Best Tape Measure - Head-2-Head
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- Опубліковано 6 вер 2024
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In this Best Tape Measure Head-2-Head we put several 25’ premium tape measures to the test, to see who makes the best tape measure!
We evaluated 8 different tape measures from 7 different manufacturers. Five of the eight had magnetic tips.
The tape measures are:
Dewalt DWHT 36225
Klein 86225
Milwaukee 48-22-7125
Stanley FMHT 33865
Stanley Powerlock
Lufkin L1025MAG
Tajima G-25BW
Why 25-Foot Tapes?
While there are certainly many other tape measures to choose from, we choose to look at the more popular, pro-grade tape models. We also chose to look at 25-foot length models because they are the most popular length tape measures sold on the market. We put each tape measure through the following tests:
finally a video about something I can afford lol.
They’ll do track saws next week don’t worry
25 feet or less any longer and it's out of my budget ;)
Lol
😬😬
Joe Boxter hey at least you have a tape.
I use a long string . I have to tie knots every foot. It’s really a bitch.
I always used lufkin tapes because every body else semmed to have stanley so my tape didn't get legs and walk off the job as easy.
Walk off the job lol don't you have a tool belt and if your not taking tools home youd have to have a lock box
@@slipperygypsy1366 well where I work, people have a station that might as well be their own home workshop, well depending on the importance of the employee anyway, and people come and take our shit off of our benches, that's why we do this thing called engraving our tools, handy when someone decides your chalk line would be more useful to them
lmao! Great idea.
Jack Braddell Bernie Sanders?
LOL me too! I thought it was only me! They work great, almost nobody else has them and they're not that expensive.
I bought the Fat Max at Lowe's on Black Friday. 2 for $20. Stupid me took the belt clip off to shove into a tape pouch and lost the screw. I asked Stanley if they could send a replacement. They could not, but sent a whole new tape instead. That is ridiculously kind customer service.
lier
@@ssbt2018 spell properly before you call names lol
Ssafi Bishara, nice work hat douchebag...
Lufkin has a new one out with a 14 foot standout
@therockkkkher its callwd the lufkin shock force. Its on youtube. I havent seen it for sale anywhere
Have used the Fat Max for years and finally switched to the Milwaukee. For the simple reason that I like the belt clip better. All tapes wear out it’s just part of it. The thing that I hate is when the clip spins or scratches me because of wear. Only had the Milwaukee for a couple months but I’ve grown to love it even more then the Fat Max and I would have never thought that could be possible!
Finally! Great review guys! Time stamps below
1:56 recoil test
4:00 wear of tape coating
7:10 magnetic testing
9:41 debris testing
11:05 stand out
11:48 hook movement
14:09 ergonomics
16:30 readability
18:11 drop tests
19:48 pricing
20:14 best overall
Federer2001 you da real MVP.
Thank you sir
Federer2001 ZZ
Not all heroes wear capes!
Federer2001 w
Tajima measuring tapes nothing beats absolutely durable,budget friendly,anything you throw just quality..
I've been doing construction for 14 years now. I'm a fatmax fan through and through. For my home shop I tend to lean toward my Lufkin cause it's a good price and doesn't need to be as tough cause it's not out in the elements. Thanks for the review
This Video is absolutely the most useful tape measure comparison and review. It is comprehensive, highly informative and most importantly... Over 33 years of jobsite conversation debating the merits of tape measures with every newbie, it goes beyond opinion and provides testers results. One note though, I was taught to never extend a tape more than 2/3rd or 3/4th the length as a general rule. My preference for 20 years was Lufkin 30' but the Fatmax 25' found everywhere, has been on my hip for the last 10.
The main problem I have with tape measures is when they get wet from working in the rain. The recoil deteriorates and the markings rub away causing rust. I get through at least 5 tape measures a year. A water resistant tape measure would be a god send here in England.
I have that problem too, I applied silicone spray to my tape as it’s a lube that won’t attract dirt. Then I discovered both Stanley and Komelon have made stainless steel tapes. Really good in the wet, however when they bend it’s difficult to get that kink out.
Fatmax is the best
I totally agree with you there. I had the same experience when working out in the yard, until my tape got caught in between some timbers and it was bent out of shape so easily, less than 7 days. Furthermore, while working out in the rain, it corroded more quickly than the cost of buying it.
I use a Powerlock. At least with those I can just replace the blades for cheap rather than having to replace the whole thing.
Butters 1786 I used to have the same problem, move to Australia and a tape will last nearly 2 years
Lufkin classic all the way. Accurate measurement every time the end never gets bent on drops. Super durable and only 5$. 15 years I’ve been using them. Switched from Stanley and I’ll never go back
I'm dyslexic and I didn't realize it for years. My go too TAPE was the Stanley Fatmax after doing a trim job and realizing I had alot of waste because of inversion of numbers, I started looking toward solutions and I found Fastcap. Your toolreveiws are so valuable to me that they have swayed purchase decision solely on your reveiw and your product and field knowledge. Based on that I think you might want to give Fastcap a buzz and have them send some tools out they're a tool solution company. Try the tapes and have them send you a fat boy pencil ( b careful everyone will steal it on the site) give them a try we might have another convert . Thanks again for all the great reveiws .
Diesel B813 I’m also dyslexic and I also prefer the FastCap.
I work in a metal fabrication shop and I use the Stanley Leverlock most often but the coating wears fast. I only use the Stanley Fatmax for the bigger jobs (mainly cause it is bulky and the magnet picks up too much metal dust) but it's hands down the most durable beast of a tape measure I've ever used. All of our machinist use Lufkin tape measures for their accuracy, but they're no where near as rough on their tapes as we are.
I definatly agree with this video. I use a Fat Max at work in a heavy steel production shop. We calibrate every 3 months. I have never had to replace a tape because of the hook going out of whack. I only have to replace my tape when when it gets all nasty and full of crap like metal dust, coolant and oil. Or sometimes I do something stupid like measure near a torch flame and melt the markings off lol. People keep your eyes peeled at Home Depot they have a 2 pack of 25' Fat Max tapes for the price of a single. Seems to be around Christmas every year.
Geoff Moore ONLY TOME I BUY !!!!!!!!!😂👍🏼🎶🎶🇨🇱🖖🖖
The Cobalt tape measures from Lowes are made by Komelon. Lowes offers a lifetime replacement warranty, for any reason. I've replaced one in the past 3 years, without issue. While the tapes are more readable, they are more fragile than the Fatmax.
Most of my tapes are the Stanley Fatmax, but I keep one or two of the Cobalt tapes around if I'm doing fine work. Plus they have nice magnetic tips. The Stanley magnets are hokey. The magnetic tip is really nice when working with metal framing and taking measurements on commercial projects where metal is widely used.
My favorite general purpose tapes were the Stanley Fatmax with the chrome case and wide hook. Those were phenomenal for framing work and measuring on site. They would hook and hold well with that large hook, and the famous Fatmax standout was great for those purposes. Especially on a ladder trying to get a measurement. The thinner tapes just fall a few times, leaving you aggravated. I have one 16' chrome case left in my truck that I'm taking care of like it's priceless, but I use it weekly.
All in all, I currently have 4 tapes either in my box or on the truck at any given time.
16' Fatmax chrome cased
25' Fatmax
25' Cobalt
30' Fatmax
They are all used for different reasons. Like any tool in the toolbox, they each have their purpose.
Fat max is the best boyyyyy all I’ve ever bought hands down my favorite! Glad to know I pick them well!
I usually use the blue komelon tape for when I'm fabricating granite and a fatmax when I do tile. Both are good. The blue komelon is stainless and doesn't rust while I use water fabricating, the fatmax will only last me a month while the komelon lasts me a year. The fatmax is an awesome tape.
In my 35 years I’ve used Stanley and Dewalt, now I use Lufkin 16’ ( I’m a cabinet / trim guy), exclusively because they have the best longevity and the blackface both sides, is easiest to read by far, also best palm feel. Great vid Rob as always
I may buy a lufkin after viewing this. I am a Dewalt guy through and through I use that extended reach all the time and they are so damn comfortable to use
Crescent lufkin night eyes g2 25’ for for the win
Used Lufkins since the beginning, on & off for 40yrs. Use one now but regular Stanley Powerlock has been my go-to for a long time. Comfort in hand, works good for a long time & available everywhere at a decent price, are the reasons. You reviews are the best. No stupid BS drama, no ridiculous claims, just intelligent & straight forward info.
I liked Milwaukee’s old magnetic tape. It had 2 magnets one for the end like they still have now. And on that face down so it could stick to a pipe or metal that way.
yes still have a few of these, visibly better than the replacement.
Yesss!!!!! Those where the best
FishFind3000 I liked side hook as well. New gen 2 sits on pipe better though
Ya that's the one I had i didn't rebuy a Milwaukee tape when I needed one because they were different and I went back to the basic Stanley 25'
The primary reason I switched to Milwaukee is that it has a measure on the back of the tape. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve been on a job and complained “Why doesn’t someone put a measure on the back of the tape?” It seems like an obvious thing, but for how many years have all the companies overlooked this? Too bad I couldn’t patent it, because apparently thought of it some 20 years before Milwaukee. Sure you can get the job done without it. But it really makes a difference in speed, sight, and convenience on certain measurements.
The one thing I don’t like about the Milwaukee is that when you use your thumb to slow down or stop the tape from moving, the pressure from your thumb pushes the tape upward, which can cause it to come off your surface at the end. This is more noticeable when doing shorter measurements because the tape is stiffer in shorter sections. However you do learn to overcome this, so it’s not really a big deal.
As far as a 25’ being the standard? I wanted to buy a 35 footer for years, because it’s very useful on roofs where you need a long stretch when you’re working alone (when you don’t have a helper to hold the other end) - especially on steep pitches, and on overhangs. However, the 35’ is so big - I know a few guys with humongous hands who these would be perfect for. But unless I’m going on a roof, I use the 25’. Additionally it will not fit in most pouches, which seem to be designed for a 25 foot tape measure.
By the way, the white scale on the back was designed to use as a surveying stick. That’s why the numbers are upright when the tape is held vertically.
IamNemoN01 Komelon does and it’s ridiculously easy to read
Stanley would be smart to use that description! Their customers would get it and likely appreciate that kinda thing. A good sense of humor is excellent marketing!
I use Stanley Fat Max almost exclusively. Although the finger blade slot on the bottom would be helpful as I try not to slam them home without slowing the blade down manually, but it happens occasionally. In my shop they get oily from the metal, and I have to clean them often with Spray 9 cleaner, and a shop cloth. Other cleaners will take the numbers off over time.
Easily one of the most informational tool comparisons i have ever seen. Super helpful video. Glad the FatMax won cause I've been buying the PowerLock for years and love Stanley tapes
“Essential craftsman”. said his choice is a Stanley; years in the trades and experience, I trust his advice -all his advise has been accurate so far.
I have several Stanley’s I’ve had for years.. I’m not a professional, but I do use them a lot.
I love my Klein tape for electrical work when I’m bending pipe. If I ever forget how much to multiply for the degrees, it gives a chart on the back
Dylan Elder yes the conduit bending chart is awesome for you guys
You don't need a tape measure for that. On alot of greenlee benders the multiplier is on the head of the bender. One side has degrees other side has the multiplier
Or just memorize it! It's only like 3 numbers, and one of them is 2!
Also it's nice to have the lifetime warranty, if I am ever dumb and break my klein tools I take it to home depot and do a 1 for 1 swap and am out in 5 minutes. I think they should have taken that to consideration.
Courtney Sutherlin Greenlee, Ideal, and Klein benders all have the multiplier on one side and the angle on the other, but the Klein tape measure also has the shrink charts which fall off the handles of all the benders. For electrical work where most of your measurements are under 10’, the fatmax is just too big, heavy and bulky, however I do recognize that it is more durable.
My Stanley FatMax (33-725 25) fricken broke the first week of having it. I literally span out like 15’ or so, and its really good to know that pulling it out so far can damage the tape, but it got jammed in a strange way, and literally wouldn’t wind up. Mind you now, it was a 25’. Now i’ve been using those new Craftsman tape measures. (CMHT37625S) So far, 8 months in, and its been the best tape measure i’ve ever had.
I have the STANLEY "Write-On" 25' tape measure. What I like about it is that all the scales are numbered except the 16th scales. This tape measure are for those who can't remember the fraction scales in standard unit of measure. Which is why metric scale is much easier.
The USA just couldn't adopt metric. Literally everyone else uses metric and it is hella easy.
48 years doing construction always use Lufkin or Stanley. I wasn't a bit surprised Lufkin came in number two. I do have some of the others you never know when a boss will come by and want to borrow a tape.
I'm surprised you didn't use the regular Fatmax. I tried the magnetic one and had major issues. Fatmax (regular) is all we use on our jobsite.
Im sure its still an amazing tape - just minus the magnet
Noconz0727 MC I agree! Had the regular fat max for years, thought I would give the magnetic one a try. Nothing but issues. Right back to the regular!
Been using fat Max for years, rough and finish work. I love the easy to read tape.
I've had the magnet stay stuck on a piece of iron and pop out. There you go its a regular Fatmax lol
Everyone knows the fat max is the best tape on the market.
I've been running the Fatmax for 10+ years n the best part is a localy owned hardware store where I'm from exchanges the tapes for free, so when our tape starts running rough or has a slight bend to it we just snap the end off, exchange it n buy a new scratch pad. Love the vids, keep up the great work!!
the chrome Stanley is a favorite of mine. No fancy bells and whistles. Just clear marking tough tape. Great video by the way.
I can’t say one’s better than the other, but my Stanley fatmax was dropped from 20-25 ft and still works perfectly. I work in construction so it handles harsh conditions daily
i bought a Milwaukee tape like the one in this video and it almost immediately stopped retracting itself and getting jammed up. I also hated the belt clip, and the end clip got loose real fast. I know its only my experience but i would not buy one again. I replaced it with a Fat Max and that tape is awesome, its held up well the last couple years. Its super tough, stands out far (i remodeled my house alone so i needed that) and it has yet to get jammed, even though it gets full of drywall and saw dust.
I have a Lufkin 16' tape measure. Have had this thing for years. Also, have a tape i picked up at wal mart, Hyper Tough 25'. Works for what i need it for. Worked on a rough-in crew a couple of years( '97-98'). Had a stanley 25' but lost it, or someone thought they needed it more than i did.
Like you I have always bought the Stanley. I never even thought to buy another until watching this review. Although it didn’t place in the top 2 the Milwaukee has my attention with the features and the scale rule in the back. Thank you for your videos and great content. Stay safe out there
Was a hot metal newspaper printer for almost 40 years and Lufkin was the only tape measure with printer markings (points and picas). To my knowledge they never failed among up to 400 coworkers.
No more Fatmax for me...
I learned a long time ago, have several sized tapes. No need to carry a heavy 30' tape for most finish work. I also learned that I've never cut an 8' sheet good that was longer than (wait for it) 8', so I keep a 12' Stanley in my pocket. On top of that, most of the work I did didn't need me to extend my tape out longer than 16". I keep a 30' for exterior work and framing. But gone are the days of the one tape to rule them all.
I gave up on Fatmaxes. There was a time that they all failed at the 4' mark for some reason, plus it was like lifting a dumbbell after a while and one drop and they'd go to crap. I did however love their operation; Smooth as silk, like if it had ball bearings in it. Oh man, and when those things reeled back in, watch out or you'd get whiplashed! LOL
Tajimas...the best (at least when they were being made in Japan). Love them. Light, easy to read, durable, took a beatin' and well priced. In fact, Tajima makes a few outside-of-the-box thinking tools.
Couldn't agree more. I was on the fatmax train for a long while, then lufkin. I won't go back since i've found tajima. Light, easy to read, Belt clip lasts, it always retracts and it can take a beating.
Yankee Sure your name isn’t “Uncle James” ??
He ALSO would not p/u a pencil !!!!! Said it took too long !!😂 Kept 4-5 in his pocket !
😂👍🏼🖖🖖🎶🎶🇨🇱
Such a thorough testing process. Every gripe and issue I've ever had with a tape measure was thought of in this testing process. I'm decades into my career and have tried dozens of brands. Thank you for this great video! Keep up the amazing work.
I have be running the same milwaukie for about 5 years now. Before that I had a lufkin for about 3 years. Before that it was always Stanley power or level lock.
I've always rocked the beefier 8m dewalt tape working as an industrial carpenter. Great testing but I'll stick to what served me well over many years
Always liked the Fatmax. My preference was always the 30', as quite often I was measuring just over 25'. The last tape I bought was a Kobalt 30' - not particularly durable. Decent standout, the magnet was okay, but quality of materials was sub-par.
Great video, confirms what every tradesman knows- Fatmax is number 1!
I've had two 30' Stanley power lock tapes since 1997 when I started my business and they've really held up. They're also not very rigid at all anymore and when I saw a 25' Milwaukee on clearance for 12 bucks, it was mine. However, I really do need a Fatmax. Most days I work alone and the Fatmax is really helpful when you measure solo.
As a stainless steel pipe fitter I’ve gone through dozens of tape measures. Stanley fatmax was the best and lasted the longest. Would accurately stretch to 10 feet without bowing which made fitting fast and easy. Fatmax hands down reigns supreme.
i replaced my fatmaxes wtih milwaukee... nothing wrong with fatmax, milwaukee is just lighter and more compact package with similar performance...
i also like tajima but theyre lighter duty... komelon broke the first day under light use, the tape is like paper...
When my grandfather passed, the first thing I grabbed from his garage was a Stanley tape measure circa early 70s. He beat the crap out of it - cement contractor. I still use it today, and when I'm not using it, it sits on my mantle above my fireplace in remembrance. He was the best and so are Stanley's!
Back in the 80's the sanitary piping job I had everybody had a Stanley 30"er, I got to like the Stanley Leverlock even though it only came in 25'. In the 90's I got a job in a union Millwright shop and the first thing I noticed was everybody had a Craftsman tape measure. There were made in America back then and when they broke you just took them back to Sears and they gave you a brand new one. ;-) As many tape measures as that 40 man shop kept taking back was probably the downfall of Sears. ;-)
nope it was amazon......again
lil help from wallly mart
OscarWhiskeyFoxtrot what’s a “union millwright shop”? I’m in Australia never heard of one
This is reassuring. I've been using Stanley for years almost exclusively. I use Stanley for a reason that you didn't even address. I use Stanley because on most job sites Stanley is the most common tape used by almost every professional, and Stanely's tolerances are pretty consistent. That means that if I make a measurement, and then someone comes along behind me with a Stanley Tape, they will get the same measurement. That is usually not true if some (or I) come behind someone using a different brand of tape measure. It doesn't matter if I'm working alone from start to finish, but oftentimes (when working off of prints) more than one person is taking measurements. Stanley has practically no variance from tape to tape. I just thought that I'd give you something to consider. I really like your channel. Thank You for the good content.
It's a great comparison definitely. Though I am using a komelon tape at the moment at work and it's held up to work in the metal industry very well so far.
My Stanley lever lock has started to fail by not recouping all the way unless I extend almost all of the tape and reel it back in. I was looking at my options and happened across this video in my feed. Looks like I'm getting another Stanley. Great job on the presentation and data collection.
This side-by-side test was exhaustive and extremely accurate, thanks for a great job guys!
I’ve been scaffolding for 10 years and had two Stanley Fatmax tapes, my first one lasted about 8 years and I am currently on my second one. I find the tape very good for my job and after watching this video I will buy another one when needed.
I’ve been using a Milwaukee 25’ magnetic for well over a year now. It’s my second one bc the first one’s blade snapped after about a year of service. It’s a great tape and it measures faster bc it’s red ;)
I liked the video. I am an old guy now, but years ago, when I was working my way through college (so I didn’t have any debt, lol) I had a job cutting out window parts, running a miter saw. We went through tapes (and drills). Interestingly enough, our two best tapes were Lufkin and Stanley (in that order). I used Lufkin for years after that. Now I own Stanley, but only because that was what happened to be available when I needed to buy a new one. Just in case you might be interested, we eventually came to use only Makita drills. They left all others in the dust. That was more than 45 years ago though. Most tools (name brand tools) seem better made now than then.
Well done. Great tests, and great presentation. I've had the Dewalt tape for several months now, and it's held up really well to my abuse. My next tape will probably be that mag tip Fatmax though! Thanks for the great review!
I've been back and forth on tapes, but for the past year I've been using Lufkin Shockforce almost entirely. The main reason is the gritted hook, which absolutely grips PVC and plastic pipe so easily (I'm a plumber, and I cant tell you how many times I've hooked an end of a pipe to measure a cut only to have the hook fall off with other tapes). It hooks once and doesn't fall off until you want it to. I love the feel of it, the double sided blade, the horizontal lettering on one side but vertical on the other, and the absolute rigidity that it has, because it is definitely the stoutest tape I've ever had (second would be the Milwaukee stud). This is my second Lufkin this year, but not because the first broke. I actually lost it. I want to try the shockforce black widow for its black blade with neon green markings, because working in new crawlspaces can get dark.
I've been using dewalt tapes for a couple years now and no complaints. Great videos, you guys should test knee pads in one of your next videos.
FISCO BIG-T tapes are awesome. I am a cabinet and furniture maker and the Fisco Big-T tapes are all I use. They used to be called Johnson "Big Johnson" tapes, but Fisco Big-T is what to look for now. Yes, I posted twice on this. I go out of my way to let people know about these tapes. No, I have no stock in them, I just like them. Before the Big-T tapes, I used a 16' Lufkin with the Stanley magnetic attachment quick-draw mechanism.
I loved watching you destroy all the tape measures that I hate.
I've been using the Fat Max since it was first introduced, still my favorite.
I've been getting into different tapes for different needs and environments, which generally leaves me with my favorite being babied. Which I'll never complain about.
Awesome test. I have moved to a LUFKIN Black Widow. The hi-viz blade is REALLY easy on the eyes. I have not had any issue with it, but I have not used it setting forms, or real framing yet. More to come after I knock the new off it.
Ever tried a Lukin Multiread tape? The centre measurements include the tape body for when measuring between walls etc. I've used many different brands, and the Multiread is the best on the market in my opinion
I didn't care for the bulkiness of the fat max. But it was a 40'. I am still a fan of the Milwaukee. They have never failed me. Grew up with the powerlock. My go to is still the Milwaukee. Been stick framing for about 20 years. Dropped off roofs, walls, lifts......Still going strong.
Odd one out here 16ft magnetic Milwaukee I lose them more than I break them never had a problem with holds its weight from the magnet has been stepped on dropped from lifts and has a 9ft stand out but nice results
As an apprentice metal stud Framer I used fat max but have since graduated up to the Milwaukee Magnetic 25’ tape measure and simply love it. When it breaks I just take it back to Home Depot and replace it, no questions asked. Maybe I will retry a fat max next time.
I used fatmax for years but recently tried and am using the Milwaukee. I find it more comfortable to work with
I am a trim carpenter and i only use 16' tapes... i personally use Lufkin if i can find one. I find the ones with a square pattern of 4 rivets on the hook last the longest.
I dont like the dewalt/fatmax blades because i find they dont bend as tight into inside corners for baseboard measurements.
Yeah! Stanley tape measure devices are pretty good. I have been using the power lock model for years. Excellent review Bob, keep it on!
The Fisco Big T Tape is by far my favorite. It used to me sold under the Johnson brand as "The Big Johnson". The Fisco Big-T is not real easy to find, but with some effort, it is possible. I have a half dozen stashed just in case they quit making them. The 16' is the one I like best, but I do have a 12' , 25', and a 30'. Check them out. You will not be sorry. Fisco Big-T tape measure.
I like my klein, double sided markings, bold lines every 1/8 inch, smooth lock and rugged
You must have the 30 footer ??
Not that rugged apparently.. thing blew up in the drop test- dead last of all of the ones tested.. they do make a nice tape tho..
Yup, been using Fat Max’s for years so it’s good to know I chose well but I learned about some other features that I will go looking for next time. Very impressed with two sided numbers, high visibility scales and less damaging belt clips. Great info….keep reviewing and comparing tools that don’t break the bank.
These reviews are awesome!!! Never thought you’d be able to compare a tape measure to that level but it was actually pretty interesting. I called the fat max winning from the start, but’s it’s nice to have your biases confirmed :)
I don't get attached to my tape measure, so I use cheap-Os that works and feels good in the store. You can buy a nice 25' tape measure with all the features for 7-8 bucks. It's very unlikely that it will break, abrade, or becomes unreadable. That's because I will surely lose it, have it permanently borrowed, or will run over it long before it fails. I just grab a new one. All I care about is whether the tape will span 8' without buckling, and it's accurate and easy to read.
I measure frameless shower glass for a living. Lots of inside measurement where rolling the tape is not accurate enough. The width of the tape body is critical for easy math on inside measures where you add the body to the extended tape to get the exact measure. The Stanley FatMax 16' Autolock is exactly 3 inches wide, which allows for quick math. You would be surprised how many tapes have random width bodies or don't sit flat against the surface you butt it against to measure between two surfaces. Please include this test in your next comparison.
RT S, Very good point. will have to try it, Thanks.
Get a laser.
This is the reason why I always carry the 16' FatMax
RT S lufkin have a tape that has a center scale on the blade that includes the tapes case. You simply read the center scale at the case when you butt the case to say “a wall” and measure out. I use it for fix out and things like rafters etc etc very very handy......... very easy to confuse apprentices with it hahaha
@@tristanpatterson3843 I own two Bosch GLR 225s. This laser tape doesn't have the accuracy and repeatability that a quality tape does. I rarely get the same reading twice from the same position. For this reason I don't trust it for fine finish work. They are great for rough measures though. Maybe there are better units out there for exacting work.
35 plus years on the job (framing & finish) and always preferred the Stanley Powerlock. used to be that Stanley would (through the local lumber yard) replace a fucked up tape, no questions asked. that became a thing of the past when FatMax came around; “oh well”. i like the 30’ FatMax....it feels good.
if you like the DeWalt tape, Home Depot will replace them “no questions asked”.....but they just don’t feel right.
To me the most important is how it fits in the tool pouch. Always used Stanley not the fatmax. It's too wide but now I use Milwaukee has a nice feel. Always make sure the apprentice had the same tape cause they can vary a 1/16
Hey as long as you're the one that buys him the same tape as yours
I absolutely agree with you, that the fit in the pouch of the tool belt is prime. It has to go in fast and easy, retrieve fast and easy. good readability, get rid of the 32nd scale, My choice over the years is the Lufkin 16' tape. Rarely did I need a 25' tape unless for layout, and most of the time the 16' did fine for that. The 25s jamb up too easy and you spend time playing with the thing. On critical inside to inside measures I use a zigzag with a metal slide out extension. Started in trade school with them and have always used em for accuracy.
I looked at all of those tape measures at Home Depot. All of them were missing an important feature the other had. I went with Mulwark and am quite happy.
Every time I need a new tape I look at all my options and end up with another trusty FatMax.
One of the great features of the Fat Max is that the tip has enough room to retract in the body when you drop your tape. No more bent tips and errors due to that.
Great point sir
Stanley fat max all the way. Been using them for 16 years now.
I love the Stanley 25 foot tape measure, but my favorite of that is the Stanley Lever Lock. So easy to control the rewind. I don't buy anything else. I worked in a cabinet shop as a millman, and my Parts kept coming up too long, with guys coming back to trim the pieces. My boss came out, and had us pull 4 tapes side by side, and within 4 feet, the Lufkin was off 1/4". It was brand new.Threw it away and never bought another one. But where the Lever Lock really shines, is in the field framing. Used a 25 and 30 foot Lever Lock for over 30 years. When framing, every movement counts. I don't want to be balancing 3 stories up on a 2" x 4" wall, trying to work buttons. Just squeeze the lever.
I have dropped my fatmax from 4 meters of scaffolding twice and it still works perfectly fine
Dropped a fatmax 100 feet onto sidewalk, bouncing between brick walls on the way down. Case was cracked but it held up for 2 more months.
I know it might not have been much of a difference, but for the magnetic strength test you should have weighed the tape measures as well. It was also having to support that weight as well hanging from the ceiling.
I didn’t know it was possible to abuse a tape measure beyond throwing it off a roof😂😂. I like the Stanley fatmax tapes. They’re soooo good. The powerlocks are good as well.
Did you notice any tapes with sharper edges then the rest?
P0tat07 the thinner blade tapes Definitely. Had sharper edges
Thrown a few off before?
Stanley's have a nice blade coating that makes the edges much less sharp, at least when new
Amen. That's all I been using for years now.. but I sure would've NEVER thought the Lufkin would come in 2nd
You guys are freakin awesome!! I was leaning toward the FatMax, but only based on a few key features. You made it no-brainer for me. THANKS!
Been using the Stanely Fatmax for years 16ft. Love them but Stanely usta make one called the Fatmax Extream and it by far was the best Tape iv ever used I hate that they discontinued it :/ . It had a bigger head and larger numbers it was chrome and it was the toughest I ever had. Love Stanely Tapes. Great review video.
I love lufkin tape measures only thing i use
Yay lufkin are great
What you will use the tape for will make a difference in which tape is best for you. Do you need precision for cabinet and furniture making in a shop? Or, do you need a long, tough, long stand out tape for deck building, or framing? Need it for welding? These are big differences
No one tape is best for all uses, but for me, having 2 tapes will cover very well nearly all jobs. A 3/4'' wide 16' long tape with great precision for fine work like furniture making. And a 25' or 30' 1'' wide tape for rougher work like framing. Bonus tape! I keep a 6' stanly "little thing" in the truck for the times that I did not think I would need a tape, like measuring a fish you caught, or the length of your drunk buddy's tounge "based on a bet". GOT to make sure your friends measure up to their claims!
Stanley powerlock is what I buy most of the time . Tried chameleon nice design looking but not contractor tuff. Milwaukee every body said it breaks . Stanley is a safe bet they invented the modern day tape measure. I've seen the lefkin hi viz black widow might get that in the future.
I I'm an a electrical Apprentice and I use a FatMax. I'm constantly on a scissor lift and occasionally had dropped my tape measure. It seemed to have always stood up to the drop and work perfectly afterwards. As apprentice who can't always afford to keep buying new tools I definitely recommend for new apprentices to look into buying a Stanley FatMax.
Returned every expensive fatmax I've ever had got a cheap komelon and it's awesome
Been using Stanly only my whole life, couldn't get me to switch now, from back in they when they sold just the replacement tape.
I've used the Fat Max, Lufkin, Power lock, and DeWalt..
The Fat Max is the best overall performer.. then the power lock n the rest trail behind. I wanted the DeWalt to be great cause I'm a fanboy lol but in all honestly, I use fatmax..
the Eiger Advocate it's the same parent company anyways
I was In The market for a new tape looked at the Dewalt looked good figured it was a beefy fat max passed on it guy at work buys it a week later drops it off his belt it cracked in half😳I was like good thing I passed on I always drop my fat max and it works 👍only flaw is the clip eventually goes bad
Komelon shits on them all
Stanley fat max, stanley inside measure and milwaukee magnetic tip are the best I have ever used. I use powdered graphite to lube my tapes it helps keep them dry and working properly.
I love how thorough these tests are!
Same here
Most intensive testing of tape measures on the UA-cam Universe ... you guys are special ! I mean that as a true compliment. So much fun to watch.
rhino ranchThank you brother, have you seen our other head to head tests? We have one coming out this Sunday as well
@@ConcordCarpenter Wow, thanks for the reply. I have watched many of your excellent videos. Thoroughly enjoy 'em. I clicked the bell, so now I will keep up with all new videos. Thanks... have a Great Thanksgiving
@@Clambelly Thanks
Great channel and you do a great informative presentation with reviews, well done, it's great for us tradesmen who utilize tools all day everyday, cheers fellas, well done.
i like the thoroughness of these videos but for this one i would say the best tape measure is the one with the best warranty because no matter what any tape you get is going to break and its our number one tool in any industry. I am a union Sheet Metal worker and i have bought 1 tape measure and have never had to buy a new one, i bought a Kobalt due to it having a lifetime warranty meaning i dont have to wait for a replacement from stanley, i can walk into a lowes grab one off the shelf show my original and im out the door with my new one, if the magnet comes loose or loses the magnet, if it snaps or is cracking whatever the issue they replace it no questions asked and for that it is my only pick without question.
Milwaukee all the way, I love it! I carry a 16ft pretty much everyday 👍🏼
Why 16ft. They are useless
@@BarukHabaBShemYahuah I do glass and the 16' is where it's at for me. I use a 25' when I'm framing or doing carpentry.
I'd be curious about the value winner. When you can buy two tapes for the price of one of the more expensive units, what's the best of those three under $16?
Edit* after reading your article, it looks like the value winner is the Komelon tape (close with that lufkin, but I can buy a sandwich with that five bucks, and a sandwich always wins) being the second least expensive by a few cents, but holding mid to top of pack through most testing and even being first or tied in visibility and hook durability only ever placing last in stand-out. Both the powerlock and the Komelon sort of shine considering you can almost get three for the price of the Dewalt. Still, I know I'm not alone when I ask if you tested for weight and the tendency to catch on things in your ergonomics test. Possibly THE most exasperating thing is getting caught up on something in a tight space. One reason I'm not big on the fat max, or equally chubby tapes. I have to say I was also impressed with the Komelon from the images in the article. it was by far the easiest to read, even after the abrasion test(I'm not sure how you weighted your rankings there) with noticeably little to no glare, with big print. I may have to look into one.
Klein and stanley are my two favorites.
I love the fat max also. I love the wider blade. You didn’t mention that. Once I started using that I could never go back to 1” blade. You can usually find the on sale and get a better deal
Yes he did