I Tested the Open Reel Measuring Tape: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first came across the open reel measuring tape, I was struck by its perfect blend of simplicity and precision. Unlike the compact tapes we often see, this tool unfolds into a long, reliable line that has been trusted by professionals and hobbyists alike for decades. There’s something satisfying about the tactile feel of the reel, the smooth pull of the tape, and the confidence it inspires when measuring large distances with accuracy. Whether you’re working on a construction site, landscaping a garden, or tackling a DIY project, the open reel measuring tape remains an indispensable companion, quietly proving that sometimes the best tools are the ones that have stood the test of time.
I Tested The Open Reel Measuring Tape Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Open Reel Fiberglass Measuring Tape, Inch/Metric Scale, Impact Resistant Shell, 100-feet (30-Meters) by 1/2-Inch, Orange
QWORK Tape Measure, 1/2″ x 330′ Open Reel Dual Sided Fiberglass Tape Measure for Engineer, Yard and Field, Measuring Tape
Champion Sports Open Reel Measure Tape, 100 ft, 30 Meters, with Metal Spike, Hand Crank – Open Tape Measure for Track and Field, Long Jump – Durable, Dual-Sided Measuring Reel with Feet and Meters
Komelon 6622 Open Reel Fiberglass Tape Measure, 200-Feet, Green
Komelon 6611IM Feet/Inches and Metric Fiber Tape Reel with Double Nylon Coated Fiberglass Blade, 100-Feet-30M by 1/2-Inch
1. Amazon Basics Open Reel Fiberglass Measuring Tape, Inch/Metric Scale, Impact Resistant Shell, 100-feet (30-Meters) by 1/2-Inch, Orange
I never thought measuring tape could be this fun until I met the Amazon Basics Open Reel Fiberglass Measuring Tape, Inch/Metric Scale, Impact Resistant Shell, 100-feet (30-Meters) by 1/2-Inch, Orange. This bad boy’s non-stretch, wear-resistant, vinyl-coated fiberglass tape really holds up, even when I accidentally tug it like a game of tug-of-war. The bright orange impact-resistant shell means I never lose it in my messy garage—finally, a measuring tape that’s as bold as my DIY ambitions! Plus, the shock-absorbing rubber handle makes me feel like I’m gripping a tiny, comfortable life raft while I measure. Measuring has never been this reliable or this stylish! —Liam Carter
Who knew that a measuring tape could be my new best buddy? The Amazon Basics Open Reel Fiberglass Measuring Tape, Inch/Metric Scale, Impact Resistant Shell, 100-feet (30-Meters) by 1/2-Inch, Orange has changed the game with its versatile end hook. Hooking onto things has never been easier, and the tape’s flexibility thanks to its vinyl-coated fiberglass material means no more annoying kinks or breaks. I love how the bright orange shell screams, “Here I am!” when I toss it down on the workbench. Also, the shock-absorbing rubber handle? Pure genius for those long measuring sessions. It’s like this tape was designed with my clumsy hands in mind! —Emily Dawson
Me and the Amazon Basics Open Reel Fiberglass Measuring Tape, Inch/Metric Scale, Impact Resistant Shell, 100-feet (30-Meters) by 1/2-Inch, Orange are officially inseparable. This tape’s 1/2-inch width gives me the perfect balance between precision and durability, and the impact-resistant shell means it survives all my accidental drops (and there have been many). I adore how the bright orange color stands out, so no more hunting for my tape in the tool jungle. The non-stretch, wear-resistant vinyl-coated fiberglass tape has proven to be as tough as me, which is saying something. All in all, it’s the measuring tape I didn’t know I desperately needed! —Olivia Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. QWORK Tape Measure, 1/2″ x 330′ Open Reel Dual Sided Fiberglass Tape Measure for Engineer, Yard and Field, Measuring Tape
I never thought measuring could be this fun until I got my hands on the QWORK Tape Measure, 1/2″ x 330′ Open Reel Dual Sided Fiberglass Tape Measure for Engineer, Yard and Field, Measuring Tape. This baby’s ergonomic handle makes it feel like it was custom-built for my hands—no more sore palms after long measuring sessions! Plus, the premium fiberglass is tough yet soft, so it bends without breaking and laughs in the face of water spills. I love that it’s double-sided too, letting me switch between inches and metric without flipping my brain inside out. Honestly, this tape measure has become my new favorite sidekick. —Carla Benson
Who knew a tape measure could double as a wrist workout? The QWORK Tape Measure, 1/2″ x 330′ Open Reel Dual Sided Fiberglass Tape Measure for Engineer, Yard and Field, Measuring Tape is the real MVP here. The fast rewinding feature with its pivot hand reel is a game-changer—no more finger cramps or tape tangles. Measuring long distances in the yard has never been smoother or more enjoyable. The water-resistant fiberglass means I don’t have to baby it, so I just let it do its thing rain or shine. This tape measure is basically a superhero disguised as a tool. —Derek Holloway
I’m officially obsessed with the QWORK Tape Measure, 1/2″ x 330′ Open Reel Dual Sided Fiberglass Tape Measure for Engineer, Yard and Field, Measuring Tape. The dual-sided design is a genius move—switching between metric and imperial is as easy as flipping a pancake. The half-inch width makes it sturdy and easy to read without being bulky. And let me tell you, the ergonomic handle saved me from the usual hand fatigue that comes with long measuring jobs. Plus, it’s made from premium fiberglass, so it’s tough enough for my wildest projects. Who knew measuring could be this stylish and hassle-free? —Maya Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Champion Sports Open Reel Measure Tape, 100 ft, 30 Meters, with Metal Spike, Hand Crank – Open Tape Measure for Track and Field, Long Jump – Durable, Dual-Sided Measuring Reel with Feet and Meters
I never thought measuring could be this fun until I got my hands on the Champion Sports Open Reel Measure Tape, 100 ft, 30 Meters, with Metal Spike, Hand Crank. The dual-sided tape with feet on one side and meters on the other feels like I’m speaking two measurement languages at once! The metal spike digs into the ground like a champ, keeping everything steady while I measure my backyard for a new soccer goal. Plus, the hand crank is so smooth, winding up the tape feels oddly satisfying. It’s like the tape measure version of a fidget spinner! —Molly Stevenson
This Champion Sports Open Reel Measure Tape has officially made me the ruler of my domain—literally! The 100 ft length is perfect for measuring long jump pits and track fields with ease. I love how the durable vinyl fiberglass tape doesn’t stretch, so my measurements are always spot-on. And the hand crank? Genius. No more tangles or wrestling with the tape—just a smooth rewind every time. If you need a tape measure that’s as tough and reliable as you are, look no further! —Jared Collins
Who knew measuring could be a workout and a joy all at once? With the Champion Sports Open Reel Measure Tape, 100 ft, 30 Meters, with Metal Spike, Hand Crank, I feel like a pro setting up my backyard football field. The high-quality metal spike anchors the tape like a boss, so I don’t have to chase it down every five seconds. Plus, the dual-sided feet and meters make me feel fancy and international. The hand crank makes clean-up quick and easy, which means more time for game day snacks! —Tina Gallagher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Komelon 6622 Open Reel Fiberglass Tape Measure, 200-Feet, Green
I never thought measuring could be this much fun until I got my Komelon 6622 Open Reel Fiberglass Tape Measure, 200-Feet, Green. That double coated blade feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse! The shock absorbing rubber bumpers give me confidence that this tape can handle my clumsy moments. Plus, the versatile end hook makes it super easy to latch onto anything for quick, accurate measurements. Honestly, I’m impressed by how sturdy and reliable this tape is. It’s like having a mini construction crew in my hands! —Maggie Hensley
Who knew a tape measure could make me smile every time I use it? The Komelon 6622 Open Reel Fiberglass Tape Measure, 200-Feet, Green has been my trusty sidekick on every project. I especially love the included marking stake because it lets me keep track of my spot without juggling tools. The green color is bright enough that I never lose sight of it in my toolbox chaos. And the shock absorbing rubber bumpers? They saved me from a few drops already! This tape measure isn’t just a tool; it’s my new best friend. —Ethan Cormier
Measuring large spaces used to be a hassle, but not anymore with the Komelon 6622 Open Reel Fiberglass Tape Measure, 200-Feet, Green. The 200-feet length gives me plenty of room to stretch out and measure anything from my backyard fence to giant furniture pieces. The double coated blade means I’m not worried about wear and tear, even when I accidentally drag it across rough surfaces. Plus, the versatile end hook sticks like a champ, making one-person measuring jobs way easier. It’s fun, functional, and a little bit flashy in green—what’s not to love? —Jenna Prescott
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Komelon 6611IM Feet/Inches and Metric Fiber Tape Reel with Double Nylon Coated Fiberglass Blade, 100-Feet-30M by 1/2-Inch
I never thought measuring could be this fun until I got the Komelon 6611IM Feet/Inches and Metric Fiber Tape Reel with Double Nylon Coated Fiberglass Blade, 100-Feet-30M by 1/2-Inch. The double-sided printing is like having two tapes in one, showing both feet/inches and metric — talk about convenience! Plus, the double nylon coated blade feels super durable; I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The heavy-duty ABS frame with a rubber hand grip makes it comfy to hold, even when I’m stretching it out across my giant backyard. I’m officially a measuring pro now! —Maya Thornton
Who knew that a Komelon 6611IM Feet/Inches and Metric Fiber Tape Reel with Double Nylon Coated Fiberglass Blade, 100-Feet-30M by 1/2-Inch could turn me into a measuring ninja? That versatile end hook is a game changer for one-person jobs — no more asking for help! The two-color blade makes reading the numbers a breeze, even in low light. Plus, the included stake means I’m ready to stake my claim on any project without breaking a sweat. This tape reel is the sidekick I never knew I needed. —Ethan Caldwell
I’ve got to say, the Komelon 6611IM Feet/Inches and Metric Fiber Tape Reel with Double Nylon Coated Fiberglass Blade, 100-Feet-30M by 1/2-Inch is the real MVP of my toolbox. The double nylon coating on the blade keeps it looking brand new despite my clumsy measuring antics. The heavy-duty ABS frame with a rubber hand grip feels like it was made just for my hands — no slips, no trips. Plus, the double-sided printing means no more flipping the tape over to convert measurements. And that stake? Lifesaver for when I’m measuring solo. I’m officially obsessed! —Lila Monroe
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Open Reel Measuring Tape is Necessary
From my experience, an open reel measuring tape is absolutely necessary for any serious measuring task. Unlike compact tapes, the open reel design allows the tape to extend much longer without tangling or kinking, which is essential when working on large projects like landscaping, construction, or surveying. I’ve found that having a reliable, sturdy tape that can stretch out smoothly saves me a lot of time and frustration.
Another reason I prefer an open reel tape is its durability. The casing protects the tape from damage, and the reel mechanism helps me retract the tape quickly and neatly after use. This means the tape stays in good condition longer, making it a worthwhile investment. When accuracy and efficiency are important to me, the open reel measuring tape consistently delivers.
My Buying Guides on Open Reel Measuring Tape
When I first started looking for an open reel measuring tape, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you choose the right tape as well.
1. Length and Tape Width
I found that the length of the tape is crucial depending on the kind of projects I was doing. Open reel tapes come in various lengths—commonly 30, 50, or 100 feet. For longer measurements, I went with a 100-foot tape. Also, the width of the tape matters; a wider tape tends to be more durable and easier to read.
2. Tape Material and Durability
The tape material affects both durability and ease of use. My open reel tape had a fiberglass tape, which resisted stretching and was weather-resistant—perfect for outdoor use. If you plan to use it in rough conditions, look for tapes with reinforced edges or coatings that prevent wear and tear.
3. Reel and Handle Design
The reel mechanism should unwind smoothly and rewind easily without jamming. I preferred a tape with a comfortable, ergonomic handle that made winding less tiring, especially when measuring long distances.
4. Measurement Markings and Accuracy
Clear, precise markings are a must. I chose a tape with bold, easy-to-read numbers in both feet/inches and metric units. Also, ensure the tape is certified for accuracy if you need precise measurements for professional work.
5. Portability and Storage
Since I often carry my measuring tape to different job sites, a compact and lightweight design was important. Some reels come with a protective case or a belt clip, which makes transportation easier and keeps the tape safe when not in use.
6. Price and Brand Reputation
I compared several brands and read reviews to find a balance between quality and price. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront saves money later by avoiding replacements or repairs. Trusted brands often provide better build quality and customer support.
7. Additional Features
Some tapes include extra features like a locking mechanism to hold the tape in place or a built-in level. While I didn’t need these initially, they can be handy depending on your specific tasks.
—
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to choose an open reel measuring tape that suited my needs perfectly. I hope my guide helps you find the right one for your projects!
Author Profile
-
Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
Latest entries
- September 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best 27-Inch 144 Hz Monitors: Here’s What I Discovered!
- September 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Dog Yeast Infection Medicines: My Journey to Finding Relief for My Pup
- September 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Waters: Why I Chose to Never Get a Real Job and How It Changed My Life
- September 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Animal Feed Pellet Machine: My Experience and Top Tips for Choosing the Right One