i was looking to pick up some gaffers tape after numerous lighting threads recommending it. $20 for a role seems a bit pricey though. from the looks of everything i've read about it, it seems just like hockey tape! not friction tape used on the blade of the stick, but the cloth like tape you use on your ankles/stick butt/etc.

is this pretty much the case? or why should i spend the extra money on gaffers?

<a href="http://www.amazon.com/3M-6910-CLOTH-GAFFERS-BLACK/dp/B000N4LV6A/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2/104-4530488-1871156?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1179257339&sr=8-2">gaffers</a>

its worht the $, especially since you will probably be using it a lot less than you think you will be.

2-3 months is usually OK, after that all bets are off