Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure

As someone who has gone through their share of tape measures, I was particularly intrigued by Milwaukee’s Compact Tape Measure, model 48-22-6626. The brand has a reputation for durability and quality, which is why I had high hopes for this compact tool. After spending a considerable amount of time using it on various projects, here's my honest take on its performance.

First off, let's talk about the design. The tape measure is indeed compact, with dimensions of 3.130" in length, 3" in height, and 1.650" in width. This makes it easy to carry around without weighing you down. The metal housing feels robust, and the rubber protective strips add an extra layer of shock absorption, which is a nice touch. At 15.5 ounces, it strikes a balance between feeling solid in your hand and not being too heavy to carry around all day.

One of the standout features is the tape blade itself. The blade is 1 inch wide and has a nylon coating for additional protection. The tape blade length is 26 feet, which is more than adequate for most tasks. Milwaukee claims it has a standout of up to 9 feet, and I found this to be accurate. I could consistently extend the tape to about 9 feet without it collapsing, making it easier to measure long distances when working alone.

The measurements are displayed in both SAE and metric units, which adds a layer of versatility. The SAE side highlights foot increments in black balloons, making them easy to read, while the metric side uses red numbers to mark every 10 centimeters. This dual-scale is particularly useful for projects that require both measurement systems, though it might be a bit confusing for those who are used to only one.

The hook at the end of the tape blade is another notable feature. It moves back and forth to accommodate both inside and outside measurements, which is essential for accurate readings. However, the hook could be a bit larger to make it easier to latch onto various surfaces like studs or pipes. It’s a minor gripe but worth mentioning.

One thing I appreciated was the belt clip. It's well-designed and holds the tape measure securely to your belt or pocket. The lanyard-ready feature is also a plus, although a lanyard is not included in the package. The locking mechanism works smoothly, and I didn’t encounter any issues with it slipping or failing to lock the tape in place.

However, the tape measure isn't without its drawbacks. The standout, while generally reliable, does falter when trying to extend beyond 9 feet. This is short of the advertised 12 feet reach, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting more. The tape itself can be a bit flimsy when extended sideways, making it prone to buckling. This can be particularly frustrating when you’re trying to measure longer distances without a helper.

Durability is another mixed bag. While the frame and housing are robust, the blade itself is somewhat susceptible to damage. I had an instance where the blade got gummed up, making it difficult to retract or extend without manual intervention. This happened within a few days of use, and I was careful not to expose the tape to extreme conditions. It raises concerns about the tape's longevity, especially on more demanding job sites.

Another area of concern is the warranty. Milwaukee offers a limited lifetime warranty, which sounds reassuring until you dive into the specifics. The warranty doesn't cover what they consider "normal wear and tear," including issues like the blade tip breaking off. Given that tape measures are prone to such wear, this limitation makes the warranty less appealing.

Despite these issues, the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure has many redeeming qualities. Its compact design, dual-scale measurements, and solid construction make it a reliable tool for various tasks. The ease of use, combined with the robust belt clip and lanyard-ready feature, makes it a convenient addition to any toolkit.

So, would I recommend this tape measure? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re a professional who needs a tape measure that can withstand heavy-duty use, you might find the blade’s durability lacking and the warranty limitations frustrating. However, if you’re a DIY enthusiast or a semi-professional looking for a reliable, compact, and easy-to-read tape measure, the Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure is a solid choice. Its features and design make it a versatile tool that’s easy to carry and use, and the few shortcomings can be overlooked for its overall performance.