I still prefer Stanley's "metal" tapes to the plastic tapes which can be too bulky. They just feel comfortable and true to size and the quality has always been good. It's real metal, not just shiny plastic. The knife is quite simple but functional. For a long time I carried it around in my tool bag thinking it would come without blades but when I went to install the blade I actually found it in the handle so be careful. happy with the purchase.