Komelon SM5416 Speed Mark Gripper Acrylic Coated Steel Blade Tape Measure 16-feet by 1-Inch, White Blade

This tape measurer is a slight and yet massive improvement over the previous two from major brands that Ive owned for over 20 years. Sure, its got big numbers on it in case youre going blind, but the real kicker for me is the retraction speed is far more controlled and slower. Its not the standard issue tape measurer where you unlock the tape and watch it snake across the room at top speed before trying to bite your hand and face. Instead, it takes twice as long to retract and doesnt whip lash in every direction at all. I think thats because the tape itself seems to be made of much heavier and sturdier material so its heavier and it doesnt bend as easily. Thus, it is slower to gain speed, and loses speed/momentum while recoiling as it is effected by gravity or air pressure (instead of bending and storing that momentum as it whiplashes like a spaghetti noodle being sucked up, becoming more dangerous with more length of tape). Such a slight change makes all the difference. Another feature I like is that the outside is mostly rubber, mind the clip, so you can set it down on more sensitive surfaces such as stained wood without concern. It can also take a short drop too without cracking the tile. Again, another slight adjustment that makes all the difference.

Like the easy reading

lock feature is awesome and easy to read and accuracy is on point.

This is very thick and durable. I have terrible eye sight so I love how big and clear the numbers are. Locks in place as it should. Definitely recommend

Very easy to read/use tape measure. The tape itself is sturdy and the tape measure overall feels well built. My only complaint would be that the locking feature feels like it will break at any moment. It feels like the lock will break every time you engage it (it hasnt broken yet). Also, this tape measure does not have metric markings. That isnt an issue for me, but may be an issue for you.

Standard for all my reviews: When reviewing products, I always remain objective and honest about the product or service. I always review with information that I feel others would like to know about the product as I always assume what Im writing will influence for or against the purchase. I always try to go above and beyond surface characteristics and input into quality, value and application. Most importantly, I will always end the review with an answer as to whether Id purchase the product again which I believe is the most critical question pertaining to the item. To manufacturers: Want me to review your items, just let me know! I love this Komelon Gripper Speed-Mark tape measure. My old thin/cheap one that I used upstairs finally pushed me to the brink to the point where I wanted a new one. I have a Craftsman that I use as well but that is in the shop. If youre using a cheap tape measure, you know the dance of trying to get the tape to stay extended with our bending because of the cheap gauge of metal used in the tape. Not so with this Komelon. Its extremely sturdy. In fact, while holding the tape measure I can extend it almost 8 unsupported before it breaks. Pretty incredible. Additionally, the gray tape is very easy to read and I love the measurements being listed in 1/8 increments with unlisted 1/16 marks as well. The roller mechanism is smooth and the locking mechanism sturdy and secure. A tape measure is one of those things easy to skimp on early in life when you dont understand the difference quality makes. And then when you upgrade, youll never go back. This is the case with this Komelon and its an easy repurchase if I need another one. Ive even considered replacing my trusty Craftsman.

I needed a back up tape for work. I am a cabinet maker so the wider tapes by Stanley and Lufkin are a little much. I have 3 Tajima tapes scattered about that are starting to get the dreaded kinks and sluggish spring. This Komelon tape suits my needs. Smaller with a rubberized case...easy to read and most of all it was under $10. How long will it last is yet to be seen but if I get a year out of it I will be happy.

Just received this and it is great! Retract is fast. Locks & unlocks easily with one hand. But I didnt think it would be as heavy as it is. I didnt pay notice to the weight. It is sturdy and is going to last a long time for sure. Told my 29year old grandson its his when I die, and Not until! Hes already eyeing it. This is a good product and well worth the money.

This tape measure has labels at every 1/8 interval. This makes it a good choice for folks who dont have a lot of experience reading a tape measure. But if youre a carpenter, or if you can just look at a ruler and automatically know what the marks mean, this tape measure is just annoying. Thats because the labels take up so much room that its hard to see the actual markings. Thus it may actually slow you down. It just depends on how much help you need decoding the markings. In other news, the lock works well. Thats the main reason why my tape measures fail. I have a Stanley, a Milwaukee, and a no-name in my tool bag right now, and all three have locks that cant hold the tape in place without slipping. This $6 tape measure can do that, so its currently the best the four.

I realized after this was delivered that I didn’t need it. When I started to use it though, I loved it so much I kept it. The numbers are easy to read, the tape measures out smoothly. I do wish that it wasn’t so flimsy but the easy read makes up for it!