It is still used throughout the UK, USA and Canada. Length is measured in inches, feet and yards. What about resistance to water(rusting and seizing) Ive had two fat max that got minimally wet and refused to work the next day so Ive switched to Milwaukee (gen 3) and no problems so far. Thanks again for suck a detailed article. With ranges that outclass even the longest of tapes, theyre ideal for calculating the square footage of a property or estimating wall and floor areas for painting or flooring. Despite the variety of shapes and functionalities, most tape measures share a common basic structure, which includes a plastic, steel or fabric strip onto which measurement graduations are marked. Perhaps this occurs because the manufacturer designs the tape measure to be rigid enough to extend as far as possible. So, who makes the best tape measure? Pro-grade tape measuresmust retain their accuracy while enduring the regular abuses, such as drops or bumps, that occur on job sites. The rubberised exterior makes it easy to handle and tough, while the tape itself is coated with Tylon for increased durability. Theyll work indoors or outdoors, but you do need an appropriate surface to bounce the laser off of. Many contractors use the first 6 or less of their tape more than the full 25-foot length. By that I mean, how well does the hook grab and hold. We used several of the same brands during our head-2-head testing. In the meantime, I did some research. The Lufkin tape showed the largest difference, increasing by .045, almost a full hook thickness. The BEST tape measure overall was the Stanley FATMAX. Each tapes pulled out to 25 and allowed it to recoil slowly. As for accuracy. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review - Tool and Product Review - Video Channel, , where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. In that case, fair enough! To test this,we attached each tapes magnet to 3/8 metal plate and pulled. Keson and Lufkin make some tapes with vertical markings that read well from either side. Also damaged wasStanley FAXMAX, DEWALT, Milwaukee and Komelon with slight case or hook damage. TheTajima and Lufkin came in first place on the 15-foot drop test.Both tapes worked perfectly and had zero visible damage. Imperial: a system that dates back to the Middle Ages and named after the British Empire. Milwaukee also matched the FatMax performance of .01. Open reel design with large crank arm. In our opinion, all of tapes should be able to extend FULL 25-foot length, and while some did, others didnt. We modified a 3 pvc pipe to hold a medley of drywall dust, saw dust and sand. Adhesive grit sandpaper was applied to the convex point and wax was applied to the concave side. There are a few Accuracy Class I tapes out there. After both drops, we recorded and noted each tapes condition.We set up a personnel lift to do our drop testing. How about a gps tape that can read your measurement by satellite like some speedometers do now. All tape measure manufactures follow theASTM D 968 and other internationally recognized test standards, the Falling Sand Abrasion Tester. Matt, the abrading of the markings is the #1 reason for failure of tape measures. not my many years of experience with tape measures at all. In this Best Tape Measure Head-2-Head, we put several 25 premium tape measures to the test. At 8 meters, the EC Class I tape is allowed to have an error of 0.9 mm, while the EC Class II tape is allowed an error of 1.9 mm. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Tapes come in different types to suit every need and profession: depending on their field of application, tape measures can be found in different materials, measuring systems, lengths and output formats. Stanley tools seem to have declined significantly in quality. Copyright 2009-2022 Tool Box Buzz, LLC All Rights Reserved. they are inexpensive, easily readable and are very durible. Our open reel tape measures feature a large crank arm for fast and easy rewinding, while our closed designs are made with rugged plastic and rubber grips. Key specs - Weight: 60g; Units of measurement: cm/mm, ft/in; Max tape extension: 2m; Whether youre measuring inseams, biceps, or waistlines, this flexible measure from LiteTour has you covered. For this test we designed a torturous debris chamber recoil test. I want a tape measure that I can measure the ceiling for crown molding that doesnt fold over at 10feet. Distances are displayed on an easy to read LED display, and its accurate to within 1.5mm. That is frustrating. https://www.toolboxbuzz.com/measuring-layout/bosch-professional-glm-50-c-laser-measure/. Additionally, there is a small 12 long architectural scale for plan measuring featuring a 1/8 and 1/4 inch scale.This scale starts on the back of the tape at 10 inches and runs to 22 inches. When repeated, full-speed rewinding of the tape measure causes damage to the inner workings, the end hook, and the blade markings., However, during our testing we did just that! The Stanley FATMAX was a close second for ergonomics. I wished they would have tested the hook to see how well it held when pulling out the tape and how well it would grab the edge of a board so it could be done with one hand. . Normally, marks are black and red on a yellow background, as this is the best colour combination to make it easy to read. Key specs Weight: 380g; Units of measurement: cm/mm, ft/in; Max tape extension: 8m; STANLEY Tylon 8m/26ft Pocket Tape Yellow/Black, 0-30-656 8.72 Buy now. For ergonomics we look at: The best tape measure in the ergonomic category was the Milwaukee. weight on top,and then pulled the tape using a slow 1000-count back and forth through the jig.This allowed us to evaluate a 60span of tape wear.Tape marking wear was then noted and photographed. So, who makes the best tape measure? Pro-grade tape measuresmust retain their accuracy while enduring the regular abuses, such as drops or bumps, that occur on job sites. They made one body for both the magnet and non-magnet options. Vinyl coated fiberglass tape with nylon reinforcement showing inches down to eighths and metric down to mm. Many of them would not retract and close less than 6-inches. I find it surprising how vast a difference there is in the pricing of the tapes. Bill Im interested in what youd like to test for accuracy? Several others had their hook movement stretched. Furthermore, wear down of the tape coating is the #1 failure of tape measures. Many times, my left hand was holding something when I needed to take a measurement and couldnt hook the hook. Surveyor tape measure:If your measuring needs exceed the ranges afforded by standard measures, then a surveyor tape is the way to go. Three tapes were able to extend full-length: For this test we placed pre-measured weights on top of the tap measure until the magnet failed. For this test we placed pre-measured weights on top of the tap measure until the magnet failed. It has a rubber over-mold on top back and bottom, a strong, secure, positive clicking tape-lock that can resist4 lbs. Or maybe a blank tape you can mark crows feet onto with a button. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. I Prefer KDS brand over stanley. What good is a tape measure if it cant stay hooked? As a surveyor, your tape measure needs to be precise, reliable, and versatile. From clothes making to carpentry, DIY and masonry, there is no doubt tape measures are an exceptionally popular tool, available in different types and sizes to suit every need and profession. Before I would try to make a mark on a board and then the tape measure would fall over, but not with this one. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. , Robert Robillard is a remodeler, general contractor, and principal of a carpentry and renovation business located in Concord, Massachusetts, and serves as the Editor of Tool Box Buzz and founding editor of A Concord Carpenter . The Klein tape measure sustained the most damage. Ive even had some tape measures slip off the end edge of a board laying flat. For those who prioritise the ease of reading over the availability of different measurement scales, though, the market offers metric only tape measures, like the one below. Flexible tape measure:Often simply referred to as sewing tapes, flexible measuring tapes are ideal for dealing with non-uniform objects perfect for getting body measurements for clothing or tracking fitness goals. Almost all of the tapes survived our 15-foot drop test. Length: 100ft/30m; Width: 15mm. The locking mechanism on our closed design keeps tape tight and organized while keeping out any dirt and debris. there were no issues but we should have made a bigger deal of that. So without accuracy rating associated with each of your tests they are basically useless. The numeric scores dont seem to agree with the written description. On this test, we wanted to eliminate the risk of user twist or torque. In this comparison, both Stanley tapes performed well. Thanks: Lou: Its because we read (words, letters, numbers, etc.) left to right. The different applications and environments where the tape measure is needed will determine the best choice among the extensive range of tools available on the market. Stand out is big to some guys, because a long reaching tape is useful when measuring alone.Stand out basically refers to how straight you can extend your tape without it bending or losing is rigidity. Maybe incorporating a last measurement recall button or the ability to add multiple measurements together for a total measurement. Thats why some of us old timers are still using tools my dad bought. Copyright Expert Reviews Holdings Ltd 2022. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Whatever stanley did with their most recent manufacturing process, it sucked. This time its 2 for 1 on the perennial best tape measure. Lufkin and Tajima came in tied for second place with slightly more damage but less than the rest of the pack. Great test! We had to pull the tapes in and out to get them to close completely. In our opinion, all of tapes should be able to extend FULL 25-foot length, and while some did, others didnt. The BEST tape measure in this torturous test was the Stanley FATMAX which stopped at 9-feet on the first recoil test and then completed the recoil test at 1.9 seconds. And we wanted to see how the hooks on the tapes stood up to after our retraction test. With several options and features, youre sure to find the surveyors tape measure that perfectly fits your needs. It is a Japanese brand. TheFalling Sand Abrasion Testermeasures the resistance to abrasion of paint, lacquers, and other organic coatings. Abrasion results from abrasive particles falling through a guide tube and impinging the test specimen, until the substrate becomes visible. I havent tried them all but dewalt and stanley,fatmax are way overrated. The crew liked the detent on the back of the body, and finger brake on the bottom. I also bought a 25 magnetic leverlock and a month later the leverlock failed. Length: 330ft/100m, Yellow ABS plastic with rubber grip inlay and folding hand-reel. Whether youre marking a boundary, verifying distances, or determining measurements for a map or report, The Perfect Measuring Tape Company has the tools you need to be successful. @Louis: I have 2 theories why this is the way it is: 1)In math, 0 is always on the left side, so tapes comply. It features a 5m maximum extension, which means it should comfortably handle most DIY tasks and jobs around the house, while a thumb lock allows the retraction to be manually controlled. Thus, when the tape measure is hooked on the edge of a wall, cabinet, or other vertical objects, as soon as the tape measuring case is moved towards the object being measured, the rigid blade forces the hook off. Simply line the measure up against a wall or floor to get an accurate distance reading to the opposite wall or ceiling. [For example; 13-inches is listed at 13 and also 1F 1.] And for the last 6-7 years, every Fat Max I have purchased has trouble winding back in from about 4 feet and less what used to be a one handed op when marking multiple boards to cut now requires both hands to bring the blade back in. This allows the tape to be quickly coiled for storage, avoiding the otherwise inevitable tangling youd experience with a standard flexible measure. For the price I paid for mine 10.99 it is well worth it. Excellent point thanks for making it. One item I didnt see on the test is reading an inside measurement by locking the blade lock, withdrawing the tape and reading it, then adding 3. A huge issue for me is the ability for a tape measure to stay where its hooked. Also, a glow in the dark tape for crawl spaces! All in all I dont think it can be beat at the moment in terms of options. Thats why a tape reads right side up when pulling left to right and upside down (and backwards) when pulling right to left. You can also subscribe without commenting. Best cordless drill 2022: The best drill drivers, hammer drills, impact drivers and SDS drills to cover all your DIY, Best impact driver 2022: Six cordless drivers that will make a lasting impact on your DIY setup, Best kitchen gadgets 2022: Save time and transform your cooking with these handy tools and gadgets, Our pick of the best electric screwdrivers, STANLEY Tylon 8m/26ft Pocket Tape Yellow/Black, 0-30-656, Digital Laser Distance Meter,Hanmer Rechargable Laser Meter Laser Measure,Portable Handle Digital Range Finder(Laser Tape Measure), Stanley FMHT0-33856 Tape Measure, Yellow/Black, 2 m/13 mm, Tape Measure for Body Dual Sided Measuring Tape for Body Measurements Retractable Tape Tailor Clothing, Best tape measure 2022: The top pocket, laser and flexible tape measures you can buy. I lose them before they ever wear out and since I have seven tapes in my shop one at the rip saw one at the table saw one at the radial saw one at the chop saw one on my bench and one at the drill press. I have always liked Stanley tape measures but recently purchased a Milwaukee with the magnetic hook. Unfortunately not many can surpass the 10 mark but the results are posted above. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. If it isnt accurate the rest doesnt mean much to me. Shop our best selling measuring tapes using the links below: Stanley 5m Tape Measure, Metric & Imperial, Stanley 3m Tape Measure, Metric & Imperial, RS PRO 5m Tape Measure, Metric & Imperial. From https://www.thetapestore.co.uk/knowledgebase/Articles/The_Advantages_of_a_Class_1_Tape_Measure.html, The Advantages of a Class 1 Tape Measure, As an example lets compare a class I with a class II tape. Tape measures have been around, in one form or another for millennia, and so at this point, you can find a model to suit just about any job. I have worked outside in all weather conditions building Morton Buildings for 14 years. Out of the box, the Lufkin was most accurate with the hook thickness of .045 equal to the hook movement of .045 Most other tapes had a difference of .01 in these measurements. I had not come across the distinction before. I use that feature enough to where I wouldnt consider a round-box tape measure, so all I ever buy for my construction outfit and my students is a sure-box chrome Stanley, Hi Bob we did check the hook in that fashion for accuracy. The two-sided fibreglass tape features millimetres and centimetres on one side, with feet and inches on the reverse and can be wound neatly away into its rubberised case using a fold-out rotary handle. The Milwaukee tape [below left] bent on the 4th recoil test, one Lufkin tape [below right] broke off on the 3rd recoil test. Basically a laser/tape for the price of a wooden ruler. On the 30-foot drop test the two most durable tape measures after drop testing were the Dewalt and the Stanley FATMAX, both sustained the least damage and were still usable after the test. It made it impossible to read the first inch of the tape. Under the same guidelines a class II tape of the same length should be accurate to within 0.7mm.. The Stanley PowerLock, in third place, stopped at 10-4 inches on its first test, and only recoiled 25-inches (total) on its second test. After all, isnt that what the hook is for; to hook and stay where it was placed?. Many contractors use magnetic tapes from metal stud, to HVAC, and plumbing. We never have and never will accept payment in exchange for a positive review. The bottom line is this, its a tape measure, not a machine rule or high precision measuring rule. Like all tools, its all about having the right one for the task at hand. The DEWALT, Klein and Milwaukee all recoiled to 14.5 inches or greater and failed to recoil at all, on the second recoil test. Tape measures that cannot hold to the side edge of a stud long enough to pull it out the length of the tape are simply junk. In hindsight we should have discussed that. Ergonomicsis about designing for the end user. For more information, check out our, few steps for properly maintaining your tape measure. The blade is a chunky 3.2mm wide which increases rigidity and features a mylar coating for improved durability and longevity. Now, it seems that all manufacturers coat the hook with silicone just to see if they can win the race for slipping off an object the fastest. I am in the fire sprinkler business +50 years, surveying various types of buildings, tanks & structures & prefer the Stanley 25 tape over all other tapes. Followed by Lufkin which recoiled to 1010 on the first test, and 6-inches on the second test. Who Makes the Best Tape Measure?Tape measure and hammer brandsoften cause more debates on the job site than anything else, and I can see why. Pocket tape measure:If you ask someone to think of a tape measure theyll almost certainly picture the traditional pocket measure. Thats how I view the #1 priority of any tape measure. They all seem to work fine and if one of them didnt I have a few more in a drawer. The longest tape measure in the world was a 600 feet (183 metres) gold-plated tape created by Justus Roe, an American surveyor and tape-maker, in 1956. Followed by Lufkin which recoiled to 1010 on the first test, and 6-inches on the second test. The @to, The new Festool Quadrive TPC 18/4 cordless drill i, Chilling with @ryobitoolsusa at the pool on vacati, Everyone playing nice today. Every surveyors tape measure manufactured by The Perfect Measuring Tape Company will stand the test of time. We placed a 25 lb. A quality tape measure is an often overlooked yet essential piece of equipment that no home should be without. Tape measure readability is important; over time, tape markings wear off and make the tape difficult or impossible to read. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Manufacturer and supplier in the USA of quality linear measurement products since 1912. While its possible that the Klien hit the ground perfectly to dent the hook, we feel that the case should not have opened up from 15-feet. Theres also a practical belt clip on the back. weight on top,. Surveyors tape measures, on the other hand, are normally made of rigid materials, such as fibreglass and steel, which ensure durability, impermeable properties and resistance to use and damage. Its been a throw away world now for awhile. I bought 2 more 25 footers at a grand opening of a hardware store and less than 2 months later, the Leverlocks failed completely, the recoil doesnt work unless the tape is forced in and the tape measure is pointed up so that gravity wiil assist the recoil, the hooks constantly slip off the item being measured. The Lufkin made it to 194 while the Komelon made it to 16-feet. Lufkin Shockforce. As a result, many tapes wear quicker in these areas. We placed a 25 lb. These are, of course, key features in the choice of the best tape measures for surveying and construction, as in those industries it is highly likely to be used in non-optimal environments. When measuring, holding the tap in the left hand and hooking the end at the right end of the tape, why are the numbers upside down. I would hazard a guess that not too many products mass produced today have the same quality from 20 years ago. Recently, we laid a few different tapes, side by side and noticed a difference. Accuracy was great out of box, no story there but in retrospect we should have reported it. While Stanley is probably the most popular in carpentry and surveyor industries (meeting customers needs with customised tools for easiness of use, like for example left-handed tape measures), there are many other suppliers sharing the scene for these useful and flexible tools:RS Pro, Lufkin tape measure, Facom, CK and Ideal, to name a few. The top of the jig had a 3/8 wide convex pressure-point. Our goal is to provide readers with honest, objective information based on our own experiences. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. You know its funny that all the tapes you checked out are all read upside down numbers.
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