Bosch DLR165 K vs. Stanley Fat Max TLM100

[BlueDog007]

I realize the prices for these two units are $169 vs. $99. I realize the difference in measuring distance is 165 feet vs. 100 feet. I have read alot of good things about the Stanley. Does anybody have any other additional comments b/t these 2 and which one is the best for the money. It will be used for appraisal purposes.

 

[VolcanoLvr]

Ric..........

You can read my other posts about the FatMax, however:

How do YOU intend to use the laser measure tool?

When's the last time YOU had to measure a residential distance over 100'?

Will the laser tool be a primary measure device, or will YOU still rely on tapes for the majority of your 'harder' measurements?

For me, the FatMax is a secondary tool, although I'm using it more when it's more convenient than using my 30' or 100' tape in a particular spot. I carry all three in my tool pouch on every job.

So in my case, spending $70 more is not worth it. The FM works perfectly fine for about 90% of my measures when I employ it rather than a tape. The other 10% is due to bright sunshine or too much in the way, or not enough surface to get an accurate 'hit.'

I'm also not one to use the sticky tape metal targets sold for $30 each. Nice idea, just not good for me.

Bottom line....if you're not already using a laser measuring tool, you're missing out on a very handy device for our work. You will discover plenty of ways to simplify your measuring for sketch pages. And it will actually save you time = $$ savings on-site. It will pay for itself over time.

 

[JC California]

ricbiggers,

I was in the contracting business prior to becoming an appraiser and have always insisted on having the best tools. A tape measure has been my measuring tool of choice for over 20 years. About a year ago, I purchased the Stanley Fat Max TLM100 even though I was skeptical of the accuracy. I double checked and double checked and found for residential measurements it is more accurate than a tape measure. The only problem I have found is difficulty viewing in bright sunlight. A plus for inside measurements over a tape anytime. I did make a slight alteration to mine by drilling a small hole inside the battery case at the bottom of the unit, attached a camera strap that fastens to a belt loop and is carried in my front pocket. The benefit of the strap is if accidentally dropped it falls short of the ground and undamaged. Best $100 I have spent in some time.

 

[ockyappraiser]

Guys. . .the stuff you buy at Home Depot is for homeowners. You are in a professional field. Get a Disto. Far better accuracy, distance and reliability. I bought one used 7 years ago on Ebay for $275. I have dropped it and left it in the car for 7 years with freezing temps. Still as accurate and dependable as the day I bought it.

Comparing Stanley to Disto is like comparing a Kodak camera to a Nikon.

 

[Harve Bean]

Kodak does the job!

 

[Abschatzer]

Kodak does the job!

But not as good as a Nikon...

 

[BlueDog007]

I will use the device for residential appraisal work and residential custom construction. Most homes will be within the 100' distance. But, I have read the Bosch unit is much better than the Stanley. However, lots of good comments about the Stanley as well. I want to start by using one of these units and eventually buy a Disto. I can't see myself spending that kind of money for one right now. Maybe in the future if I like working with one of these.

Also, how do you take exterior measurements with the Stanley? Come off of the corner of the home 2-3 inches and hit the red dot at the other corner or what? I have never used a laser before last night, and was truly amazed at how much better the Stanley was than the ultrasonic POS!!! Can you stand say 15' from the house and move the unit left to right to get a wall length? I think you can with the Bosch. I know you can with the Disto. I don't think so with the Stanley! Any comments are appreciated........even from you Disto gals/guys!

 

[Randall Garrett]

ricbiggers,

You DO know that Leica Geosystems ("Disto") actually makes the Stanley unit, right?

I believe the best source for user input and help on measuring with a Disto is the MobileAppraisersGroup on Yahoo. While there are many here who also use a Disto, the MobileAppraisersGroup is more focused on topics like this.

From your description, I would highly recommend getting a unit that has a scope. This is essential for most work where routine measurements are more than (say) 30' in outdoor/sunny conditions. I believe that the "lowest" model with a scope is the Disto A5 and the Stanley TLM300, which are pretty much the same model, LOL. People who really know lasermeters say that they'd recommend the "real Leica" over the branded Stanley due to the way warranty work is handled. I have to beg off making a recommendation on brand due to my long association in developing the Bluetooth Lasermeter (Plus and later A6) - so I am biased, but only on the BT side of things.

If BT is not something you need/want, consider the new Hilti PD-42. I believe it is just slightly more than an A6, but I know a lot of appraisers who prefer this new unit, simply because it is easier to "see the dot" through the scope at distances and/or less than ideal lighting conditions.

Disclaimer: We sell Disto products, but we also recognize their deficiencies along with their strengths.

Hence, I'd say to contact Matt Johnson at appraiserdeopt.com for advice on models, etc. Matt is also an ex-appraiser and really knows his stuff. If he recommends a more expensive model, it will NOT be because he is trying to up-sell you - it would be because it is a better fit for your needs. You wont find anyone who has dealt with Matt who says he was not more than fair and has gone the extra mile for a customer. If you hear of a problem with a Disto or seller, it'll be because they got it somewhere else!

Anyway, Matt also did a video CD on how to use a Disto and I believe he has some short ones available on his site. Also, you might want to see if anyone in your area is proficient with a Disto and offer to buy them a burger and a beer if they'll show you the ropes. Having someone who knows how to do it properly and efficiently will save you a bunch of time and get you a return on your investment much faster.

Hope this helps!
...

 

[BlueDog007]

How do I go to MobileAppraisersGroup in Yahoo?

 

[Vegan702]

I have used my Fatmax to measure homes from 700SF to over 15000SF without any problems. The only issues were in bright sunlight where the Disto would probably have similar problems, but I ma not going to find out for the extra $300-$400 over the Fatmax. When in sunlight I just use my clipboard to cover the laser emitting from the Fatmax and have no problems. They are accurate to measurments much smaller then I will ever need, so the accuracy issue is just fluff.