Abstract: The tape measure incorporates a lighting device that is positioned to illuminate a measured length on the tape. The tape has a set of numerals for outside measurement that are of one color and a set of numerals for inside measurement that are of a different color. When switched on, the light provides a significant contrast with one of the sets of numerals to make that particular set of numerals significantly stand out from the other set of numerals.

Abstract: An improved tape measure for making an internal measurement from a member between generally parallel members of the type having a tape coiled in a housing having a tape hook external to the housing on an unattached end portion of the tape, and measurement lines and numerals on a concave side portion of the tape which increment from the hook and which can be read when the hook is pulled from the housing, wherein the improvement comprises: a non slip device positioned along an outside face portion of the hook so that when the outside of the hook is pressed against one member the hook will be less inclined to slip therealong. In a preferred aspect the above tape measure further comprises a belt clip having a downwardly extending arm attached to a broad side of the housing and a soft plastic gripping pad positioned on one of the belt clip arm and the broad side of the housing adjacent to the arm to provide better adhesion when the belt clip is engaged on a worn belt.