I am not sure how to open or close this. I think the tape might be a little bit ripped, but I do not know how bad. I absolutely 100% am not sure and I’m too afraid to try. It looks as though it’s ripped around 32 inches but I don’t know anything else about if it’s in there or how to get it out or how to replace it or anything. I do not know anything about this tape measure. Smoke free, pet free home.