Abstract: A tape measure has a case, a measuring tape coilable therein, a return spring and a carrier turned by the spring to retract the measuring tape. Excessive speed of the carrier is reduced by rotational imbalance which induces wobble and so causes the rotating carrier to strike adjacent fixed structure and be frictionally retarded. The carrier has its radially inner and outer parts connected through a flexible link, and may include an eccentric drum for the blade to coil around.

Abstract: A brake for a steel tape wound on a drum in a casing includes an elongate resilient brake member 12 pivotally mounted at one end in the casing. When the brake is in its curved rest condition it defines with a backing member 8 a gap through which the tape can pass when being wound on or unwound from the drum. A control knob 22 is slidably mounted in the casing to move the brake member 12 between its rest condition and a straightened operational condition in which the other end 16 of the brake member clamps the tape against the backing member 8.In one construction, a cam 26 on the control knob 22 can be located in one or more recesses 28 in the brake member 12 to effect positive locking of the brake member.

Abstract: A nozzle assembly for a nail gun includes a nozzle barrel 2 which is frictionally and rotatably coupled to a nozzle holder 10. The nozzle barrel 2 includes a nail guiding portion 4 having formed on it a cut-away part 24 and a flat 26. In operation, the barrel 2 is rotated so that if necessary the part 24 and flat 26 fit over an adjacent nail head or projection.

Abstract: A nozzle assembly for a nail gun includes three wing portions pivotally mounted on a nozzle holder to define a nozzle tapering towards a nozzle outlet. When the wing portions are in their inner closed position they can support an upholsterer's nail with the nail head resting on the inner walls of the nozzle, and the nail stem located in the nozzle outlet. When the nail is being driven into upholstery, the nail head forces apart the wing portions against the action of a resilient support ring. The wing portions may be surrounded by an outer casing which may be rotatable. This outer casing may have a cut-away portion or flat formed on it.