Bosch GPL5C 5-Beam Laser

By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews

Bosch GPL5C 5-Beam Point and Line Laser

Bosch GPL5C 5-Beam Laser

Bosch GPL5C 5-Beam Point Alignment Laser

The folks over at Bosch recently sent me their Bosch GPL5C 5-Beam Laser to review.

The Bosch GPL5C Five Point & Line Laser Combination features cross point reference lines. It has a range of 100 feet and is designed to provide easy single-set up track alignment on both floor and ceiling, eliminating the need for two set up points for track alignment which saves time and increases accuracy.

Bosch GPL5C 5-Beam Laser First Impression:

We I first opened the box I did like the case, it fit well in my hand and very light.   The level comes in a canvas padded storage bag.  I would prefer to see this instrument stored in a molded plastic case for better protection.

The laser has three diodes that project points in five directions.   [plumb, level and square points, in addition to the conventional 5 laser dots for wall and partition alignment.]

The Bosch GPL5C 5-Beam Laser offers laser cross alignment lines on floor and ceiling which eliminates the need for two set up points which saves time and increases accuracy. A selection switch allows you to choose between laser options of:

  • 3 horizontal points for 90-degree alignment and leveling;
  • up and down cross points with 90-degree horizontal point;
  • 5 points with cross points to meet all job needs and save battery life.  Smart Pendulum Leveling System self-levels, senses and indicates out-of level condition and locks when switched off. .

This Cross Point Technology 5-Point Alignment Self-Leveling Laser from Bosch (GPL5C) projects highly-visible plumb, level and square points as well as 5 laser dots for wall and partition alignment. Laser cross alignment lines on floor and ceiling eliminate the need for two set up points. Built in magnets allow quick alignment on metal track. The Smart Pendulum Leveling

I was impressed with the self locking feature:  The GPL5C has a self-leveling system that senses and indicates an out-of level condition, and even locks the self leveling pendulum to protect it during transport.  [when switched off]

The GPL5C At A Glance:

•Projects plumb, level and square points
•Smart pendulum system self-levels, senses and indicated out-of level condition, locks when switched off
•Three laser options for all job needs: 3 horizontal points for 90-degree alignment and leveling, up and down cross points with 90-degree horizontal point, 5 points with cross points
•Cross point reference lines provide easy single-set up track alignment on both floor and ceiling, eliminating the need of two set up points for track alignment
•Three diodes create highly visible laser lines for superior accuracy
•Built in magnets allow quick alignment on metal track
•5 laser dots for wall and partition alignment
•Selection Switch to choose between laser options and save battery life

GPL5C Specifications:

  • Weight:  1.5 pounds
  • Accuracy:  +/- 1/4″ at 100 feet
  • Mount:  Magnetic or tripod [not included]
  • Size:  4.65 x 5.7 x 2.2 – inch

Using the Bosch GPL5C Five Point & Line Laser:

The GPL5C does alot of tasks. I first used it to level opposing shelves and it worked great. Its was very easy to set up. I used a ladder as my base and it worked well.  I also used my camera tripod which was much better.   I also used to level all the pictures in my house, it was very easy to shoot the same spot in a large room.

At the job site I used the  GPL5Cs to set three round column.  Round, tapered columns are difficult too plumb.  The   GPL5Cs provides vertical up and down cross hairs that was very useful.   I ended up measuring our from the center point to mark my bases and was able to plumb the columns easily.

I can also see the GPL5C being extremely useful in laying out wall ninety degree partitions in a basement.

If I was using this on a large job site a tripod would be essential. I recommend using an adjustable tripod for this tool.  A tripod will offer you a stable, adjustable support and will allow you to easily swivel the GPL5C  in a circle [360 degrees] to make numerous reference marks if needed.

The GPL5C accepts two types of tripod threads:

  • 1/4 – 20 thread tripod mount
  • 5/8 – 11 thread tripod mount

Tip:  One thing I noticed when using the GPL5C was that the dot changes size a bit depending on the distance shooting from.   Bosch recommends that you always mark the center of the dot for greatest accuracy.

The GPL5C also comes with a “measuring plate.”  The measuring plate increases the visibility of the laser beam under unfavorable conditions and at larger distances.   There is a reflective section on the measuring plate and this is useful for projecting the laser mark onto the floor or laser height onto the wall

Overall Impression:

For the price and what the  GPL5C is a great deal.  The GPL5C laser was easy to use, accurate and highly visible, even in daylight.

I feel the GPL5C is more of a serious DIYer or contractor tool as opposed to a homeowner tool.  The GPL5C laser does everything it says it will do.  It is a great tool and will increase your precision, ease and efficiency of work.

Where To Buy:

The GPL5C has a three year limited warranty and can be purchases at major hardware and tool suppliers or online here: Bosch-GPL5C-5-Beam-Point-Laser

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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