On 9/26/2014 10:30 AM, Chuck Ramsey wrote:
> Galoots,
>   
> I purchased a folding rule this summer at a flea.  I pulled it out the other
day
> and started to wonder about when tape measures replaced folding rules for
> on the job site carpenters?  Do any of you still use a folding rule?  When and
for
> what?  What might be the advantages of a folding rule?
>   
> Thank you in advance.
>   
> chuck
Tape measures were originally made of fabric.  Because they stretched, 
they were not as accurate as folding rules . . .  esp if the folding 
rule uses the brass pull out.  Cloth based tape measures continue in the 
form of 50', 100' and longer tapes.  At those distances accuracy is a 
myth anyway unless lasers are employed.

I have several folding rules which I use.  One is a white one with the 
markings typically used by masons (not the society, the workers).  I 
have several others that I use when a metal tape won't do.  That usually 
arises with I need to measure an inside dimension for accurately.

The downside of the folding rule is its fragility.  I cannot tell you 
how many I've destroyed in my lifetime (including a couple of my dad's, 
but shhhh, don't tell him)

Bob Hutchins
Temple, TX USA