Tool Cabinet/Chest Combo - Worth looking?

[jaggedscars]

Hello everyone.

Recently decided that I have outgrown my current tool box and need to start looking at the many options out there. Before getting jumped on, I have definitely looked at the HF 44" and it is still an option. I have also been looking at the Homak H2Pro 41" and recently just found out that Waterloo is located about 25 minutes from where I currently am living. I am looking for a cabinet/chest combo w/bearing slides. I have been able to find a lot of details already about the HF 44" (Thanks to GJ members) but wasn't able to find much on the Homak H2Pro 41" or Waterloo 40", 41", or 46" stuff. I also realize that Waterloo has made quite a few tool boxes out there branded under other names (pretty sure my current Craftsman box is waterloo).

So here is my questions:

1. With the Waterloo factory being as close as it is and the relative quality of their products, would it be wise to look at them? Possible see if I could find a good deal on a factory second (scratches, dented, etc...)?

2. If considering the Waterloo line, which product line would you choose and why?

3. What is everyone's impression of the Homak H2Pro stuff? Any members have their products? Likes/Dislikes about their products.

As always, you all rock and am looking forward to some input!

 

[lessersivad]

This is only my opinion but I would definately check out Waterloo if you're that close to them.

I'm sure they would have SOMETHING that would fit your requirements.

May not be quite in the price range of a HF unit, but you'd be supporting the semi-local economy with a purchase.

 

[jaggedscars]

This is only my opinion but I would definately check out Waterloo if you're that close to them.

I'm sure they would have SOMETHING that would fit your requirements.

May not be quite in the price range of a HF unit, but you'd be supporting the semi-local economy with a purchase.

True and that was really my big influence to look at them. Also, logistically, its 25 minutes down the road. Nearest HF or Northern Tool (for Homak) is about 1-1.5 hrs depending on traffic. I just haven't heard much about Waterloo; sure I have heard a lot about the Craftsman boxes, Lowes, Husky, etc... but not labeled at Waterloo.

 

[NUTTSGT]

If Waterloo is that close to you, I'd shoot them and email and inquire about buying a box directly from them or if possible to buy a "seconds" box. The worst they can do is not reply back to you or say no.

 

[chipper]

When I bought my (back up) husky box it was a florr model and had no handle I called the number on the box and to my surprise it was waterloo and they sent me out a new handle no questions asked and it came in 2 fays

 

[chipper]

I guess what I'm saying is +1 for waterloo

 

[jaggedscars]

That's good. Only complaint I have as of now with them, without actually calling/emailing them or seeing one of their boxes first hand, is their color selection is really three options; black, red, and stainless... Gonna have to look Wed.

 

[alinc100]

I have a Waterloo similar to this:
http://www.waterlooindustries.com/product/WCA-4111RD

and

http://www.waterlooindustries.com/product/WCA-4111RD

Together they hold alot of tools.Drawers slide smooth,no noticeable sag,etc.
I picked them up in two separate Craigslist deals. I paid $325 for the bottom and $180 for the top.Not giveaway prices but I was satisfied.
To be fair I was in a position where I had plenty of time to look/shop/wait for a deal to come along.


When it came time to upgrade my box at work I had slightly different requirements. Floor space was not a premium like in the garage so I was able to go long instead of up.
For that I paired up a HF 44 with an HF 26 and built this:


The ball bearing slides work well,drawers open and close,detents were stiff originally and have worked into smoother action as time goes by.
My work box is mostly carpentry/cabinetmakers tools with a fair amount of sockets and wrenches,pliers thrown in.It does not have as much weight in it as the Waterloo at home,but I have no doubt it can hold up just as well. HF has 2 color options red and red.

I notice while looking at the Waterloo site they have a 7 year warranty against defects,not sure if factory seconds apply.But given your proximity to the factory I don't think you could go wrong.