Milwaukee Levels: Models, Specs, and Pricing
FriendsWithTools.io earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. We do not test these tools ourselves — all claims are sourced from manufacturer specifications, retailer listings, and aggregated user reviews, each linked inline. Prices and ratings were verified on April 2026 and may have changed.
Milwaukee makes the REDSTICK line of levels with SHOCKSHIELD end caps that absorb drops. Since they acquired Empire Level in 2014, Milwaukee has both the budget (Empire) and premium (REDSTICK) tiers of the level market. REDSTICK targets job-site durability more than extreme precision.
Milwaukee N/A (manual tool) Platform
Manual spirit level. Milwaukee also sells the Empire brand of levels (acquired 2014). REDSTICK is the premium line; Empire True Blue is the value line.
Current Models
Milwaukee REDSTICK 48" (MLBX48)
MLBX48
REDSTICK box beam with SHOCKSHIELD ends. SHARPSITE vials with magnified bubble reading. Built for job sites where tools get dropped.
Milwaukee REDSTICK Magnetic 24"
MLBXM24
Magnetic version for steel-stud work and HVAC. Three rare-earth magnets hold the level to metal surfaces, freeing both hands.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | MLBX48 | MLBXM24 |
|---|---|---|
| length | 48" | 24" |
| accuracy | 0.0005"/in | 0.0005"/in |
| vials | 3 (SHARPSITE) | 3 (SHARPSITE) |
| material | Aluminum alloy | Aluminum alloy |
| weight | 2.5 lbs | 1.5 lbs |
| endcaps | SHOCKSHIELD overmold | - |
| Price | $65 | $45 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Milwaukee REDSTICK vs Empire True Blue?
Same accuracy, same parent company. REDSTICK adds SHOCKSHIELD end caps and slightly better magnets. Empire is $10-15 cheaper. If you drop tools a lot, REDSTICK is worth it. Otherwise, save the money and buy Empire.
When do I need a magnetic level?
Steel-stud framing, setting ductwork, plumbing with iron pipe, and any time you need both hands free while checking level. The rare-earth magnets hold the level in place on any ferrous surface. If you only work with wood, skip the magnets.