Pivoted two-section carpenter's level

Abstract

A carpenter's level is formed in two sections, connected together by a pivot near the top of the sections whereby the level may be adjusted to various positions including at least a straight, linearly aligned position and a right angle position. When in the linear configuration, the surfaces of two cooperating sections are flush, without protrusions. A pair of extending flanges on the main section overlap the other, adjustable section by extending into complementarily shaped recesses in the sides of the adjustable section, and the adjustable section includes a projecting insert which extends into a recess formed in the main section, so that the flanges, recesses and insert cooperate to provide stability and alignment of the two sections. Position-holding projections on the inside surfaces of the extending flanges are engageable with sets of depressions formed in the recesses of the adjustable section, positioned to hold the two level sections at selected angles. The sections are spring-biased toward the linearly aligned position, preferably by a coiled torsion spring positioned over the pivot pin, and the level may be easily returned from any angle to the linear position by a snapping motion from the hand of the operator. A level bubble is provided in at least the main section, which is usually used horizontally, and preferably also in the adjustable section for each of the selectable positions. In the right angle position, the adjustable level may be used as a corner squaring tool, and its open corner will fit over most moldings. The level bubbles are retained in U-shaped recesses provided in the level sections by special retaining brackets adhered to the U-shaped recesses after the level bubbles are inserted.