Milwaukee 100 Ft Open Reel Long Tape

As a professional who frequently relies on precise measurements, I had high hopes for the Milwaukee 100 Ft Open Reel Long Tape, model 48-22-5201. Milwaukee is a brand synonymous with quality and robust tools, so I was eager to see how this tape measure would perform in various scenarios. Here is my detailed experience with this tool.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that strikes you about the Milwaukee tape measure is its solid construction. The tape features a steel blade designed to minimize stretching, which is a significant improvement over the more common fiberglass tapes. The steel blade feels durable and resilient, which is essential for maintaining accuracy over long distances. The reinforced metal gears add to the overall sturdiness, giving the impression that this tool is built to last.

The tool also includes a blade wiper, a thoughtful addition aimed at preventing dirt and debris from entering the tape housing. This feature is particularly useful when working in messy environments, as it ensures that the tape remains clean and functional even after extended use.

Usability and Performance

One of the standout features of this tape measure is the dual-side printing. With both inches and an engineer scale, it provides versatility for different types of measurements. The numbers are large and easy to read, which is a big plus when you're in the middle of a project and need to get quick, accurate readings.

However, my enthusiasm started to wane when I encountered the hook at the end of the tape. The new design of the hook is problematic. It lacks the necessary teeth to grip surfaces reliably. Whether I was measuring a wall or an open field, the hook frequently slipped off, making it challenging to get consistent measurements. This is a significant drawback, especially for a tool that is supposed to make measuring easier and more efficient.

Accuracy and Reliability

Accuracy is the cornerstone of any measuring tool, and unfortunately, this is where the Milwaukee tape measure falters. I found discrepancies in the measurements, which were frustrating. In one instance, the tape was off by a few inches, leading to wasted time and effort as I had to re-measure using another tool. This inconsistency can be a deal-breaker, especially for professionals who rely on precise measurements for their work.

Reeling Mechanism

The reeling mechanism is another area where the Milwaukee tape measure shows mixed performance. The 3:1 gear ratio is designed to reel in the tape quickly, and for the most part, it works well. The tape winds up smoothly and efficiently, which is a time-saver. However, the plastic crank feels flimsy, and I encountered situations where it slipped, making it difficult to reel in the tape fully. This issue could potentially worsen over time, affecting the overall durability of the tool.

Additional Features

The grime guard is a useful feature that helps keep the tape clean as you reel it back in. This is particularly beneficial when working in dirty or muddy conditions. The high-impact plastic housing also seems capable of withstanding rough handling, which is a plus for job site usage.

Weight and Portability

At 2.47 lbs, the tape measure is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry around. However, its bulkiness can be a bit cumbersome, especially when you're trying to maneuver it in tight spaces. The handle is ergonomically designed, providing a comfortable grip, but the overall size of the tool could be reduced for better portability.

Durability

While the tape itself appears to be durable, the hook and reeling mechanism raise concerns about the tool's long-term reliability. The steel blade is robust and should hold up well under regular use, but the issues with the hook and crank undermine the overall durability of the tool.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 100 Ft Open Reel Long Tape has several commendable features, such as its sturdy steel blade, dual-side printing, and grime guard. These elements contribute to a tool that, on paper, should be a reliable asset for any professional. However, the problematic hook design and occasional accuracy issues are significant drawbacks that cannot be ignored.

Would I recommend this tool? Unfortunately, I cannot wholeheartedly endorse it. While it has potential and some excellent features, the fundamental flaws in the hook design and accuracy make it unreliable for professional use. For those who require precise and consistent measurements, there are better options available on the market.

If Milwaukee addresses these issues in future iterations, the 100 Ft Open Reel Long Tape could become a top contender in its category. Until then, it falls short of the high standards one would expect from a brand like Milwaukee.