hi suz!
in my opinion, the "stanley" model or the "lufkin" are pretty good, although i still dont completely trust them when needing a close, critical measurement. there is also a "laser-tape" out, dont remember the brand. saw it demonstrated at the big "orange" store. looked pretty neat. have you considered other "possibles"? if he's doing a lot of EMT or rigid conduit, one of the new laser-beam torpedo levels would be useful to him. also, what about the klein "10 in 1" tool? just about every electrician i know has one, or wants one....
klein also has a new, compact heavy cable cutter that looks really good.
just some ideas.....a gift certificate at an electrical supply house is good too.(one that sells klein, ideal, and greenlee products).
merry Christmas!.......