Stanley 033932 Powerlock Tape 5m Top Reader

Product Information

Screwfix has an excellent reputation and is arguably the best brand for trade tools in the UK. This is down to them supplying only top-quality tools at extremely reasonable prices. It’s obvious that the team at Screwfix are passionate about what they do – having friendly and helpful staff that range from online assistants to instore staff. If you are unsure or need any advice on your DIY or trade job, they are more than happy to answer your questions. Versatile Blade Scales: The GATORTAPE retractable measuring tape is available in three blade scales: Metric, Imperial, and Dual. Its clever design allows you to read both Metric and Imperial scales with ease, whether you're left or right-handed. It adapts to your preference and measuring tape needs. Our testers then evaluated every tape measure for standout, which is the distance the unsupported, extended blade of the tool can remain rigid before bending towards the floor. Each tape measure was extended to its full length while the tester held it at various angles and noted the point at which the tape measure could no longer remain straight.

Aside from a hammer and screwdriver, a tape measure is probably the most reached-for item in your toolkit. Michael DiMartino, Senior Vice President of Installations at Power Home Remodeling, says “I use tape measures all the time and store them in multiple locations throughout my home. You’d be amazed at how much you have to measure—especially now that we’re all relying more heavily on online shopping. Think about it; when you’re physically at a store and you’re looking at a piece of furniture, you can easily gauge with your eye whether or not it’s going to fit in your space or if it’ll even fit through your doorframe. But you can’t determine that as easily online." Introducing the GATORTAPE Retractable Measuring Tape - a revolutionary tool designed to make your measurements more accurate, ergonomic, and hassle-free. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, the GATORTAPE is your go-to tape measure for all your measuring needs. Here's why it stands out: In our tests, we discovered that the numbers on the blade smudged when we pulled it out, and while this can be cleaned off, it would be tedious to do this every time you need to measure something. In terms of accuracy, all measurements were precise. Compared to other tape measures, this model doesn’t have as much rubber overmolding, yet, it still performed well in drop tests with only minor scuffs noticeable. There are also differences in terms of blade markings: Some tapes will have fraction marks and others will have line markings instead. You can also find digital tape measures that have built-in lasers, which are good for long distances and for the times you need more accurate measurements.During testing, it had an impressive standout of more than 13 feet, meaning it extended 13 feet from the case before drooping or bending. After dropping it on concrete in our testing lab, our testers found it didn’t have any visible damage. The brand also claims the tape measure can survive up to an 80-foot drop. Read on for the latest trade insights, national news stories and product updates that affect our customers.

A tape measure’s standout should be at least 7 to 8 feet, but further is even better. However, standouts can be impacted by the angle at which you hold the tape measure. “Even the best tape measure, if you’re at an awkward angle, it will still kind of bend,” Guerrero says.The bright yellow blade features large numbers and double-sided markings. The tape measure has stud markings that are conveniently placed every 16 inches. This 16-foot tape measure is also available in a 25-foot option for longer measurements. After our drop test, the tape measure had no visible damage, and the tape functioned the same after each drop. With a rubbery outermolding, this tape measure is easy to grip and resistant to damage if dropped, although it might be a bit large for those with small hands. We tested both the 16-foot and 25-foot models and found this tape measure to be very easy to read, with big, bold markings on both sides of the blade. Measurements are indicated down to 1/16ths of an inch, with additional markings to show stud and joist spacings. The entire length of the 1-1/4-inch-wide blade is coated for sturdiness, but the first 6 inches have an additional rip-shield coating to ward off kinks or damage. The standout of the 16-foot version was around 12 feet and the 25-foot model was only slightly longer at around 13 feet in our tests.

Do not use electric tools in wet conditions unless they are approved for that use. If you must work in wet conditions, always ensure you have good balance and are unlikely to slip. The increment markings are large, bold, and easy to read against the high-visibility yellow tape. A double-sided print with identical markings on the top and bottom of the blade makes for clear overhead measurements.The Stanley FatMax is a quality investment, especially for professionals who need a tape measure that stands up to the rigor of everyday use. The fully coated blade adds to the durability and extends the life of the tape measure. After our drop test, the tape measure worked perfectly, suffering only minor dings and scratches to the case.