A tape measure is an essential woodworking tool that comes in different designs. However, not all of them are accurate and durable — using subpar tools in your workshop could mess up your projects.
Therefore, our experts have come up with the best tape measures for woodworking and construction use.
Reviews of the Top Tape Measures for Woodworking
1. Milwaukee 48227225 HP8-26Mg/27 Magnetic Tape Measure
Milwaukee is one brand that you can trust when it comes to making durable and innovative tape measures. This 26-foot tape measure comes in an improved compact and ergonomic design. It feels light in the hands, making handling so much convenient.
The Milwaukee 48227225 HP8-26 Mg/27 Tape Measure is marked on either side of the yellow blade, and the clarity of the scale is impressive. The marking is bold and is not difficult for a woodworker to read.
Our team loves the included double magnet at the head of the tape. It makes measurement easier because it allows you to hook the tape onto a flat surface.
What We Like
- Double-sided markings
- Ergonomically designed
- Clear scale
- Durable
What We Don't Like
- The markings can be confusing
- Slightly expensive
2. Prexiso Laser Tape Measure 2-in-1 Laser Measure
If you want to add laser measuring to your woodshop, our experts recommend the Prexiso Laser Tape Measure.
This tape measure delivers accurate measurements whether you use the laser or the regular tape. The laser extends up to 135 feet while the typical blade is 16ft long, enough for most woodworking use.
The laser tape measure is equipped with a rechargeable battery and charges through a USB. Once fully charged, the tape can provide up to 5000 measurements.
This 2-in-1 measure is made of ABS material to enhance durability and provide comfortable gripping. It is compact and extremely light, making it convenient to carry.
What We Like
- Suitable for a wide range of measurements
- Nylon-coated blade
- Double-sided number markings
- Offers great readability
What We Don't Like
- The laser becomes inaccurate as the measurements get longer
- A little complex to use
3. Komelon 49121M The Professional 12-Foot/ Metric Scale Power Tape
This Komelon 49121M tape measure has great features to deliver accurate measurements at a low-budget price.
It is highly durable, and our experts love its tough build. The blade comes coated with nylon to maximize resistance against accidental drops, work abuse, and abrasion.
Thanks to its ergonomic yellow case, carrying the tape is extremely convenient. Its design fits into the hand for maximum use.
The tape uses a metric scale measurement, and the numbers are clear to promote readability. Best of all, you don’t need to worry about a retracted blade, as it comes with a slide lock.
What We Like
- Tough build
- Easy to read
- Compact
- Marked in both inches and metric
What We Don't Like
- The markings are long by 10 cm
- Locking can be challenging
4. Craftsman Tape Measure 26-Foot (CMHT37726S)
Craftsman 26-Foot Tape Measure (CMHT37726S) comes in a patented dual-spring, small case construction for comfortable handling and improving ergonomics. The small case is rubber coated to improve resistance against job site conditions. Also, it helps to improve gripping for optimal use.
In addition, the metric numbers on the tape are clearly marked on the white blade for readability [1]. The tape stays extended until you release the locking button. However, the locking button is hard to use.
For a more convenient measurement, the tape measure features a magnetic hook that you can lock onto a flat metal surface. It helps to prevent the blade from retracting when extended.
What We Like
- Durable design
- Comfortable to handle
- Possess a magnetic hook
- Measures accurately
What We Don't Like
- The locking option is hard to use.
- Not great long measurements
Tape Measure for Woodworking Buyer's Guide
A woodworker can make a mistake when buying a tape measure. That’s because they probably don’t understand the features they need in a measuring tool. Our team of experts breaks down what you should consider before buying the best tape measure for woodworking.
Accuracy
The point of buying a measuring tape is to take accurate measurements. However, not all tape measures are precise, as the tangs may be loose and dull.
The tang is a projecting part of the tape measure that is fastened to the handle. When buying a tape measure, ensure the tang is tight and that the blade stretches at full length.
Reach/Length
Most conventional tape measures such as from the Hart company come with a 15-foot length and 25-foot length, although you can find 30-foot length tapes too.
While it’s always good to get tape measures with longer lengths, a 15-foot tape measure is enough for most workshops.
Locking Button
Tape measures come with either an automatic lock or a manual lock. The downside of automatic locks is that the tape retracts if released when fully extended. With a manual lock, you can press it down to hold the tape when stretched.
Durability
Always check for tape cases that have rubber coatings. These rubber-coated cases provide exceptional durability and can withstand the rigors of heavy use and work abuse.
Ease of Use
Each tape has a measurement style. Most tapes are measured in inches at the top and metric at the bottom. Some have a blank space at the back for marking, while others read measurements from either side of the tape.
Choose the one that you can work with comfortably. When you know how to read the tape measure you have, the easier and quicker your work will be.
Accessories
Some tapes come with a belt clip. Belt clips enable you to fasten the tape to your belt easily. This allows for convenient measurement.
Price
Tape measures have different price tags. Although the factors above affect the prices, you should pick the one that comes with the features you need. It will limit your spending.
FAQ
What is a tape measure used for in woodwork?
A tape measure used in woodwork is a flexible ruler, consisting of a blade with linear markings for taking distance measurements in woodwork.
The difference between a tape measure used in woodwork and for other measuring purposes is the markings. For other purposes, the tape measure is marked in meters instead of inches like that used in woodwork.
Our Top Pick for a Tape Measure for Woodworking: Milwaukee 48227225 HP8-26Mg/27 Magnetic Tape Measure
Considering their features, pros, and cons, our team of experts concludes that the Milwaukee 48227225 HP8-26Mg/27 Magnetic Tape Measure is the best tape measure for woodworking.
This tape measure comes in a compact and ergonomic design to make handling and usage easier. Also, its durable blade measures 26 ft in length with bold metric markings for improved readability.
Most importantly, the measure doesn’t retract when the blade is fully extended. The magnetic hook plus the locking button ensures your measurement isn’t tampered with.
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