Hand Tools Continued: The Level
One of the tools that most people do not have, or even consider buying, is a 3 foot level. People often will have a 6" level, but a longer one. Once you get one for yourself you will wonder how you ever managed without one.
A level, or a Spirit Level, has so much application it should be a major tool in your arsenal. It is also one of the tools that I would never consider buying used. In order to function a level must be accurate: it is possible to buy an inaccurate level, and that is why I wouldn't recommend buying one used.
To make sure it is accurate, get a reading in the store, perhaps hold it up against a rack. A long level will have at least three levels. Take a vertical reading, make note of where the bubble sits, then flip the level and take another reading with the level at the opposite end. Both levels should give you the same reading. If they don't, try another.
A long level is useful for drawing long straight lines when you want to install cabinets. They are useful for measuring the level of two cabinets that sit a distance apart, such as where the gap is for a stove in your kitchen. They are necessary to take any measurement on either a long horizontal or a vertical surface. Don't be without one when you start your home renovation project.