Stanley FatMax Folding Utility Knife

As far as folding utility knives go, Milwaukee’s FastBack II is my current favorite, and Dewalt’s folding retractable knife is a close second. If I had to pick a third favorite, it would probably be this Stanley FatMax model.

Stanley’s FatMax folding utility knife (FMHT10827) is simply yet effectively designed. Blade changes are quick and easy, and there’s even internal storage for up to 3 spare blades.

Ergonomics are decent, blade deployment is relatively swift, the liner lock securely locks the blade in the open position, and the folded-up package is highly pocketable,

When the knife is folded closed, a triangular box/package opener provides a safe and easy way to cut through taped seams.

By all regards, this is a rather unremarkable utility knife, but that’s part of why I like it. It’s solidly built but not too flashy.

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Street price: ~$10

Update: In what is likely a random occurrence, I experienced blade pull-out once, where the blade retention mechanism was not strong enough to keep the blade inside the knife during a tough application. Since then I’ve strongly favored other folding utility knives over this one.

Thank you to Stanley for providing the review sample unconditionally. Review samples are typically given away, donated, or retained for benchmark and comparison purposes.