Who owns Lufkin Tools?
Lufkin is a brand whose primary focus is on the manufacture of measuring tools (such as calipers, gauges, micrometers, and measuring tapes) and is part of the Apex Tool Group. The company was founded by Edward Taylor Lufkin, who was a veteran of the Civil War and started the company in Cleveland, Ohio for the purpose of serving the logging industry. Now, it’s run by one of the largest manufacturers of hand tools in the world.
What are the characteristics of a Lufkin tape measure?
Lufkin tape measures are made up of many different parts, which can include:
- Case — Serves as the housing for the measuring tape and is where it is kept secure. The most durable models have metal cases, but plastic can be more affordable.
- Thumb Lock — You can stop the tape measure from automatically retracting by pressing down the thumb lock, and you can push it back up once you’re finished.
- Blade/Tape — This is what you use to make your measurements and will either have imperial or metric units (or both).
- Hook — This loose metal piece is located at the end of the tape, which you have probably used if you have ever measured a table or some other hard surface.
- Hook Slot — This feature allows you to attach one end of the measuring tape to a nail or screw, which can be an advantage in some applications.
- Belt Clip — This will allow you to attach it to your pants or tool belt. It will also make you look more stylish and professional while you’re at the job site.
If you want to find some of the best Lufkin tape measures on the market, be sure to look at what we have at Engineer Supply.
Why does the end of a Lufkin tape measure move?
The wiggle at the end of a Lufkin tape measure is there to make up for the hook’s thickness. You push the tip against something for an inside measurement, and the hook is included in the reading. If you hook on the end of a piece for an outside measurement, the gap will equal the amount of space that the hook would take up.
Why are Lufkin tape measures yellow?
Lufkin tape measures will often have black and red measurements on a yellow background, because it’s the best color combination for readability. If you want to find the best Lufkin tape measure for your specific needs, be sure to look at what we have in stock.
HOW TO USE A MEASURING WHEEL
If you’re looking for a measuring wheel that you can use to measure outdoor distances, the Keson MP 401 is a great choice. The wheel has a four-foot circumference and is suitable for outdoor use. It also has an incremental clicker-counter with large numbers that measure up to 99,999 feet. It has a metal frame and wheel that folds down to half its size, which makes it more portable and easier to store. Feel free to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.
FIBERGLASS VS. STEEL MEASURING TAPES
Measuring tape is used in almost every phase of a project, but the one question that’s asked most frequently is whether to use fiberglass or steel. And like most questions, the answer is “it depends.” Both of them have their pros and cons, depending on how you use them. Steel measuring tapes have been around for almost 200 years. And now, they're the most common type. Long tapes can be made of fiberglass or steel and has a hand crank. Steel is more durable than fiberglass, and they don’t stretch in length. However, its accuracy can be affected by extreme heat. Water exposure can lead to corrosion, but most professional tapes are coated with nylon or lacquer. Fiberglass isn’t as durable and is more economical, but it won’t corrode. Fiberglass is much lighter than steel, but it will experience faster wear and tear.
HOW TO USE A MEASURING WHEEL
If you’re looking for a measuring wheel that you can use to measure outdoor distances, the Keson MP 401 is a great choice. The wheel has a four-foot circumference and is suitable for outdoor use. It also has an incremental clicker-counter with large numbers that measure up to 99,999 feet. It has a metal frame and wheel that folds down to half its size, which makes it more portable and easier to store. Feel free to pick yours up at Engineer Supply.
FIBERGLASS VS. STEEL MEASURING TAPES
Measuring tape is used in almost every phase of a project, but the one question that’s asked most frequently is whether to use fiberglass or steel. And like most questions, the answer is “it depends.” Both of them have their pros and cons, depending on how you use them. Steel measuring tapes have been around for almost 200 years. And now, they're the most common type. Long tapes can be made of fiberglass or steel and has a hand crank. Steel is more durable than fiberglass, and they don’t stretch in length. However, its accuracy can be affected by extreme heat. Water exposure can lead to corrosion, but most professional tapes are coated with nylon or lacquer. Fiberglass isn’t as durable and is more economical, but it won’t corrode. Fiberglass is much lighter than steel, but it will experience faster wear and tear.