M.Power’s R1 tape measure is designed for right-handed users and features a blade that reads from right to left. This allows a user to hold the tape measure with their left hand while placing marks with their right hand.
M.Power describes the R1 as a serious measuring tool, but from the looks of it, they’re not just tooting their own horn – the R1 does look to be carefully designed. The R1 features a high visibility and high impact plastic case, shock resistant rubber grip, ergonomic thumb lock, quick-touch blade brake, a stainless steel tip, and shock absorber to avoid tip slam damage.
The R1 is available with a combination 16ft/5.0m imperial and metric blade.
M.Power R1 Tape Measure via Amazon
Product Info via M.Power
What do you guys think, is this an end to a common frustration or a solution in need of a problem?
Thing is, if I’m just measuring i prefer to hold the tape in my right hand, but I switch to the left hand to mark wood for cuts. I’m thinking a tape like this that replaced the metric with a left hand read out would be a winner…at least for me.
The rebranded tape measures have been available from Lee Valley:
http://www.leevalley.com/us/shopping/TechInfo.aspx?p=42478
I do the same – setup with right hand, switch tape to left hand to hold, and then mark with right hand.
I didn’t know Lee Valley came out with something similar, thanks for the link! From the looks of it, the Lee Valley versions were independently developed. Of the two, I think that the M.Power one looks a bit more durable.
I really like my 25′ husky branded tape measure. It only has standard markings (no metric), but you can mark left and right of the tape, AND it also has markings on the back side of the tape too, so you can always measure/mark no matter what side of the tape you’re on.
If I want to measure metric, I prefer to use a dedicated metric unit.
Good idea but just like the Lee Valley version the belt clip is on the wrong side for quick use. I like to clip the tape on my left side and use my left hand to bring the tape up to measure. With the belt clip on the wrong side I have to turn the tape around to use it.
Lee Valley is aware of this problem but says its to expensive to retool for the change.
JimG