Johnson Level

Johnson Level & Tool Manufacturing Co., Inc. is globally recognized as a leader in the hand tool industry. It is a leader in the manufacture of leveling products that are marketed and sold around the world. The Johnson Products Company opened its doors on the southern fringe of Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s manufacturing and warehousing district. In Walker’s Point, the Johnson’s’ fledgling business joined other small enterprises rank. Together they created a close-knit community with its roots steeped in the traditions of Milwaukee’s original settlers and their European heritage.

Focusing on metal and wood specialties, the artisans at the Johnson Products Company handcrafted custom products with pride. From shoeshine kits to wooden toolboxes, their artistic sense achievement was ever present. They really excelled, however, with the wooden boxes the company made for merchandising fountain pens, jewelry and various promotional specialties.

Following old-world business customs, jobs flowed into the company’s doors through word-of-mouth advertising. He asked George to craft a miniature working level as part of a child’s toolbox. Hence the first Johnson level was created-as a toy!

One innovative addition to the levels line included the creation of the first bulls-eye level not constructed solely of glass and metal. Over time, they were the innovators in extruded aluminium and plastics, this shift in manufacturing focus, Lawrence moved the manufacturing of wood levels to new Tomahawk, Wisconsin plant in 1962. Another milestone is set in 1965 when George received his first patent on an adjustable, shockproof plastic-vial.

In 1970, George’s two sons, William and Robert Johnson, took the company’s control. Just two years later, they purchased Lawrence’s interest in the Johnson Products Company. By totally focusing the wood level production at Tomahawk plant, renamed their business to Johnson Level & Tool manufacturing company.

Together the brothers Johnson expertly steered their business as it grew by leaps. They continued to develop their product-lines, manufacturing capabilities and number of employees. Realizing the need for larger facilities, Johnson Level & Tool moved to its present headquarters to Mequon, Wisconsin in 1985.

 Today, Johnson Level & Tool sells hundreds of products to contractors and do-it-yourselfers in over 30 countries around the world. Till date, they hold over 50 patents for innovative, value-added products that professionals reach for every day.

Yet, Johnson Level & Tool remains, as it began family-owned and goal on crafting quality hand tools for the home and industry. William and Robert continue to embrace the same "can do" approach that allowed their father, George Johnson, to hand craft that first toy level over 50 years ago. The brothers Johnson continue their family’s legacy of fine craftsmanship while creating their own history from many new, exciting 21st century manufacturing processes and materials.

Products

Johnson Level offers Acculine Pro Laser Levels. Johnson Level & Tool redefined the feature/value equation for precision measurement devices with the introduction of Acculine Pro laser levels. Packed with user-friendly features like slope modes, scan modes, and automatic leveling, AccuLinePro laser levels make quick work of any job site leveling task. These have professional accuracy and high-visibility laser levels.

Johnson Level’s B1000 series is a Big Johnson Hardwood Levels. Big Johnson Hardwood Levels combine style and function, with eight industry-leading features. Select kiln-dried walnut/maple frame, secured with groove and tongue laminated construction. Bindings are epoxy bound 16-Gauge stainless steel and screwed into the frame. It has non-slip grip with 48" model that has soft cushioned hand holes, ergo-shaped; 24" model has recessed grips. Two individually-calibrated, yellow curved vials per sight, confined with tempered glass lens. For durability rubberized, shock-absorbing endcaps are mechanically fastened. Stainless steel nameplate is available for personalizing.

Johnson Level offers 8600 Series Box Beam Levels tool. This "New Generation" design has seven innovative features. It has heavy-duty "X" profile for secure handling in all conditions, even when wet or wearing gloves. Yellow powder coat finish protects against rust. Two-part rubberized endcaps provide protection and absorbs shocks. Vials are UV fade resistant, minimize static electricity and have 360° solid black markings for more accurate readings, even when inverted for overhead measuring. Wedge vial construction compensates for temperature variations and ensures accuracy over a wide temperature range, even in hot and cold situation. Horizontal vial features a florescent backing plate and 30% magnification lens for improved accuracy and readability. Against leakage all vials are guaranteed for 30 years. Its frame dimension is 1” x 2”. The innovative design and rugged construction of the 8600 Series makes it a perfect choice for construction professionals. Even in harsh conditions readability and accuracy are assured.

Johnson Level’s Closed Reel Steel Long Tapes is durable polyester-coated white steel tape resistant to common chemicals/solvents. Transparent polyester topcoat protects tape increments. It has corrosion-resistant end hook with multi-attach design, comfort-grip impact resistant plastic case. Closed case design prevents wound tape from excess dirt. Fingers are kept clear on winding handle because of patented, recessed-grip on tough plastic case. Central belt-clip is molded into case.

Johnson Level’s Open Reel Fiberglass Long Tapes is a Lightweight, highly-flexible, durable PVC-coated fiberglass tape is rust free, rot-free and electrically non-conductive when dry. It has a corrosion-resistant end hook with multi-attach design. Secure-grip, impact-resistant plastic frame is available. It has open frame design that makes clean-up easier. Smooth rewingin is ensured due to glass-filled nylon bearing. Tape is quickly rewinded because of long winding lever with easy to grip knob.