Black and Decker ATM100 25-Foot Autotape Auto Tape Measure

Product Information

A digital tape measure is very similar to a standard tape measure, except with a beam of light instead of metal tape. Once you have the laser in the right location for measuring, turn on the button and a display will illuminate the measurement of length, volume, and/or the indirect measurement of a room. Q. How accurate is a digital tape measure? The tang features a fold-down spike that can be fitted over a nail or screw head, and the Komelon comes with a separate bright orange spike for pushing into the ground to determine the origination point. We’ve used reel tapes before that became twisted on the spool when rewinding them up, but the fiberglass tape on the Komelon has just enough stiffness to help keep it straight.

To earn a spot in our lineup, each of the tape measures had to be accurate and precise. Fortunately, all the ones we tested were, so that wasn’t an issue. We then moved on to various other tests that pushed each tape measure to its limit. We extended each one out to its maximum length—something that may not happen in general use—but it was necessary to test how the ends of the blades were connected and whether pulling on them would pull them out of the case. For each of the tests we performed, we awarded points between 0 and 4, depending on how well the tape measured up. Dremel is well known for making power rotary tools, so while a laser measure tool seems a little out of its wheelhouse, we’re glad the company came out with it. Graphic markings (diamonds and triangles) noting 16-inch and 19.2-inch intervals keep newly constructed walls in compliance with building codes (studs are often placed 16 inches apart). They help the user locate the center of studs (as long as the structure was built in compliance with standard codes). Stud marks make hanging pictures and installing shelves much easier, allowing you to anchor the nail solidly. More Ergonomic Features to Consider A tape measure or 'measuring tape' is essentially a type of ruler made up of a long strip (the blade or tape) of fibreglass, plastic, steel or stainless steel marked off with measurements along its length. These measurements can be metric (centimetres & metres) or imperial (inches & feet) or even both .

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The hook-under forks on the Ryobi 25-foot tape measure tang are a boon for hooking the tape beneath the bottom edge of an object, such as the underside of a tabletop. We were impressed by the rubberized overmold that gives the Ryobi tape measure a soft, nonslip surface. The tang is reinforced with three rivets for durability, and the Ryobi blade is smooth and durable—we were able to extend it to nearly 8 feet (standout) before the blade bent. The stainless steel crank arm is snug without any play, and it features a 5-to-1 gear ratio, which allowed us to wind up the entire tape with just a dozen or so turns. The tape comes with an attached stainless steel carabiner clip we discovered was perfect for hanging on a hook in the garage. The measurements are imperial and only in ⅛-inch increments—but that’s par for the course for this type of tape. We were pretty impressed. This digital laser measure doesn’t include a protective case; our test model’s screen got scratched Both of these types of digital tape measures usually have automatic shut-off features that are triggered after 30 seconds or up to 3 minutes to conserve battery power and increase runtime. Connectivity and Storage

The Makita LD050P boasts the longest measuring distance of all the digital tape measures we tested. After it passed our 6-foot and 20-foot tests, being less than 1/16 inch off on both, we took the tool outdoors and measured as we walked away from the side of our shop. At 164 feet away (the maximum listed distance), we could still see the laser dot on the shop; indeed, it seemed nearly as bright as it did when we were 50 feet away, and we got an accurate reading. The biggest challenge when measuring that distance was keeping the laser dot still—it tended to bob and weave even when we held the tool as still as possible. Long tapes' are exactly as described , tape measures which are usually 15-20m or more in length. Such tapes come in a variety of shapes and sizes for different trades and applications. Only you, the customer, can know exactly which one is right for you. The “measure twice, cut once” adage is the key to success in all kinds of craft and construction projects. Following this advice often requires the use of a tape measure—a flexible cloth, metal, or fiberglass ribbon of variable length with measurement markings.

Measurement tools

The dual-sided hook helps keep the blade in place when measuring without an assistant. The belt clip easily attaches to a belt or strap, but this measuring tape is a bit bulky for the designated tape measure holder on some tool pouches. Overall, we found this to be a very accurate, durable, and useful tape measure for professionals, DIYers, and around-the-house users alike. Cased tape measures are the most familiar type, and the type we tested at our lab. These tape measures have a retractable blade marked with imperial or metric measurements, and a case that’s made of plastic or metal. This type of tape measure is a must-have in your toolkit and is useful for most measuring tasks around the home.The Irwin Strait-Line is a top option for any tool collection. While most digital measuring tapes will calculate length in feet with a laser, some options also accurately measure distance in inches and meters with precision. Some digital tape measures include a laser as well as a tape measure for short- and long-distance calculations in inches, feet, and meters.

Nail grab: The best measuring tapes come with a nail grab, which is helpful for those who are working alone and have no helper to hold the tape. By driving a nail into the material at the right spot, the user can slip the tang over the nail head to hold it in place for measuring.

Tape Measures

We then tested the Bosch digital tape measure on our 6-foot test station and found it was 1/16 inch off. In the 20-foot test, it was accurate to within ⅛ inch. Grade D - Acceptable. The item is fairly worn. The signs of wear can include scratches, dents and scuffs. The red laser dot is bright and easy to see—we positioned the tool and then directed the laser to the spot we wanted to measure, and it instantly gave us the distance.

Everything about the Craftsman 25-foot tape measure points toward quality, and this tool is made to stand up to high use. We noted the quality of this tape measure during the initial inspection. The case is made from heavy molded polyethylene and features a partial rubberized grip along the top and bottom edges. The belt clip is made from polished solid steel, and the metal blade is nylon coated for durability and rust resistance. The fibreglass blade is extremely resistant to damage from stretching, ripping, excessive heat or water. However, we're only too aware that the sheer variety of tapes available today can making choosing the right one a difficult task. As a result we've put together the following information to make your choice that little bit easier! What is a tape measure? The vast majority of tape measures sold in the U.S. come with imperial measurements, and many feature only imperial measurements. For the few that include metric measurements, the numbers are often small and difficult to see. Not so with the Zabiki 25-foot easy to read tape measure that comes with both inches and centimeters clearly marked. The first thing we noticed when unboxing the DeWalt DW099S digital laser was the distinctive yellow color that’s standard on all DeWalt tools. We’re familiar with the high quality of DeWalt products, so we were interested in seeing how well this digital tool lined up. Overall, we were quite impressed, but there are a few features we feel could be improved.Surely, you can’t look at this coiled metal easily. It’s inside the case. You have to open it with a screwdriver. Not only will you see the coiled metal but also the connection between the tape and the metal. With the wheel attached, we could accurately measure arched doorways and the rail of our spiral staircase, making this model indispensable for builders and painters who need accurate measurements even when the surface isn’t perfectly flat. As for the blade width, around 1 inch is best. Thinner than that, and the blade can be flimsy. Wider, and you may find the tape measure too bulky or difficult to retract. Before selecting the laser distance measure we wanted to put through their paces, we extensively researched more than 30 digital measuring tools. We looked at reported accuracy, ease of use, power source, durability, and other special features. We also factored in the brand—giving slight preference to nationally respected companies such as Bosch and DeWalt. Still, we didn’t eliminate models made by niche manufacturers if they offered precise measuring and were simple to use.