Lufkin 25-Foot Fractional Tape Measure, $6

Winning features: markings in both fractions and decimals that run up vertically (and clearly) from the measurement ticks, comfortable finger grips, and a lock that slides easily into place to prevent the tape from snapping back.

To Buy: www.lowes.com.

Controlling the Recoil: To keep your tape measure from snapping back with a vengeance when you retract it, try the following method, suggested by Home Depot merchandising manager Joe Di'Orio: Place your index finger under the tape and intermittently squeeze it against the case to slow the speed — but be careful not to let it zip past and cut your finger.

Remembering the Measurement: Carpenters swear by the "measure twice, cut once" rule, but sometimes you end up measuring three or four times because you keep forgetting whether the figure was 36 1/16 or 36 1/8 inches. Try marking the number on the tape with a fine-tip dry-erase marker, using a V with the point just above the tick mark for accuracy. Wipe off the mark when you're done.