Firstly, understand that no tape measure is an accurate measuring tool, if you use a tape measure you must use the same tape measure for all your measurements. This tape measure is very accurate compared to my 1m workshop standard (it's less than 2mm at 1m). The first 5 mm are difficult to read, but not really designed for such small dimensions. They are very strong, I keep dropping them down a two meter ladder, about 6 feet. I also have to say that this band is just amazing. in the hand.