The other day we talked a little about some of the best tape measures, and received lots of great comments about readers’ favorites. Surprisingly, there were more FastCap mentioned than I expected seeing.
As promised, I started working to dig out some other tape measures that were misplaced, buried in toolboxes, or otherwise forgotten about. One of the tape measures I was reacquainted with is Stanley’s Auto-Lock take measure, model FMHT33338.
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How could I forget about my Stanley Auto-Lock!? This Stanley FatMax Auto-Lock tape measure deserves special consideration, not just because it’s a good tape measure, but because it’s also so different. I first posted about it 2 years ago, just before it came out, and it’s time for another look.
In my best tape measures post, I briefly mentioned Stanley’s LeverLock tape measure, which is a decent and inexpensive self-locking tape. Well this FatMax tape – it’s much better, although that should be expected when you’re paying more than double the price.
What I like best about the Stanley Auto-Lock tape measure is how it caters to nearly every user preference.
Do you like self-locking tapes? This one auto-locks (hence the name) when you pull the tape out. And it’s a strong lock too, holding the tape in place firmly.
Don’t like self-locking tapes? You can disengage the Auto-Lock feature by sliding back on the silver button. Do that and this can be used manually like any other traditional slide-lock tape measure.
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What about your hook preference – do you like ’em big or small? You get both with the Stanley FatMax Auto-Lock. A big hook accessory attaches to the smaller built-in hook, or to the tape measure housing for safe keeping.
I have only briefly reacquainted myself with the FatMax Auto-Lock, but will try to keep track of it for as long as possible. Maybe I’ll even buy another, or maybe a smaller 16-foot size. The one mentioned here is a 25-foot tape with 11-foot max standout and 1-1/4″ blade width.
Is there a downside? Sure, there must be, right? I just haven’t found it yet. Maybe blade durability? Possibly not, as Stanley claims their Blade Armor gives the tape 10X longer life. Comfort? No… this one’s pretty user-friendly and comfortable to use. Oh, I know – is it priced at a premium but made overseas? Nope – it’s made in the USA with global materials.
I wish that I had relocated this tape before my best tape measures post, but at least now I have more of a reason to update that post in a couple of months as I’ve tried to do with some of my other tool guides.
I’m going to make darned sure that I don’t lose this tape measure again. While I’m not ready to formally review it, I can confidently recommend it. The Stanley FatMax Auto-Lock has quickly become a strong contender for consideration as my favorite tape measure, and I only become reacquainted with it a day ago. It’s a versatile model without any obvious compromises.
Price: ~$25
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If you’re a little unsure about whether the Auto-Lock is right for your needs, you can try it out hands-on at most Home Depot store locations.
fred
I have an older Fat Max 33-725 that I bought – possible 15 years ago because of its long standout ability (1-1/4 wide tape). I like it for that – and its a good tape on the job – but I much prefer a lighter (aka shorter and narrower blade) tape to hook on my belt – when I’m off to Home Depot. For that purpose I carry a Fastcap PSSP-16 that I picked up at a local supplier for about $7.
mikeh
I have two of these and they are my favorite tape measures- the auto-lock feature is the easiest to use and the fatmax tapes are excellent for durability and standout
Grady
I never really liked the FatMax , it just felt over size and bulky. Your pictures look like Stanley my have reduced the bulk a bit. I’ll take another look next time I’m at the hardware store. Maybe a 16′. Lowes has a deal , buy certain FatMax tools and get a 6′ FatMax free.
Pete
I’m a sheet metal worker and I’ve been all over the market with tape measures over the last few years. I carried a 25′ FatMax with magnet which is great when I’m not surrounded by sheet metal… 25′ and 35′ Milwaukee Tape Measures which are also quite nice, and have some really great features. I especially like Milwaukee’s wire belt clip.
However, I’ve been using a 30′ FatMax Auto Lock for about eight months and can’t get over how great it is. The blade standout is excellent, the tape itself is durable, the automatic locking is incredibly handy (so handy that I now expect other tape measures to lock automatically and am disappointed when they don’t)…
My only complaint is that the secondary hook loosens up an flies off on occasion. I’ve taken to crimping it tightly with a pair of Channellocks before sliding it on. There have been a couple of times that I’ve stepped on the secondary tip, but it’s pretty durable and I can tune it up with a pair of seamers or pliers relatively easily.
Jerry
I didn’t know that Stanley made this, as I’ve never seen it before. Might have to look around if I can find one somewhere. I prefer auto locking tapes, although I do like my Fascap with the blade you can write on, and the little blade brake on the bottom, but it does not have much standout. This one looks promising, and I’m not above paying double for a premium measure over a cheapo, if it seems worth it.
Thanasi
I own both the fatmax magnet is my favorite. I’m an electrician by trade and run lots of conduit so the magnet wins. Well the fatmax magnet is a litter bit less bulky so it doesn’t constantly fall off my belt clip
Nate 818
I don’t like that when you lock it with some tape out (like 2 feet) as a ruler you cant hold the metal part only without the assembly part sagging down from gravity. Something good about all tape measures though is they’re always going on sale.
fixitmanarizona
Stanley is notorious for buying out other companies, then ceasing their production and having the stuff made cheaply in China or some other foreign country. Their latest push is “Made in USA with foreign materials” which basically means the parts are made in China, or Korea, or somewhere, and then final assembly is done here. This makes them look good if you don’t look too closely at the label. MOST of their stuff, and that of the companies they own, IS made in China! Yes, it’s cheaper that way, but certainly not cheap enough. You’re paying for a brand name, that is no better, nor is it made in USA, than something from Harbor Freight. This includes stuff by Black & Decker, Porter Cable, Quickset, Dewalt, Baldwin, and Price-Pfister, all owned by Stanley.
Yes, the Stanley tape measures seem to be better than some others, but for the cost, I can pick up a new tape measure from China once a month for the cost of a Stanley I’ll buy once every two YEARS!
albert beatty
eye have a STANLEY FATMAX #FMHT33338 autolock 25′ THAT IS broke, can this be returned to your co for repair or send NEW one in its place at a no cost??
Stuart
Contact Stanley. In my experience, they might ask you to send it back, but on your dime.