Stanley FatMax Autolock Tape Measure 5m / 8m

The Stanley FatMax tape measure is one of the most recognisable tools on site, and this Autolock version earns its place in the pouch with a few genuinely useful improvements over a standard tape. The XTHT0-335 is built around a patented reverse lock mechanism that gives you proper control over blade extension and retraction, which also reduces the wear that kills most tapes before their time. Available in 5m and 8m lengths, it suits both general trades work and larger layout jobs.

The blade itself is Mylar coated, which makes it up to ten times more resistant to abrasion than a standard lacquered blade. That matters when you’re pulling a tape across rough blockwork, timber, or concrete day after day. The first 80mm of blade also has BladeArmor coating applied, which is the area that takes the most punishment every time the tape snaps back. Combined, these two features roughly double the working life of the blade compared to an unprotected equivalent.

Stanley FatMax Autolock Tape Measure in Use

The 3m blade standout is a practical detail that gets used more than you’d think. Being able to extend three metres unsupported means you can measure across a room or along a wall without needing a second person to hold the end. For solo working, that’s a genuine time saver. The detachable hook is another well-considered feature. Being able to remove and refit the hook means you can adapt the tape for different measuring conditions, including butting up against a surface where a fixed hook would get in the way.

The bi-material case is comfortable to hold and gives a decent grip even with dusty or damp hands. A secure belt hook keeps the tape close to hand without it shifting around when you move. On a busy site, small things like that matter more than they sound.

Blade Width and Readability

The 32mm blade width gives you a clear, easy-to-read scale without the tape buckling under its own weight when extended. The graduation markings are bold and well-spaced, which reduces misreads when you’re working quickly or in poor light. A wider blade also holds its line better on long standout measurements, so the reading at the far end is more reliable.

The Stanley FatMax Autolock sits at the practical end of the FatMax range. It is not a cheap tape, but it is priced to reflect the blade durability and build quality rather than brand premium alone. If you go through tapes regularly, the extended blade life means this one is likely to pay for itself before long. Whether you reach for the 5m or the 8m depends on the work, but for most trades the 8m covers the widest range of jobs without becoming unwieldy.