[crjackson]

I know a lot of people own these, and lately I’ve been wanting to add one to my toolbox too. As usual, I don’t have an immediate & specific need right now. I just want one, but not some inaccurate piece of junk. Apparently many of these are a waste.

What do you guys have in your tool bag/box? How do you like the thing, and how accurate is yours? What are you using it for.

I see so many mixed/varied reviews, it’s difficult to decide on the best choice. For me, I want this thing to be as accurate as possible, and fairly sturdy. The one listed below is the one I’m leaning towards, unless someone convinces me otherwise. This one meets N.I.S.T certification standards & seems to be popular with HVAC professionals.

There are others that are somewhat more impressive sounding (greater heat range, better DTS) & much cheaper, but the reviews give me pause with regards to accuracy and consistency of readings, and quality.

My current pick…
Fluke 62 Max+ Infrared Thermometer

 

[crjackson]

So, in the absence of any recommendations here, I bought this one… If I’m not satisfied, I’ll return it and get the above FLUKE model.

AOPUTTRIVER - Infrared Thermometer AP-1500C Color LCD

 

[Beechkid]

I'v got a Harbor Freight "Special"...had it for about 5 years now.... it works! Use it not just on the cars but the BBQ as well....worked good identifying thermal loss locations in our garage too!

 

[crjackson]

The reviews for these devices are a mixed bag of beans. If I’m not happy with this one, I’ll try the other one. I started to get the more expensive Fluke device at first, but it’s pretty darn expensive. I’m just trying to get a sturdy model with consistent accuracy (as much as possible for this type of device). The first one is supposedly superior in that regard according to SOME reviews, but not so much in others.

I like the temp ranges, and the 30:1 DTS on the one I selected. If it turns out to have poor accuracy, I’ll try the other.

 

[crjackson]

Arrived today - Still testing it out

Below is an Emissivity Table for checking most materials. I’m leaving the setting at 0.95 for most common materials.