What's anyone or everyone using in the infrared temperature-reading guns available today? Money isn't the issue (less than $200 please) but something made in the USA would be nice----if that's even possible today.

Looking mostly for someone whose used one over some time, trying to determine what's most durable for mechanic's or shop use. Several construction or HVAC products are well rated but that's not quite the same environment we'd use them in.

Looking forward to any thoughts or ideas!

TIA

 

I use a cheapo Centech gun. What will you be measuring, how accurate will the readings need to be, and how durable does it really need to be? Mine has held up fine for at least a few years now, but I don't hurl it across the shop or anything.

 

I use a Fluke. Have had it several years. No problems.

Steve

 

oops, I see that someone else just mentioned Fluke

Here's one that I wish had been available when I was I got mine.

Amazon.com: Fluke 62 Mini Infrared Thermometer: Home Improvement
.
Seems to have a pretty good range, and it's accurate. ( The 1% is only somewhat true, but that's common specmanship)

Fluke used to be a fine independant test equipment maker, but they were bought out some time ago. They still have a good rep for DVMs, and this shouldn't be any different. Reviews looked good.

Years ago, they made some that had an adjustment for the type of surface that you were measuring -- supposedly improved the accuracy. I don't think that anybody bothers with that any more.

Just a suggestion based on 5 minutes of looking at Amazon

hj

 

That's the one I carry. I have had good luck with their products.

Steve

 

I like the fact you can adjust the EMS so I use this one now Amazon.com: DEWALT DCT414S1 12-Volt Max Infrared Thermometer Kit: Home Improvement works great for me and it has a decent price tag.

 

Hey Guys----thanks for the replies so far!

No offense but I hate DeWalt tools for general principle so I rule them out immediately. They have great designs overall but I've yet to see one of them last or be returned to dependable use after being repaired even by one of the authorized factory outlets. This is just a personal quirk----I do own several DeWalt 18 volt trouble lights---very cool they are! Thanks for the recommendation though---very much appreciated!

Fluke was certainly once upon a time one of the absolute best in the test meter market as well as more sophisticated test gear as well. Designed and made in the USA some of the earliest gear is still alive and working to this day, typically in electronics specialty shops. They're certainly a brand I've considered.

Like most of you I'm highly suspicious of the 1% accuracy claim, especially as distance from the measured surface increases. For most of our needs I'm guessing if its within an actual 10* its close enough.

My eventual choice won't be mistreated but its nice having a durable tool like this that can suffer a few drops onto concrete which is almost unavoidable.

I'll probably opt for the Fluke only because its such a strong brand and hopefully carries a good warranty. Amazon, ToolTopia or National Tool Warehouse as well as any of the other larger online retailers will probably have a good price on them too.

Always open for another brand or idea too------keep 'em coming if there's more to consider!

Thanks

 

I bought a Raytek unit at Grainger, but it seems that division of lower priced units is now incorporated into the Fluke line.

Nevermind....

 

The recommendation is still appreciated ArdWrkn!

Grainger is the big money store here locally though---at least 25-30% higher than competitors plus you have to jump through all their hoops for the "privilege" to buy from there?!?! No wonder lately they've begun radio advertising---must need the business!

 

I bought it there because I needed it NOW. And they are right down the street.
Grainger has always been expensive.
You are paying for their logistics and 'one stop shopping'
It's in stock, or they WILL have it when they say they will.

I have had an account since the '80's
If you have a bunch of employees that all need maintenance items it is a lot easier to keep track of one place than dozens.

So, not to say to go there, just that that's where I bought mine.

 

ArdWrkn I totally get your reasons----for the longest time Grainger was THE place to go for so many things---absolutely huge on-site inventory or as you point out on time deliveries, almost never failing.

The 'net has allowed us with a bit of time before needing a purchase more choices, price being just one of them. Like yourself if I need it now I buy, most times the first place I find the whatever and don't look back. Coulda, woulda, shoulda is a game we can't afford sometimes.

Consider me a Grainger fan once upon a time and most likely will buy again despite how much I protest otherwise. My Speedaire 20 gallon compressor is in need of some maintenance parts!