What is the best tape measure?
Posted in Carpentry on June 21st, 2009 by adminOn the jobsite it seems that there are two more popular tape measures. The Stanley FatMax and the Craftsman tape measures are found in more tool pouches than not. So which one is the best one? It’s all about personal preference, but I will explain the pros and cons of each of these two great tape measures.
Stanley FatMax
The strongest pros for this tape measure are:
- 1-1/4″ wide blade (25% wider) with 11′ of standout for extra and easy to read graphic
- Specially designed, hook grabs on side top or bottom
- Stainless steel wearplate protects case from being cut by by blade
Note: Stanley came out with a FatMax Extreme which touts a 13′ standout. This is done by increasing the curve of the blade. Unfortunately because of the increased curve of the blade the the specially designed hook loses the clearance needed to hook on the top. What is more important to you, two more feet of standout or hooking with the top of the hook?
UPDATE: (1/11/2010)
“we have added a larger hook to the FatMax Xtreme 25′ tapes. These should be out in the market now. If they are not in your area, please ask your local Home Center to special order for you.”Thank you,
Stanley Tools Customer Care
Craftsman
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
If the case, brake, spring or whatever else other than the blade breaks for any reason whatsoever you can return the tape measure for another one.
Note: Craftsman increased the curve of their blade and added a plastic coating to the top of the blade but are still propogating the tape measures without these improvements. Search and ye shall find.