Irwin STRAIT-LINE Chalk Line, LAYOUT PRO REEL, 100ft (IWHT48446)

Works great for large lines. Carries plenty caulk.

good quality chalk line. we use them all the time

Love it

Reasonably sturdy. Has held up well and works good.

Let me begin by saying that I really love everything that Irwin Tools produces. The quality is uniformly high and although sometimes more expensive than the competition, the quality alone can justify the cost. That is the case with this Irwin Strait-Line Chalk Line Pro Layout Reel. This is a big, relatively heavy chalk line layout tool. Beginning with the line itself....heavy thick compared to any chalk like I have ever owned, this is a ruggedly made and designed tool. Ideal for making long lines...up to 100 feet...outside, like fence or planting lines. And you won't lose this even if it's the last tool to be picked up at the end of the day just when it is getting dark, it will be easy to find. AND yes! It is expensive. The question is, is it worth the money? It would appear to me that this tool will last a long time. I think the line itself will stand a lot of hard use before fraying or breaking and the easy fill door in the side makes filling it with chalk simple. Nicely designed! But I think of lesser value for the carpenter working inside due to its size. To answer the question about cost versus value and worth, I think it depends. If you fairly often make very long chalk line lay outs and have a need for a big, rugged chalk line, then yes, I think it indeed is worth the money and would highly recommend this. BUT at the price, Irwin chose not to include the first load of chalk with this tool, and I thought that was just a bit on the chintzy side and will take one star because of the marketing decision.