Customer Reviews

Stanley 33-735 35-Foot-by-1-1/4-Inch FatMax Tape Rule

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(7)
3 star:		(10)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

Stanley 1 1/4" wide Fat max tape measure.

Pros:

- My Fat Max stands out unsupported to about 10' 3". Even though not the 11' claimed, it's still several feet longer than 1" tape measures. This is the important advantage of this tape, especially when working alone, because measuring takes less time and less effort.

- Case has a rubber coating around most of it, making it easier to hold onto, although that black case can get hot if it's been in the sunshine.

- Tape end has the normal bottom "hook" but also has a double top hook, for grabbing that other end.

- Although I don't make a habit of dropping tools, this one seems pretty tough. (Although some reviewers have had their Fat Max's break open on falling?)

- Highly rated in Fine Homebuilding magazine.

Cons:

- Costs much more than 1" wide tape measures of the same length.

- About 1/4 bulkier and is heavier than a 1" wide tape measure of the same length. 3/4" tape measures are lighter still. The Fat Max might be awkwardly large for someone with small hands.

- Even with the belt clip removed, the Fat Max is an inconveniently tight fit in my tape holster, whereas 1" wide tape measures of the same length fits with ease.

- Due to the curvature of the tape, its edges "ride" further above the surface than narrower tape measures, so you have to press the tape edge down to get that last bit of accuracy in the reading. Narrower tape measures are easier and quicker to read accurately, since you don't need to press the tape down as often.

- Bottom and top "hooks" should be longer or have micro grippers like some other tape measures. Although usually OK, it too easily slips off what I'm trying to hook it on - this is particularly frustrating when that spot is far away, and is partially caused by how much you have to arc the tape for it to stand out so far. I.e., the tape may be at the wrong angle to grab easily.

- The sliding blade lock takes too much effort. I can do it with one thumb, but have to press with serious oomph to lock or unlock it, and I'm 6/4 and weigh 260 lbs. I'd say it takes triple the effort over any of the 1" measures I own. Doesn't work nearly as well as the Stanley Power Lock, Leigh, or Craftsman measures, for example.

- Tape seems to crease sooner than narrower tapes, which means it will wear out faster. This is probably due to the width of the tape being less flexible to twisting, and the very fast rewind rate which can whip the tape, causing damage.


Other:

- Not really a con, since it's not expected, but it doesn't have a lifetime warranty like Craftsman tape measures (not sure if other brands have such warranties). I've seen construction workers bring a bag full of worn-out Craftsman tape measures into a Sears store and walk out with free replacements!

Summary:

For any project where long tape standout is important, this is my first choice. For almost any other purpose, I reach for a 1" or smaller tape measure because they are lighter, smaller, quicker to read, and the blade locks works better.

I really liked the Fat Max 30' tape. However, Stanley does not make replacement blades for it. My Fat Max is a little less than a year old and has developed a hole at about the 11 foot point. Because no replacement blades are available, the cost for replacing it with a new one is too high. Too bad Stanley doesn't stand behind the fat max with replacement blades like they do with some of their other less sturdy tapes.

I've gone thru three in one year. I'm a builder so that is slightly above average for my use. But I do keep buying them. My major gripe is that none of them really stay hooked very well when moving. Also they will slice through your finger in a flash if you're used to finger braking.(too fast retract) It is also tempermental in retracting if used past 15ft. I've seen 'em live & die from second floor to concrete. BUT....it does have a fantastic standout. Good, but buy it on sale.

After reading other reviews, it appears that I may have received a lemon. As mentioned in one review, the return velocity is very fast -- and it did lead to kink and tear. My primary complaint relates to excessive play in the lip (well beyond the lip's thickness), which has led to inaccurate cuts.

This is a wonderful tape measure that will really take abuse. I love the 11' stand out. I agree with the point that others have made that the return and be a bit fast, I've gotten small cuts and bruises or blood blisters on my pointer finger a few times when I've gotten it pinched and it returns. But I've learned to keep it from returing so fast (just tip it so the blade is aimed down as it get to the last few feet). It isn't a cheap tape, but then again it isn't built like one either . . . .

{edit}My tape cracked, so I'm going to have to replace it, but there is no doubt I'm going to get another FatMax!{/edit}

There's no doubt that the Fat Max tape has the longest possible stand out in the buisness. It is helpful to understand, however, that the tapes width makes it prone to tearing; a problem that, when combined with it's frighteningly rapid recoile mechanism, can seriously damage the digits of the careless operator. In addition, anyone who is accustomed to catching the lip of the tape with the index finger of your tape hand, may be apt to suffer a crush injury trying to arrest the return velocity of this tenacious tool. On the whole I like it very much.

This tape is a monster for the toolbelt and I keep it in an unused nail pouch due to its width. Besides that I couldn't be happier. It is long enough for framing layout and its 11' standout makes it indespensible for working alone or on a ladder. All three sizes of the FatMax have the 11' foot standout which is the dealmaker. Get the size best for your purposes. The width makes it stable even in winds on the roof working by myself. Nice wide tape with very clear scale to read without bending over. Definitely a wise purchase for the experienced framer or the weekend warrior. Be sure to slow the tape upon reeling it in as the speed it can come back at can do damage to the tape long-term not to mention any wondering fingers that get pinched in the end motion. Great tape and will do it again if this one ever wears out! Buy this tape!

I like the Fat Max 25. I like the Fat Max 30 even more. And why not ? There's more to like. Either way you have the beefiest tape on the market. No other tape even comes close to the rigidity of these bad boys. I love standing in the middle of a room and being able to measure from wall to wall without laying it on the floor or getting assistance from somebody else. I love being on a ladder mesuring fascia boards from a point 10 feet+ away and my tape doesn't crack. It works better in the wind. It allows measuring higher above than ever before. It positively will win any tape fight anywhere any time. If you wear it on your pocket , just beware of carpenters crack! These little beauties are pretty heavy.

This is the best tape measure available, in my opinion. I use mine every day, and they seem to last about 6-8 months. The key is to be careful when you're reeling the tape back in... kinks and burs can develope easily if you let it in to fast, take your time and it will extend the life of the tape somewhat.

I'll agree with those who say the Fat Max is pricey, but its a great tape to have when you're working alone and don't have someone else to hold the other end of the tape. It also takes use (and abuse)that destroys "cheapies".