Rotary Laser Levels - For Pros Only?

I used to think that rotary laser levels were for contractors only--until I actually bothered to look into the issue, especially the issue of prices.

To back up a bit:  you've got those flat laser levels that stick against walls and project a single beam across a single wall.  Or, you can use this type of laser level on a floor to throw down a nice red "chalkline" in order to lay a row of tile.

But a rotary laser level takes that all a step further.  Rotary levels are usually mounted on a tripod at the center of the room or area you need to sight for level.  Pendulums inside the level keep everything on an even keel.  So, you don't need to make the rotary level flat; it takes care of itself.

The top head rotates 360 degrees, casting a clear red laser beam typically 200 feet in diameter, though you rarely will need such a wide diameter.  Combined with a vertical beam, you have a dual-beam rotary laser level capable of throwing a cross-hairs on a wall.

Now, it's not accurate to assume that rotary laser levels will cost over $500.  Yes, the bigname manufacturers like Berger and Agatec can cost in the thousands, but I found a cheap rotary laser level for under fifty bucks (complete with tripod!).