Rating of the best measuring metal tapes

Expert: Konstantin Borisovich Polyakov

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The most popular measuring tool among a wide range of craftsmen is the tape measure. This convenient and compact product is used in the construction of new buildings, during reconstruction and repair, in the process of geodetic work, etc. The tape measure is a compact device consisting of a body and a flexible tape with a measuring scale. Thanks to a special hook, even one worker can take measurements. The domestic market offers a wide range of domestic and foreign products. When choosing a suitable model, experts recommend starting from the following parameters.

How to choose a measuring tape

1. Length
   . First of all, the user should decide on the maximum length of the tape measure. For example, compact 2-3-meter products are enough for window measurers or locksmiths. But on large construction sites it is necessary to use 30-meter models.
2. A convenient option would be a magnetic hook
   . With its help, the starting point of the tape is securely fixed to steel surfaces, making it easier to take measurements alone.
3. Material
   . Most often, the tape is made of steel, onto which a scale and a protective coating are applied. When the markings are bright and large, you can work even in poor lighting conditions.
4. The reliability and durability
   of the tape measure largely depends on the quality of the case. The tool, which has rubber lining, is not afraid of falls. They absorb impact energy while maintaining the integrity of the plastic case.
5. Functionality
   . To effectively control the tape, the tape measures have locking buttons and levers. When purchasing, you should check how securely the stopper holds the tape and whether rewinding begins immediately after turning off the braking system.
6. Weight and dimensions.
   When using a measuring tool frequently, compactness and lightness become important parameters. For ease of wearing, manufacturers equip their products with wrist straps and clips for fixing them on a belt.

Our review includes the 12 best measuring tapes. When compiling the rating, the opinion of the expert community and reviews of domestic consumers were taken into account.

Emerging problems

There is a huge selection of measuring tapes in the catalogs, so it is important to know what problems may arise when working with measuring instruments.

Common problems:

• Low quality.
• Avoid working in the rain; corrosion will cause the tape tension spring to break.
• When working with sand and dirt, they can get inside the housing. Auto-twisting will not work; you will have to disassemble and clean the case.

Cheap models are often of low quality; they have the following main problems:

• the hook may boil away;
• inflexibility of the spring mechanism;
• erasing markings.

Rating of the best measuring tapes

The best keychain tape measure

A small measuring instrument can always be with the owner if it is made in the form of a keychain tape measure. Its main advantages are lightness, compactness and mobility. Experts liked one interesting model.

FIT 17825

Rating: 4.7

A very convenient measuring tool that can always be at hand is the FIT 17825 keychain tape measure. You can attach a bunch of keys to it thanks to the presence of a metal ring. A 2-meter steel strip with a width of 8 mm is hidden inside the case. The tape measure will be an indispensable assistant for people whose activities are related to construction or repair. Despite its small size, the instrument is not a toy. The case has a rubberized insert, the product is equipped with a locking lever. The model deservedly takes first place in our rating.

Many users call the keychain tape measure an indispensable measuring tool that always follows its owner. Among the shortcomings, only a millimeter error in the readings is noted.

Advantages

• compact and light (80 g);
• steel tape;
• low price;
• rubberized body.

Flaws

• measurement error is 1 mm.

Tesla Rangefinder M-40

This model of laser tape measure produces accurate results for the most difficult tasks of measuring distances. The continuous measurement function, in which the device measures distance in real time, is convenient for construction and when arranging furniture.

Quickly calculates the required height using the Pythagorean theorem, which is important when measuring the height of buildings or rectangular niches. Measurement is carried out using 2 or 3 points.

Adds and subtracts values, calculates area and volume. Easily copes with measuring rooms with protrusions.

Stores totals of past measurements. The memory is designed for 20 calculations. The bubble level is designed to level the rangefinder vertically and horizontally. If necessary, calculations can be carried out not only in meters, but also in feet and inches. The LCD display has a bright backlight. The data is easy to read in any light level. Indicators monitor battery charge and measurement type.

The device is light and compact, equipped with large buttons. Automatically turns off after 150 seconds. The battery charge is enough for 8 thousand manipulations. The device is very easy to clean. The body is matte and can be cleaned with a damp cloth.

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The best measuring tapes over 10 meters long

When a large building is being built, tape measures 20-30 m long help to take measurements quickly and accurately. They must be equipped with an effective winding system. Experts advise paying attention to two models.

STANLEY HAND TOOLS STANLEY FATMAX 30 M

Rating: 4.9

The STANLEY HAND TOOLS STANLEY FATMAX 30-meter tape measure is used on large construction sites. This American development is equipped with a narrow (10 mm) tape, due to which the weight was reduced to 1.3 kg. A wire loop is attached to the end of the flexible steel tape, which makes it easier to fix to the starting point. For quick winding, an effective mechanism is installed in the plastic case. The rubber pad softens the impact on the tape measure in case of accidental falls or impacts. Experts highly appreciated the build quality, giving the product first place in our rating.

Builders praise the tape measure for its accuracy, reliability and durability. Users consider the high price to be a disadvantage of the tool.

Advantages

• fast tape rewinding;
• two-piece body;
• wear-resistant scale coating;
• high-quality assembly.

Flaws

• high price.

RESANTA DL-40

There are only positive reviews about this model.
A compact electronic computer will help you quickly take measurements and save time on calculations and records. Determines distance up to 40 m with an error of ± 2 mm. Measurement results can be stored in the internal memory. Calculates distances when direct access to points is not possible. Calculates volume and area, subtracts and adds, and uses the Pythagorean theorem for remote calculations.

Bright illumination allows you to take measurements in the evening in unlit places. AAA batteries provide an excellent level of autonomy.

You can use a strap that fits comfortably on your wrist, protecting the device from accidental falls. A protective case is included with the device.

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The best geodetic roulettes

In the professional activities of surveyors, a measuring tape is a reliable assistant. It differs from traditional models not only in its greater length (30-50 m), but also in the special shape of the handle. Here are some quality samples.

Empire EM30MFG

Rating: 4.9

The Empire EM30MFG geodetic tape measure has a fairly simple and convenient design. The manufacturer used an open-type case; it is made of durable ABS plastic. The D-shaped handle allows you to hold the tool securely while unwinding the tape. Rubber pads provide comfort during operation and also protect the tool from damage when dropped. For the manufacture of the tape, fiberglass with a width of 19 mm was used, which made it possible to reduce the weight of the 30-meter product to 0.96 kg. There is a special folding handle for winding the tape. The model takes first place in our rating.

Users have no complaints about the quality of manufacture and reliability of the roulette. The model is 100% worth the money spent on it.

Advantages

• two-piece body;
• comfortable handle;
• light weight;
• high-quality assembly.

Flaws

• high price.

Technical requirements

The quality of measuring tapes is subject to standard requirements, established by GOST 7502-98. The main provisions address the following issues.

1. On the tape scale, deviation from the actual length is allowed within the limits of the tabular data. This takes into account the ambient temperature (20 degrees) and the tension of the web by the working force.

The symbol L is the number of full/incomplete meters of the segment

1. The indicator of the working force aimed at tensioning the web when taking measurements must correspond to:

• for belts with a length of 10 m and more – 100 (±10) N;
• tapes 1-5 m long – 10 (±10) N;
• products with a load - the tension force is created under the influence of the load itself;
• products with a grooved blade - no force is applied.

For tape measures equipped with a weight fixed to the exhaust end, a weight weighing 2 kg (±0.1) is used.

1. The manufacturer, at the request of users, carries out comparison of measuring tapes in accordance with regulatory documentation. Products are assigned a serial number. The actual length from the zero value to the meter strokes is entered into the verification certificate. Rounding is applied to tenths of a millimeter.
2. Measuring devices must remain operational at the following temperature readings: from -40 to +50 degrees. Products intended for mines have an operating range from -10 to +35 degrees. The humidity indicator is 98-100%.
3. The measuring scale is applied to one or both edges of the canvas. It is allowed to apply markings on both sides of the tape.
4. Commonly accepted intervals in tape measures: millimeter, centimeter, meter.
5. The beginning of the scale must coincide with the end of the measuring tape.
6. Centimeter and meter scales are indicated by a number symbol. They can be highlighted in a different color.
7. Numbers and strokes must be applied exactly, strictly perpendicular to the edge of the tape.
8. The background part of the canvas should be painted in light colors. Strokes and numbers are indicated with dark or bright (but contrasting with the background) paint.
9. Roulettes must be equipped with a lock that stops the tape within one turn.
10. When unwinding or winding up the fabric, there should be no distortions or jams.
11. For the manufacture of measuring tapes, the following grades of steel alloys should be used: Kh18G14AN4 (EP-197), 12Kh17G9AN. It is allowed to use other grades of metal that are not inferior in technical characteristics and physical properties to the described options.
12. The width and thickness of the tape are selected taking into account the length of the web. For products up to 5-6 m, the indicators correspond to: width - 7-25 mm, thickness - 0.12-0.30 mm.
13. Each product must be accompanied by documentation confirming its origin and quality.