Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure

Finding a reliable tape measure is crucial for anyone in the trades or DIY enthusiasts. The Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure, model 48-22-1716, attempts to offer a blend of durability, ease of use, and accuracy in a compact form factor. After spending some time with this tape measure, I've gathered my thoughts on its performance and features.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure is its solid build. The housing is made of durable plastic with rubber protective strips, giving it a robust feel in hand. It’s compact and doesn’t weigh down my tool belt, which is a significant plus when you’re moving around a job site frequently. The tape measure also features a belt clip, which is sturdy and holds on tight to your waist or pocket.

The blade itself is 16 feet long, which is sufficient for most tasks I encounter. The standout feature of this tape measure is its anti-tear coating on the first 6 inches of the blade, designed to reinforce the most commonly used section. This is a thoughtful addition, as it helps prevent the blade from tearing, a common issue with tape measures over time.

Functionality and Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure is its fractional scale, which makes quick measurements a breeze. The blade is marked in both metric and imperial units, making it versatile for various projects. However, I found the dual-scale a bit confusing at times, especially when trying to take quick measurements. I would have preferred a version with only imperial units for simplicity.

The blade’s standout is advertised as 9 feet, and in my experience, it holds up to this claim quite well. I could consistently extend the tape to about 9 feet without it collapsing, which is handy when working alone. However, the blade does tend to buckle if extended beyond this point or if held sideways, which can be a bit frustrating.

Performance in Real-World Scenarios

On the job site, the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure performs admirably in most situations. The blade feeds out smoothly and retracts without any issues. The finger stop feature is a nice touch, protecting your fingers from the blade during retraction. However, I did encounter some issues with the tape locking mechanism. It works well most of the time, but there were instances where it felt a bit flimsy, and my finger slipped while trying to lock it in place.

The hook at the end of the blade is another area where the tape measure could use improvement. It’s relatively small, making it challenging to grab onto studs, pipes, and other materials. This can be a significant drawback when working alone and needing the tape to stay in place.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is a crucial factor for any tool, and the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure largely lives up to expectations. The impact-resistant body can withstand drops and bumps, which are inevitable on a job site. The anti-tear coating on the blade’s first 6 inches is a welcome addition, as it helps prevent the blade from tearing, a common issue with tape measures over time.

However, it’s worth noting that the tape measure isn’t invincible. I did encounter a situation where the blade got gummed up and wouldn’t retract or extend properly. This was disappointing, especially since the tape measure wasn’t exposed to any harsh conditions. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this tape measure for heavy-duty use.

Value for Money

The Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure is priced higher than some of its competitors, but it offers a range of features that justify the cost. The fractional scale, anti-tear coating, and compact design make it a versatile and reliable tool. However, if you’re on a tight budget, there are other tape measures available that offer similar functionality at a lower price point.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure is a solid choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its durable build, fractional scale, and anti-tear coating make it a reliable tool for various tasks. However, the small hook and occasional issues with the locking mechanism are areas where it could improve.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re looking for a durable, compact tape measure with a fractional scale, this is a great option. However, if you need a tape measure with a more robust hook and a flawless locking mechanism, you might want to explore other options. Overall, the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure offers good value for money and is a worthy addition to any tool collection.