Champion Sports Open Reel Measure Tape With Metal Spike Review

Measuring tapes are essential for various applications, from construction and carpentry to sewing and crafting. With so many different types, sizes, and materials available, choosing the right measuring tape for your needs can be challenging. This buying guide will provide valuable information and tips to help you select the best measuring tape.

Accuracy

An accurate measuring tape should provide measurements that are precise and reliable. Look for one with finely detailed markings on the tape measure itself and numbered increments, making it easy to measure down to the nearest fraction. Additionally, some measuring tapes come with a digital readout for even greater accuracy. 

Length

Consider what you need to measure. Large landscapes like sports fields will need a measuring tape like Champion Sports Open Reel Tape. For smaller jobs, this type of measuring tape may be excessive.

Quality of Construction

Consider the quality of a measuring tape before purchasing. Verify that the measuring tape has durable material, such as metal or plastic, that won’t tear easily. Also, note how securely and smoothly the tape retracts into its housing once you finish using it to ensure the blade won’t catch or snag during use.

Visibility of Markers

The markers on the tape measure should also be easily visible and legible so you can read them quickly and accurately within any environment. Be sure to check for visibility in different lighting settings before making your purchase. Markers printed in bold colors will also make them easier to spot when needed. 

Materials Used 

As mentioned earlier, most quality measuring tapes have either metal or plastic. However, some may also have wood or leather, depending on the manufacturer’s preferences or design intent. Ensure that whatever material it has supports your desired use case, such as being lightweight or able to withstand extreme temperatures to get the most out of your purchase without worrying about malfunctioning anytime soon. 

Automatic Locking Mechanism

Many modern-day measuring tapes feature an automatic locking mechanism that allows you to measure more accurately by preventing the blade from returning to its housing until it’s manually released. Check if this feature is included with your model since it can make measuring large distances much quicker and easier than traditional models, which require you to hold down the blade with one hand while measuring with another. 

Ergonomics

Depending on how frequently you’ll use the measuring tape, you may want a more ergonomic one. Well-designed models usually have an ergonomic handle that makes them comfortable enough to handle for extended periods and provides improved control and better stability during usage.  

Portability Features

Look for a measuring tape that is convenient to carry around when needed. Models with belt buckle attachments or pockets/clips for safely storing them away after each use instead of simply tossing them into a tool bag. 

Different Types of Measuring Tapes 

• Standard tape measures: These are the most common type of measuring tape. They are available in lengths and widths and have measurements marked on them in feet, inches, and sometimes centimeters.
• Long tape measures: These are used for measuring longer distances and are available in lengths of up to 300 feet or more. They are typically made of a flexible fiberglass or steel material and feature a crank handle for rewinding.
• Pocket tape measures: This measuring tape type is small, compact, and fits perfectly in a pocket or tool belt. They are typically between 6 and 12 feet long.
• Measuring wheels: This type of measuring tape is for longer distances in outdoor construction or surveying applications. They consist of a wheel with a measuring device that records the distance traveled.
• Digital measuring tapes: These have an LCD that shows the measurement and can perform calculations such as adding and subtracting measurements. Batteries power them and can measure in both metric and imperial units.