Why no High Quality Tape Measures?

[GrantCee]

Aluminum body would be a short lived tape. One drop and you'd be digging the free HF tape out of the tool box.

I have several aluminum-bodied tape measures from the '50s and '60s that I've dropped A LOT over the years. They still function just fine — and don't look nearly as beat-up as the plastic tape measures I've bought over the last few years.

No idea why you'd think aluminum is somehow fragile.

 

[NoahG]

I've never heard the term "burn an inch" before, although I've been doing it for many years. Generally when I use that technique, I burn 10". That gets the hook out of the picture entirely, and it's obvious if you forget to subtract.

Same, I always burn 10", it just works better in my head, and sometimes I need the hook completely out of the way in order to get a more true measurement.

Now if my brain would only stop turning 1'-4" into 14".

 

[BlindViper]

Tape measures are consumable now a days.

 

[speed bump]

Well a lufkin derrick tape meets your requirements (other than it's actually for work and not looking fancy) but it's a $300 tape.

 

[icthruu74]

I lose tape measures so often that I couldn’t afford to buy anything too expensive. I picked up 6 Stanley tapes at a garage sale last spring, and can only find one of them now. I suppose if I’d paid $100ea for them instead of $10 for the lot I might take better care of them.

 

[RTM]

I am in the consumable consideration. but, I have one I have kept for decades taking good care of it, and buy Stanley’s at garage sales for beater and loaners. I try to use one for an entire project, keeping a FastCap on the bench, which doesn’t leave the garage.

I keep real cheap ones in each vehicle to take into the store. If I lose it or leave it, I’m not heartbroken. Don’t really care about precision beyond a single inch, I don’t shop needing a 70-3/16” board, anything close to 72 w square ends will do (good luck finding that at HD)

 

[joey1320]

For some odd reason I'm really attracted to tape measures. I think I own 8 or 9. I'll have to go check them to see the brands but I recall the Kamelon self-lock is a really nice one and so is the Stanley magnetic lever lock. Those are my go to. I also like the double sided numbered ones I have. Will have to check the brands.

 

[Rc_Guy]

I have always liked Lufkin tapes.

 

[propmaker]

Check out Fastcap tape measures. They've been my favorite for the last few years and very accurate, it's been spot on and holding up and very easy to read. I check it occasionally against my Starrett rulers and combo squares and its still good.

Always my go to when I need to measure out/mark with a tape measurer. I use the standard reverse:

https://www.fastcap.com/product/procarpenter-tape-measure


PS: I would be leery of Tajima now a days, I'm sure it's still good but I recently received a cutter knife from them, paid a lot for it but it was not great quality and had lots of play in it. Found out that they're now making them China and not nearly as nice of quality as the less expensive NT knives made in Japan.

I used Fastcaps lefty righty for the last couple of years. The lock switch on them always seems to give out on me. I switched to a Tajima a few months ago and so far I'm happy with it. I prefer a white tape as its easier on the eyes for me.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001S2QNP0/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[propmaker]

Fastcap makes a flat bladed tape measure that I really like. It comes in different markings, but the the metric/standard works well for me

keep in mind ITS FLAT so it has ZERO standout capability
https://www.fastcap.com/product/procarpenter-flatback-tape-measure

They are nice for radius work, but I never use it for flat stock

 

[macgee]

I used Fastcaps lefty righty for the last couple of years. The lock switch on them always seems to give out on me. I switched to a Tajima a few months ago and so far I'm happy with it.

Interesting, I've had really good luck with mine and the solid locking on it is one of my favorite things about it but then I baby my fastcaps and toss around my other ones more.

I too like the white tape and also the red 1/16 marks on the fastcap is nice to have.

 

[mr.lemons]

As already posted, Fisco have accuracy rating printed on their tapes. Going off the Euro standards, I think even class three tapes should not be noticeably out when comparing them in a store.

EC Class I: The maximum error expected in class I tapes is of 1.1 mm in 10 meters – 0,001 % of margin.

EC Class II: Stanley, Draper, Bahco etc. The maximum error expected over 10 meters total length is 2.30 millimetres – slightly more than the 0.002%.

EC Class III: The maximum margin of error on a 10 metres long measure is 4.60 millimetres – 0.004 % difference.

btw, while my fisco tape seems fine, I have no way of confirming if they reliably keep within the ratings.

 

[Dave455]

As already posted, Fisco have accuracy rating printed on their tapes.

btw, while my fisco tape seems fine, I have no way of confirming if they reliably keep within the ratings.

I was jobless to actually check this one day.

The good quality tapes - Fisco, Rabone, Lufkin, Older Stanley all seemed to be well within the spec quoted.

The cheaper tapes seemed to be a bit more variable. Some were good, some barely within spec.

 

[tarbellb]

While I would like to see a well crafted durable tape, I dont see the advantage other than long term use and replaceable blade.

They are for measurements within 1/32" and considered consumables.

Surprised nobody has brought up the hook, thats where 90% of the issues in measurement happen.
"my hook moves almost a 1/16" of a inch, what a pos" ugh.

 

[MOTODOJO]

I've seen many laborers and "carpenters" hammer down those "damn loose" rivets.

 

[mr.lemons]

Surprised nobody has brought up the hook, thats where 90% of the issues in measurement happen.
"my hook moves almost a 1/16" of a inch, what a pos" ugh.

It's supposed to be loose. It should move the same distance as the thickness of the hook.

 

[Darby9]

I suppose if I’d paid $100ea for them instead of $10 for the lot I might take better care of them.

Isn't that the conundrum of our low wage world? Wages are so low in the US that we can't afford to buy the things we make, so we buy the cheap stuff from Asia where wages are even lower, which hurts US manufacturing.

Only the guys at the top profiting from outsourcing can afford a $100 tape measure, and they don't need one.

 

[macgee]

It's supposed to be loose. It should move the same distance as the thickness of the hook.

+1

Theoretically when you pull on tape, the measurement should the same as when you push on it and measure (inside/outside measures). The play is it to accommodate this and movement is the same amount as the thickness of the metal of the hook, just like what Mr Lemon said.

Just check it out occasionally against a fixed ruler to make sure its not wonky. Just checked my Fastcap, still solid for both, giving same measurement

 

[shawhite]

Isn't that the conundrum of our low wage world? Wages are so low in the US that we can't afford to buy the things we make, so we buy the cheap stuff from Asia where wages are even lower, which hurts US manufacturing.

Only the guys at the top profiting from outsourcing can afford a $100 tape measure, and they don't need one.

I’m pretty sure the US ranks in the top 10 of wages. Companies like snap-on manage to remain profitable and I’m pretty sure most of their sales are not coming from the 1% ers. Why is it people don’t think twice about spending $1000-$1500 for a new phone but $150-$200 for a snap-on ratchet is a rip off.

 

[Alpine4x4]

I have this older Komelon Stainless Self Lock. I've had it probably close to a decade now, held up great, good solid feel, lock works great still and it looks good.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/SLSS125-...eet-Automatic-blade-lock-By-Komelon/848548681

 

[bwringer]

Komelon is my go to now as well. I like them quite a bit.

Same. Komelon stuff really is a distinct cut above. Still, not the heirloom quality the OP was looking for. Damn good plastic, but plastic nonetheless.

I hate the ones with huge bulky sticky rubber bumpers all over them, like the Milwaukee branded tapes. With all the useless greebling, you can't even get them into a large coat pocket, and if you clip them to your belt they snag on everything.

Fastcap makes a flat bladed tape measure that I really like. It comes in different markings, but the the metric/standard works well for me

Nice. I like that flat blade. Could be pretty useful in some situations.



And yeah, for some weird reason, Starrett allows their name to be plastered on the nastiest cheap plastic Chinese tapes imaginable. I needed a metric tape measure and thought I had found a bargain on a real live Starrett measuring instrument. Nope, just a crappy thin plastic cheapie with a sticker.

I mean, it works OK for quick stuff where I only need to get within 5mm, and it doesn't really get abused, but it was disappointing because it doesn't live up to the name on the sticker. Under another name, I wouldn't have given it a second thought.



Side rant: Even in 2021 with Amazon on tap, it's surprisingly difficult or impossible in the US to find tapes, rules, feeler gauges, etc. that are marked in ONLY metric. All the cars and motorcycles I work on are metric, and I don't want outdated **** like inches or barleycorns on my measuring tools; the extraneous markings only get in the way and create potential confusion.

I still have not found metric feeler gauges in the range needed for my motorcycles that are not also crapped up with inch markings. Over on the vintage Suzuki forum this is a common source of confusion during valve clearance checks.

That's one of the main reasons I use digital calipers and micrometers; they read directly in mm with the push of a button.

 

[Badgerstate]

Yes, I'm aware everyone loves their Stanley Fatmax.. I dont mean a daily beater you lug around at the construction site. They're great tape measures sure, but they're ugly and made of plastic.

I mean a high end super nice tape measure that you'd use in your own garage or workshop. More suited for wood workers, engineers, or makers. Solid metal case maybe brushed nickel, maybe some brass hex screws holding it together. Something built by craftsmen with some pride in their work. Some unique features, say something like a carbide scribe or a mini .9 lead holder, neatly threaded away. You know, something you'd take pride in when you get to use it and something you'd know is a high end tool when you see it.

Seems like all there is now is Chinese plastic with very few made in USA options like that Fatmax. Call me weird, but this bugs me lol.

Id say its because most people view a tape measure as a disposable tool. I know that Im not interested in spending $100 on a tape measure and wont even spend $20 on a Stanley.
Im loving my $5-$10 Komelon and Ryobi tape measures.

 

[tarbellb]

I've seen many laborers and "carpenters" hammer down those "damn loose" rivets.

Brand new and the thing rattles!


When the hook is designed to pull and push you cant really be asking for a high precision tool.


I bought out a contractor who was going out of business, had 32! NIB Komelon MagGrip 25 footers @ ~$4ea.

They have been excellent, high precision, durable enough, decent stick-out, double sided tape readout, and small enough to carry.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

I've been using an inches Snap-On aluminum tape measure for the last 8+ years. It gets used every day at work and they hold up quite well. Had it replaced under warranty once about a year ago due to the self locking mechanism no longer working.

They can be bought in inches, inches/metric or just metric I believe. I highly doubt I will ever own a different brand tape measure for work purposes. At home I use Craftsman, Lufkin or whatever I find on sale when I need a tape.

 

[Ign]

I also did a little experimenting with standards once. Actually at the time it was with inexpensive Starrett tapes... yellow plastic body and actually no longer available.

Anyway any machinist is familiar with standards and I learned the value should be at the START of the line, ie the left hand side of the line assuming left is zero and right is +X

I do find even on my Komelons it varies, I mean exactly 30" might be at the start of the line while 33" might split the line. It makes sense... if you watch the How It's Made on tapes they're obviously just printed and those printers can only be so accurate.

I cut several parts to 29.375" and 36" measured with calipers so I get a feel for how the lines relate to more accurate measurements

 

[gatewaysysop]

Yes, I'm aware everyone loves their Stanley Fatmax.. I dont mean a daily beater you lug around at the construction site. They're great tape measures sure, but they're ugly and made of plastic.

....

Seems like all there is now is Chinese plastic with very few made in USA options like that Fatmax. Call me weird, but this bugs me lol.

I must be in the minority, because I have always thought the Fatmax was a POS. Being "Made in USA w/global components" doesn't help matters.

I have a couple FastCap tape measures. They're OK. I have one that's off ~1mm at 300mm. This is fine so long as it's the sole measuring tool you use on a project, otherwise, things don't fit quite right.

I also have a Fisco tape measure that's dead-on. Made in Britain. They have some EC class 1 tape measures.

Have three different Fisco tapes, one many years old and the other two newer models. They put everything else I've used to shame.

 

[Stuart in MN]

A year or two ago I bought one of these Stanley Sweetheart 175th anniversary tapes, model number STHT36175. It's 10', and has a thick metal case. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JG2MX61/ref=as_li_tl They sell for $12.25.

 

[lynnbilodeau]

Digging up an old thread. I have a decent wind up tape measure. I do not have a decent self retracting one. EVERY one I have EITHER quit retracting on its own, OR it will not lock.

Anyone using the Komelon Magic Grip Pro?

 

[redwrench60]

Komlon tapes markings wear off too easily. The tapes themselves aren’t bad but the first couple feet are worn off in no time.

 

[BTL-A4]

There are literally tape measures in "engineers" scale which is usually in 10ths of a foot. It depends on the engineer. Engineer is a very broad term that covers many different fields. There are a multitude of different Engineering fields, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, etc.. and each of those have many different professions & subfields that could be obtained under them. And anyone that would call themselves a "maker" or home fabricator must also be to some extent an "engineer" in order to design their projects & components of them. Who said anything about 3 figures? If a company like Stanley were to start manufacturing metal cases, with replaceable blade cartridges in their USA plants, there is no reason they'd need to charge 3 figures. Snap On has an aluminum bodied tape measure that is close to what I'm looking for and direct from Snap On they're about $40. That's saying something when they can charge that AFTER their 80% upcharge for the Snap On name to be printed on their products.

Yes, it is personal preference. Stanley makes great tape measures. Used a Powerlock for years as a welder/fabricator. These days I spend much more time building random stuff in my garage of all kinds. And I pick up a tape measure every few minutes the entire time. And its a bummer that I dont have much pride in a tool that I use so frequently.

Taking pride in ones tools is inspiration to put them to use. That alone is worth the extra cost, imo.

I've used surveyor's tapes, which are marked in 100ths of a foot. I'm surprised they are not marked any finer; a 100th of a foot is about 1/8".

I was referring to the one mentioned above by American Locomotive: "Tajima Aluminist Tape Measure has a die-cast aluminum body...it's also a $75-100 tape, and it's metric."

 

[lynnbilodeau]

So who makes a good tape? I want:
Easy to read numbers.
Reasonably durable.
Retracts when it is not locked.
Does not retract when I have it locked.

Doesn't seem like that is too much to ask.

 

[Madjik Man]

Fastcap makes a flat bladed tape measure that I really like. It comes in different markings, but the the metric/standard works well for me

keep in mind ITS FLAT so it has ZERO standout capability
https://www.fastcap.com/product/procarpenter-flatback-tape-measure

The marketing director who decided to put that image of the tape measure (all the way right) has to realize 99% of the target audience is dudes. And well… that’s just a demoralizing visual.

 

[Bubba Fett]

I prefer Komelon over Fatmax. The Fatmax tapes sometimes slowly retract when locked, which is irritating. The Komelon self-locks until I push the release button. It also has markings on the other side. It's also high-viz yellow, which makes it easier to see in low light.

I have some older Stanley Leverlocks that are fantastic. My favorite, in fact. I also have some of the old Powerlock tape measures - the classic chromed body - which have never failed me. Since both of these are older, the tapes are not as wide and they don't have as much standout, but I don't mind. Standout is a mostly ******** feature anyway.

I recommend getting a 12 or 16 foot tape for the belt, since they are less bulky, and keep to 25 foot tapes in the bag/box/truck.

 

[iamhomeless]

I just got in a new Starret tape measure at work, it's definitely not an heirloom tape measure, but is is much nicer to use than a Fatman. Better quality blade, better markings and better feel even if it is plastic.

I think I still like my Lufkins at home better just for their metal cases, but I expect the starret to hold up.

 

[benny27]

Stanley’s 175th anniversary tape is a nice looking one

Stanley 175th Anniversary 10ft Tape Measure - STHT36175 for sale online | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Stanley 175th Anniversary 10ft Tape Measure - STHT36175 at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

fastcap is so ugly

 

[LWB]

Stanley’s 175th anniversary tape is a nice looking one

Stanley 175th Anniversary 10ft Tape Measure - STHT36175 for sale online | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Stanley 175th Anniversary 10ft Tape Measure - STHT36175 at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

fastcap is so ugly

I have one of these and keep it on the table beside my chair. I also take it with me to the lumber store. It's nice but I wouldn't say it's practical for the garage/shed. I use a 16' stanley Fatmax in the shed.

 

[Coach James]

I have a few name brand tapes, but use the HF giveaways most of the time. No idea how accurate they are, I just use the same tape for the entire job and don't worry about it.

Coach

 

[turnthewrench 2.0]

You do realize the snap-on tape is made in China? A tape measure is not meant to be a precision instrument. Kind of interesting a guy bashing snap-on prices on wrenches is looking for a premium tape measure for sub $100. Quality cost money.

Hence the lack of abundance of "good" ones, unless you want to pay a premium. For its typical use, nothing wrong with Stanley or HF.

 

[redwrench60]

Picked up one of the new style Stanley 25’ FatMax tapes to try out. First impressions are good. It’s extremely comfortable in hand with all its rounded edges, has a very strong retraction spring which I like (no pulling the tape in by hand) and a redesigned belt clip that looks goofy but actually works very well. The tape has tons of standout and bold markings with simple feet and inches.

 

[PoorUB]

I must be missing something! I have two 30 foot FatMax tapes and they are all I use. Whether it is rough framing, or finish trim, or cabinetry, they are all I use! I have built some nice furniture using them.

I will admit to there being a few odd tape measures around the house and shop, but my FatMax tapes are in my tool bag and tool pouch.