IR thermometer recommendation?

[cscmc1]

Hey folks -- I'm looking for an inexpensive IR thermometer. I hear good things about the Raytek ones, and found this @ Harbor Freight:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=91778

Any thoughts? I'd like to stay under $50, as I really only need it to check actual coolant temps, and things like that. No need for anything terribly fancy. Radio Shack has one but it never seems to be on sale.

Thanks!

[John Doe]

I got a dumb question: the description says automobile engines and other machines-----would it measure air temps or liquids like the ones the HVAC guys have? I should know this but we didn't study lasers when I took physics.

I want one of those to measure greese temp when cooking, but the ones I have looked at are over $200.

[cscmc1]

These should work for you. The laser simply indicates what it is you're measuring -- a pointer, that's all. The temp. reading is IR, I believe. I remember reading something about these being used in food prep, so I don't see why they wouldn't work. My plan is to check coolant temps at the radiator and thermostat housing to see how accurate my factory gauge is.

[Matt L]

IR thermometers read surface temperatures. Not air temperature, unless you're measuring the surface of something in that air.

The reflectivity of the surface matters too, but often not enough to really matter.

[John Doe]

I am on HF right now ordering one--thanks guys!!

[Jim Anderson]

I put one on my Christmas list, but didn't get one, so when I saw one on sale at Harbor Freight I bought it. Then for next Christmas I got my wish. That one was a Fuke, much better one. It was noticeable more accurate and generally better than the one from Harbor Freight to the point I would question it's accuracy. Generally though IR temperature isn't that accurate, and it's dependent on the type, color, size, distance and texture of the surface. But they are really quick, easy and handy. It's neat pointing at the clear blue sky on a hot day and seeing it read well below zero. But don't point it at the sun