Tool box opinions

[Coach James]

Looking for opinions. I am going to purchase a new tool box(s) and it needs top be done before January 1 for tax purposes. My budget is up to $1,000.

The HF boxes appear to be better for the dollar than what I see at Sears, HD and Lowes unless I have missed something.

Which would you go for:

One of the 44" set ups or two of these

http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-s...er-glossy-red-roller-cabinet-combo-67831.html

I really can't go much wider than a 44.

Thanks

Coach

 

[dodge610]

I would go 2 of the 26in. I have 1 of them and allways thought of getting another. I have a ton of stuff in the 1 i have and it has held up well.

 

[CJM8515]

I have the 44" and like it. I had to add the add on drawer cabinet however as it just seems like not enough space. The drawers are a bit shallow for my likeing both in depth and in width. But for the cash it can be beat. 2 26" setups might be a better option or a 56" setup.

 

[KEH]

Lets assume that, unlike me, you have the space available. I would go with the 2 26 inchers. Lots of options open to you with 2 boxes. Only disadvantage I see is that you would need to unlock 2 boxes at a time instead of one.

For additional info, the 26 inch SO stack I mentioned in my post about buying the SO 1/4 flex ratchet from the pawn shop was for sale at about $650. Not trying to sell it, but you can do price comparisons.

KEH

 

[1950mercury]

The 44 is a much better built box then the 26". I'd go 44 all day long

 

[Ign]

The 44 is a much better built box then the 26". I'd go 44 all day long

This has been my impression, too.

 

[ssdave]

I'd get the two 44's. When I looked at the HF boxes, I thought the 44's were better quality. Plus, I like the wider and deeper drawers.

I have a 26" stack box, a bit taller and a bit nicer than the HF, but functionally similar. I have a slightly wider Kennedy, probably 30 or 32 inches. Have a Menards 40 inch wide, that compares directly the the HF44; I bought it after comparison shopping the HF44's and the HF 26's. The alternative I also considered at that time was doubling up my 26's, by buying another identical one to the one I have. After owning both the 26 and the 40, there is no way I would prefer using two 26's to one 40, unless space is a consideration. If you can fit in the higher 26 stacks, and not the 44, that would be a selling point in their favor. From a usability standpoint, the 44 is much better for my needs.

The other thing that might make you consider the 26's is that the larger number of shallow drawers is something that works for you. I like a few shallow drawers, but the 26's seem to be too many.

Ultimately, when I shopped, drawer configuration was what made my final decision. I went away from HF44 to get drawers more suited to my needs. Otherwise, it was the best contender.

 

[MrGiggles]

1000 dollar budget, I would go HF 56. Not just longer, but deeper as well.

 

[gdocktor3]

You'll hate yourself when you can't fit everything you want in one drawer of a 26" box. Go big or go home coach. Don't forget strictlytoolboxes.com

http://www.strictlytoolboxes.com/tool-vault-56-11-drawer-tool-cabinet.html

 

[OldToolz]

Check out Kennedy tool boxes ..

 

[purpurite]

My $1000 budget is targeting the Menard's Masterforce 46" which is nicer than the othet boxes I have looked at in my price range. Something to consider. 4 colors , too.

 

[Carquest]

You'll hate yourself when you can't fit everything you want in one drawer of a 26" box. Go big or go home coach. Don't forget strictlytoolboxes.com

http://www.strictlytoolboxes.com/tool-vault-56-11-drawer-tool-cabinet.html

Do you own that box? Been looking at it and the others on that site


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[1982fxr]

with a budget of up to $1,000 I'd hit the used market. I've written receipts for people before. Just a person to person bill of sale if that would work?

I agree with the others on the hf 44" over the 26". But the 44" still suffers from not enough depth and no big bottom drawer for blow molded cases.

I'd strongly consider going with a genuine toolbox brand instead of hf if you can find something. You would get actual support, parts availability, etc.

I sold my Waterloo 46" Magnum top and bottom, full 2' depth for $1,200 when I moved to a smaller garage. That's a real toolbox vs well...

 

[CJM8515]

The real question here is: If you arent going to use it professionally what is the best deal? To me I thought long and hard and thats why the HF44 won. My days of being a tech are done and I didnt need a large chest with super duper quality. For the cost it couldnt be beat.

One thing is for certain: If the chest is cheaper, it means you can buy more tools.

 

[Richard Cranium]

I am still a fan of the H.F 44

 

[driewal536]

i own the Tool Vault 72" 16 Drawer Tool Cabinet Item #: TV-7224TC. in the green. Got it with the the ss top when they were on sale a little over a year ago. love it the drawers are butter smooth feel super solid, i bought this over th hf 72 because of the three large drawers, and color. my only dislike is i wish the drawer to the left of the top drawer was two shallows. they also have great customer service. It replaced a hf 41, also a great box.

 

[Know Wosad]

44. I have two 26 stacks too. 44 or better yet, 56

 

[Carquest]

i own the Tool Vault 72" 16 Drawer Tool Cabinet Item #: TV-7224TC. in the green. Got it with the the ss top when they were on sale a little over a year ago. love it the drawers are butter smooth feel super solid, i bought this over th hf 72 because of the three large drawers, and color. my only dislike is i wish the drawer to the left of the top drawer was two shallows. they also have great customer service.

Thanks for the feedback, I'm in need of the long drawers for pry bars, etc. Just juggling between something like this or a used snap on or mac


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[Ign]

(snip)

I really can't go much wider than a 44.

Thanks

Coach

1000 dollar budget, I would go HF 56. Not just longer, but deeper as well.

Listen to OP's needs or you're likely not helping him

edit: that said I just saw in an email the HF 56" is $650 w coupon. Seems to me you could throw a 44" chest on that and still be right around a grand. Damn. That's a lot of box for not that much money. But unless Coach can find the extra foot of space it's moot

http://www.harborfreight.com/56-in-...iNjQ5Ljk5IiwicHJvZHVjdF9p ZCI6IjQ0NDIifQ==

 

[Brownsfan]

What about this ?
https://m.sears.com/productdetails/itemBundle/009CO90619912B/00958663000P
And before anyone says anything. Have you seen one in person. These are not your average Craftsman box. These things are stout. See you looking for the top and bottom or just the roller. Then this would fit the bill. It's $300 more than the budget for both. Sears really did a good job on these. 200# drawer slides and 3" deeper than the standard 18" deep HF or Craftsman or Husky. These are more expensive than the HF 40" but it's not in the same league as the HF. It's as close to tool truck quality as you can get at a retail store. I'm considering the 52" for when I move into my new house. Oh and it's made in the USA.

 

[Ign]

What about this ?
https://m.sears.com/productdetails/itemBundle/009CO90619912B/00958663000P
And before anyone says anything. Have you seen one in person. These are not your average Craftsman box. These things are stout. See you looking for the top and bottom or just the roller. Then this would fit the bill. It's $300 more than the budget for both. Sears really did a good job on these. 200# drawer slides and 3" deeper than the standard 18" deep HF or Craftsman or Husky. These are more expensive than the HF 40" but it's not in the same league as the HF. It's as close to tool truck quality as you can get at a retail store. I'm considering the 52" for when I move into my new house. Oh and it's made in the USA.

Agreed, the Pro stuff is nice and the 21" depth is sweet. But +$300 is theoretically a 30% increase in budget. It's fun spending Coach's money though

 

[Ign]

Damn Coach still oversize at 52" length but literally half of your budget:
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-52...l-Cabinet-Set-Black-HTC5206-HMT5212/205431577

If a local store has 'em in stock you could at least go kick the tir.....er casters

 

[Coach James]

Damn Coach still oversize at 52" length but literally half of your budget:
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-52...l-Cabinet-Set-Black-HTC5206-HMT5212/205431577

If a local store has 'em in stock you could at least go kick the tir.....er casters

I thought about that Husky set, but it's larger than the HF 44, but lighter. That concerned me as to the strength of the unit.

Thanks for the feedback guys. Keep the ideas coming.

Coach

 

[Ign]

I thought about that Husky set, but it's larger than the HF 44, but lighter. That concerned me as to the strength of the unit.

Thanks for the feedback guys. Keep the ideas coming.

Coach

I agree, I'd look in person. Some of the Husky boxes can be thin. Let us know what you end up with when it happens.

 

[XxToolAholicxX]

Go for the two 44" and you might have some change left to add a side cabinet it...

 

[justanengineer]

If youre looking to pick something up locally, Cman came out with a new line of boxes last spring ala Brownsfan's post and the prices on the old have dropped significantly. My cousin just got one of the older 56" Cman Pro top&bottom combos for just under $600, I'm not a fan of most non-industrial tool boxes but its pretty solid and has 200 lb drawers. Its better quality and cheaper than the HF boxes fanboys here love.

 

[gdocktor3]

Do you own that box? Been looking at it and the others on that site


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

No. I have two Mac boxes I purchased used on Craigslist. IMO that's the best option, but in this case, for tax purposes and what not, he needs to buy something from a legit dealer and that seems like the best bet.

 

[Mr_B]

If can stretch to 55"/56" then the offerings on strictlytoolboxs.com from tool-vault Montezuma at $1000 or fraction over . $1,400 buys a very very solid 56" box and good color option and drawer sizes. If size and price can not increase then sears or hf options are about best, costco always worth a look too . hf okay at rock bottom deal prices, would never pay full price and never drive it home without some effort at checking it over, plus with hf you have easy cheap expansion options if situation changes (side hang cabinet or top chest option from various ranges) .
A lot will depend on what drawer layout going work for you. strictlytoolboxs 55/56" chests are sensible size and better usable depth and drawer layouts .

 

[JAKE-THE-TOOL-MAN]

I was going to suggest a 56 HF for the money but since you mentioned you are limited on length space I would recommend the HF 44. It's an insane value for what it offers. For the record I own a Matco box but have spent a lot of time eyeballing the HF boxes and messing with them in the store.

 

[oldldh]

For your budget and space requirements...

Your shopping has been done for you...

A Harbor Freight 44" Top and Bottom...

You won't find more, for less, anywhere...

And, you'll have money left in your pocket, for more important things...

Tools!!!

 

[stage20]

What about this ?
https://m.sears.com/productdetails/itemBundle/009CO90619912B/00958663000P
And before anyone says anything. Have you seen one in person. These are not your average Craftsman box. These things are stout. See you looking for the top and bottom or just the roller. Then this would fit the bill. It's $300 more than the budget for both. Sears really did a good job on these. 200# drawer slides and 3" deeper than the standard 18" deep HF or Craftsman or Husky. These are more expensive than the HF 40" but it's not in the same league as the HF. It's as close to tool truck quality as you can get at a retail store. I'm considering the 52" for when I move into my new house. Oh and it's made in the USA.

not enough drawers for me..... i prefer more shallow drawers.

 

[stage20]

I was going to suggest a 56 HF for the money but since you mentioned you are limited on length space I would recommend the HF 44. It's an insane value for what it offers. For the record I own a Matco box but have spent a lot of time eyeballing the HF boxes and messing with them in the store.

what matco box do you have? their is a huge difference in quality depending on the line.

 

[GTO]

A $1000 budget is not that much,but you will want 30" depth drawers.You would have to find a used KRL,but @ $1000 that would be tough.
Good luck

 

[purpurite]

Maybe I'm in a minority, but I didn't think the HF setup was all that nice after seeing it in person. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

 

[ssdave]

Maybe I'm in a minority, but I didn't think the HF setup was all that nice after seeing it in person. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

I agree, but my question would be: How did it compare to others that were in the $350 range? Which other ones were better, and why?

The HF has a real niche. Tolerable quality, good size and decent configuration at less than $400.

Did you find others in that sub $400 range that compare favorably?

 

[Ign]

A $1000 budget is not that much,but you will want 30" depth drawers.You would have to find a used KRL,but @ $1000 that would be tough.
Good luck

30" is generally reserved for the really high-end boxes. Your average 54" KRL is 24". Most homeowner/hobby boxes are 18"

 

[MikeF2316]

The problem with the 26" class toolbox is there's too many tools that will not fit in them. My old 26" has a drawer width of 23". Breaker bars, ratchets and extensions are common in longer lengths. My current max drawer with is just under 35" which means anything longer is going on a diagonal. That's less of an issue than the 23" maximum.

 

[ptschram]

30" is generally reserved for the really high-end boxes. Your average 54" KRL is 24". Most homeowner/hobby boxes are 18"

Only the KRL722 is 24" deep. The KRL7022 is 29"
The 1022/1023 are also 29" deep.

My other thought is that if you're doing it for tax purposes, I'd like to be in your shoes where $1000 will make an impact on your taxes and if avoiding taxation is your goal, you're sure putting a lot of effort into this.

I am all about getting my money's worth, but if I'm just rying to avoid taxes, I'll buy another peice of machinery or a pile of perishable tooling.

I've had customers come to me in the last few weeks of the year and buy tool boxes, diagnostics, compressors, lifts, etc-but, they're trying to get to teh magic $520K point or whatever it is that's now maximum for same year deduction.

Two years ago I had a farmer contact me and clean out my truck offsetting income from the sale of real estate because apparently, one cannot use newly purchased real estate to offset income from real estate sold in that tax year.

 

[Ign]

^^^all I know is I have the 54" combo from '03 that was the Harley commemorative special and it's 24" deep. So yeah, I'm working w 14 y.o. assumptions.

Who really cares how the OP spends his $ or WHY? The point of the thread was that he wants to buy a box & has a $1000 budget. It's a valid question and a valid thread topic.

Sorry, it is true your SnapOn truck has little to offer him at that price point.

 

[stage20]

I agree, but my question would be: How did it compare to others that were in the $350 range? Which other ones were better, and why?

The HF has a real niche. Tolerable quality, good size and decent configuration at less than $400.

Did you find others in that sub $400 range that compare favorably?

they arent the best quality, but at the price point there is NOTHING out there that will touch them. harbor freight really needs to step up and offer it in black, even if the price is higher, i think they will gain more customers