I like the 16 foot Milwaukee tapes, I only use a longer tape if I actually need the added length, then it is usually a Stanley Powerlock. I have no idea on the accuracy, I'm more concerned with repeatability, so if it matters, I just use the same tape for a whole project. Keep an eye on the slop on the end, if it moves back and forth more(or less) than it's thickness, or if it sticks, you will have trouble repeating the same measurement.
Tape Measures - Lufkin vs Komelon vs ?
- Thread starter CGarage
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toolenthusiast
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rlitman
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I have plenty of rulers that predate that definition.
ArtisanFarms
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I like the Komelons. I probably have a half dozen in various lengths kicking around. They hold up reasonably well and provide a good bang for the buck. I tried 3 of the Milwaukee and the blade lock on two of them failed within three months of moderate use. Stanley's are OK and one of my kids has had good luck with them. Another son has my dad's old Lufkin. It is probably 40 years old and is still going strong.
seber
Well-known member
Lufkin, Evans, Stanley. You can't go wrong with any of them. I too love the Stanley Powerlock. I didn't know they quit making them. My two have been in use for at least a decade.
scooby074
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Fatmax 16' and the green Fastcap are my gotos. Would like to try a Talmeter sometime, supposed to be good.
toolenthusiast
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So?
I always liked the FatMax tapes but the blades aren't replaceable. I'm tough on tapes and often throw them on the ground while working. You pay more for FatMax tapes because of the unique blade and they don't hold up any longer than the other tapes like Milwaukee.
For now, I just buy the Milwaukee tapes. I like the ones that have fractions for my helpers. Hate gimmicks like magnets and the button you have to hold to retract. It's easier to get in the habit of slowing down the tape with your other hand. Letting the tape end crash against the tape body is what eventually ruins most tapes.....other than having a tear develop within the 'infamous' three ft zone....lol.
Kevin
Handyandy23
Well-known member
I have a FatMax I've had for a long time, but was never that impressed by it. I went to Home Depot and played with everything they had on the pegs (after reading posts on here for hours and going in circles) and ended up preferring the feel of the Milwaukee Stud 25ft. It just has a nice feel to it, blade is wide and easy to read, and maybe gimmicky but I like the little finger spot on the bottom for when it's retracting.
So I guess my suggestion is just go into a store and try a bunch and see what feels right. You can also test out the stand-out to compare the models if there aren't too many people in the aisle you're hitting in the head with tape.
I even found there's a noticeable difference from tape to tape of the same brand and model. The first Milwaukee Stud I grabbed didn't feel quite right when it was retracting. Grabbed the next one on the peg and it was perfectly smooth. Poor QC yes, but you can get around that by buying it in person.
So I guess my suggestion is just go into a store and try a bunch and see what feels right. You can also test out the stand-out to compare the models if there aren't too many people in the aisle you're hitting in the head with tape.
I even found there's a noticeable difference from tape to tape of the same brand and model. The first Milwaukee Stud I grabbed didn't feel quite right when it was retracting. Grabbed the next one on the peg and it was perfectly smooth. Poor QC yes, but you can get around that by buying it in person.
zmotorsports
ALLIANCE MEMBER
I couldn't see where the OP mentioned whether he was looking for a tape measure for general carpentry work or fabrication work in the shop.
If for carpentry I have no idea what to recommend. However, if for general shop use including fabrication work I would recommend the long time 12' chrome Stanley tape measures. I have a couple of them and have had them for a long, long time and they just don't die. I like them for general shop work because they are small and I generally don't need more than 10' so these are the perfect choice for me. I also have a 25' and a 100' but seldom use them as most of my work is smaller.
If for carpentry I have no idea what to recommend. However, if for general shop use including fabrication work I would recommend the long time 12' chrome Stanley tape measures. I have a couple of them and have had them for a long, long time and they just don't die. I like them for general shop work because they are small and I generally don't need more than 10' so these are the perfect choice for me. I also have a 25' and a 100' but seldom use them as most of my work is smaller.
Bubba Fett
Well-known member
My favorite is the old Stanley Leverlock. I have a Hi-Viz green one that I really like. I also like the classic Powerlock, but not as much. Fatmax is OK, but it doesn't lock the tape well, and it is bulky. It has the most standout of the ones I have, but honestly that's probably more of a marketing feature than a real-world benefit.
I do really like Komelon. They are smooth, quieter, and I like the numbers on both sides, and the auto-locking feature. Not all models have these features, so it pays to shop around. I think they are the OEM for a few other brands, including Kobalt.
I have little to no experience with Lufkin, so I can't say which is better. Whatever the case, it's a good idea to get several. Seems like they get lost more than any other tool.
I do really like Komelon. They are smooth, quieter, and I like the numbers on both sides, and the auto-locking feature. Not all models have these features, so it pays to shop around. I think they are the OEM for a few other brands, including Kobalt.
I have little to no experience with Lufkin, so I can't say which is better. Whatever the case, it's a good idea to get several. Seems like they get lost more than any other tool.
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engineer2
Well-known member
Komelon is the one I always grab.
Stanley Power Lock won't lock when they get old.
Is there a source for new Komelon blades? Not sure if you can get parts for them or if it's even worth it.
Stanley Power Lock won't lock when they get old.
Is there a source for new Komelon blades? Not sure if you can get parts for them or if it's even worth it.
timgunn1962
Well-known member
A lot depends on the details. If you are going to be using your own tape for everything, it's really a case of picking something you are comfortable with: repeatability is more important to you than accuracy.
If, for example, you are measuring a gap and giving the measurement to someone else who will be cutting something to fit that gap, using their tape, then going for Class 1 tapes in both cases is a prudent move, as it halves the potential errors.
If you don't need stand-out, a flatter tape is noticeably easier to use when marking out. If you do need stand-out, you'll generally want a wide tape with a deep curve across it to get the stiffness when extended.
It's not a case of one tape being the best at everything. It's a case of different tapes being good for different tasks.
If, for example, you are measuring a gap and giving the measurement to someone else who will be cutting something to fit that gap, using their tape, then going for Class 1 tapes in both cases is a prudent move, as it halves the potential errors.
If you don't need stand-out, a flatter tape is noticeably easier to use when marking out. If you do need stand-out, you'll generally want a wide tape with a deep curve across it to get the stiffness when extended.
It's not a case of one tape being the best at everything. It's a case of different tapes being good for different tasks.
Walkers
Well-known member
Yeah, I’m pretty hard on both the cases and the tapes. By the time one is worn out the other is not far behind. I have discovered that I hate the magnets. Being an iron contractor they just fill up with iron filings and become a nuisance. I will never buy a tape with the fractions on it. I am not sure how much it has cost me in training apprentices how to read a dang tape, but that should be a life skill. Most of the time I have taught them basic algebra and basic geometry, usually takes 2 years before they can apply both accurately every time. I am done training new guys now, I am just going to bide my time by myself for the next half a dozen years and then retire.
I do have a 3 year old grandson living with me, so I may train one more boy to do my type of work. I still won’t let him cheat with a fractioned tape measure!
I could not train most of my helpers to do fractions. A few managed, most did not. For me it was infinitely easier if they had fractions in front of them. If they wanted to take the initiative to learn fractions, great. The time lost in communicated fraction reading would break up the good momentum on a job/task.
Kevin
alinc100
Well-known member
Currently installing markerborads,tackboards,aluminum trim in offices for a large auto manufacturer. I am very happy with the Lufkin Nite-eye Shockforce tape. I prefer the 16 ft over the 25 ft but have both available as needed. The black background with neon green numbering is easier to read on poorly lit jobsites.My eyes ain't getting any younger.
rancherbill
Well-known member
Komelon is the best by far. I have Lufkin, Stanly, imports etc (total 12+) and the only one I use is the Komelon.
I actually bought them as christmas gifts and they are loved.
I actually bought them as christmas gifts and they are loved.
duneslider
Well-known member
I currently have a bunch. I use my 16' fatmax extreme the most and like it a lot. I have a Craftsman 25, a couple milwaukee 25's, a couple kobalt 25's, a fatmax 30 and 25, and stanley 12'. I use the kobalts at work since they have magnets on the tips and that is helpful for what I use it for.
The Fatmax 16 and Craftsman 25 are the ones that I use the most in the garage.
They all seem good enough for everything I do. If I am doing smaller stuff and need more accuracy I use a metal ruler or the rule on my combination square.
The Fatmax 16 and Craftsman 25 are the ones that I use the most in the garage.
They all seem good enough for everything I do. If I am doing smaller stuff and need more accuracy I use a metal ruler or the rule on my combination square.
Hytekrednek
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The Fisco Big-T tapes are my favorite by a large margin. First 2 I got were branded Johnson "Big Johnson" 16' is my go to but have 25 and 30' if needed. The quick draw type belt clip is great once you break the habbit of putting your tape down. Use it, clip it back on. Unlike pocket clips, this way does not wear out your pocket edges. It is very easy to clip, and quick to un-clip.
Indexmill
Well-known member
The answer to the OP's question is the same answer for most all of the "What is the best xyzzy?" threads posted here.
The answer = It depends. There are a hundred different Use Cases for **** between all of us on GJ and they all require a different answer.
I have noticed a trend in the responses to these types of threads that I find interesting an very reliable. The age of the person responding. We need a rule that when you answer any such thread, you have to put down you age. It is amazing how the data will group by age...
The answer = It depends. There are a hundred different Use Cases for **** between all of us on GJ and they all require a different answer.
I have noticed a trend in the responses to these types of threads that I find interesting an very reliable. The age of the person responding. We need a rule that when you answer any such thread, you have to put down you age. It is amazing how the data will group by age...
neophyte
Well-known member
I like BMI from Germany for accuracy.
I like the Hultafors Talmeters for multi-use.
For durability, the stainless Komelon tape measures sermed really stout,
although my old US made Stanley and Starrett and Lufkin tapes have all held up well.
I like the Hultafors Talmeters for multi-use.
For durability, the stainless Komelon tape measures sermed really stout,
although my old US made Stanley and Starrett and Lufkin tapes have all held up well.
I have a lot of the HF FREE tape measures from the good old coupon days. Handy to have them everywhere. Stanley tapes work just fine too. I try to use the same tape on a project. If it’s off a little it doesn’t matter if you measured everything with the same tape.
jonathco
Well-known member
I've got a handful of the HF tapes floating around; they don't last long, but the price is right.
I've always been partial to Lufkin, but the last few I bought have had issues binding up, after not much use.
I love the Stanley Fatmax 25, but my diabetic eyes have come to prefer having the fractions on the tape, as my vision just isn't what it used to be. I need to find a new tape that is durable and has the fractions displayed.
Loving the new Fisco/Hultafors 5M TK5ME Matt Coat!
It is a class 2 tape measure with dual scales in inch and metric.
It is built really well! I LOVE the belt clip and the locking / release lever has the best feel of any tape measure I have ever used!
$8 well spent!
The human engineering is off the scales!!! Well done!!!
Life is too short for cheap HF tape measures! ! !
It is a class 2 tape measure with dual scales in inch and metric.
It is built really well! I LOVE the belt clip and the locking / release lever has the best feel of any tape measure I have ever used!
$8 well spent!
The human engineering is off the scales!!! Well done!!!
Life is too short for cheap HF tape measures! ! !
Fisco Tools TK5ME Imperial/Metric Tape Measure, 3/4-Inch Wide by 16-Feet/5m Long - - Amazon.com
Fisco Tools TK5ME Imperial/Metric Tape Measure, 3/4-Inch Wide by 16-Feet/5m Long - - Amazon.com
www.amazon.com
redwrench60
Well-known member
I’ve discovered I’m really picky about tape measures. Most tapes I pick up there’s something about them I don’t like. Printed fractions, 32nds scale, magnetic hooks, weird finger holes and other gimmicks or the worst of all…..dual metric/imperial scales. They ruined my favorite of all time. Stanley 25’ Powerlock Blade Armor. They added 32nds scale in the first foot. Who the hell needs 32nds on a 25’ tape!?
redwrench60
Well-known member
Look at this abomination. Perfect 25’ tape measure ruined by 32nds. Who is pushing for this? I kind of get it on a 12’er for trim or metal fab but still hate it on any tape. If you need the precision of 32nds or 64ths a tape isn’t the right tool!
Hytekrednek
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its only on the first foot. I have used one like it before. I measure to the 32nd all the time, but I prefer a tape with only 16ths marked as I read measurements between the line. This is much easier to me than trying to see which of the tiny marks on the tape lines up. I build cabinets and furniture, plus I tend to be a perfectionist so I do like very accurate and repeatable measurements.
It has been years ago, but I did see one tape called something like the precision tape, that had 64ths marked the entire length of the tape. I will have to pass on that but it would be fun to hand to a new guy to use and tell him to go cut this 43-53/64'' or better yet 43-65/64''
It has been years ago, but I did see one tape called something like the precision tape, that had 64ths marked the entire length of the tape. I will have to pass on that but it would be fun to hand to a new guy to use and tell him to go cut this 43-53/64'' or better yet 43-65/64''
redwrench60
Well-known member
I use that first foot a lot and cluttering it up with 32nds makes it slower and more difficult to read when I can’t get my eyes right down on it or the light is bad. I have a 12” steel rule graduated in 8ths, 16ths, 32nds and 64ths for fine precision work.
rancherbill
Well-known member
When I built my house there were some European guys around and I asked him to cut me some wood. Fractions totally confused him, they don't really use fractions in the trade across the world. I started calling them out in millimeters and he was happy.
6' 2" is 1880 mm NO Fractions No Converting Feet to inches etc.
6' 2" is 1880 mm NO Fractions No Converting Feet to inches etc.
WWheeler
Well-known member
Fat Max or Dewalt, 25' or 30'. Not even sure how many I have, but it's a bunch.
I'm within steps of one everywhere I live or work.
I'm within steps of one everywhere I live or work.
bwringer
Well-known member
I'm a big Komelon fan. I have several lying around to ensure that I can find one. Great bang for the buck, especially because I once stumbled across a half off sale and bought three. I'm not all that specific in my preferences.
My metric tape measure is a Starrett; it's nothing special, a fairly inexpensive and plain plastic body, but it works fine on the occasions when barleycorns and cubits won't do.
My metric tape measure is a Starrett; it's nothing special, a fairly inexpensive and plain plastic body, but it works fine on the occasions when barleycorns and cubits won't do.
nadogail
Well-known member
I am 82, my preferred tape measure is my 30’ Fat Max. The Milwaukee that I was given by the representative is very good; the “free tape measures from Harbor Freight are excellent “loaners”.
engineer2
Well-known member
I had a Fat Max tape measure for one day before I returned it. The belt clip broke off taking it out of the the package.
It felt fat in my hands too. Hence the name I guess. I don't have grizzly paws.
It felt fat in my hands too. Hence the name I guess. I don't have grizzly paws.
speed bump
Well-known member
I have lufkins, Stanleys, and komelons for average use they are all about the same. The only exceptions are when I was a directional driller the Lufkin 2133D was the tape to own and a Stanley power lock fits my tool belt better than the tapes with a rubber overmold.