Craftsman Tape Measure, Pocket, 9-Foot

Having used many tape measures over the years, I was curious to see how the Craftsman Pocket Tape Measure, with its 9-foot reach, would stack up. This compact tool, model number CMHT37109S, certainly has some distinctive features that set it apart from the usual tape measures, and I was eager to put it to the test.

First Impressions

The first thing that struck me about this tape measure was its compact size. At just 3.8 inches in height and weighing a mere 0.2 pounds, it fits easily into a pocket, purse, or even the smallest of desk drawers. The rubber overmold provides a secure grip, which is a thoughtful touch for such a small tool. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, living up to the Craftsman reputation for quality.

Key Features

One of the standout features of this tape measure is the built-in stainless steel bottle opener. While it might seem like an odd addition, I found it surprisingly useful. After a long day of measuring and working on projects, it's nice to have a tool that can also help you pop open a cold beverage.

Another notable feature is the magnetic back. This allows for easy attachment to metal surfaces, such as a refrigerator or a metal toolbox. I found this particularly handy when working in the garage, as it kept the tape measure within easy reach and prevented it from getting lost in the clutter.

Usability

Using this tape measure is straightforward and intuitive. The tape extends smoothly and retracts without any issues. The markings are clear and easy to read, which is crucial for accurate measurements. However, it’s worth mentioning that this tape measure only features SAE measurements and lacks metric units. This might be a limitation for those who frequently work with metric measurements.

The locking mechanism is simple to operate, and I appreciated that it didn’t require much force to lock and unlock. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with weaker hands, making it accessible for a wider range of users, including those who might struggle with more rigid mechanisms.

Portability

The compact size and lightweight nature of this tape measure make it incredibly portable. I found it easy to carry around, whether in a pocket or a small bag. It's also convenient to store in various places around the house or car, ensuring you always have a tape measure on hand for those unexpected measuring tasks.

Durability

Despite its small size, this tape measure feels robust and durable. The rubber overmold not only provides a good grip but also adds an extra layer of protection against drops and impacts. I’ve used it extensively over the past few weeks, and it has held up well, showing no signs of wear and tear.

Limitations

While there’s a lot to love about this tape measure, it’s not without its limitations. The lack of a belt clip is a minor inconvenience, especially if you’re used to having your tape measure clipped to your belt for easy access. Additionally, the 9-foot length might not be sufficient for larger projects. For most household tasks, it’s more than adequate, but for those who frequently measure longer distances, a longer tape measure might be necessary.

Practical Applications

In practical use, this tape measure shines in various scenarios. It’s perfect for quick measurements around the house, such as checking the dimensions of furniture or ensuring your new picture frame will fit on the wall. The magnetic back is particularly useful in the kitchen or garage, allowing you to stick it to a metal surface and free up your hands for other tasks.

The bottle opener, while seemingly a novelty, has its place too. During a recent gathering, it was quite the conversation starter and proved its utility when we found ourselves short on bottle openers.

Conclusion

Overall, the Craftsman Pocket Tape Measure is a highly practical and well-designed tool. Its compact size, combined with thoughtful features like the magnetic back and bottle opener, make it a versatile addition to any toolkit. The clear and easy-to-read markings ensure accurate measurements, and the durable construction means it’s built to last.

While it has some limitations, such as the absence of metric measurements and a belt clip, these are relatively minor issues considering the tool's overall functionality and convenience. For everyday measuring tasks, especially those that don’t require extended lengths, this tape measure is an excellent choice.

Recommendation

I would highly recommend the Craftsman Pocket Tape Measure to anyone in need of a reliable, portable, and feature-packed measuring tool. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a professional, or just someone who frequently finds themselves needing to measure things around the house, this tape measure is likely to exceed your expectations. Its compact size ensures it’s always within reach, and the added features make it a handy tool to have on hand for a variety of tasks.