Irwin Strait-Line Tape Measures Promise High Durability And Reach
Even the best tape measures wear out over time. Because of this, we tend to keep our eyes open for anything that looks like a solid solution for anyone needing to sling some steel to get a measurement. Cheap tape measures don’t cost a lot of money, but we don’t like how they slow you down. A good tape is affordable and functional. Irwin Strait-Line tape measures come in three different lengths. We took a look at them to see if they might work well for landscapers needing to measure gardens, decks, and other areas in the course of their work.
Irwin Strait-Line Tape Measures Features
Irwin tested all three tape measures to handle drops up to 80 feet onto packed soil. While that doesn’t account for a 20-foot drop onto concrete, it does convey a sense of the enclosure’s ability to withstand a fall. The steel blades feature tear protection in the form of a coating. This also helps the tapes survive ongoing use. A tape will always fail over time. The key is how long you can use it before it does.
Standout or reach means a lot when you want to measure longer distances. Irwin Strait-Line tape measures claim up to 14 feet of standout. With the extra 3 feet you get supporting the blade with your hand, that gives you around 17 feet of total reach. Given how thin Irwin made these tapes, that makes for some impressive numbers.
Irwin also incorporated a finger-stop brake. We like this feature. If you haven’t used a finger brake, it may change your preference in tape measures. A small opening behind the tape hook lets you slow down and stop the tape with your index finger. In contrast to the poor ergonomics of using a lock for this, finger brakes really help you work more efficiently.
The last feature we noted includes extra-large printed measurement numbers. These live on both sides of the blade. We prefer double-sided print when we can get it, and on any premium tape measure, it’s a must.
Additional Features
- Extra-large dual-sided hook grab from multiple directions
- Balanced retraction for smooth control and comfort
- Belt clip
Irwin Strait-Line Tape Measures Price
There are three lengths coming with Irwin’s initial launch: 16-, 25-, and 35-foot. They retail for $19.99, $24.99, and $29.99 respectively. You also have the option to purchase a two-pack of the 25-foot tape measures for $39.99. Irwin includes a limited lifetime warranty with all their tape measures.
Specifications
- Models (16/25/35/2×25): IWHT39391S, IWHT39393S, IWHT39395S, IWHT39396S
- Weight (16/25/35): 1.2/1.6/2 lbs.
- Width: 1.25 in.
- Lockable
