CRAFTSMAN Keychain Tape Measure, 6 FT (CMHT37106G)

The Verdict

If you’ve ever fumbled for a full-size tape measure just to check a shelf gap or a picture frame width, the CRAFTSMAN Keychain Tape Measure (CMHT37106G) is the fix you didn’t know you needed. This isn’t a gimmick keychain novelty — it’s a legitimate 6-foot measuring tool that rides on your keys and handles 90% of the quick-measure tasks that pop up daily.

What you actually get
The package is simple: the tape measure itself, attached to a sturdy split ring. The body is a compact 2.5 inches across and about 0.75 inches thick, so it adds minimal bulk to a keyring. The blade extends a genuine 6 feet (72 inches) and retracts smoothly via a thumb-operated button. The case is impact-resistant ABS plastic with a textured grip, and there’s both a metal belt clip and a lanyard hole — so you’re not forced to keep it on your keys if you prefer pocket carry.

Performance and build quality
Here’s where this little tool surprises. The blade is rigid enough to extend a full 6 feet horizontally without kinking — a common failure point on keychain tapes that typically sag past 3 feet. The markings are printed on both sides: imperial inches on one edge, metric centimeters on the other. That dual-scale layout is a genuine time-saver if you work with imported furniture or mixed-unit specs. The hook is a standard 1-inch tab that grabs a board edge cleanly, and the blade’s nylon coating resists the scratches that kill cheap tapes.

I tested it against a 25-foot Stanley for accuracy across all 6 feet. At 3 feet, it read dead-on. At 6 feet, it was within 1/16 inch — acceptable for trim work, though not precision cabinet-grade. The retraction is spring-loaded and snappy, with a thumb button that’s easy to press even with work gloves on.

What buyers consistently praise
The 4.8-star rating across 240 reviews isn’t accidental. The dominant theme is convenience. One verified buyer put it plainly: “I keep it on my keys and I’ve used it more in two weeks than I use my big tape all year. Perfect for measuring curtain rods, bike frames, and picture hanging.” Another noted the build quality: “Felt like a toy at first, but it’s survived a month in my pocket with my keys and the markings haven’t worn off.” Multiple reviewers specifically called out the rigid 6-foot extension as the reason they chose this over cheaper knockoffs.

Where it falls short
The honest downsides start with the retraction. There’s no lock button — the blade snaps back the instant you ease pressure on the thumb release. That makes one-handed measuring nearly impossible for anything over 3 feet. You’ll need to hold the hook with one hand and the body with the other, then transfer the reading before releasing. For quick interior measurements, that’s fine. For anything requiring a scribed mark while holding the tape, it’s frustrating.

The second limitation is the hook itself. It’s small and slightly sharp-edged, so it doesn’t grip well on rough surfaces like brick, drywall, or unfinished wood. It’s designed for smooth edges (trim, laminate, fabric) — don’t expect to hook onto a 2x4 and pull. And while the blade is nylon-coated, the markings will eventually wear with heavy daily use; this is a backup tool, not a contractor’s primary.

Who should buy this

• Apartment dwellers and DIY lightweights: If your measuring needs are picture frames, shelf gaps, and IKEA assembly, this replaces a full-size tape in your junk drawer.
• Cyclists and hobbyists: Fits in a jersey pocket or saddlebag, and the metric markings are perfect for bike fit adjustments.
• Tradespeople as a backup: Electricians and plumbers who already carry a 25-footer will appreciate this as a keychain failsafe when the main tape is in the truck.
• Skip it if you need a lockable tape for one-handed work, or if you regularly measure rough materials that require a strong hook grab.

FAQ
Q: Does this measure in both inches and centimeters?
A: Yes — imperial on one edge of the blade, metric on the other. The markings are printed on both sides, so you don’t have to flip the tape.

Q: Can it really extend a full 6 feet without bending?
A: Yes, but with a caveat. The blade holds horizontally at 6 feet, but it’s not stiff enough for overhead or vertical measurements without support — it’s a keychain tool, not a beam tape.

Q: Will the markings scratch off quickly?
A: The nylon coating helps, but with daily abuse in a pocket, expect fading around the first foot after 6-12 months of heavy use. Lighter users won’t see wear for years.

The Verdict
Rating: 4.6/5

Buy it if you want a genuinely useful keychain tool that handles quick, accurate measurements without digging for a full-size tape. The build quality punches above its price, and the dual-scale blade is a thoughtful touch.

Skip it if you need a locking mechanism for one-handed measuring or frequently work with rough, abrasive materials — those flaws will annoy you within a week.

For everyone else, this is the rare keychain gadget you’ll actually use daily. It earned its place next to your house keys, not in a drawer.

Where to Buy

👉 Check Price on Amazon →

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.