(Part 2) Best tape measures according to redditors

OK, your situation is perfect.

For starters, you want to do this right. There are 4 ways you should be monitering your progress.

Body Weight

For obvious reasons you'll want to measure and track your body weight. This scale is pretty much the gold standard for cost and precision, however if you already have a scale it's fine to stick with that. A problem many people have is weighing themselves compulsively, sometimes even 6 or 7 times per day. DON'T DO THIS, trust me. Weigh yourself...

• Once a week
  
  
• In the morning before consuming any drinks or food
  
  
• After you've evacuated your bowels
  
  Measurments
  
  Many people on a diet will measure their progress solely based on their body weight. Often times however the scale will get stuck. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, often times your body will go through a re-composition (less fat/more muscle), which won't be reflected on the scale, however you'll notice your clothes will be more loose fitting as muscle is denser than fat, thus you'll be smaller. Buy some sort of measuring tape and take measurements...
  
  
• once a week
  
  
• in the morning, before eating/drinking, after evacuating bowels
  
  
• Waist: Measure a half-inch above your belly button or at the smallest part of your waist
  
  
• Hips: Place tape measure around the biggest part of your hips
  
  
• Thighs: Measure around the biggest part of each thigh
  
  Pictures
  
  My biggest regret from my own weight loss journey is not taking pictures. Not only will it help motivate you, but posting your progress pics to r/keto will help inspire others as well. Take a picture once a week, and try to keep it as consistent as possible. Put the camera in the same place, stand in the same place, same lighting, only underwear etc.
  
  Bloodwork
  
  Go to your doctor for a blood test. INSIST on a VAP test for your cholesterol levels, not the standard (and innacurate given low trig levels) method. The frequency that you get your bloodwork rechecked is up to you, but 3 months into your keto diet seems like a good point to get it rechecked. Probably the most important marker of healthy cholesterol levels is your HDL:Triglyceride ratio (anything over 0.5 is great), and your total VLDL. Despite what you've heard, your total cholesterol level is not a useful indicator for heart health.
  
  Diet
  
  OK, now onto the good stuff, your diet. This is a great place to start. It's a sample one week meal plan made by one of r/keto's very own. Try to stay under 50g of net carbs per day (net carbs = total carbohydrate count minus fiber). For starters go through your entire pantry and refrigerator and get rid of anything you shouldn't be eating on the keto diet. Pasta, candy, chips, soda, bread etc etc. If you can, donate or give it away. If not, don't use that as a reason to keep it. Just throw it away. Trust me, you don't want temptation around, especially in the first few days.
  
  The general philosophy of r/keto (especially with overweight/obese individuals) is to eat when you're hungry, and stop when you're full. The majority of people find this is good enough, however if you find yourself not making any progress then by all means start counting calories.
  
  Now it's time to go shopping. Your diet is going to consist of meats, eggs, seafood, vegetables, low-carb dairy, nuts and seeds. Cooking oils to use are butter, olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or any animal fat (lard, beef tallow...).
  
  Meats
  
  Anything goes. If you're trying to save money go for the cheaper and fattier cuts of chicken (thighs, drumsticks and wings can often be had for <$1.00 per pound).
  
  Eggs
  
  Don't worry about what you've heard with regard to eggs = cholesterol = heart attack. It's untrue, eat as many as you want, yolk included.
  
  Vegetables
  
  Potatoes and corn are way too starchy to include in a ketogenic diet. Tomatoes and carrots are a bit high on the sugar side, but are fine in moderation. Always include vegetables in every meal. They're awesome, and awesome for you.
  
  Low-carb dairy
  
  Heavy cream and cheese are legit. Greek yogurt is a bit carby but fine in moderation.
  
  Nuts and seeds
  
  Almonds are many ketoers favorite snacks. If you're craving something sweet, Emerald dark chocolate or cinnamon almonds are pretty awesome, and relatively low carb.
  
  MUST DO's
  
  Watch Fat Head for free on Hulu. This movie has been a life changer for many people including myself, even though Tom Naughton is a huge fucking dildo in my opinion.
  
  Read Something Awful's Guide to Ketosis. Your single most valuable resource for information on a ketogenic diet (excluding r/keto of course :P).
  
  Read r/keto FAQ
  
  And of course, if you ever have questions, don't hesitate to consult r/keto, we're here to help. Good luck!

Not even a laser. Its rotary (you roll the end of it across the surface you wanna measure).

So its basically optical encoder + wheel and bluetooth transmitter, all placed in a kinda hard-to-use package (pen), instead of you know, using something like this - similar smaller/handheld stuff probably exists, I'm just too lazy to search for it.

So this thing gets a crappy form factor measuring wheel, a shitty red laser pointer because reasons, and a pen that takes non-standard ink cartridges, all at a ridiculous price of $149.99.

5/5 💩💩💩💩💩

edit: since the post below deleted the image, link was to the PlanWheel SA http://www.scalex.com/images/product_item/pwsa2/pwsa2.jpg

My husband is in construction and I found it in his stuff. I think this is the same one we have https://www.amazon.com/eTape16-ET16-75-DB-RP-Digital-Measure-Metric/dp/B015XON8DI

Klein 1550-11 coping blade pocket knife

Hitch & Timber Rover, used as wallet

Buck 55 knife

Fisher Space Pen bullet, raw brass

Maglite XL 200

Maglite XL holster

Gerber Shard

Pocket Hitch tape measure holder

Sharpie in XL Holster,
Pencil with pocket clip,
Supply house notepad/calendar,
Random wire nuts

Rather than a cloth tape, I would use something like this.
http://www.amazon.com/Starrett-SM66W-Adhesive-Graduation-Interval/dp/B004HMDFRM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425254726&sr=8-1&keywords=measuring+tape+stick+on

You could either use spar poly or do an epoxy pour for your finish.

Honest question: Why did you say that Husky is what "Craftsman used to be"?

When I read your post, I got a little worried because I have a lot of Craftsman tools. I did a quick Google search and found this on "The Consumerist" website.

I'm still under the assumption that Craftsman backs up their hand tools (as opposed to any powered tools) with a pretty-much 'no questions asked' policy. I've used it before and have had no problems, and this is why I go with Craftsman. They have so many options and the exchange is effortless and honored.

I know I'm sounding like a Craftsman fanatic (maybe I am), but their special tools that they come out with, such as the stripped screw removal bits, can be phenomenal, too. I can't recall what they call these tools, but they often devote television commercials to them.

Hey, great advice on Husky. They need to advertise their guarantee better. I didn't know about it. And you're right about the wire cutters. Ironically, I need to exchange my Craftsman wire cutter because the metal is notched (dinged) from bending/tearing under heavier usage. It'd be easier to just get a higher quality set in the first place and not have to screw with it. I've never had a pair that didn't fail at some point and am going to eventually just drop some money into good ones.

(BTW, I totally agree with your bucket/toolbox recommendation. I use three toolboxes for various things, and this is my favorite.)

Edit: Stanley FatMax is a good choice for a tape measure. You shouldn't have any trouble finding them. This particular one is 26 feet and includes metric.

I have become a big fan of the Milwaukee tapes. Great standout, great readout, and very durable.

https://www.amazon.com/Milwaukee-48-22-7125-Magnetic-Tape-Measure/dp/B01HQQ1C84/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1485831839&sr=8-12&keywords=milwaukee+measuring+tape

I picked up a pair of the 25' magnetic ones at Home Depot for $20. I think they're normally about $20/ea. I see them on sale at Home Depot quite often. With the clever cutout on the bottom to hold the tap with your finger it is even converting me from my go-to self lock tape that I have used for years.

If you want a cheaper alternative then Komelon is the one I have used for years:

https://www.amazon.com/Komelon-SL225-Classic-Self-Lock-Measuring/dp/B000MIN38G/ref=sr_1_24?ie=UTF8&qid=1485831987&sr=8-24&keywords=komelon+tape+measure

Standout isn't as good as the Milwaukee but I like the self-lock and it has proven to be very durable.

I used a couple of strips of adhesive backed ruler. Just aligned the inch mark with the holes. No issues with wear.

Starrett Measure Stix SM66W Steel White Measure Tape with Adhesive Backing, English Graduation Style, Left to Right Reading, 6' Length, 0.75" Width, 0.0625" Graduation Interval

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004HMDFRM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_8s2jDb23XSS9W

This might save your ass from a good shock. Most people treat the NCVT like a must have. Although it’s good to make sure it’s working before trusting it. The plug tester is nice to have for diagnosing problems.

KLEIN TOOLS NCVT2KIT Basic Voltage Test Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IX6DIVK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_J3w1Ab0HH2CEN

You’ll want to get some nutdrivers too. I’ll list the most used sizes.
1/4”
5/16”
3/8”
1/2”
7/16”
9/16”

You’ll want to get a knife too. This is the one I have. I found it for $14 at my local Home Depot.

Milwaukee 48-22-1985 Hawk Bill Folding Knife https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IQCDWIG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wcx1AbE52QB22

A wrench set in standard sizes is nice to have. You can apply the sizes for nutdrivers to what you’ll want for this.

A tape measure is a must have

Klein Tools 86216 Double Hook Magnetic Tape Measure, 16-Foot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M1O7BG4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_hhx1AbNJPCNH9

I went through 3 different levels because I didn’t want to pay more for one with nice magnets. I would recommend just spending the 10$ extra and not have to buy another one.

Klein Tools 935AB4V ACCU-BEND Level https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M302QTV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yjx1AbCSENM8Y

A decent head lamp will also be really helpful. I still need to buy one myself. You can pick one up at most Walmart’s or Home Depot/Lowe’s

Next is a list of tools you can buy pretty cheap at your local hardware/tool store. I typically buy off brand for these.

Hammer
Offset screwdrivers
Allen wrench set
Stubby screwdrivers
Pencils
Sharpie markers
Pencil sharpener


You’ll notice that a lot of my recommendations have been klein brand. That’s because you can take them back for a free replacement if they ever break. A lifetime warranty is definitely something to consider when buying tools. With klein, it’s as easy as walking into Home Depot and presenting the broken tool to the customer service desk. You’ll be out of there in 10 minutes with a brand new tool.

This is all based of my experience working commercial, so your mileage may vary.

Craftsman made this just for Dame and Steph. ^^/s

.83" is 26 and a half 32nds. so buy this and mark right between 13/16ths and 27/32nds. you could also spend more for a tape graudated in 64ths and comfortably mark 53/64ths.

i have the 35' fatmax http://www.amazon.com/Stanley-33-900-FatMax-Extreme-35-Foot/dp/B000OPYBCY/ref=pd_bxgy_469_img_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=00AMDV648E0NH87YZWWP

If the bandsaw runs, it should still be useful. You can purchase a new blade if there's an issue with the existing one. The chisels will be fine, but you'll have to learn how to sharpen them. Sharpening systems can be expensive, though.

Otherwise it depends a little on what you want to build.

If I were starting out on a significant budget, I think I'd go with a skil saw, triangle square, tape measure, and drill/driver set. And I'd be thrilled to have a bandsaw & chisels. If you can, buy a good skil saw. Don't too much worry about the quality of the rest.

Those will all be very useful later, too, of course. Might build some sawhorses first and go from there.

A skil saw is really useful for breaking down pallets, as well, in case you plan on making use of them as a source of lumber while you're starting out.

If you want a more specific list, I own these products:

https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-33-312-Powerlock-Tape-Rule/dp/B00002X2GN/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1497387060&sr=8-5&keywords=stanley+tape+measure

You don't need a 25' tape and a 12' tape is easier to use.

https://www.amazon.com/5280-01-15-Amp-4-Inch-Circular-Single/dp/B01BD81BLO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1497387078&sr=8-3&keywords=skil+saw

That skil saw isn't the best in the world, but it'll get you pretty far.

https://www.amazon.com/Swanson-S0101-7-inch-Square-Layout/dp/B00002255O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497387123&sr=8-1&keywords=triangle+square

Just a cheap, basic square.

You'll also want some clamps, no doubt. On a tight budget I'd get some walmart cheapies. They're not great, but they get the job done, and clamps are crazy expensive. You want them to be basically like this:

https://www.amazon.com/IRWINQUICK-GRIPOne-Handed-Mini-Bar-Clamp-1964742/dp/B00002244S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497387348&sr=8-1&keywords=woodworking+clamps+hand

But larger (12-36"). And walmart brand is cheaper, I think they're about $3 for a 12" clamp.

Good luck! Ask questions!

If your goals are to do fine woodworking, like interior furniture (that isn't "rustic")...or if your budget is much larger, then you'll be looking at an entirely different set of tools.

Table saw, planer, orbital sander, bandsaw (if yours is no good), bench grinder, miter saw, jointer, in order of importance (to me!). And lots and lots of hand tools. Marking gauge, marking knife, awl, variety of drill bits, counter sinks.

Belt sander, disc sander, jigsaw, router. Router can be way up there in importance if you make good use of it--very versatile tool. I just don't use it a ton personally, and bits can be very expensive.

Something like this is a fairly cheap option as well.

I think a Food processer is very important! You can use veggies in crazy ways if you can break them down. Even nuts can be used as a cookie base. It's a little more work but making homemade sauces can be so much healthy, especially if you can sneak in extra veggies!

Lets all sing Portion Control amen. And don't forget measuring cups and spoons, to control condiments, you could also just use the cups instead of the fancy portion measurer



I also recommend getting one of these under desk peddlers promise yourself you'll use it when watching T.V or doing reddit.

Pedometer a nifty affordable way to keep track of how much you are actually walking. I'm going to buy one just to make myself walk more!

Tape measure this is going to be surprisingly important. I've been trying to get back into shape since last September and I've only lost 15 pounds. I didn't keep track of my measurements, and I wish I had. My pants are almost falling off, but the proof of the numbers would be more of a morale booster. Easier to pass on the second helping of Chinease food if you KNOW you're making progress!

I wish you great luck! I think eating healthy is most important,but it feels so good, to just work the heck out,and be covered in sweat, and know you whooped that workouts ass! And another idea is to watch your department stores, I got my $200 stationary bike for $40 bucks,because it was a floor model,and was missing a little cover on one of the edges that touch the floor.

He needs a Stanley FatMax Xtreme. They have a 13' standout which comes in handy for getting discs out of trees. I carry a 25' but I think they make longer ones. People are always amazed when I pull it out to get their disc out of a tree.

​

Here's a 35 footer on Amazon. Might be able to find it cheaper elsewhere.

https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-33-900-FatMax-Extreme-35-Foot/dp/B000OPYBCY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1538056404&sr=8-2&keywords=stanley+fatmax+tape+measure+xtreme

​

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Found it. Not paying that much for it, I'll gain something from an old school compass and some superglue.

QUICKDRAW PRO 5M (Metric) Self Marking Tape Measure - 1st Measuring Tape with a Built in Pencil - Contractor Grade Steel Tape - Power Locking Tape Ruler https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01I0BUAQE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1IDXCbSCQ4G9H

Hard to tell from the image, but this one should have both. I have one bought from somewhere and it's awesome to have both scales handy.

Fun topic!

Lots of good responses already - I'll chip in:

If you're craftsy/good with a brush and kind of know what you're doing, scenery is definitely a cool idea. You could purchase some for him as well, since there is "no wrong answer" when it comes to scenery. These guys have the best selection of MDF scenery (looks good, lots of bang for your buck vs. the fancy plastic stuff) I have seen: https://ttcombat.com/

Otherwise-

If you know his army/colors - something unique to it would be cool. Some things gamers need: tape measures, dice, stuff to write in. For instance, a really nice tape measure https://www.amazon.com/Measuring-Tape-16ft-Retractable-Construction/dp/B07529JM1V/ref=sr_1_23_sspa?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1509721900&sr=1-23-spons&keywords=tape+measure&psc=1

Maybe some wild custom dice: https://www.thegamecrafter.com/custom-dice

If he's relatively new to the hobby you could get him some paints he doesn't have (or a big set, if you you've got buck)

Some new brushes - depending on the skill level he's at, good brushes can be fairly pricy - here's my favorite: https://www.amazon.com/Winsor-Newton-Kolinsky-Sable-Watercolor/dp/B0013E68T4

Toss in some brush preserver if he doesn't have any.

A lot of these things are stuff he might already have, but better versions he might not generally bother to get for himself, which is a cool present.

Fastcap makes a plastic tape for that.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C68GTVK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Milwaukee Autolock Tape Measure 8m (Width 25mm) (Metric Only) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PJN9KDJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VtZVDbNZJ3SC0

There are many tools that can be used to measure exactly how high the board needs to be. Here is one I found on Amazon, anything similar will help just make sure the bracket behind the board is in the proper place

Correct.

https://www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-86225-Magnetic-Measure/dp/B01M1O86P3/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496087056&sr=8-1&keywords=klein+tape+measure

Are you opposed to old style spool/engineer tape like this or this? This is closer to a standard tape, but this one is pretty cheap and I think I like it the best.

I have three of these in my shop. Extremely durable, IMO the best tape you can buy for shop use. I have a 25' and 30' version for outside the shop stuff, also.

Stanley 33-312 12 Powerlock Tape Rule https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00002X2GN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_FlLhzbH6G8W4K


Edit- make sure you get the 33-312 (as opposed to the 33-212) with the 3/4" wide blade, rather than 1/2" wide. No comparison in the two tapes, if you ask me.

Its only 10 bucks on amazon.