The tape measure apparatus has a rule blade that is retractably stored in
the tape measure apparatus and protrudes when extended during use. For
measurements, the rule blade has graduated indicia markings along the
rule blade. An end-piece attached to the rule blade has an aperture for
receiving a marking instrument to mark and scribe on a work piece and a
blade slot for receiving and supporting a blade. There is also a
protective shield guide that protects the fingers from slivers and cuts.
It has a pivot attachment between the protective shield and the guide.
The pivot moves the protective shield into a stored position generally
parallel to the rule blade, and in a working position generally
perpendicular the rule blade. The guide is slidable along the rule blade.
The entire protective shield guide slidably moves into the housing. Thus,
the entire protective shield guide disappears and is protected from any
outside force by being inside the housing when not in use.