Znamien's thread got me wondering about this 8 footer, what was it used for?
Been in the rafters for years,

Before the laser, long levels and piano wire were the favored method of establishing a long plane.
The 8 foot bubble stick could get a lot of work done before somebody could set up an optical level and or plumbbob.

piano wire was also used to check I-beams for any sagging.

I had balloon framing stuck in my mind but I reckon it would have worked in lots of different ways, thanks.

Quote from: turnnut on November 21, 2015, 08:13:12 PM
piano wire was also used to check I-beams for any sagging.

Along that same line, I know of 4 overhead cranes built in 1942 in a war plant that had stressed piano wire on the main beam for deflection indicators till the wire rotted.   Story was a few men beeded to change their underwear when the weight landed.

Long levels for masonry & concrete flat work -- I have a 72" long level designed  for flat work -- the top edge is highest in the center, with a hand hold cut in -- the vial is centered below the hand hold & only viewable from the sides.