Stabila has launched new Dark Shadow levels in the USA, following several months after its European release.
Stabila Dark Shadow levels are advertised as delivering the same design, quality, and accuracy as users expect, and with a new finish.
Basically, it’s a limited line of Stabila levels in a dark color scheme rather than construction yellow.
There are 3 options:
- Type 80 AS-2 24″ & 48″ (29300)
- Type 196 24″ & 48″ (37300)
- Type 196 IP65 TECH LEVEL 16″ (36300)
For a limited time, participating retailers are bundling the 24″ and 48″ level bundles with a free case. The 16″ Tech Level is not eligible for the same promotion.
Here’s a closer look at the new Stabila Dark Shadow levels and sets:
Stabila Dark Shadow Type 80 AS-2 24″ & 48″ (29300)
These are rectangular box-style levels with Stabila vials (locked). Stabila Type 80 AS levels are 2″ tall and 1″ wide with “soft reinforced ribs”.
Price-wise, this Dark Shadow level set looks to be around the same price as the standard yellow version.
Price: $129
Stabila Dark Shadow Type 196 24″ & 48″ (37300)
Stabila’s Type 196 levels are said to have a heavy duty and extra-rigid aluminum box beam design, with reinforcing ribs and milled measuring surfaces.
They also have ergonomic hand holes.
As with the other set, the pricing seems closely competitive to Stabila’s yellow levels.
Price: $199
Stabila Dark Shadow Type 196 IP65 TECH LEVEL 16″ (36300)
This is a 16″ digital level with IP65 dust and water resistance. The display is adjustable, with incline and slope measurements in degrees, percentage, mm/m, and in/ft.
A reader (thanks W00dy!) has previously educated us that the Stabila Tech Level was recently replaced with a newer Type 196 DL level. That version is available in the USA for around $246, or as low as $212 if you shop at Acme with their current coupon offer.
Price: $199
Discussion
With pricing around the same as for standard Stabila levels, is there any reason not to go with the cooler-looking feature?
As for how to choose between them, the Type 80 AS levels look to be a bit slimmer, and the Type 196 more durable and easier to carry and maybe use due to the handles. The 16″ Tech Level is an easy choice if you want a digital readout.
