Spencer Loggers Tape 50 ft Refill

This 50 ft refill replaces the blade in a Spencer loggers tape, so a kinked or broken tape does not mean buying a whole new case. It is the cheap way to keep a good logging tape working for years.

Why refills make sense

A logging tape blade lives a rough life. It gets stepped on, dragged over bark, run over by skidders and occasionally nicked by a saw. Eventually it kinks, the markings wear off, or it snaps. The case and spring, though, often have plenty of life left.

A refill lets you replace only the part that wore out. That saves money and keeps the case you already have set up on your belt. Many sawyers keep a spare refill in the truck so a broken tape does not stop a day of bucking.

A fresh blade also brings back clear markings. Old tapes get worn, faded and coated in pitch until the numbers are hard to read in low light. A new refill is easier to read quickly, which means fewer mistakes and faster bucking.

Checking fit

Spencer cases are built for specific tape lengths and blade types. A 50 ft refill fits cases designed for 50 ft tapes. It will not fit a case built for a different length. Check the model on your case and compare it with the listing before you order. If your tape has a diameter scale or particular graduations, make sure the refill matches what you want to read.

If you are not sure what case you have, look for the model number on the case or contact Spencer with a description. Getting the right refill the first time beats a return trip.

A 50 ft length suits most firewood work, short logs and tree service bucking. It is lighter and quicker to rewind than a long tape, and many sawyers find it the most practical size for everyday use.

Installing a refill

Follow the instructions that come with the refill. In general, you open the case, remove the old blade, attach the new blade to the reel and wind it in under spring tension. Wear gloves and eye protection, because springs and blade edges can be sharp and can move suddenly when released. Take your time and keep track of small parts.

Once it is installed, pull the tape out a few times and let it rewind slowly to make sure it runs smoothly and the hook seats properly.

If the case itself is cracked, the spring is weak or the belt clip is broken, a new complete tape may be the better buy. A refill only makes sense when the case is still in good shape.

Making the new blade last

Let the tape rewind under control, wipe off mud and pitch, and avoid laying it across the cut line when someone is bucking. Keep the hook sharp enough to bite, and do not use the tape to pull or drag anything. A little care goes a long way.

Never measure a log that is moving, rolling or under tension, and keep the tape and your hands clear of the chain when someone else is bucking. Hook the tape, step back, then call the cut.

Do not have a tape yet? The Spencer 75 ft loggers tape and the Spencer 35 tape come complete with a case.