Tape Measure (3-meters)

A three-metre tape measure, the short one. Three metres covers most of what actually gets measured indoors - a cupboard, a worktop, a window opening, a door, a length of pipe or trim, the gap an appliance has to fit - and the case is small enough to live in a pocket or an apron rather than a tool belt. That is the trade-off: less reach than the five-metre, more likely to be on you when you need it. Joiners, fitters, electricians, tilers and shop staff all keep a short tape for exactly that reason. The blade is narrower than a long tape's and stands out less unsupported, so hook it or have someone hold the far end on longer runs. Check the hook is not bent before trusting a measurement.