Proto Toolboxes

[pvanderlugt]

Any thoughts on Proto tool boxes? Been thinking about upgrading my 10 year old Craftsman boxes for something a little more substantial…plus running out of room…. Proto has a couple of 55 inch boxes with a layout that would work well for me, and the price is not too bad…..
Where do they rank in the tool box world…? They are the equivalent of a ….??? I know it won’t be a Lista or a tool truck box, but it seems to be made from a little thicker metal then most of Big Box/ Craftsman/HF stuff, plus made in the USA.. I can’t find anyone local that sells them to play with and see what they are like…..
Been looking at this site’s sponsors, but really don‘t see anything that I can get super enthusiastic about……
I do not do this for a living, but do work on a lot of stuff…..
Pete

 

[m6z]

Here's a somewhat recent thread.

Proto Velocity Tool Cabinets - Any Info?

Proto has apparently rolled out a new line of tool cabinets called "The Velocity Series". Pricing is well below the 550S series due to lighter steel (18 gauge) smaller size (22.375" D and 38.5" high). I'm sure all of the components are a little cheaper than the 550S, but reflected in pricing of...

www.garagejournal.com

 

[Bradc1989]

I use a 540 at work. My only complaint is the Lock. There seems to be very very little clearance for the hook that slides over the back of the drawers, which is good for security but it can make it a pain to lock. Evert drawer must be closed all the Way, firmly against the back of the slide Or the locks won’t engage. Other then that, it’s a solid box. if I’m not mistaken the velocity series took the place of the 540. Mine is the 41” and I think the gray drawers and safety red is an awesome color combo. They say the 550 is a much more solid box, but the price increase to the. 550 is pretty steep.

 

[Draftpick1]

I use a 540 at work. My only complaint is the Lock. There seems to be very very little clearance for the hook that slides over the back of the drawers, which is good for security but it can make it a pain to lock. Evert drawer must be closed all the Way, firmly against the back of the slide Or the locks won’t engage. Other then that, it’s a solid box. if I’m not mistaken the velocity series took the place of the 540. Mine is the 41” and I think the gray drawers and safety red is an awesome color combo. They say the 550 is a much more solid box, but the price increase to the. 550 is pretty steep.

I would second the lock I have issues with mine locking

 

[pvanderlugt]

Thanks guys, the link to the other thread is exactly the box I am looking at, and thanks for the feed back on the lock….and yes, the 550 series would probably be a much more sturdier box, but for those prices you might as well get a truck box…… looking for something a little more “prosumer” grade….and I really like the layout of the 55 inch one with the bigger drawer..
pete

 

[Tuc04]

Pretend the mess doesn’t exist. I like my Protos and I’ve had them starting about 8 years ago and slowly adding. When I bought the blue ones 3 years back I checked harbor freight, HD, Lowe’s and Sears to compare. I stuck with the Proto since they seemed better built and sturdier than the other options and the US made was a plus. They used to be made in the same factory as Mac toolboxes, not sure if that is still accurate. I bought all of mine during the golden age of Zoro. 30% off, free shipping, no tax.

 

[pvanderlugt]

Thanks guys, enough good reviews and positive responses… going to pull the trigger…..will keep an eye for Zoro coupons… as a side question, does Zoro offer free shipping for their promotions ?? i see they have a $300 delivery surcharge on Proto boxes… or any other recommendations for places to buy? Thinking about 2 each 55inch bottom boxes and one top…not in the mood to pay 900 for shipping…..
thanks
Pete

 

[Draftpick1]

You can try Grainger they carry Proto and try and see if they will match prices and shipping if free if you pick it up at the store

 

[Ton ton]

Did you try your local Napa? Sometimes there is Proto stuff listed in the real deals.

 

[pvanderlugt]

I will definitely try those 2 possibilities…..
pete

 

[4 FN 27]

I have only purchased 1 smaller Proto Side Box for a Trailer I was finishing. I wasn't sure about it until I received it and it came with the same Customer Satisfaction Survey Sheet as my Mac MB1350 and MB1922. Built by Georgetown Tool Box...but I did hear they closed that operation down not too long ago so things could be different.

I really like Proto.

With that said I recently ordered 3 Tekton Tool Cabinets and I could not be happier with the construction and quality of these boxes. Might be worth a look.