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Stanley cast level XC 110 N?
- Thread starter One-Zero
- Start date
Roberts210
Well-known member
It does look like a machinst level.
bmwrd0
Well-known member
It isn't a machinist or woodworking level, Stanley only called them metallic levels. You can see them here on page 37. You can also see the other types they made.
I have one and it is very nice, as is yours.
I have one and it is very nice, as is yours.
RTM
Well-known member
OZ: how long is it? It doesn't match the overall pattern BMW showed, I didn't find it in 1926 or 1934 (his choice) or 1941 or 1949, trying to pin down a year for you. Agree that he has you in the right class of level tho. I think I have a 37 at home, with 3 broken vials. Someday I'll get them fixed.
RTM
Well-known member
It’s 18”
I think machinists levels are usually adjustable so you can self calibrate them
crguy
Well-known member
I think machinists levels are usually adjustable so you can self calibrate them
Lots of old levels have adjustable vials.
I think machinists levels are usually adjustable so you can self calibrate them
Yep, they have smaller tighter graduations and you need very specific calibration equipment to set them. I was just thinking this is heavy cast iron so it’d sit flat under its own weight and be less prone to contraction/expansion. Plus if it was old then you’d only need it to set tables/ways and not be super precise like modern ones.
woodbutcher 66
New member
- Joined
- Jan 12, 2026
- Messages
- 1
The Stanley 37 is adjustable — loosen the tapered screws til the vial gets sloppy. Now shim the lands on the low end of the vials with shards of beer can. Drive tapered screws back on and they will press the shims into place. Have mine true to .02 over 24” . Not quite Starrett, but damn good for Stanley! (2 shims trued mine)Yep, they have smaller tighter graduations and you need very specific calibration equipment to set them. I was just thinking this is heavy cast iron so it’d sit flat under its own weight and be less prone to contraction/expansion. Plus if it was old then you’d only need it to set tables/ways and not be super precise like modern ones.