Stuck Picking My Next Tool Box

[Mr.Smoke]

EDIT: Figured I would give the OP an update for those who haven't been following along or have just dropped in and don't wish to read everything. On Friday Feb. 12th after a couple weeks of comparing about a dozen different boxes/brands I decided to put my deposit down on a 72" Styrke rolling cabinet. At the time of this edit Styrke is currently in production of their next batch of about 60 boxes which includes mine. They are expected to be ready to ship in late April or early May.




This is my first post here at GJ. I've been directed here many times in my recent research on tool boxes.

A little back story. I am a commercial trailer tech in Ontario Canada and looking to replace my Snap-On 40" Heritage 13 drawer box that has an old SPG/International side cabinet attached. Naturally I first looked at S-O boxes and quickly decided a new one was too rich for my blood. Currently the 2 local S-O guys have nothing used that interests me and are trying to sell me a new 55" one with SS top for around $6,500CAD taxes in. I just can't justify that cost for the amount of increased storage space when other quality options are out there.

(edit: I'd really like a new tool box vs used as this should be my "lifetime" tool box for at work)

So I started looking elsewhere and seem to have narrowed it down to a couple of choices. I came across a Canadian company called Styrke and I'm going to meet a local rep tonight to physically check out their 72" rolling chest. Only downside I can see is that I really don't need that much space but they don't offer anything in the 55" range. The value seems to be incredible though at a $4,500CAD MSRP with a SS top, but I may be able to work a deal as the rep knows some friends of mine.

The other choice I am looking at is the Extreme Pro Series 55" which appears to have slightly thicker construction than the Styrke. My only concern is the COO on the Extreme box as the Styrke is built in Canada. The Extreme comes with a SS top as well. The drawer layout would work very well for me and weight ratings on the drawers look to be some of the best in the industry. My employer is a vendor for a tool catalogue (G2S for you Canucks) and we get items at cost so I may be able to get the Extreme at a great price. I contacted Shannon as well to compare but international shipping, currency conversion and import fees could make it too costly buying from him.

I'm curious if anyone here has some firsthand, real world experience with these boxes and can offer some comparison insight for me. I don't believe Extreme are sold in any stores here in Canada where I can physically go and check out one of their boxes to make a comparison myself.

I look forward to hearing some feedback from you knowledgeable folks!

 

[richfinn]

Aren't the Tekton/Rousseau boxes made in Canada??

Those look awesome ��

 

[stainlessyyc]

Styrke is a Chinese box built in Canada so that’s what helps with the price. They’re local and nice enough but seem to be putting out revisions every new batch they bring in which is good but you don’t really know what version you’re getting or how it will compare. I would just do a grey box as they’re half the price or a husky box especially if you need it somewhat mobile.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

I would say US General but you aren’t in the US. Maybe look at something at that Princess Auto store they have up there and see what you can find. Also Craftsman and Husky and Kobalt boxes are nice too if you have Lowe’s and Home Depot up there.


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[Mr.Smoke]

Aren't the Tekton/Rousseau boxes made in Canada??

Those look awesome ��

I haven't looked into the Tekton boxes, although I did almost get their chrome socket set but opted for GearWrench instead due to the steep discounts offered at my work. It seems the make some decent products but I'm leary as they are still fairly new to the game from my understanding. I will check out their offerings later today.

Styrke is a Chinese box built in Canada so that’s what helps with the price. They’re local and nice enough but seem to be putting out revisions every new batch they bring in which is good but you don’t really know what version you’re getting or how it will compare. I would just do a grey box as they’re half the price or a husky box especially if you need it somewhat mobile.

The price of the Styrke and being built in Canada are the main selling points for me. Another great thing is their shallow drawers have 2" inside height where most others are 1.75" or so. Having that extra little bit will allow me to store my SK wrenches on their included racks in a shallpw drawer instead of using a deeper drawer or havin to buy lower profile racks, or lay them down flat. I don't need the box mobile at all as I have a small service cart if I need to wheel tools around.

I would say US General but you aren’t in the US. Maybe look at something at that Princess Auto store they have up there and see what you can find. Also Craftsman and Husky and Kobalt boxes are nice too if you have Lowe’s and Home Depot up there.


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Princess Auto is great for stuff at home in the driveway, but their boxes wouldn't hold up well enough over time.



I did hear back from Strictly Tool Boxes and they don't ship up here unfortunately. Extreme got back to me as well and I was sad to hear their boxes are made overseas. Their shallow drawers only have 1.8" of clearance which was a letdown as well.

 

[stainlessyyc]

Yeah if your box doesn’t have to move the deep 72’s are nice for sure then!

Don’t forget pics when you have it filled

 

[anavrinIV]

I haven't looked into the Tekton boxes, although I did almost get their chrome socket set but opted for GearWrench instead due to the steep discounts offered at my work. It seems the make some decent products but I'm leary as they are still fairly new to the game from my understanding. I will check out their offerings later today.




The price of the Styrke and being built in Canada are the main selling points for me. Another great thing is their shallow drawers have 2" inside height where most others are 1.75" or so. Having that extra little bit will allow me to store my SK wrenches on their included racks in a shallpw drawer instead of using a deeper drawer or havin to buy lower profile racks, or lay them down flat. I don't need the box mobile at all as I have a small service cart if I need to wheel tools around.




Princess Auto is great for stuff at home in the driveway, but their boxes wouldn't hold up well enough over time.



I did hear back from Strictly Tool Boxes and they don't ship up here unfortunately. Extreme got back to me as well and I was sad to hear their boxes are made overseas. Their shallow drawers only have 1.8" of clearance which was a letdown as well.

The Tekton boxes are made by rousseau, a reputable canadian company. You can buy the parent company's version (again, Tekton is a rebadge) in country. A very good option for you

 

[BenHilton]

Be sure to look at the used market. I picked up a 50" Mac Tech Series with an SS top for $2700CAD pre pandemic. Box was in great shape bar a bit of rust on the bottom edge where the PO knicked the paint and our lovely Ontario road salt got to it in a wet shop environment.

Most of the used stuff is overpriced, but reasonable people do turn up eventually, it's just a waiting game.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

Yeah if your box doesn’t have to move the deep 72’s are nice for sure then!

Don’t forget pics when you have it filled

Only time it will move is if/when I switch jobs and I tend to stay at jobs for 5-10+ years. Only been here about a year and a half so far.

The Tekton boxes are made by rousseau, a reputable canadian company. You can buy the parent company's version (again, Tekton is a rebadge) in country. A very good option for you

I looked at the Tekton website. Their 60" would be my choice in the 30" deep option. Not a big fan of the drawer layout, the lower height (most I'm looking at are 46" which is ideal for me being 6'4" tall) and that it doesn't have a stainless top. Aside from that it looks pretty damn good and I love that it's made in Canada.

Be sure to look at the used market. I picked up a 50" Mac Tech Series with an SS top for $2700CAD pre pandemic. Box was in great shape bar a bit of rust on the bottom edge where the PO knicked the paint and our lovely Ontario road salt got to it in a wet shop environment.

Most of the used stuff is overpriced, but reasonable people do turn up eventually, it's just a waiting game.

Trust me, I've scoured the used market and checked with local tool trucks. Can't seem to find anything ideal for me out there right now. I passed on a used 55" Master Series over the weekend, one of the guys at work has the same box. It looked like it was from the 90's and seen better days. Dude wanted $2,500 for it and I just couldn't bring myself to pull the trigger. A big gripe with S-O boxes is the 1.75" inside height on the shallow drawers. Anything smaller than a 54"/55" and less than 24" deep isn't going to give me a whole lot more space which makes spending a few thousand hard to justify.

I'm hoping this Styrke box exceeds my expectations. I contacted them and they told me they have plans to bring in a 54" model but they are already having troubles keeping up with their 72" orders. Could be a year before it comes to fruition.



The search continues.....

 

[isb cornbinder]

NAPA and Loews have a nice selection of tool boxes, in Canada.

 

[GForceJunky]

Look at Rousseau directly - not Tekton. They have a substantial offering list and will basically make whatever you want. Tons of sizes, drawer layouts, dividers, tops, colours, etc. etc.

As mentioned, they are made in Canada and not just 'assembled in Canada' with Chinese junk.

Gray Tools is also a Canadian (Ontario) tool company that has tool chest/cabinet offerings. I assume the cabinets/chests are made for them but they're for sure made in North America.

http://www.graytools.com/toolcatalo...e=Toolboxes & Organizers&itemNo=501&recPage=9

 

[CS454]

Contact Rousseau directly, Gray's boxes have gone offshore. Look at used, I'm in Ontario myself and there's lots of good deals. Mac dealer just got rid of a real nice KRL1022 for $2500.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

Styrke is a Chinese box built in Canada so that’s what helps with the price.

I need to quote you on this again. I spoke with Styrke directly today. Their box was designed by the guy who started the company. They import some of the parts and have other local businesses handle some aspects of production/manufacturing like the welding and powdercoating. He said about 40% of the entire process is done in house including final assembly of the units. Not too shabby for a very small company IMHO and sounds like the type of small Canadian business I want to support.

NAPA and Loews have a nice selection of tool boxes, in Canada.

Not doubting that one bit. My issue becomes I can likely order a comparable or superior box from Extreme at a lower price due to the wholesale discount I get through work. I will browse their websites (lockdown here so only curbside pickup) though to see what they offer.

Look at Rousseau directly - not Tekton. They have a substantial offering list and will basically make whatever you want. Tons of sizes, drawer layouts, dividers, tops, colours, etc. etc.

As mentioned, they are made in Canada and not just 'assembled in Canada' with Chinese junk.

Gray Tools is also a Canadian (Ontario) tool company that has tool chest/cabinet offerings. I assume the cabinets/chests are made for them but they're for sure made in America.

I did check out the Rousseau website. Pretty cool that you can build one with the layout you want. Not many places offer that level of customization. Custom (typically) means a higher cost though, but I may submit a request for a quote just for comparison sake. Only downside is no 30" depth offering like the Tekton variants. I will have a peek at Grey as well.

Contact Rousseau directly, Gray's boxes have gone offshore. Look at used, I'm in Ontario myself and there's lots of good deals. Mac dealer just got rid of a real nice KRL1022 for $2500.

I've looked at used. No bueno around me or even within a reasonable distance. If I'm being totally honest, I'd actually prefer something brand new. When I started in the trade 15+ years ago I bought a brand new International box amd had it for about 10 years until I bought my current KRA4813 used for a steal. I'd like to buy my "lifetime" tool box next and really want it to be new. The KRL1022 is a nice box, no doubt but at half the price of a new one of those I can buy a 72" Styrke which is built just as well. I got my hands on one of their boxes tonight and my expectations were greatly exceeded.




My thoughts after viewing the Styrke box.....

I thoroughly inspected the dealers personal box which is an earlier model. I was very impressed with the build quality and would easily put it on par with Snap-On Master Series, Mac and other top tier boxes at a fraction of the cost. For comparison, my S-O rep offered me a "deal" on a brand new 55" KCP1422 with stainless top for $6,500 taxes in. With trading my box in at $1,000 value it would still cost more than buying the 72" Styrke WITHOUT trading in my KRA4813 which makes the Styrke a no brainer over anything new from a tool truck. Finding something to rival the quality and price is going to be difficult I think, but my search isn't over quite yet!!

 

[ive]

Look at Rousseau directly - not Tekton. They have a substantial offering list and will basically make whatever you want. Tons of sizes, drawer layouts, dividers, tops, colours, etc. etc.

As mentioned, they are made in Canada and not just 'assembled in Canada' with Chinese junk.

Gray Tools is also a Canadian (Ontario) tool company that has tool chest/cabinet offerings. I assume the cabinets/chests are made for them but they're for sure made in North America.

http://www.graytools.com/toolcatalo...e=Toolboxes & Organizers&itemNo=501&recPage=9

Beech used to make the gray tool boxes. Beech is no longer in business.

 

[ive]

I need to quote you on this again. I spoke with Styrke directly today. Their box was designed by the guy who started the company. They import some of the parts and have other local businesses handle some aspects of production/manufacturing like the welding and powdercoating. He said about 40% of the entire process is done in house including final assembly of the units. Not too shabby for a very small company IMHO and sounds like the type of small Canadian business I want to support.




Not doubting that one bit. My issue becomes I can likely order a comparable or superior box from Extreme at a lower price due to the wholesale discount I get through work. I will browse their websites (lockdown here so only curbside pickup) though to see what they offer.




I did check out the Rousseau website. Pretty cool that you can build one with the layout you want. Not many places offer that level of customization. Custom (typically) means a higher cost though, but I may submit a request for a quote just for comparison sake. Only downside is no 30" depth offering like the Tekton variants. I will have a peek at Grey as well.




I've looked at used. No bueno around me or even within a reasonable distance. If I'm being totally honest, I'd actually prefer something brand new. When I started in the trade 15+ years ago I bought a brand new International box amd had it for about 10 years until I bought my current KRA4813 used for a steal. I'd like to buy my "lifetime" tool box next and really want it to be new. The KRL1022 is a nice box, no doubt but at half the price of a new one of those I can buy a 72" Styrke which is built just as well. I got my hands on one of their boxes tonight and my expectations were greatly exceeded.




My thoughts after viewing the Styrke box.....

I thoroughly inspected the dealers personal box which is an earlier model. I was very impressed with the build quality and would easily put it on par with Snap-On Master Series, Mac and other top tier boxes at a fraction of the cost. For comparison, my S-O rep offered me a "deal" on a brand new 55" KCP1422 with stainless top for $6,500 taxes in. With trading my box in at $1,000 value it would still cost more than buying the 72" Styrke WITHOUT trading in my KRA4813 which makes the Styrke a no brainer over anything new from a tool truck. Finding something to rival the quality and price is going to be difficult I think, but my search isn't over quite yet!!

Did you take any pics? Did the dealer say what has been changed since that model build?

 

[Mr.Smoke]

Did you take any pics? Did the dealer say what has been changed since that model build?

Unfortunately I did not remember to take any pictures. I was occupied taking measurements and asking questions. I thought of it after I had left.... his shop is literally 8 mins from my house though, I'm sure I could swing by again.

The drawer slides are the biggest change since the batch when his personal box was made. He had his current version demo there as well so I could see they were essentially the same. The slides on his personal box didn't allow the drawer to fully extend. Styrke had the manufacturer of the slides alter them to fully extend. He also mentioned that Styrke plans to have all future upgrades/changes be available as a "bolt on" for previous models. Sounds like no major plans to alter the core construction.

When I spoke with Bob from Styrke on FB earlier today he mentioned the very first batch of 64" boxes (no longer made/available) had thicker steel in certain areas where it really wasn't necessary. That bottom box apparently weighed almost 1,500 lbs empty, which is insane. The 72" Styrke weighs 875 lbs empty which is almost identical to the Extreme 55" Pro at 872 lbs.

 

[ive]

Anyone here have a Rousseau made box?

 

[ive]

Unfortunately I did not remember to take any pictures. I was occupied taking measurements and asking questions. I thought of it after I had left.... his shop is literally 8 mins from my house though, I'm sure I could swing by again.

The drawer slides are the biggest change since the batch when his personal box was made. He had his current version demo there as well so I could see they were essentially the same. The slides on his personal box didn't allow the drawer to fully extend. He had the manufacturer of the slides alter them to fully extend. He also mentioned that Styrke plans to have all future upgrades/changes be available as a "bolt on" for previous models. Sounds like no major plans to alter the core construction.

When I spoke with Bob from Styrke on FB earlier today he mentioned the very first batch of 64" boxes (no longer made/available) had thicker steel in certain areas where it really wasn't necessary. That bottom box apparently weighed almost 1,500 lbs empty, which is insane. The 72" Styrke weighs 875 lbs empty which is almost identical to the Extreme 55" Pro at 872 lbs.

Thanks for the reply. I’m looking for a box as well. Appreciate the footwork amd the input immensely.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

Thanks for the reply. I’m looking for a box as well. Appreciate the footwork amd the input immensely.

My pleasure! I've browsed all over the place and nothing fits the bill perfectly, even the Stykre as it's bigger than I currently need but more room for tools isn't a bad thing.

I did like the configurable option from Rousseau though and plan to look more into that. Any 46" height is a HUGE plus for me as I'm 6'4" and do papaerwork at my current 40" tall box. Far less than ideal on my back lol.

I've eliminated CT, Lowes, HD, NAPA, Grey, Homak, Tool Vault, Gator and numerous others. Probably going to add the Extreme to the list too. Not many other contemders that make sense for me.

 

[GForceJunky]

Beech used to make the gray tool boxes. Beech is no longer in business.

I remember reading that Beech used to make them. Any idea who makes them now?

Anyone here have a Rousseau made box?

There was a super good thread on the Tekton Rousseau box not long ago. Super detailed review/video/etc. If I had the money, especially as a Canadian, I'd be buying a Rousseau box without question.

See here:

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=471021

Just a really good toolbox discussion in general.

 

[Snapped-off]

I'll also add, take a serious look at Rosseau. I was ready to buy a custom one from a local distributor at a pretty fair price. I just couldn't get past the $700 shipping (which included a discount). Shipping should be way cheaper for you.

I may revisit in the future but I doubt freight prices will drop.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

I haven't looked into the Tekton boxes, although I did almost get their chrome socket set but opted for GearWrench instead due to the steep discounts offered at my work. It seems the make some decent products but I'm leary as they are still fairly new to the game from my understanding. I will check out their offerings later today.









The price of the Styrke and being built in Canada are the main selling points for me. Another great thing is their shallow drawers have 2" inside height where most others are 1.75" or so. Having that extra little bit will allow me to store my SK wrenches on their included racks in a shallpw drawer instead of using a deeper drawer or havin to buy lower profile racks, or lay them down flat. I don't need the box mobile at all as I have a small service cart if I need to wheel tools around.









Princess Auto is great for stuff at home in the driveway, but their boxes wouldn't hold up well enough over time.







I did hear back from Strictly Tool Boxes and they don't ship up here unfortunately. Extreme got back to me as well and I was sad to hear their boxes are made overseas. Their shallow drawers only have 1.8" of clearance which was a letdown as well.

Yes that is no good they can’t ship it. It sounds like up there in Canada you don’t have many store options either.


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[Mr.Smoke]

I'll also add, take a serious look at Rosseau. I was ready to buy a custom one from a local distributor at a pretty fair price. I just couldn't get past the $700 shipping (which included a discount). Shipping should be way cheaper for you.

I may revisit in the future but I doubt freight prices will drop.

I built one on their website this morning and submitted a request for a quote. Just waiting to hear back.

Yes that is no good they can’t ship it. It sounds like up there in Canada you don’t have many store options either.


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Not really when it comes to quality options. There are store like Lowes or HD where we can go but they are all apprenctice or DIY'er grade boxes. I want something that will last me the rest of my life and beyond, while geting the best bang for my buck.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

I'll also add, take a serious look at Rosseau.

Heard back from the local rep about the one I built on their website. For a 60" custom layout it was $5,400 plus taxes and freight. That's $700 more than the Styrke at $4700 which includes freight and is a foot longer and 3" deeper. I can't get the Rosseau in the colour I want with paying extra for a custom colour.

They do look like high quality boxes and I love they are Canadian too. The ability to do a custom layout is also a very cool feature but they should offer more options for the drawer split sizes. If Stykre wasn't such a good deal these guys would be fighting against the Extreme Pro and would probably win.

 

[GForceJunky]

I'm curious how the quality of Styrke boxes compares to the Rousseau boxes and if they're even comparable. At the price point I'd hope so. I do know Rousseau has a ton of (interior) drawer divider options with all sorts of metal (and plastic?) slats and whatnot that you can use. Agree that it would be nice if Rousseau had some more drawer split sizes and a deeper box option...it's odd that they don't.

How are the latches on the Styrke? Full-width latch/release? I see their rails are only rated for 250lbs. Seems kind of low to be honest. I would expect at least 400lbs at minimum, if not more. The Rousseau boxes are 400lbs. Casters on the Styrke are also rated to only 660lbs/each which seems quite low, but I guess that's why they put 6 of them on there, though personally I would much rather prefer 4 heavier duty casters with a box frame designed to support the full weight at the corners without centre supports/casters. In fact, I think I'd forego any 72" box requiring centre wheels, but I'm pretty particular about certain things. I'm also not the one buying it so ignore me

They look like nice boxes. Given that the price is 5k *CAD* all-in, still seems like a good deal.

Also just noticed, doesn't look like the Styrke has 100% drawer extension. The Rousseau boxes have 100% extension, which, is a grossly underrated feature if you've never used a box or cabinet of any sort with it.

I think you'll be extremely happy either way, though you'll definitely get a lot more storage for your $ with Styrke.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

I'm curious how the quality of Styrke boxes compares to the Rousseau boxes and if they're even comparable. At the price point I'd hope so. I do know Rousseau has a ton of (interior) drawer divider options with all sorts of metal (and plastic?) slats and whatnot that you can use. Agree that it would be nice if Rousseau had some more drawer split sizes and a deeper box option...it's odd that they don't.

How are the latches on the Styrke? Full-width latch/release? I see their rails are only rated for 250lbs. Seems kind of low to be honest. I would expect at least 400lbs at minimum, if not more. The Rousseau boxes are 400lbs. Casters on the Styrke are also rated to only 660lbs/each which seems quite low, but I guess that's why they put 6 of them on there, though personally I would much rather prefer 4 heavier duty casters with a box frame designed to support the full weight at the corners without centre supports/casters. In fact, I think I'd forego any 72" box requiring centre wheels, but I'm pretty particular about certain things. I'm also not the one buying it so ignore me

They look like nice boxes. Given that the price is 5k *CAD* all-in, still seems like a good deal.

Also just noticed, doesn't look like the Styrke has 100% drawer extension. The Rousseau boxes have 100% extension, which, is a grossly underrated feature if you've never used a box or cabinet of any sort with it.

I think you'll be extremely happy either way, though you'll definitely get a lot more storage for your $ with Styrke.

The Styrke doesn't have built in drawer dividing systems like Snap-On or Rousseau but i can live without that. Styrke may create a system like that down the road and have it be drop-in ready for older models without it. I already have a few small plastic bins and 2 Ernst 16×10 organizer trays that hold all my small and misc stuff.

The Styrke drawers are a detent latch, soft closin drawer and they hold the drawers closed tight. No chance of accidental drawer opening, but I won't be moving the box until I switch employers. The reps personal box is about a year old with daily use and the drawers were still like the new demo model he had there. The new models have full extension drawers but his personal older model didn't. Drawers with single slides are rated at 250 lbs, dual slide drawers are 500 lbs each. The 6 casters doesn't bother me since I won't be moving it much. The Styrke website shows 1,000 lbs per caster and 660 lbs per caster. I inquired and the casters on the current models are 1,000 lbs each and the 660 lbs is older info. Website needs updating yet.

The S-O guy I deal with stopped by my house tonight with stuff I ordered. Got to looking at a couple boxes on his truck and talkin prices. His original price of $6,500 for a 55" changed significantly. Now it's $5,300 all in or move up to a 72" for an extra $500.... those prices are AFTER my current trade-in value is deducted. I knew he was gonna do that to me......

 

[ive]

I remember reading that Beech used to make them. Any idea who makes them now?



There was a super good thread on the Tekton Rousseau box not long ago. Super detailed review/video/etc. If I had the money, especially as a Canadian, I'd be buying a Rousseau box without question.

See here:

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=471021

Just a really good toolbox discussion in general.

Hi Gforce. I have no idea who makes Gray’s boxes now. I’m very confident I read that the Gray family sold off the company after the up and coming generation didn’t want to get into the business. I’d say the boxes are made offshore as it seems that Gray is pushing its “dynamic” line over what’s made here in Canada.

Tragic. But what isn’t these days regarding manufacturing.

 

[ive]

Mr Smoke, does Rousseau make a box for the top?

 

[Mr.Smoke]

Mr Smoke, does Rousseau make a box for the top?

If you use this link you can custom configure mobile and stationary cabinets. My guess is you could configure a stationary one to be used as a top chest since you can pick the same width and depth options as the roller cabinets. The custom configuration is something I absolutely love and wish more manufacturers would offer things like this.

 

[ive]

Mr Smoke, my hat is off to you.

 

[GForceJunky]

The Styrke doesn't have built in drawer dividing systems like Snap-On or Rousseau but i can live without that. Styrke may create a system like that down the road and have it be drop-in ready for older models without it. I already have a few small plastic bins and 2 Ernst 16×10 organizer trays that hold all my small and misc stuff.

The Styrke drawers are a detent latch, soft closin drawer and they hold the drawers closed tight. No chance of accidental drawer opening, but I won't be moving the box until I switch employers. The reps personal box is about a year old with daily use and the drawers were still like the new demo model he had there. The new models have full extension drawers but his personal older model didn't. Drawers with single slides are rated at 250 lbs, dual slide drawers are 500 lbs each. The 6 casters doesn't bother me since I won't be moving it much. The Styrke website shows 1,000 lbs per caster and 660 lbs per caster. I inquired and the casters on the current models are 1,000 lbs each and the 660 lbs is older info. Website needs updating yet.

The S-O guy I deal with stopped by my house tonight with stuff I ordered. Got to looking at a couple boxes on his truck and talkin prices. His original price of $6,500 for a 55" changed significantly. Now it's $5,300 all in or move up to a 72" for an extra $500.... those prices are AFTER my current trade-in value is deducted. I knew he was gonna do that to me......

Thanks for the additional info. Good to know about the slides and the casters. Honestly sounds like a really good box and always nice to support Canadian companies, even if the box isn't 100% made of Canadian (or North American) components.

Are you thinking of getting the 72" Snap-On box? What model of box is he offering you? I don't really know too much about the Snap-On models, I just know there are a lot of different ones. It would definitely have the best resale of all 3, most likely.

Hi Gforce. I have no idea who makes Gray’s boxes now. I’m very confident I read that the Gray family sold off the company after the up and coming generation didn’t want to get into the business. I’d say the boxes are made offshore as it seems that Gray is pushing its “dynamic” line over what’s made here in Canada.

Tragic. But what isn’t these days regarding manufacturing.

That's unfortunate. I always loved that they were an old-school family-owned Canadian own business. I have a whole bunch of their stuff from my grandfather and use it whenever I have the opportunity. Curious who owns it now if not the Gray family.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

Mr Smoke, my hat is off to you.

Glad I could be of assisstance! I've played with their custom builder page a whole bunch today. Really wish Styrke had that level of customization. Hopefully in time they get there.


I think I am going to go ahead with the Styrke at this point but I'm waiting until Monday to make my deposit/pre-order. Gives me some time to think it over good, as well as explore any other potential brands I may not have discovered yet.

 

[Snapped-off]

Heard back from the local rep about the one I built on their website. For a 60" custom layout it was $5,400 plus taxes and freight. That's $700 more than the Styrke at $4700 which includes freight and is a foot longer and 3" deeper. I can't get the Rosseau in the colour I want with paying extra for a custom colour.

They do look like high quality boxes and I love they are Canadian too. The ability to do a custom layout is also a very cool feature but they should offer more options for the drawer split sizes. If Stykre wasn't such a good deal these guys would be fighting against the Extreme Pro and would probably win.

Man, my quote came back to 3.5k usd. That's like 4.7k cad? That was with a stainless top and the rubber bumpers on the side. I was happy to pay that I just couldn't pay 700 for freight.

 

[BlakeTheCarGuy]

I built one on their website this morning and submitted a request for a quote. Just waiting to hear back.









Not really when it comes to quality options. There are store like Lowes or HD where we can go but they are all apprenctice or DIY'er grade boxes. I want something that will last me the rest of my life and beyond, while geting the best bang for my buck.

Well those aren’t too bad for boxes. I’m a professional mechanic and have boxes from Harbor Freight which are very well built. Also have a couple Craftsman boxes too. In my opinion and many others it isn’t worth spending big money on a toolbox the tools matter most. The US General from Harbor Freight here in the US are very well built boxes so are their higher tier Icon ones. Milwaukee has a nice box too.


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[Mr.Smoke]

Thanks for the additional info. Good to know about the slides and the casters. Honestly sounds like a really good box and always nice to support Canadian companies, even if the box isn't 100% made of Canadian (or North American) components.

Are you thinking of getting the 72" Snap-On box? What model of box is he offering you? I don't really know too much about the Snap-On models, I just know there are a lot of different ones. It would definitely have the best resale of all 3, most likely.

Honestly the S-O box does have some neat features the Styrke doesn't, and carries a lifetime warranty which I know I won't have an issue getting taken care of if an issue were to arise down the road. There is an unknown level of uncertainty with Styrke.... will they will be in business still in 5, 10 or more years? Their warranty covered items are for 5 years. Any defects with the box/frame itself and the entire thing gets replaced though.

The particular model he is offering me can be seen here in basically the same colour/trim combo I would go after if I were to buy a S-O box, just no SS top in that pic. I would be at about $5,800 total left owing on the S-O box after trading my box in. With the Styrke I would only owe about $4,600 after trading mine in. The S-O box is 3" shorter which makes a big difference when you're tall like me and has a depth of 24" compared to 30" of the Styrke. The extra space and height at $1,200 less makes buying the S-O a hard pill to swallow even with their far superior warranty. Styrke did tell me that they would consider providing warranty coverage on things like slides even outside their advertised 5 years.

If I was unaware of Styrke, or they didn't exist then I would probably jump on the S-O but I'm really leaning towards the Styrke still. I have no doubts the box will last me the rest of my career (currently 34 years old workimg as a tech for nearly 16 years now) if not the rest of my life and beyond. They really are a top tier quality box, just missing some of the options, customization and refinements that the tool truck boxes have perfected.

Man, my quote came back to 3.5k usd. That's like 4.7k cad? That was with a stainless top and the rubber bumpers on the side. I was happy to pay that I just couldn't pay 700 for freight.

What size and drawer layout was your configuration? I attached a screenshot of the pdf showing how I set mine up. I opted to pass on the rubber corner bumpers. Box dimensions and drawer size are the only things I can think of to contribute to the cost difference. Currently $3,500USD works out to about $4,450CDN which would be a pricepoint that would potentially sway me to Rousseau. No idea what my freight charges would be, but their local distributors warehouse is about an hour from me so I imagine I could save some freight costs by picking it up myself from there.

Well those aren’t too bad for boxes. I’m a professional mechanic and have boxes from Harbor Freight which are very well built. Also have a couple Craftsman boxes too. In my opinion and many others it isn’t worth spending big money on a toolbox the tools matter most. The US General from Harbor Freight here in the US are very well built boxes so are their higher tier Icon ones. Milwaukee has a nice box too.


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The field I am in (commercial trailer tech) doesn't require a crazy amount of tools like auto, bus and heavy truck guys do. I have recently purchased a few thousand dollars worth of newer, nicer tools to replace stuff I've had since before I even started in the trade. Some sets are missing things and a lot of it has seen better days. I've also purchased some other things I've been wanting for a while so there hasn't been a neglect on the tool end of things and having more room will mean I can buy more tools and accomodate. The influx of new and different tools already has made my current configuration less than idea in terms of layout and storage space for longer items I've bought already, and there is more on the way still. I've seen guys who care for their stuff have Husky, Mastercraft. International and other decent boxes turn to **** within a few years. I want this to be the last box I ever need to buy if I'm gonna spend $3,000 to $5,000 on something. The Milwaukee boxes looked decent, but they are too shallow and too short for me.

 

[macgee]

Smoke, I know you're really partial to Styrke boxes and sounds like you can't be swayed but I seriously recommend looking at Rousseau again.

Looking at the specs and quality of the two cabinets, they're really isn't a comparison between the two. The metal gauge thickness of the cabinet and sliders capacity rating:

250lb for Stryke and 400lbs for Rousseau. I believe Rousseau is 14-16 gauge, Stryke says 16-18 gauge. The Rousseau is going to last longer and withstand more abuse.

Also, as an investment. The resale value should be much better than the Stryke. Rousseau are very highly regarded, in demand and why you heard so many recommendations to get one because of this you'll much more likely to sell it at better price than the Stryke, getting more of your money back and quickly when you're ready.

I would call Rousseau and speak to them directly, tell them what your concerns are about shipping and price and see what they can do for you? Plus, its 100% Canadian.

 

[Snapped-off]

Can't see your attachment. Here's my configuration. I was honestly expecting a quote close to 5k.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

Smoke, I know you're really partial to Styrke boxes and sounds like you can't be swayed but I seriously recommend looking at Rousseau again.

Looking at the specs and quality of the two cabinets, they're really isn't a comparison between the two. The metal gauge thickness of the cabinet and sliders capacity rating:

250lb for Stryke and 400lbs for Rousseau. I believe Rousseau is 14-16 gauge, Stryke says 16-18 gauge. The Rousseau is going to last longer and withstand more abuse.

Also, as an investment. The resale value should be much better than the Stryke. Rousseau are very highly regarded, in demand and why you heard so many recommendations to get one because of this you'll much more likely to sell it at better price than the Stryke, getting more of your money back and quickly when you're ready.

I would call Rousseau and speak to them directly, tell them what your concerns are about shipping and price and see what they can do for you? Plus, its 100% Canadian.

Are the Rousseau slides rated at 400 lbs on drawers that have single slides? The 250 lb rating for Styrke is per pair of slides, so 500 lbs for drawers with doubles. The Rousseau doesn't specify that so I assume it's 400 lbs max on the drawers with the doubles. I will have to inquire about that.

Honestly, I will (should) never have a need to sell this box. As mentioned, I want this to be last box I ever purchase so resale value isn't a concern. If it was, Snap-On would likely be my top pick. At the $5,400 quote from Rousseau for a 60" I would sooner spend an extra few hundred and buy a 72" Snap-On. I know I will never outgrow a 72" but there is a chance of needing to move to something bigger down the road if I were to buy one in the 53-60" range. Adding a top chest isn't ideal as I use my top surface for paperwork and as a workbench.

I may contact Rousseau again yet as I do have a few other questions. I seriously can't see any of the possible answers being enough to sway me though. The Styrke just seems to be the best value for my money while still getting a high quality, well constructed unit.

Can't see your attachment. Here's my configuration. I was honestly expecting a quote close to 5k.

Strange you can't see it. Comparing with yours, our layouts are VERY similar and the same overall box dimensions. Only major difference I see is I got the foam liner inserts for all my drawers but no way does that warrant a nealy $1,000 difference between our configurations. Maybe they just prefer selling to American customers or they simply charge more in Canada? No clue, but regardless, the cost difference between ours doesn't sit well with me.

 

[Mr.Smoke]

So I spoke with the local Rousseau dealer some more today. He said they are doing a price increase starting after Feb 19th and the price he quoted me was on their new pricing structure instead of their current prices. If I was to order before next Friday and opt out of their foam liners it would be $3,950 plus taxes and roughly $250 in freight charges. Grand total would come in at basically my before taxes price on the Styrke box which is a foot wider and 3" deeper. All the Rousseau drawers are 400 lbs where the Styrke drawers are 250/500 lbs for single/double slide setups.

The Rousseau boxes do seem like they are great quality at a fair price. The revised price makes it more in line when compared to other top tier brands. I'm going to hate myself if I buy the Rousseau and end up outgrowing it in a few years. I still think the Styrke is the better option for my needs and wants, at a good price while giving me ample room to grow my tool collection without worrying about running out of room.

 

[macgee]

I would be asking them for the actual rate capacity for the drawers, not just the slides. It's pretty unusual for a manufacturer to only spec the slides but not the drawers. I'm betting the drawers are 18 gauge.

If you think Snap-On is a better cabinet than Rousseau, then Stryke is right up your alley.

Enjoy