CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level, Magnetic, 9 inch – Portable Outdoor Jobsite Level for Fences, Decks, and Steel Posts
CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level, Magnetic, 9 inch – Portable Outdoor Jobsite Level for Fences, Decks, and Steel Posts
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Why you'll love it
- Rare earth magnets enable hands-free leveling on metal surfaces, freeing both hands for marking and fastening
- Compact 9-inch torpedo size fits in most toolboxes and tight spaces where standard levels cannot reach
- Magnified center vial improves readability and reduces alignment errors in dimly lit work areas
- CRAFTSMAN brand heritage offers trusted quality and durability at a contractor-friendly price point
- Three-vial design (level, plumb, and 45-degree) delivers versatile functionality in a single compact tool
Perfect for
- Leveling metal pipes, conduit, and steel studs hands-free during installation
- Hanging shelves, pictures, and cabinets accurately on metal surfaces
- Checking plumb and level on appliances, vents, and electrical boxes in tight spaces
- Verifying surface level during plumbing, HVAC, and framing work
- Quick alignment checks on small job-site repairs where a full-size level is impractical
Product Information
Package dimensions: 2.1 cms L x 4.7 cms W x 24.7 cms H Product type: Tools package quantity: 1 Country of Origin: Thailand
Get all your projects squared away with the CRAFTSMAN® 9-in torpedo level. Our 9-in torpedo level fits in most toolboxes, and features rare earth magnets for hands-free use with metals. This torpedo level is equipped with 3 vials for added versatility, including a magnified center vial for improved visibility and accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the magnets hold up on outdoor metal structures like fences, gates, and trailers?
Yes. The rare earth magnetic base is strong enough to stick to painted and unpainted ferrous metal commonly found on exterior builds, including steel posts, trailer frames, and metal gate rails.
Can I use this in cold or damp weather on an outdoor jobsite?
The level is built for jobsite conditions, and the sealed vials resist typical moisture. Just wipe it down after use in rain or snow, and store it inside the toolbox to keep the body in good shape.
Is it portable enough to throw in a truck, ATV, or saddlebag for remote work?
At 9 inches and a lightweight build, it is easy to carry in a truck bed box, a service trailer, or even a large work vest pocket, so it is well suited to remote or off-grid repair work.
Does it work for leveling a metal mailbox post or a deck ledger on the patio?
Yes. Stick the magnetic base to a steel post or to a metal bracket, and the center vial gives you a quick, accurate plumb or level read before you fasten the hardware.
Can I use it to check the pitch on a metal roof panel or rain gutter?
Yes. The 45-degree and level vials make it easy to confirm slope on a gutter run or verify a metal roof panel is sitting on plane during installation.
Will the tool hold up to the dust and debris of an active construction site?
The body is built for trades and will handle typical jobsite grit. Keep the vials clear of concrete dust and drywall mud, and wipe the magnetic base periodically to keep a strong grip on steel.
Is it tough enough for outdoor carpentry like a pergola or a shed frame?
Yes. Many carpenters carry a 9-inch magnetic torpedo specifically for fitting hardware, checking post plumb, and aligning steel connectors on outdoor timber builds.
Can I use it on a boat trailer or a truck bed to check the deck is flat?
Yes. The magnetic base clings to the steel bed or frame, and the level vial gives you a quick read of how flat the surface is before you load or level the trailer.
Does the bright vial stay visible in direct sunlight outdoors?
The magnified center vial is designed for improved readability in varied lighting, but in very bright direct sun you may want to shade the vial with your hand to get the most accurate read.
Is it a good tool to bring along for a backyard DIY project like a fence build?
It is a strong fit. You can set it on a steel post to check plumb, on a metal bracket to set level, and use the 45-degree vial to confirm consistent angles on a diagonal brace or gate.
How do I read the level, plumb, and 45-degree vials correctly?
Set the level on the surface you want to check. For level, the bubble should sit centered between the two lines on the horizontal vial. For plumb, hold the level against a vertical surface and center the bubble in the vertical vial. For 45 degrees, place the level on the angled surface and center the bubble in the 45-degree vial, which is usually marked on the body.
How do I calibrate or check that my torpedo level is still accurate?
Place the level on a flat surface and note the bubble position. Rotate the level 180 degrees in the same spot and check the bubble again. If the bubble settles in the same place both times, the vial is accurate. If not, contact CRAFTSMAN customer service about repair or replacement.
How do I clean and store the level to keep it accurate?
Wipe the body with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust and debris, and keep the vial windows clear of grit. Store it inside a toolbox or on a magnetic strip rather than loose in a truck bed, and avoid dropping it on hard surfaces to protect the vial mounts.
Will the magnets stick to stainless steel, aluminum, or copper?
Rare earth magnets only attach to ferrous metals, meaning iron and most carbon steel. They will not hold to stainless steel in most cases, and they will not stick at all to aluminum, copper, or brass. For non-ferrous surfaces, use the level by hand or place it on a flat metal shim.
Will it fit a standard toolbox drawer or a Klein or Milwaukee tool pouch?
At 9 inches, it fits most standard 18- to 20-inch toolbox drawers and slides into the main pocket of most full-size tool pouches, including common electricians and HVAC pouches from Klein Tools, Milwaukee, and others.
What is in the box when I order the CRAFTSMAN 9-inch magnetic torpedo level?
You receive the 9-inch torpedo level with built-in magnetic base, level vial, plumb vial, and 45-degree vial. No batteries, calibration tools, or additional accessories are required, and it is ready to use straight out of the package.
Is it safe to use around electronics, pacemakers, or magnetic media?
The rare earth magnets are strong, so keep the level away from magnetic stripe cards, hard drives, and unshielded electronic devices. Anyone with a pacemaker or implanted medical device should follow standard guidance and keep the magnetic base at a safe distance from the implant.
Will the vials fog up or leak over time with normal use?
The vials are sealed for typical jobsite conditions. If you see persistent fog, bubble drift, or fluid leakage, stop relying on the readings and contact CRAFTSMAN about warranty service rather than attempting a DIY repair.
What is the difference between a torpedo level and a standard box-beam or I-beam level?
A torpedo level is a short level, usually 6 to 12 inches, designed for compact jobs, tight spaces, and pipe and conduit work. A standard box-beam or I-beam level is longer, usually 24 to 48 inches, and is built for checking longer flat runs like walls, floors, and framing. A torpedo complements a longer level rather than replacing it.
