What is THE BEST Measuring Tape? (WnW #93)

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I'm just having fun here, but I do think that these are the best kind of measuring tape currently on the market.

The auto-locking of the tape is incredibly helpful.
The lever is the best way to control and release the tape.
It just fits into the hand nicely, no matter the size.
Thumb locks are awkward and do not feel natural to use.

THESE ARE THE BEST!!

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[Wordsnwood]

I'm just having fun here, but I do think that these are the best kind of measuring tape currently on the market.

The auto-locking of the tape is incredibly helpful.
The lever is the best way to control and release the tape.
It just fits into the hand nicely, no matter the size.
Thumb locks are awkward and do not feel natural to use.

Not a sponsored video but I'm open to offers...

LINKS TO SOME OF THE ITEMS USED. (Affiliate links)

[erniesouza]

I just purchased the new Sidewinder tape from Craftsman. It lays on its side so it won't fall over when you place it on a long board to measure. It also stays extended until you release it. It is 25 feet so a little big but I think it will be great for laying out on anything over a foot because it won't fall over. It has a rear tang to hook to the far end of the wood you are measuring as well. In addition it has an area on the side to write down measurement etc., that will wipe off when you are done. Part #952332.

[RobertKreegier]

I'm in your boat. I always got these same tape measures, but recently I discovered the Komelon Self Lock tape measure. It automatically locks the same way that the Stanley does, but the lock is solid. What I mean is, if you're reeling in the tape and let go of the button, the tape stops IMMEDIATELY. If you're not pressing in the button, that tape will NOT retract or even push in to the housing. It's solid.

The only drawback from what you like is the fact that the button is on top in the usual spot.

[joefleming]

I thought I was the only one who thought this. You are exactly right on all points. I could not agree more.

[reverendblair]

You aren't lazy, I've found exactly the same thing. Worst thing is when you're using a lever lock and suddenly have a regular tape in your hand.

[kahuna]

Yeah. I've used the Lufkin autolock for years and they have served me well.

[kstone]

I would never say you are Lazy. Maybe I'm the lazy one because I'm sitting on my recliner watching your YouTube video. Keep up the great work. I enjoy all your videos Mr. Robertson drive. lol

[lightmechanic]

Infomercial needed showing Art fumbling with his collection of tape measures THEN he finds the Lever-Lock!

[billpaterson]

I agree- I have several tape measures and use the leverlock all the time.

[MarkSWilliams]

I totally agree with you. I laugh at people using a 25 foot, clunky tape in the shop. I'd personally like to see a 3/4" wide, 10 foot tape in a lightweight case.
I've used the old Stanley Power Locks for years, but wanted to try a Lever Lock. Couldn't find one locally. Now I see they have changed them a bit from the old ones. Wondering if the new are as good?

[brianm.]

I love FastCap tape measures. I own two: the carpenter version that auto locks and a flexible tape that measures to 32nd's.

[TokyoCraftsman]

Here in Tokyo I use the Tajima 5.5 meter Lock 25, it is a good tape for the money, but is is also very basic, I do like that the tape is marked on both sides of the tape. I've not seen these Stanley Lever Locks before, do they come in metric...? Hello

[VampireOnline]

The tape measure I have has a button on the bottom to stop it and then the lever on the top to lock it. Makes it seem like measuring is faster as I don't have to lock it down I can just press the button and it wont move then let go for it to retract. I can't seem to find them in stores anymore and I keep forgetting to google the one I have haha.

[cameronl]

I had a Craftsman version with the same feature. I hated it, though, because if I pulled out the tape and set it down like you did in the demo, the weight of the case (metal) was enough to depress the lever and scoot the thing along the board I was measuring. Maddening.

Much better for me is the Komelon Selflock measures. the release button is on top, where the lock button would be. I bought mine at Lowes.

[travel]

In Canada I hate mixed measure tapes. Give me metric or imperial not both on one tape. You can measure from both edges of the tape with a mixed measure.
I agree about the 10' or 12' tape for cabinet making. I do not make 20' cabinets! They are good for construction but heavy and cumbersome for furniture making. Unfortunately they are also really hard to find.

[dannyhale]

My first tape measure that I bought in the late 80s or early 90s is a chrome Craftsman with the autolock feature. I love it. I've also got a newer Craftsman red and black one and Stanley. I agree with you. Why lock the button when you can buy a tape measure that does it automatically?

[bigdavegooner]

I totally agree. I'm a Carpenter and this is about the only tape I like that I've used. I use it nearly everyday and still works great after quite a number of years using it. I'm lost it a little while ago searched everywhere for replacement to no avail. But then Luckily the client found it.

[JohnHeisz]

I used one of those a number of years ago and didn't like it, but that's mainly because I already had years of use with regular tapes. I fully expect and need for the tape to retract automatically, and I will get VERY ANGRY when it doesn't :D

When I buy a new tape, I look at the tape itself and see how it's laid out and how easy it is to read. I've come to prefer Lufkin for that reason.
Also, I'll not buy any tape that has those ridiculous ears on the hook.

[montewoods]

I've had a 12 foot stanley for 20 plus years. never needed a longer tape in my shop except of course for larger construction work

[kenLane]

My Dad had one of them, loved using it, I will have to get one for myself.