This invention generally relates to a tape dispenser with automatic backing removal more particularly including a spindle rotatably mounted for receiving said supply of tape; a pinch roller set in tension having an adjustment to set the drag for the tape supply passing through the pinch rollers that convert a pull of the tape to a rotary motion; a take-up spindle for spooling the protective backing layer when separated from the tape; a set of drag washers to maintain an pre-set tension as the protective backing is spooled onto the take up spindle; a first gear responsive to the rotary motion of the pinch roller set and a second gear responsive to the motion of the first gear and axially attached to the take-up spindle for spooling the protective backing.