Stanley 5m Tylon Tape Measure

Have seen lots of tape measures get bad reviews, such as sticky, tacky covers, horrible chemical smells, falling to bits after a week. Bought this in the shop where I could see it first, and its doing great so far. Will it last 30 years? who knows, but its seems strong. The silver bit at the end of the tape could move by maybe half a millimetre, so superglued it in place. Will at least be consistent even if its not 100% accurate.

Got this to replace a unknown brand 5m measure that served me well for years before it got too rusty to use, and to be honest I expected a bit better from Stanley. The markings are good and clear and I trust the accuracy, the tape runs very smoothly but I have some grumbles. Firstly, this measure takes the "reels back in unless locked" approach, vs the "stays put unless released" approach which I prefer, and the locking mechanism takes quite a deliberate push to engage. I have to say this is irritating when you're just trying to work fast. Secondly, unless supported the tape itself doesn't extend all that far before it collapses under its own weight. Bottom line: it's OK for the money but below par for such a solid brand name.

This Stanley 5Mtr tape measure is a basic product, but is easy to read and use. It has an easily operated lock and has a good recoil spring.The most positive thing to say about it is that this one is nearly half the price of a seemingly identical Stanley 5Mtr tape measure that is readily available off the shelf in Wilko's, I can't see any obvious difference except that this one is only available as a click and collect.So, if you can wait a few days for it to be sent to your nearest Wilko store, I'd say it's the best choice of the two.