Measuring Tapes and Wheels
How to Choose a Measuring Tape
Are the blade, end hook and belt clip solidly riveted? Is the spring-return smooth and strong?
The most common complaint about measuring tapes is that they tend to fall apart after a while. Either the blade comes loose from the measure when it's fully extended, or the end hook starts to wobble, or the belt clip loses its hold. When you buy a Kapro tape measure, you can be sure of a quality product that is solidly constructed and made to last. The steel end hooks are reinforced above and below the blade, and a blade-return buffer adds protection.
Another common complaint is too-fast blade return, and spring locks that don't go the distance. Kapro tapes measures promise smooth blade recoil, easy locking and unlocking, and a durable spring that prolongs the life of the tape.
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What is the width of the tape? What is the casing made from?
Contractor-grade tape measures generally have 3/4" or 1" blades. Wider tapes are bulkier, but they'll extend further without bending, and are easier to read.
Kapro's 500 Power Tape features a 3/4" blade with protective, scratch-resistant coating - a tough, lightweight all-purpose tape. The 608 Framing Tape Measure has a 1" scratch-resistant blade with excellent extension (sometimes referred to as standout). Encased in molded rubber to protect it from knocks and falls, it's a tough tool that's comfortable to hold - ideal for all building trades.
Does the end hook hold on nails? Does it hold on corners?
Most end hooks are a simple affair, designed to hook on the edge of a straight surface. But if you want to anchor it on a nail or screw – or measure accurately from a corner – then you'll be left wanting. Kapro's unique 608 Framing Tape Measure is the only tape measure that hooks on corners. Perfect for carpenters and framers.
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How to Choose a Measuring Wheel
1. Wheel size
Measuring wheels are designed to give you a distance estimate while you walk, and for measuring curved surfaces. The wheel size you choose will depend on the terrain you're measuring. 4" (10cm) diameter wheels are ideal for indoor jobs, for decorators and painters, for instance. For building contractors or landscapers, a 10" (25cm) wheel would be the wheel of choice. For big outdoor jobs with rough terrain, like fencing, irrigation, or laying concrete and asphalt, you'll need a 19" (45cm) wheel.
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2. Materials
The wheel's construction is vital to its accuracy and longevity. Professional measuring wheels are usually constructed from either metal or durable polymers, with rubber tires. Kapro has chosen to use a heavy-duty polymer composite on all its Measuring Wheels, because of its proven warp-resistance over time, and its lightweight properties. Combined with an adjustable telescopic handle, this makes Kapro's wheels highly portable, easy to store, and comfortable to use. Kapro has also chosen a highly visible bright red for its wheel color, so it stands out on busy jobsites or in traffic. A convenient kick-stand is featured on all models.
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3. Measuring counter
Measuring counters are mostly mechanical, although some wheels on the market offer a digital readout. Kapro offers a 5-digit gear-driven counter that subtracts when you roll it backwards, with a simple reset button. Kapro's high-quality digital counters won't suddenly disappoint in the middle of a job. Available in metric or imperial models, they measure up to 9999.9 in either feet or meters.
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