Need advice on what toolbox to get.

[Quijote]

I am helping getting our lab at work organized. The plan is to have one set of shared tools and for each work station dedicated to a project to have a smaller set of basic tools that don't have to be shared.

We seldom use very heavy tools, as we mostly work on small assemblies, instruments, etc. The large machinery gets worked on in the manufacturing floor, and they have their tool needs covered. So we don't need a large box, but something medium sized but preferably with a bunch of drawers. My boss is ok with buying a Lista or Snap-On, though frankly that may be overkill.

I did a quick search and found something that I think would work in terms of size and drawers (all three units combined).

http://www.craftsman.com/search=009...Id=10155&levels=Storage+&+Garage_Tool+Storage

Do you guys recommend this or can you point me to a similar size/arrangement tool box from Lista/Snap-On/etc?

Now, as far as each station, what I really want is a small, lockable box to put some basic tools (a few screw drivers, hex keys, pliers, etc). This box is probably still too tall, but otherwise ok.

http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-...p-00965427000P?prdNo=6&blockNo=6&blockType=G6

Ideally, I'd want something I can put a combination lock on. Drawers are not necessarily a requirement, but will probably help keep things organized.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

 

[jkwilson]

Can you mount a drawer unit on a bench? Really better than a box for small stuff, and it's always at the station.

 

[merbie]

kennedy and lista will be good

 

[Quijote]

Can you mount a drawer unit on a bench? Really better than a box for small stuff, and it's always at the station.

Well, we don't know how we'll want to use the space on the bench as we could be developing all sorts of new designs, so my thinking right now is to drill a hole (say in a lower rear corner) and attach a tether and secure it to the work bench. That way in can mostly be on the surface, but if needed, it can be moved around or put on the floor next to it.

 

[MechanicNamedJohn]

If its for a lab then you have to get white, lol.

Maybe a Mac Select Series or Viper?

 

[Catamount]

Have you taken a look at the "strictly toolboxes" options? Some of them are pretty sweet.

http://www.strictlytoolboxes.com/portable-toolbox.html?source=nav-bar

http://www.strictlytoolboxes.com/extreme-toolbox.html?source=nav-bar

 

[bobcatdan]

Can't believe nobody said go to harbor freight yet. Personally I would assemble the tool set you want for the shop and then size the box accordingly. The craftsman combo you linked to is pretty good size box. If you really need that much storage, I probably go with a lista unit. If you want a roll cab set up, I'd also look at Kennedy.

 

[Wamsutta]

For what you describe, sounds like Lista would be perfect.

Lista makes it easy to to install lots of drawer dividers for small parts too.

 

[peaceonesxwai]

The last time i saw that craftsman top n bottom combo, it was on sale for $400 top n bottom around end of May..

I wouldnt recommend a Cman boxes for work use.. they feel very thin and poorly constructed.

 

[colin39]

Another for stricktlytoolboxes, I went there while in florida a few weeks ago, id be all over one if they were sold in the Y-uk.

 

[Ponchoguy]

If the requirement isn't for new, then I'd buy a good used Craftsman box and clean it up and you're in business.

 

[Jarr3tt_G]

Kennedy makes some nice machinist tool boxes that would prolly be a good set up for what you need

 

[Linda@Lista]

@Quijote - I am happy to answer any questions you may have about Lista. Are you looking for mobile box? We have a few different options here worth checking out http://listabox.com/ and you can choose which type of lock you want for most configurations. Feel free to email me with any questions.

 

[stage20]

the harbor frieght stuff is stonger and will have better slides than the sears if you can deal with red, if you want black, then strictly boxes or even home depot has some nice options that may be more in favor than the craftsman.

as for a small box tractor supply. they have 3 and 4 drawer units with roller bearings that are cheaper than sears and far, far better quality. they even come with drawer liners....

 

[rsanter]

I called snap on and asked them your question.
They recommended snap on boxes for your application

Bob

 

[merbie]

Are you sure? I would have thought they would say mac? Lol


Sent from the sticks

 

[Adam.C]

I carry no torch for Lista, but when you say "bunch of drawers" Lista instantly comes to mind. No mechanics chest will be laid out with lots of narrow drawers. For that you need a machinists chest like a Kennedy, or for more industrial use, a Lista.

My recommendation is to define what you mean when you say "bunch of drawers". Do you mean no tools requiring deeper than a 2" drawer? If so, I think I would email Linda. I think they may even offer scratch and dent models.

One more thing- the Lista divider system is a pretty cool advantage for industrial users storing tools and bolts say in the same box.

Buying an inexpensive box may be a false economy for an industrial setting. When it is damaged, you need parts or warranty service, that can be a problem. And companies that rely on foreign made boxes, tho they may stand behind lifetime warrantees, they may not be able to supply parts or identical boxes in the future, where Lista and Snap On more than likely would.