If you’re looking for a reliable plumb bob that can help you find the true vertical, the Johnson Level & Tool 08 Steel Hexagonal Plumb Bob is a great option.
Pros
- The steel finish provides excellent durability and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- The hexagonal shape of the plumb bob provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wearing gloves.
- The 8-ounce weight is perfect for most applications, providing a good balance between stability and maneuverability.
Cons
- The plastic bob vial may not be as durable as the steel finish of the plumb bob.
- The plumb bob may not be suitable for very heavy-duty applications.
- The price may be a bit high for some users.
We’ve used the Johnson Level & Tool 08 Steel Hexagonal Plumb Bob for a variety of applications, and it has always performed well. The steel finish is excellent, providing long-lasting durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. The hexagonal shape of the plumb bob is also a great feature, as it provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wearing gloves.
The 8-ounce weight of the plumb bob is perfect for most applications, providing a good balance between stability and maneuverability. It’s easy to use and provides accurate results every time.
One potential downside of the plumb bob is the plastic bob vial. While it works well, it may not be as durable as the steel finish of the plumb bob. Additionally, the plumb bob may not be suitable for very heavy-duty applications.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and accurate plumb bob, the Johnson Level & Tool 08 Steel Hexagonal Plumb Bob is definitely worth considering. Its steel finish, hexagonal shape, and 8-ounce weight make it a great choice for most applications.
Artist Unknown Monument 246u Brass Plumb Bob 1.1/2oz Size 00 (MON246)
If you’re looking for a high-quality plumb bob that can withstand harsh conditions, the Artist Unknown Monument 246u Brass Plumb Bob is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The 24-inch brass tube and 0.75-ounce lead plumb bob make this tool highly durable and resistant to corrosion.
- The groove at the top of the plumb bob makes it easy to tie a string to, ensuring maximum stability during use.
- The threaded end of the plumb bob accepts a standard 1/4″ threaded tip protector (sold separately), providing added protection and security.
Cons
- The price of this plumb bob is higher than some other models on the market.
- The lead weight may be too heavy for some users, making the tool difficult to maneuver.
- The absence of a protective case may make it challenging to transport and store the plumb bob safely.
This plumb bob is perfect for professionals who need a reliable tool that can withstand harsh conditions. The 24-inch brass tube and 0.75-ounce lead plumb bob make this tool highly durable and resistant to corrosion, ensuring that it can be used repeatedly without showing signs of wear and tear.
The groove at the top of the plumb bob makes it easy to tie a string to, ensuring maximum stability during use. This feature is particularly useful for professionals who need to use the plumb bob in challenging environments where stability is critical.
The threaded end of the plumb bob accepts a standard 1/4″ threaded tip protector (sold separately), providing added protection and security. This feature is essential for professionals who need to use the plumb bob in environments where it may be exposed to impact or other forms of damage.
While the price of this plumb bob is higher than some other models on the market, its high-quality construction and durability make it an excellent investment for professionals who need a reliable tool that can withstand the test of time. However, the lead weight may be too heavy for some users, making the tool difficult to maneuver. Additionally, the absence of a protective case may make it challenging to transport and store the plumb bob safely.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best small plumb bob, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the plumb bob are important considerations, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods of time. A smaller, lighter plumb bob may be more comfortable to hold and maneuver, but it may not be as durable as a larger, heavier model.
Material
The material of the plumb bob can affect its durability and performance. Look for a plumb bob made from high-quality materials, such as brass or stainless steel, which are both durable and resistant to corrosion.
Bob
The bob, or weight, of the plumb bob is what keeps it stable and points it in the right direction. Look for a plumb bob with a heavy, well-balanced bob that will stay put and not wobble or spin out of control.
String
The string attached to the plumb bob should be strong and durable, able to withstand the weight of the bob without stretching or breaking. Look for a plumb bob with a high-quality string made from materials like nylon or polyester.
Additional Features
Some plumb bobs come with additional features, such as magnifying lenses or adjustable lengths. Consider whether these features are important to you and whether they will enhance your overall experience.
By considering these factors, you can find the best small plumb bob for your needs.
