Abstract: A loop for a tape measure consists of a one piece element having a loop portion and an integral tape connecting portion. The tape connecting portion has at least one pair of flexibly connected flaps which serve to secure the loop to the free end of a measuring tape. An integral "living" hinge connects the flap portions and the loop portion.

Abstract: A casing for a retractable type tape measure includes a coil spring secured to the rule of the tape measure. The casing has an outer shell and a central interior mounting structure for attachment to the inner end of the coil spring. The mounting structure comprises a specially constructed guide post for guiding the inner end of the coil spring in a smooth relatively large radius curve about the mounting structure to the first inner turn of the coil spring, thereby to avoid sharp bends in the spring and permit the use of unannealed spring steel to form the spring.

Abstract: A tape reel case, for containing a flexible metal tape measure or the like, includes a pair of substantially identical case elements or bezels, each of which consists of a peripheral wall having first and second edge portions and an inwardly extending wall portion integral with the second edge portion of the peripheral wall. The first edge portion of the peripheral wall has a tape discharge slot of predetermined length formed therein extending from its first edge portion toward the second edge portion thereof. This first edge portion of the wall also has a groove formed therein extending from a first end adjacent one end of the slot through approximately one half of the peripheral length of the wall to a second end portion approximately diametrically opposed from the slot.