Shown here is the new Stanley FatMax tape measure (25′) for 2018, model FMHT36325, which Stanley says is the brand’s most ergonomic and longest-lasting design in its 175 year history.
Features include 13′ of “straighter blade” standout, a new slow-wearing blade coating, an impact-resistant case that can withstand a 50 foot drop into packed soil, and ergonomically-designed case that simulates a baseball-style grip.
Stanley says its MaxShield blade coating is the longest-lasting finish they’ve ever applied to a FatMax tape measure. The first 6 inches feature a Bladearmor coating for extra protection where the tape’s most vulnerable.
The blade is 1-1/4″ wide, which is pretty standard for a 25-foot tape measure. This new FatMax tape also has a Twin-Core dual return spring, which allows for a smaller tape case.
Price: $30
Shipping Now (Press materials give a May 2018 ETA, but a search of the model number doesn’t show much yet.)
See Also(Similar Dewalt Tape via Amazon)
16′ and 35′ versions are expected to be released in late 2018.
The tape is made in the USA with global materials.
First Thoughts
Looks familiar, doesn’t it?
Could this new Stanley FatMax tape measure be an updated version of the Dewalt XP tape measure, reviewed here?
See Also: New Dewalt XP Tape Measure – is it Worth the Hype?
Both Stanley FatMax and Dewalt tape measures have 1-1/4″ wide tapes, 13′ of standout, and Dual-Core (Dewalt) and Twin-Core (Stanley) spring return mechanisms.
I wasn’t a fan of the Dewalt tape measure and the recoil felt in my pinky finger.
Looking at Stanley’s marketing images, where they show the new tape being held like a baseball, I suppose that is how I hold my tape measures – in a baseball-like grip. So… maybe this tape is designed with improvements to the recoil too? I’m open-minded.
The $30 price tag is going to invite a lot of grumbles. But, if the tape measure is as durable and long-lasting as claimed, and comfortable too, pro users might be able to justify the expense. A lot of users will be happier if the tape is bundled in holiday season promo 2-packs at the same $30 price, but who knows if that’ll happen.
Here’s a marketing blurb, with the heading One Tape Fits All:
Whoever you are, and whatever your goal, the 25-foot STANLEY® FATMAX® Tape Measure is designed to help you thrive. It’s our most ergonomic and durable tape measure ever, evolved from the FATMAX tapes you already know and trust. Whether you’re estimating how many shingles you’ll need or installing crown molding, this tape will outlast and outperform, so you can overdeliver every time.
One tape fits all? I’ll take that challenge. The Dewalt XP tape certainly didn’t fit that description. SBD’s hand tool team had plenty of time to tune the design, and so I’m optimistic.
Would I buy something like this sight unseen? Probably not. Then it’s a good thing it’ll be available at select nationwide retailers and Amazon, which tends to have a flexible return policy. It’ll be available at Lowes, Ace Hardware, Acme Tools, and Amazon.
So, who’s in for one?