Abstract: The retractable tape of the present invention includes a housing from which a flexible, metallic retractable tape can be withdrawn. The tape has, at its outer end, a telescoping arm which extends at right angles to the zero-mark on the tape. A second telescoping arm is fastened to the housing from which the tape is withdrawn and is positioned at right angles to the tape and housing at a point where the tip of the telescoping arm is in alignment with the index marker on the housing. The telescoping arms can extend twelve inches from the tape and housing. The tape can be retracted into the housing, and the arms can be telescopically contracted so that when the tape is retracted into the case and the arms are contracted, the device occupies a minimal space in a mechanic's toolbox.