Professional tape measures: how to choose case, blade and width

For heavy use on site, choose a tape measure with an ABS or rubberised case, shock-resistant and non-slip, and a wide blade of 27 to 33 mm with a nylon coating: it stays straight and lasts longer. For the workshop and pocket use, compact models with a 13 to 25 mm blade are enough. The whole collection is from the Metrica brand; the model names come in different shapes and colours.

The types

• XL tape measures: large body and blade, like the XL 27 Plus and the XL 33. The number refers to the blade width in millimetres.
• Tape measures with chrome case: shiny metallic finish, like the Cromato and the Action Cromato.
• Tape measures with rubber case: better grip and more protection against impacts. The Magnete Forte, as its name suggests, is the model with the magnet.
• Pocket and keyring tape measures: small body, for short measurements, like the 2 m keyring.
• Other models with ABS case: different shapes and colours, for example the Look.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

Case material. ABS, non-slip rubber, dual-material, chrome, stainless steel. ABS is light, rubber absorbs impacts, chrome looks smarter, stainless steel resists damp better.

Blade material. Nylon, enamelled, fibreglass, nylon coated. Nylon protects the scale from wear. The fibreglass blade is non-metallic.

Blade type. Self-locking, nylon or fluorescent: the self-locking one stops by itself, the fluorescent one is yellow.

Blade width. On the large models it ranges from 27 to 33 mm; on the compact ones from 13 to 25 mm. The wider it is, the straighter it stays unsupported.

Colour. Black, fluorescent yellow or assorted: if you often lose it on site, choose a bright colour.

How to use it properly. Hook the head of the blade over the edge of the piece or butt it against the surface: the loose hook compensates for its own thickness in both measurements. Pull the blade out taut and straight, lock it and read the scale looking at it square-on. Guide it back in without letting it snap, and clean dust and mortar off the blade.

Case and weight. A larger case holds a longer, wider blade, but it is heavier and bulkier: if you carry it on your belt all day, choose the smallest size that covers your jobs. A rubberised case is easier to grip with gloves, while a chrome or stainless steel one stays cleaner of mortar and dirt.

When a professional model is worth it. If you use the tape measure every day, wear shows quickly: a hook with play, a faded scale, a lock that gives way. In that case a model with a sturdy case and a coated blade lasts longer than a cheap one, and above all it gives you measurements you can rely on.

Common mistakes

• Choosing only for the colour. Look at the case and the blade, not just the shape.
• Using a pocket model for long measurements. The narrow blade bends.
• Keeping the tape measure dirty with mortar. The scale cannot be read and the blade does not retract properly.
• Dropping the tape measure from a ladder. A rubberised case absorbs the impact better.
• Forgetting the hook. If it is bent, the measurement is wrong.

Frequently asked questions

What does XL mean?

It indicates the large models with a wide blade, designed for more demanding jobs.

Is the rubber case really necessary?

If you work on site, yes: it protects against knocks and does not slip.

Is a nylon or enamelled blade better?

Nylon protects the scale better from wear; the enamelled one has a paint that protects the scale. Ask the technicians which suits your use.

Is there a model with a magnetic hook?

Yes, for example the Magnete Forte model in the collection.

What is the difference from ordinary tape measures?

With professional models, robustness is what counts: a case designed for impacts, a coated blade, a hook that withstands daily use. For occasional use a simpler model is often enough.

You will find all the models in the Professional tape measures collection: ask the AMES technicians for a quote or for advice.