Stud Finder

Like throwittoblythe and ianoconnor above, this unit is your winner:

<https://www.menards.com/main/tools-...53-c-9167.htm?tid=-3780580562079245727&ipos=8>

I have one just like it, got at Menards about a year ago. Very highly rated and it has worked very well for me.

I had a Stanley one for 20 years, looked like the Zircon models also shown in this thread. It was frankly about 50/50 on finding studs, not any better than the tap-tap method.

Spend the extra $20 and get a good one.
 
I have the Zircon and it works well on inside walls. But also no luck on garage walls. Not sure if there's foil in there that kills it or what, but same deal here.
Typically garage walls, at least walls that are between house and garage, are thicker drywall. This could be the issue.
 
There are other ways to locate studs also. If you have an outlet in the same wall and can determine which side of the box is attached to a stud, then just measure in 16" increments to where you want to be (16-3/4" for last measuremt to hit stud center).
 
I have had the best luck just using my fingers to tap on the wall and then feel around. I am usually a good 75% rate on that.
 
I've probably had 3 in my life and they have all been junk. Last year bought this one and it's nearly perfect.

ProSensor 710 Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710 Precision Stud Finder Yellow

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  • Agree
Reactions: CascadeClone
I've used the $20 or so Zircon one and it seems to just randomly beep. It's so off it would be funny if not irritating. Same results with another cheap one.

I think you need to either spend a little more or not even bother. Most of the time I just use the "tap with a hammer and listen" method.

Also, studs "should" be 16" apart, but I've found both in our current and prior home, the builders didn't always hold to that standard religiously.
 

This is what I've been using lately and love it. Another benefit is you can leave it hanging on the wall and work above/below it and always have your stud marker.
 
This is what I've been using lately and love it. Another benefit is you can leave it hanging on the wall and work above/below it and always have your stud marker.
Yep! I have used many different stud finders and couldn't find one that wouldn't misread where the stud was. This is almost dummy proof, cause usually if there is a screw, there is a stud.
 

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