Open Reel Measuring Tape 400 ft / 120 m - Durable Hand Crank Reel

In this review of the Open Reel Measuring Tape the bottom line is simple: this is a practical, no-frills long measuring tape for anyone who needs reliable distance measurements on fields, landscaping jobs, or track and field events. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a durable vinyl fiberglass tape with a stable metal spike and a hand crank that together deliver accurate, easy-to-wind measurements up to 400 ft (120 m). For those needing clear dual-sided readings in both feet and meters, this model hits the mark.

Key Features

• Dual-sided tape: Displays feet on one side and meters on the other so you can record measurements in your preferred unit without conversion errors.
• Durable construction: The vinyl fiberglass tape resists stretching, helping maintain accuracy over long distances and repeated use.
• Hand crank reel: A convenient crank shell makes winding the tape fast and controlled, reducing tangles and saving time on site.
• Metal spike: A bottom metal spike provides stability by anchoring the tape in dirt or turf for consistent end-point placement.
• Long reach: The 400 ft / 120 m length covers sports fields, long jump pits, and landscaping measurements without needing joins or extensions.

Who It's For

The Open Reel Measuring Tape is well suited for coaches, groundskeepers, landscapers, and meet officials who need a straightforward, long-range tape for marking fields and measuring events. Its dual units and long length make it particularly useful in environments where both imperial and metric numbers are used and where reaching 100s of feet without interruptions is required.

It is less appropriate for those who need ultra-precision engineering measurements under laboratory conditions or who prefer a fully enclosed, heavy-duty industrial reel with extra reinforced handles; a higher-end surveyor tape might be better in those niche cases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear dual-sided graduations make reading in feet or meters quick and error-free.
• Vinyl fiberglass material resists stretching, preserving measurement accuracy over time.
• Hand crank and open reel design give easy, controlled retraction and storage.
• Metal spike keeps the tape anchored for stable, repeatable measurements on soft ground.

Cons

• Some users report mixed durability of the reel handle under heavy frequent use, so extreme daily commercial use could expose weaknesses.
• The open reel offers less protection for the tape than a fully enclosed case in rough environments.

Specifications

Brand	Champion Sports
Length	400 ft / 120 m
Tape material	Vinyl fiberglass
Design	Open reel with hand crank
Units	Dual-sided: feet and meters
Stability feature	High-quality metal spike

Our Verdict

The Open Reel Measuring Tape is a practical, cost-effective choice for field marking, athletic events, and landscape measurement where long reach and dual units matter. It delivers accurate readings, smooth roll-up, and a stable spike for most outdoor uses; buyers looking for heavy industrial duty should consider reinforced reels, but for sports and grounds work this tape offers good value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tape accurate over long distances?
Yes, the vinyl fiberglass tape is designed to resist stretching and provide accurate measurements up to 400 ft / 120 m.

Can the spike be used on turf and dirt?
The metal spike is suitable for piercing dirt and turf to anchor the tape for stable readings on fields.

How is the tape wound after use?
The open reel includes a hand crank that allows controlled winding and compact storage of the tape.