Toolbox recommendations

[Lurch67]

I'm looking for a new toolbox and don't like the quality of the new craftsman toolboxes. Any recommendations? I will be scouring craigslist for used boxes.

 

[ianguilly]

harbor freight 44" box.

 

[ihatelaramie]

If you don't have the funds for a truck brand box, this is a great value. Not the best box by any means, but at that price, it can't be beat, unless you find a good deal on a used Snappy or something..

 

[t100]

to answer your question, that will fit just right.

 

[Lurch67]

harbor freight 44" box.

Its just plain wrong to recommend a harbor freight toolbox and you have a snap-on box as your avatar

 

[Lurch67]

to answer your question, that will fit just right.

"You ****" Sorry, I'm having major toolbox ENVY.

 

[ed_v]

Where do you live?

My last few boxes have been from Snap-On, but I think the Masterforce brand at Menards are by far the best you can buy at a store.... and I think there isn't a close second!

Ed

 

[t100]

you've gotta let us know what you need and what you have.

 

[Lurch67]

I live just south of philadelphia. No Menuards nearby.

 

[got2boostit2]

"You ****" Sorry, I'm having major toolbox ENVY.

^ This....... That is one of those $$,$$$ boxes, right?

 

[RCStocker]

Its just plain wrong to recommend a harbor freight toolbox and you have a snap-on box as your avatar

Not its not wrong to recomend a HF box. It depends on what one has to spend and how it will be used.
I am an architect and contractor. I have homes in 2 states and property in 3 countries. I have a large house and as small one. What is right for one person is not right for another. I can design a nice home for a lost cost budget and it has nothing to do with my haveing a 6 thousand square foot home.

The HF boxes are the best for the money bar none. There is nothing in that price range that comes close to the quality. Craftsman boxes are all way over priced and I think the the HF boxes are better than most of the Craftsman size for size and style for style.

I buy estates and shops. I have had many an expensive tool box but I have sold them all because they bring good money. I have a bunch of HF boxes for my own use. I have 2 in my tractor barn and several others in my little machine shop. Their tool cart if fantastic for the money. It is just as good if not better than all the Tool truck brands. I have owned them all at one time or another in the past 40 years.

You don't need an expensive box for a samll shop or home use. When I was young everyone worked out of a 28 inch box.

If you need a status symbol then buy all means waste your money on an expensive box. If you use it everyday for a living that is different but for the weekend mechanic the HF box is the best on the market for the money.

I say that and I hate Harbor Freight. it is 99 percent ****.

What someone has as an avatar photo does not have anyting to do with what they know or is right for one to own.

Another ignorant post.

 

[Steevo]

harbor freight 44" box.

+4 on this ^^

(because I bought 4 of them)

 

[oilfieldtrash4]

If you don't have the funds for a truck brand box, this is a great value. Not the best box by any means, but at that price, it can't be beat, unless you find a good deal on a used Snappy or something..

I have the funds for a truck brand box. Still spent the $369 for the HF. $3000 I'll buy a beater car or a motorcycle. It's crazy that a metal box costs so much.

 

[ihatelaramie]

I have the funds for a truck brand box. Still spent the $369 for the HF. $3000 I'll buy a beater car or a motorcycle. It's crazy that a metal box costs so much.

Good call.

 

[Gabastone]

Not its not wrong to recomend a HF box. It depends on what one has to spend and how it will be used.
I am an architect and contractor. I have homes in 2 states and property in 3 countries. I have a large house and as small one. What is right for one person is not right for another. I can design a nice home for a lost cost budget and it has nothing to do with my haveing a 6 thousand square foot home.

The HF boxes are the best for the money bar none. There is nothing in that price range that comes close to the quality. Craftsman boxes are all way over priced and I think the the HF boxes are better than most of the Craftsman size for size and style for style.

I buy estates and shops. I have had many an expensive tool box but I have sold them all because they bring good money. I have a bunch of HF boxes for my own use. I have 2 in my tractor barn and several others in my little machine shop. Their tool cart if fantastic for the money. It is just as good if not better than all the Tool truck brands. I have owned them all at one time or another in the past 40 years.

You don't need an expensive box for a samll shop or home use. When I was young everyone worked out of a 28 inch box.

If you need a status symbol then buy all means waste your money on an expensive box. If you use it everyday for a living that is different but for the weekend mechanic the HF box is the best on the market for the money.

I say that and I hate Harbor Freight. it is 99 percent ****.

What someone has as an avatar photo does not have anyting to do with what they know or is right for one to own.

Another ignorant post.

I like how you tell the OP what his needs are before calling his reply ignorant. Most people would have felt stupid typing that.

 

[BrokewrenchLS1]

I like how you tell the OP what his needs are before calling his reply ignorant. Most people would have felt stupid typing that.

No one "needs" $30,000 worth of truck-brand boxes, that's simply a status symbol, "Hey guys, look how much money I can spend on tool storage!". There's nothing a HF box can't do that a $3,500 Snap-on box can do. Aside from empty your bank account a lot faster.

You can buy a shitload of tool with the price delta between a HF box, and the equivalently-sized Snap-on or Mac box. What's more useful, a big expensive empty tool box, or an inexpensive one filled with tools that'll make money?

 

[kngelv]

Not its not wrong to recomend a HF box. It depends on what one has to spend and how it will be used.
I am an architect and contractor. I have homes in 2 states and property in 3 countries. I have a large house and as small one. What is right for one person is not right for another. I can design a nice home for a lost cost budget and it has nothing to do with my haveing a 6 thousand square foot home.

The HF boxes are the best for the money bar none. There is nothing in that price range that comes close to the quality. Craftsman boxes are all way over priced and I think the the HF boxes are better than most of the Craftsman size for size and style for style.

I buy estates and shops. I have had many an expensive tool box but I have sold them all because they bring good money. I have a bunch of HF boxes for my own use. I have 2 in my tractor barn and several others in my little machine shop. Their tool cart if fantastic for the money. It is just as good if not better than all the Tool truck brands. I have owned them all at one time or another in the past 40 years.

You don't need an expensive box for a samll shop or home use. When I was young everyone worked out of a 28 inch box.

If you need a status symbol then buy all means waste your money on an expensive box. If you use it everyday for a living that is different but for the weekend mechanic the HF box is the best on the market for the money.

I say that and I hate Harbor Freight. it is 99 percent ****.

What someone has as an avatar photo does not have anyting to do with what they know or is right for one to own.

Another ignorant post.

No one "needs" $30,000 worth of truck-brand boxes, that's simply a status symbol, "Hey guys, look how much money I can spend on tool storage!". There's nothing a HF box can't do that a $3,500 Snap-on box can do. Aside from empty your bank account a lot faster.

You can buy a shitload of tool with the price delta between a HF box, and the equivalently-sized Snap-on or Mac box. What's more useful, a big expensive empty tool box, or an inexpensive one filled with tools that'll make money?

Talking about "need" on this forum is ironic. Almost everyone here has more tools than they know what to do with - including me. I have at least twenty pairs of diagonal cutters that I've accumulated over the years. I'm an Industrial electrician at one of the American car companies and use "dykes" every day - but twenty pairs? I definitely don't need that many. As an old skateboarder I also have a continuing fascination with Vans shoes. I own at least fifty pairs. I defintely don't need all of them, but it's my thing. I'm probably the only guy who has more shoes than his wife. If someone wants to spend money -that they earn - on Snap-On boxes who are we to judge or comment. Someone who brags about multiple homes and properties definitely has no business throwing shots about perceived status symbols, or judging others.

James

 

[thaghost87]

HF are awesome, price and quality. If those fit your budget, i wouldn't second guess the decision.

 

[SquareBear]

Menard's MasterForce toolbox line, best bang for the buck.

 

[camarotoolman]

I see great deals on used truck brands boxes almost every time I go on cl and ebay. I'd rather have a used usa than a new china anything.

 

[BrokewrenchLS1]

Talking about "need" on this forum is ironic. Almost everyone here has more tools than they know what to do with - including me. I have at least twenty pairs of diagonal cutters that I've accumulated over the years. I'm an Industrial electrician at one of the American car companies and use "dykes" every day - but twenty pairs? I definitely don't need that many. As an old skateboarder I also have a continuing fascination with Vans shoes. I own at least fifty pairs. I defintely don't need all of them, but it's my thing. I'm probably the only guy who has more shoes than his wife. If someone wants to spend money -that they earn - on Snap-On boxes who are we to judge or comment. Someone who brags about multiple homes and properties definitely has no business throwing shots about perceived status symbols, or judging others.

James

Being as the OP posted that he looked at Craftsman boxes and didn't like them, I don't really think Snap-on pricing is what he's looking for. The comment that someone with a Snap-on box not having any place recommending a HF box was a bit asinine, and was what my post was about.

My opinion is, the tools are markedly more important than the box they're stuck in, so a less expensive box gives more money to buy tools that can be used.

 

[richfinn]

Talking about "need" on this forum is ironic. Almost everyone here has more tools than they know what to do with - including me. I have at least twenty pairs of diagonal cutters that I've accumulated over the years. I'm an Industrial electrician at one of the American car companies and use "dykes" every day - but twenty pairs? I definitely don't need that many. As an old skateboarder I also have a continuing fascination with Vans shoes. I own at least fifty pairs. I defintely don't need all of them, but it's my thing. I'm probably the only guy who has more shoes than his wife. If someone wants to spend money -that they earn - on Snap-On boxes who are we to judge or comment. Someone who brags about multiple homes and properties definitely has no business throwing shots about perceived status symbols, or judging others.

James

You could wear a different pair of Vans shoes every weekend, if you needed to

I collect Adidas trainers, but I only have about 15 pairs in the original boxes

I need to get some more now

 

[bob15]

Look for a used Lista cabinet, add some casters if so desired.

 

[anydzzdae38]

I have the funds for a truck brand box. Still spent the $369 for the HF. $3000 I'll buy a beater car or a motorcycle. It's crazy that a metal box costs so much.

I spent $400 on a used kra4813. Deals are out there if you are patient.

 

[richfinn]

I would rather buy tools and equipment with the money than get a big expensive box, They look cool and everything but for me the real pleasure in any tool kit is being able to diagnose and fix stuff to the best standard I,m capable of.

I,ve got an ancient 26" Snap On box and I have thought of upgrading it for years but GJ has made me realise its not the box or whats in inside it that counts, its what you do with it that earns you real kudos.

 

[ianguilly]

Its just plain wrong to recommend a harbor freight toolbox and you have a snap-on box as your avatar

I owned a HF 44" before my SO avatar pic. I have nothing but good thing to say about it.

 

[Lurch67]

I'm just jealous.

 

[Helios]

If you're looking for something a bit beefier than C-man or HF, take a look at the Montezuma boxes from Strictly Toolboxes. Substantially more heavy duty than the C-man & HF, but significantly cheaper than truck brands (and in my case still 30-50% less than a well used SO in my area). I've had mine for 2 years now and it's exactly what I was looking for. Depending you're budget, they may still be a bit more than you were looking to spend.

The one I pulled the trigger on (other sizes & configurations available). http://www.strictlytoolboxes.com/mo...xes-21-drawer-tool-cabinet-and-top-chest.html

 

[regguy1]

If you're looking for something a bit beefier than C-man or HF, take a look at the Montezuma boxes from Strictly Toolboxes. Substantially more heavy duty than the C-man & HF, but significantly cheaper than truck brands (and in my case still 30-50% less than a well used SO in my area). I've had mine for 2 years now and it's exactly what I was looking for. Depending you're budget, they may still be a bit more than you were looking to spend.

The one I pulled the trigger on (other sizes & configurations available). http://www.strictlytoolboxes.com/mo...xes-21-drawer-tool-cabinet-and-top-chest.html

I agree, worth looking at
I just got my Strictly Tool Boxes Tool Vault a couple weeks ago. I also ordered their side locker and wired an outlet inside of it. Now I can heat up my coffee in the microwave that fits inside and charge cordless batteries and cell phones inside, nice if you need to charge things and keep it locked while you're away from the box.

You can see my 2 video reviews here:

And here:

 

[ATate028]

Kobalt toolboxes from Lowes are pretty decent for the price. They definitely seem a lot sturdier than newer Craftsman toolboxes... to me at least.
-Allen

 

[Turbo_Prop]

I bought a like new Vidmar cabinet for $250 a few months ago and it is built like a tank. I didn't have to, but decided to have it powder coated red before I started putting stuff in it. With castors and powder coat, I have less than $600 in it.

I am actively looking for more of this same box, eventually I am going to build a triply bay roller cab with a stainless steel top out of Vidmar cabinets.

Just an idea.

 

[MachYou]

You can buy a shitload of tool with the price delta between a HF box, and the equivalently-sized Snap-on or Mac box. What's more useful, a big expensive empty tool box, or an inexpensive one filled with tools that'll make money?

Came to this conclusion and bought a HF 44" box. Rather save the money and fill it with snap-on tools.

 

[ihatelaramie]

^^^ That is a very nice box for what he paid. We have a couple at work, and they are FULL of tooling. Do the slides give a ****? Hell no! I would love to have some Vidmars, but the price is normally out of reach. Turbo Prop, very nice.

 

[NC-Fordguy]

I bought a like new Vidmar cabinet for $250 a few months ago and it is built like a tank. I didn't have to, but decided to have it powder coated red before I started putting stuff in it. With castors and powder coat, I have less than $600 in it.

I am actively looking for more of this same box, eventually I am going to build a triply bay roller cab with a stainless steel top out of Vidmar cabinets.

Just an idea.

Nice refinish job on that box

Did you do the powder coat yourself or farm it out?

 

[CWP1616L]

I agree, worth looking at
I just got my Strictly Tool Boxes Tool Vault a couple weeks ago. I also ordered their side locker and wired an outlet inside of it. Now I can heat up my coffee in the microwave that fits inside and charge cordless batteries and cell phones inside, nice if you need to charge things and keep it locked while you're away from the box.

You can see my 2 video reviews here:

And here:

I'm thinking for as much advertising you're spewing out, they should've given you the box for free.

 

[Turbo_Prop]

Nice refinish job on that box

Did you do the powder coat yourself or farm it out?

Thanks for the kind words.

The powder coating was done by Roger at Final Touch Powder Coating in Spring Lake, NC.

Final touch Powder Coating

Roger does all of my harley engine, trans and frame stuff. Lately he has been doing stuff for my shop, ie the work bench and the Vidmar. Have been thinking about having the pedalstal and other parts of my drill press done in matching red.

 

[kossuth]

Run to a Harbor Freight store and checkout a 44" box bottom and go from there. I think you will be impressed. Let it speak for itself. http://www.harborfreight.com/roller-cabinet-44-13-drawer-gloss-red-industrial-uality-68784.html

Just so you know you can definately expand upon this setup and have it "grow" with you if you feel the need to.

You can add a tall side cabinet to one or both sides of the bottom base http://www.harborfreight.com/42-end-cabinet-for-roller-tool-chest-68991.html

You can add a short side cabinet to one or both sides http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-t...-end-cabinet-for-roller-tool-chest-68785.html

You can add the upper box if needed http://www.harborfreight.com/hand-t...carts/red-roller-cabinet-top-chest-68787.html

Take a run to a local store (Make sure they have the items listed above on display if it's a ways away) and let the items speak for themselves. These IMO and many others is definately a good Harbor Freight buy.

PS if you have the room/cash don't rule out the 56" cabinet either. Alittle more spendy but also a good buy. http://www.harborfreight.com/56-inch-11-drawer-industrial-roller-cabinet-67681.html

 

[NC-Fordguy]

Thanks for the kind words.

The powder coating was done by Roger at Final Touch Powder Coating in Spring Lake, NC.

Final touch Powder Coating

Roger does all of my harley engine, trans and frame stuff. Lately he has been doing stuff for my shop, ie the work bench and the Vidmar. Have been thinking about having the pedalstal and other parts of my drill press done in matching red.

I think I met that guy a few years back at Uwharrie National Forest. He was wheeling a pretty well built jeep IIRC and we got to talking waiting for the trail to clear up from some carnage.

Seemed Like a good fella.