Milwaukee Keychain Tape Measure

A good tape measure is an indispensable tool in any DIY enthusiast’s or professional’s toolkit. Recently, I had the chance to try out Milwaukee’s Keychain Tape Measure, model 48-22-6601, and it has quickly become one of my favorite compact measuring tools. This little gadget packs a surprising amount of functionality into a tiny package.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about this tape measure is its compact size. With dimensions of 1.25 inches in length, 2.1 inches in height, and 2.14 inches in width, it easily fits into the palm of your hand. Despite its small size, it feels incredibly sturdy, thanks to its reinforced frame. Milwaukee is known for its durable tools, and this tape measure is no exception. It also has a weight of just 0.24 lbs, making it lightweight enough to carry around without feeling cumbersome.

Key Features

Tape Blade and Standout

The tape blade extends to 10 feet (3 meters), which is impressive for such a small tool. It’s long enough for most indoor tasks and even some outdoor projects. The standout is rated at 4 feet, and I found it to be pretty accurate, though it does start to bend slightly around the 47-inch mark. The blade itself is easy to read, with clear markings in both inches and centimeters, making it versatile for different measurement needs.

LED Light

One of the standout features of this tape measure is the built-in 10-lumen LED light. This is particularly useful when you’re working in low-light conditions, such as inside cabinets or during late-night projects. The light is activated by a toggle switch, and it’s bright enough to illuminate your work area effectively. The LED requires two CR2016 batteries, which are included and pre-installed. You just need to remove a plastic battery protector strip before using it.

Magnetic Back and Keychain Clip

The magnetic back is another thoughtful addition. It’s surprisingly strong and can hold the tape measure securely against any metal surface. This is particularly handy when you need both hands free for measuring or marking. The keychain clip is also a nice touch, allowing you to attach the tape measure to your belt loop, key ring, or tool bag easily. It’s a bit thick to fit comfortably in a jeans pocket, but the clip provides other convenient storage options.

Usability

Using the Milwaukee Keychain Tape Measure is straightforward and intuitive. The zero-tolerance hook ensures accurate measurements every time, whether you’re measuring inside or outside dimensions. The lock mechanism is robust, holding the tape in place securely once extended.

I found the LED light particularly useful in dimly lit areas. It’s a feature I didn’t think I’d use often, but it has come in handy more times than I can count. The magnetic back also adds to the convenience, allowing me to stick the tape measure to any metal surface, keeping it within easy reach.

Portability

Portability is where this tape measure truly shines. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for carrying around. Whether you’re heading to the store to pick out lumber or working on a project at home, this tape measure is easy to keep on hand. The keychain clip adds to its portability, making it easy to attach to various items for quick access.

Durability

Milwaukee tools are known for their durability, and this tape measure lives up to that reputation. The reinforced frame protects it from drops and impacts, and the blade itself feels robust enough to withstand regular use. The limited lifetime warranty also provides peace of mind, knowing that Milwaukee stands behind their product.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee Keychain Tape Measure has a lot going for it, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The tape itself could be a bit thicker for added durability, and the lanyard is made of thin nylon, which might not hold up as well over time. Additionally, some users might find the tape measure a bit bulky for a keychain, although this is a minor issue given its other advantages.

Another minor drawback is that the foot markings on the tape are not as prominent as they could be, making them a bit harder to locate quickly. And while the magnetic back is generally strong, it can sometimes attract small metal objects in your tool bag, which can be slightly annoying.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee Keychain Tape Measure is a fantastic little tool that offers a lot of functionality in a compact package. Its sturdy build, clear markings, and useful features like the LED light and magnetic back make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. It’s perfect for small jobs around the house, quick measurements at the store, or even more detailed tasks in a workshop setting.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. It’s versatile, durable, and incredibly convenient. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a professional, or someone who just likes to be prepared, this tape measure is well worth the investment. Its compact size and thoughtful features make it a go-to tool for a wide range of tasks.