Stanley is coming out with a new FatMax AutoLock 25′ x 1-1/4″ tape measure, model number FMHT33338.
The tape features a release button at the top, a small (regular-sized) hook, a large hook attachment, and 11 feet of blade standout.
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In what seems to be a first, the new Stanley tape will come with a customizable hook. That allows them to build the tape measure with a small blade hook for general use and a large hook attachment for users who prefer the greater size and surface area.
There is actually onboard storage for up to two hook attachments. Perhaps this means we will see other hook attachments down the road, such as a scriber, graphite-marking blade tip, or magnetic blade attachment.
(I have a habit of misplacing my tape measures. With this FatMax tape, there are small parts to misplace and lose as well. It seems like a nice tape, but is probably not for me.)
The new auto-locking tape measure also features an overriding manual mode, which allows it to be used like a traditional retractable tape.
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Hopefully the automatic lock works better than the slide lock the Stanley FatMax team developed for Dewalt’s tape measures. As discussed in our recent Milwaukee vs. Dewalt tape measure comparison, the Dewalt’s lock was exceptionally poor on one sample and barely passable on a second one.
According to the packaging, this tape is Made in the USA with global materials.
Price: $25 for the 25′ tape
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mnoswad1
I dont buy fat max stuff or any of the bulky rubber over-molded tape measures anymore. or any tool with goofy looking unpractical grips.
They are clumsy to hold, you cant slide them over to a helper, they are bulky to hold, they are bulky to hold on to, and lastly they are too bulky to hold on to.
Slim is in.
Stuart
I don’t buy FatMax tape measures either, although I pick up a new Powerlock every other year or so. I found the Dewalt tape to be somewhat clumsy to hold as well, but maybe it’s because I have medium-sized hands. My hands aren’t dainty, but it seems that FatMax and Dewalt tapes are designed to best fit large and x-large hands. (M, L, XL, with respect to glove sizes.)
These don’t look too bulky to hold, and I like that they automatically lock the blade but with a conventionally placed unlock switch instead of a bottom-positioned squeeze lock.
LORDDiESEL (GJ Forum)
I don’t know, guys. I like the fatmax tapes and i have smaller hands. I have a limited 30′ FM right now and it’s taking a shit kicking! I go through 4 tapes a year and i’m on number 3 right now. That being said, there’s nothing wrong with the powerlock tape. It’s been around long enough to get some respect.
Bob
Slim may be in for the gentleman above but I wanted a tape to extend out without folding. This tape blade is wide and strong. I just used it to extend out to measure inside walls of a bathroom over bathtubs, sinks etc. without folding.
It’s a great tape.