The folding rule you recognize blindfolded

The red end of the Hultafors folding rule has long been the sign of a true pro. Since its invention in 1883 our folding rule has changed how work trousers are sewn. And to this day it’s the craftsman’s first choice for measuring.

Invented by Karl Hilmer Johansson Kollén in 1883

The Hultafors founder, Karl Hilmer Johansson Kollén, invented the folding rule in 1883. And ever since, we have manufactured folding rules for professionals all over the world. In fact, our folding rule is just about to complete its 12th turn around the globe. Since the start we have produced 480 million meters of folding rules.

More than 140 years of precision

An impressive number, yet also proof of how successful a smart idea can be. Especially if you devote 140 years to constant improvements. Because, even though today’s folding rule is very much the same as the classic invention of Karl Hilmer, many small changes have been made over the years.

When you are a pro. You know.

Yet, the genuine feeling remains. The one that makes a professional craftsman recognize a Hultafors folding rule blindfolded. It feels so right lying in your hand, and the joints have that great smoothness when folding.

That is why we rarely need to explain for professionals why to choose the Hultafors folding rule. They already know. But how a folding rule is made, and how it came about – not everybody knows!

A rule with many names

The switch from inches to metric scale might bring about a change of name.

There’s a Swedish proverb saying that “a loved child has many names.” The folding rule is no exception. In Swedish it’s commonly referred to as a “tumstock”, an inch rule. Yet, since the scale used nowadays is metric, some argue it should be called “meterstock”, a meter rule. However, old names tend to stick.

Feel free to call it what you like, we are happy you enjoy using it.

Tools we talked about

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