New favorite Tape Measure The FlatBack

[leehljp]

I ordered the FastCap ProCarpenter FlatBack 16ft Tape Measure last week end from McFeelys and it arrived on Friday. I used it this afternoon and all I can say is WOW. It is like using a cross between a steel rule for accuracy and a tape measure for flexibility.

Curved tape measures have their place but for accuracy in marking, the fatback sure leaves nothing to the imagination. The marks are flat on the wood so that you know easily where to mark.

I did a search and this tape has been mentioned on occasion in the past. I did not pay much attention to the notes at the time, but I sure missed out on what is coming to the top of my list as a favorite.

My "now" second favorites are my 25ft Center Finder tapes.

http://www.mcfeelys.com/product/FSC-...k-Tape-Measure

[RodKirby]

Thanks, Hank - just placed my order

[sweensdv]

Been using one for years, they're great.

[cabinetman]

An interesting design. I've gotten used to the slight curve with Stanleys. Seems viewing it places the edge at a good angle for me. But, the details of yours has merits: Metric/standard reading, built-in pencil sharpener (cool idea),
erasable note pad (handy to have).


.

[Bruce Cohen]

Its the only tape I use in the shop, still go to a Stanley for its standout (maybe they make them with a Viagra coating).
Bruce

[gsmittle]

Its the only tape I use in the shop, still go to a Stanley for its standout (maybe they make them with a Viagra coating).
Bruce

The mind boggles, Bruce. I've been using the flatback for years, the one with the left-to-right markings and room for story-stick like markings. In fact, when my first one broke (dropped it on concrete and broke the spring post inside) I immediately went and got a new one. As in five minutes later.

g.

[Bruce Cohen]

Ah, deranged minds think (?) alike. Its all I use other than my Bridge City 6", 12" and 15" rules.
I too have two of them, just incase I forget where I put one. Who says "The Golden Years" are fun???

Bruce

[leehljp]

WHY DID YOU FELLOWS LET ME GO SO LONG without using one of these?

I am looking at their catalog for the "storying" one now!

[Richard in Smithville]

This is an interesting tape measure but I have a question. It's usually the curve in the tape that allows you to extend it. So is this tape only good when supported, such as along a board? It seems like it would be more for marking rather than measuring( like over an open space or up a wall).

Also the last time I had a tape measure with both units, the unit I wanted to use would be on the wrong side(LOL)

[drobbins]

I have been using the FastCap Lefty / Righty for a few years, it is my favorite tape. One problem is that the numbers wear out around the one to two inch marks. So every couple of years I order 2 more and trash the bad one. It's worth the cost to me to have the inch marking on both side of the tape. A few weeks ago I had a issue with the tape so I contacted FastCap customer service, all I can say is that they were fantastic. I have never had a company respond to an issue the way they did. I also have 3 other models of their tapes and I am very pleased.

[BobSch]

And another tool gets ordered. Thanks for the tip.

[leehljp]

This is an interesting tape measure but I have a question. It's usually the curve in the tape that allows you to extend it. So is this tape only good when supported, such as along a board? It seems like it would be more for marking rather than measuring( like over an open space or up a wall).

Also the last time I had a tape measure with both units, the unit I wanted to use would be on the wrong side(LOL)

Yes, this does not support itself more than about a foot. It is more for Marking than for measuring as in measuring a room. It is good in measuring flat boards and plywood. I used it instead of one of my many flat steel rules of different length. And one other advantage is that the curved rules have to be rolled to the side to get a fairly accurate marking. ON this one, you don't have to roll to the side to get perfect measurements.

[leehljp]

And another tool gets ordered. Thanks for the tip.

Watch closely on which one you order. There are many models and not all are "FlatBack". The ones that ARE "Flatback" will say so. Even without the flatback, this brand does have some good features all around.

[Pappy]

I just checked on shipping. $7.00 on an $8.25 tool. I'll pass....

Irritates me when companies base shipping on how much you buy, not what you buy.

[chopnhack]

I have seen them in the past and toyed with the idea, but figured it was just gimmicky and the old stanley has been good enough. Maybe I'll let one tag along on an order in the future, thanks for the review.