Stanley 033932 Powerlock Tape 5m Top Reader

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To come up with this list, we acquired 34 tape measures and tested them in our Lab. Whenever possible, we tested the 16- and 25-foot versions of each tape measure. Since accuracy is of utmost importance in a measuring tape, we took both inside and outside measurements in four different increments ranging from 4 to 24 inches. We took note of how easy it was to read each measurement and considered how comfortable it was to use the tape measure with one hand. Cheaper brands, such as those you would find in high street bargain stores, will have been mass-produced with lower grade materials which allow the low price tag. Though that may sound good for your bank account, you will soon discover you have a tape measure that slices your fingers, screwdrivers that don’t fit in the cross slot of a screw and a hammer grip that is slipping from the handle. The 16-foot tape measure had an average standout of 9 feet and 7 seven inches during testing, surpassing the advertised 9 feet of standout. However, testers felt that the tape was a bit flimsy, making it difficult for measuring at a distance.

Tape measures are available in two different types of units: imperial and metric units. In the United States, imperial units are the most common way of measuring distance, so you’ll commonly see tape measurements divided into feet and inches. Most other countries, however, use the metric system, which measures distance in meters and centimeters. Wide and Accurate Blade: The GATORTAPE measuring tape features a wide 1” / 25mm blade, ensuring exceptional accuracy for your measurements. The large, easy-to-read numbers displayed through the top viewing window enhance precision. With a standout length of approximately 2.4m, this retractable tape measure guarantees reliable results. Overall, the DeWalt is a good buy for frequent use because it’s so easy to read—but for occasional DIYers, it might feel like overkill due to its heavy-duty design.

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A tape measure’s standout should be at least 7 to 8 feet, but further is even better. However, standouts can be impacted by the angle at which you hold the tape measure. “Even the best tape measure, if you’re at an awkward angle, it will still kind of bend,” Guerrero says. This tape measure doesn’t compromise on durability despite its small size. Although our drop test caused minor cosmetic damage, the tape measure’s performance was unaffected due to its reinforced frame. Wear-resistant nylon also protects the blade and offers greater durability and longevity. The blade also retracted carefully without an aggressive recoil. It had a standout of 8 feet and 10 inches, which is 10 inches more than advertised. The bright yellow blade features large numbers and double-sided markings. The tape measure has stud markings that are conveniently placed every 16 inches. This 16-foot tape measure is also available in a 25-foot option for longer measurements.

Cased tape measures are the most familiar type, and the type we tested at our lab. These tape measures have a retractable blade marked with imperial or metric measurements, and a case that’s made of plastic or metal. This type of tape measure is a must-have in your toolkit and is useful for most measuring tasks around the home.The Irwin Strait-Line is a top option for any tool collection. After our drop test, the tape measure had no visible damage, and the tape functioned the same after each drop. Craftsman Pro Reach Tape Measure: This Craftsman tape measure performed well in our tests, has a decent standout length (11 inches), and is compact enough to fit in any standard tool belt pouch. However, we encountered issues when it came to its recoil—it didn’t always retract smoothly. Tape measures are an essential tool for homeowners because they offer a reliable and accurate way to measure distances. Without one, getting an exact measurement for your home improvement project would be nearly impossible.The Milwaukee Compact Magnetic tape measure is the best if you prefer a magnetic option. Its compact body and rubber over a mold made it comfortable for our testers to grip during testing, and the tape measure features an anti-tear coating that protects the first 6 inches of the blade from damage.

Always wanted to know how to take that particularly awkward measurement or how to take care of your tool? Perhaps you're interested in how particular trades use their tools? Then read on... Got a tip to share? Then get in touch! How to Read a Tape Measure how The tape recoil was smooth and steady, retracting in a controlled straight line rather than wildly flopping around like many other tapes. However, it had difficulty recoiling when the tester stopped it during a long or full-length recoil. This tape measure also had the highest standout during testing. Testers found it had an impressive standout of 13 feet and 5 inches. You may have to pay more than the cheaper or disposable options on the market, but you will be thankful if a near miss or accident occurs and it was your PPE that reduced or avoided the injury. Work Boots There are also differences in terms of blade markings: Some tapes will have fraction marks and others will have line markings instead. You can also find digital tape measures that have built-in lasers, which are good for long distances and for the times you need more accurate measurements.

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When taking internal measurements (i.e. from the inside edge of an object such as between one internal wall and another) the hook can be pushed against the object (e.g. skirting board) providing an accurate measurement. When looking at the image above, the 1st small mark after the 4cm point denotes a measurement of 41mm. The next small mark in line would be 42mm, the next would be 43mm and so on. 41mm can also be referred to as 4.1cm (0.041m) but the majority of trades in the UK do tend to quote measurements in milimetres. How to Read an Imperial Tape Measure During testing, it had an impressive standout of more than 13 feet, meaning it extended 13 feet from the case before drooping or bending. After dropping it on concrete in our testing lab, our testers found it didn’t have any visible damage. The brand also claims the tape measure can survive up to an 80-foot drop. Our team of experts spent an entire day testing 34 different tape measures in our lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Our testers closely examined each tape measure to determine the accuracy of the measurements. They also tested the standout of each blade, or how far the blade can extend from the case without bending.

Sewing tape measures are flexible tapes that don’t have a case. These are very useful tools for sewing and similar projects but are also handy for taking body measurements, measuring items with curved surfaces, or general measuring tasks around the home. The most common length for a sewing tape measure is 5 feet, but there are some as long as 12 feet.The standout of a tape measure is how far the blade will stretch without bending or collapsing, explains Jantz. For long distances or for measuring high ceilings, it’s always beneficial to use a tape measure that has extended reach. A long standout is also good if you are working solo: “It allows one person to measure longer distances without having to have a second person available to hold the other end of the tape measure,” says Jantz. Units of Measurement A standout is a distance the tape measure’s blade can extend from the case before it bends or sags. A longer standout is best because the blade can measure across longer distances without needing to be held up or supported. The nylon-coated blade extends the durability of the tape measure and reduces glare. During testing, the blade had a smooth recoil that was effortless to control. However, when it was fully extended, it stopped in the middle and needed to be restarted to finish retracting. The dual-sided hook helps keep the blade in place when measuring without an assistant. The belt clip easily attaches to a belt or strap, but this measuring tape is a bit bulky for the designated tape measure holder on some tool pouches. Overall, we found this to be a very accurate, durable, and useful tape measure for professionals, DIYers, and around-the-house users alike.