FastCap PSSR-16 16 Foot Pro Carpenter Standard Reverse Measuring Tape

I use a tape measure near daily. I'm restoring an old house almost entirely myself and I woodwork as a hobby. Measuring is kind of important. For 25 years a Stanley Fatmax 25' was my go to. I have had others along the way, but they would break, get lost or just get pushed to the side as I went back to my Stanley. But now that I'm in my late 40s and I don't see as well up close as I used to it's getting harder and harder to read measurements. The dashes all start to look the same after a while. So I went looking for something easier to read. Enter this FastCap 16' tape measure. First of all, I can't remember the last time I needed to measure anything longer then 16 feet. Maybe doing some work outside when I lay a new walkway or when I start rebuilding our 40' front porch, but I have a 100' roll for those kinds of things too. Carrying a 16' measure on my means it's smaller and lighter. Not a huge deal, but I have already noticed the reduced bulkiness on my belt and I don't miss the extra 9 feet. But back to the reason I chose this tape measure: visibility. This thing is so easy to read. The dashes are thin and clearly marked down the to 16th of an inch, with the 16ths in red. In fact, it's so easy to read that I'm confident I could use this to estimate to a 32nd of an inch even though that's not marked. The tape and real are also incredibly smooth. It's been a while since I've bought a new tape measure, but I don't remember any of them being this fluid even when brand new. It's weirdly satisfying to use it for that tactile feeling alone. I love that is has a second lock on the bottom that will hold as long as the button is depressed, and it realeases as you let go rather than only relying on the main lock that you have to push down and lock. It's great to have both options. The erasable surface is great for writing down quick measurements. What a clever feature! And another bonus is the pencil sharpener. I ususally use a mechanical pencil so I probably won't take advantage of this feature too much, but I'm sure plenty of you out there use a Ticonderoga #2 and it will come in handy for you. The kicked on top of all of these features that make this my favorite tape measure of all time, it's also one of the cheapest legit options you can find on Amazon. I think I might buy a couple of spares in case FastCap realizes what they have here and decides to double the price (I'd still payt it).

A nice basic ruler at a good price. The numbers are easy to read and have good contrast - that matters when you have old eyes. The onboard pencil sharpener and the note surface are neat ideas - it shows someone was thinking! We just got it for Christmas, so I can't speak about how rugged it is, but it feels solid and well-made. I have no idea if they make longer rulers, but a 16-footer will handle most home projects. I recommend this.

Have had possession of this item for right at one month. Spring mechanism is strong. Belt latch mechanism is strong and has a push tab to aid in attaching and releasing from your belt. The thumb latch is a bit stiff, but I assume it will slide easier with more use. This tape also has a pinching mechanism on the bottom that allows tape to be held in extended position, and then released, by a single finger. Very convenient. Tape feels like it has a fairly heavy protective coating (Teflon?). Tape slides in and out easily. I bought this particular tape for woodworking. I like that it is readable from left or right, and markings are denoted down to a sixteenth. From a flat level surface, 57” above floor, I was able to extend tape to an unsupported length of 91”. Did not get to 92” before tape “broke”. Adequate for my needs. I will not attempt to speak to measuring accuracy, as I would only be making a comparison to one of my many other tapes. The one minor complaint I have is in the notation of the markings at each foot. Those markings do not stand out. But for woodworking this will be fine. For other needs, where I want to read feet, I may go to another tape measure. If any issues with durability, I will try to provide updates.

I use it many dozens of times a day and it works great and it's easy to read the markings. Took me 3 brands to find one I like. Handbrake is great. Be careful extending it past 100%: it likes to lock up and you have to fiddle with it to get it to start spooling again. But it goes back and works great every time. I like the roundness of the shell. Edges of the tape is pretty dull glad they paid attention to that. Tip is a little loosey goosey but not totally cheap. Almost like the rivets need to be set it deeper. Clip for belt/pocket works great and it super easy to use, most other brands screw this up. Making big red/yellow brand look pretty bad rn.

As a novice to intermediate woodworker and DIYer, I came across a couple of recommendations for FastCap tape measures. Needless to say, this is now my go-to tape. Pros: It's inexpensive and high-quality. It was half the price of the "team red" tape I had prior. It is very easy to read, has markings down to 16ths, and this particular model (lefty/righty) makes it easy to read those marks on both sides of the tape. Accuracy is fantastic and the green color is very easy to see/find. Seems to be very durable and isn't overly heavy and could fit comfortably in a pocket if needed. This may sound simplistic, but this is so easy to get back on my belt and stays very secure. Lastly, and probably my favorite feature, is the lack of slop on the hook. The "team red" tape had about 1/8" to 3/16" play when hooked, but the FastCap has little to none. Love that! Cons: None. Love it! Would highly recommend, and I will continue to purchase FastCap in the future and recommend to family and friends. Already got my kids one each and they love them!

The tape measure is fatter than I expected, but I really like the quality of the tape, and that it labels the 16ths. The mirrored scales are easy to read and the tape quality is really good. Pencil sharpener is not needed but I like the erasable face for copying measurements.

I've been lugging around a cumbersome, fat, 25ft tape measure for finish work, and realized I rarely need any measurement over 16ft for finish work. Then I found this little guy at the recommendation from some finish carpenters. It's great! It has every 16th measured out in its common measurement (1/16, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, etc.). I don't really need that due to years of conditioning reading a tape measure, but I find it oddly nice to have there. There's a writing surface which is handy for recording measurements, and even a pencil sharpener. I use a Pica-Dry, so have no need for this, but in a pinch I could see how it would come in handy. I did try it out and it didn't seem to be the most ideal sharpener. The stop action is nice. There's a quick hold-down stop, as well as a locking stop. The retraction coil on the tape measure is quite strong, so be careful letting it fly back into the base. Don't let the cheap price fool you. It's awesome.

**Product Review: FastCap PSSR-16 16 Foot Pro Carpenter Standard Reverse Measuring Tape** The **FastCap PSSR-16 Pro Carpenter Measuring Tape** is an excellent tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Here’s what stands out about this measuring tape: ### **Dual-Sided Measurements:** One of the best features is the **reverse measuring capability**, with measurements printed on both sides of the tape. This makes it incredibly easy to read from any angle, especially when working in tight spaces or awkward positions. ### **Clear & Easy to Read:** The tape features **large, bold numbers**, making it easy to read, even at a quick glance. The high-contrast black and red markings on the white background are very clear, so I never have to squint to see the measurements. ### **Durable Build:** This tape feels durable and built to last. The **16-foot length** is perfect for most jobs around the house or on-site, and the tape itself has a solid, sturdy feel without being overly bulky or heavy. ### **Integrated Features:** I love the **built-in pencil sharpener** and **erasable notepad** on the side, which add a level of convenience. It’s a handy way to jot down quick measurements without needing an extra piece of paper, and it saves time when I need to sharpen a pencil on the go. ### **Locking Mechanism:** The tape has a **smooth retraction** and a strong **locking mechanism** that holds it securely in place. I never have to worry about it slipping during measurements. ### **Final Thoughts:** The **FastCap PSSR-16 Pro Carpenter Measuring Tape** combines functionality, durability, and thoughtful design. The reverse measurement feature, along with the built-in pencil sharpener and notepad, makes this a versatile tool that’s perfect for both professionals and DIYers alike. Highly recommend it for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly measuring tape.