We are comparing family minivans and the boxes above are business jets, not at all comparable to what we are discussing. The step up to 50+" boxes in the KRL and Lista models brings significantly more weight, drawer capacity, and cost.
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Toolboxes
- Thread starter SMLWinds
- Start date
We are comparing family minivans and the boxes above are business jets, not at all comparable to what we are discussing. The step up to 50+" boxes in the KRL and Lista models brings significantly more weight, drawer capacity, and cost.
What's the difference between these 2 HF 44 boxes? The only thing I can tell is one has the US GENERAL decal on the front, the other doesn't. Both are the same price, just 2 different item #s.
http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-s...ossy-red-industrial-roller-cabinet-68784.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-s...ossy-red-industrial-roller-cabinet-69387.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-s...ossy-red-industrial-roller-cabinet-68784.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-s...ossy-red-industrial-roller-cabinet-69387.html
Kevin54
MEMBER EMERITUS
Search used on CL or check out Menards. I have three Menards Rollers along with a large Menards top box and the only problem I have had with one was the rubber on the wheel peeled off. A quick e-mail to Menards to explain the problem and a couple of days later I had four new ones in the mail.
There is a thread on here somewhere titled "Menards sells tool boxes" Do a search for that and see what you can decide.
There is a thread on here somewhere titled "Menards sells tool boxes" Do a search for that and see what you can decide.
Great responses....I appreciate the further input! I do have a couple questions:
1) Why is Lista "overkill" (according to a previous comment) for mechanic's tools? Doesn't that mean that Snap On and the other upper tier boxes are also overkill?
2) What do folks think about Shark boxes? I know they do stationary boxes but they are coming out with a line of mobile boxes. Any thoughts?
My initial goal here was to determine the best box(es) available. I think clearly Snap On makes the gold standard. There are several others that claim to be "as good" but notice that Snap On doesn't claim to be "as good" as anyone else....they are the box everyone is measured against. The only outstanding question is whether or not the increase in quality justifies the significant increase in price?
In general, I buy the best available. A good number of times when I don't buy the best, I end up buying it later because I wish I did. I research everything and typically end up seeing why things cost more and buy it for that reason--I believe most of the time you get what you pay for. Sometimes the problem is that there is a very little bit of increased quality for a greatly increased price. I typically get suckered into spending a lot more for just a little increase in quality but sometimes I can resist. My approach is also typically to buy quality used products over lower level new. If you give me 30K to buy a car, I would go for a used BMW over a new Kia...just my personal approach.
With that being said, I try not to be frivolous or waste my money (a fool and his money soon part!). So, there are times when buying the world's best doesn't make sense. For me right now, I will not be using the box daily (or even weekly) and honestly don't own enough tools to overload the drawers. I really don't see spending $7000 on one of the world's best boxes. I think I am probably leaning towards staying in the $1000-$2000 range, which means either a used top quality box or a new lower level box. My initial inclination is for a used Snap On.
However, in searching for a box for my father, I did look at the Craftsman boxes. Right now, you can buy the upper and lower 19 drawer, premium quality Craftsman (best they make) for $700 with your Sears card discount. The typical price is $1600 and according to reliable sources, the lowest they usually go is $1100 or so for the set. I am well aware that they are no where near the quality of Snap On, but if you are talking bang for your buck (as much as I hate that because it usually means inferior product for the price of one!) I think it is hard to beat. Furthermore, I think for light use without a ton of tools, it will probably do just as well as a more expensive box.
This thought is against everything I normally do--I typically buy the best no matter what, if I don't get the best new I buy great quality used, and I always buy for life and do not buy a "starter" item and plan to upgrade....that wastes money in my opinion. But, I am considering buying the Craftsman set.
What do people think about the premium Craftsman boxes? For a mere $700, the way I see it, as I build my tool collection over the next 3-5 years I can either sell the Craftsman box, demote it to storage for lighter items, give it to a friend, or just throw it away....I feel like it is reasonably functional quality for a virtually disposable price.
I guess my impression at this point is that Snap On is the gold standard, there are boxes that are also "upper tier" like Matco and Lista, but the difference in quality between a $4000 box and these Craftsman boxes for $700 doesn't justify the expense for my current purposes. I am certain I will always have a need for a second storage set as I build my shop.
I welcome any further thoughts or comments!
1) Why is Lista "overkill" (according to a previous comment) for mechanic's tools? Doesn't that mean that Snap On and the other upper tier boxes are also overkill?
2) What do folks think about Shark boxes? I know they do stationary boxes but they are coming out with a line of mobile boxes. Any thoughts?
My initial goal here was to determine the best box(es) available. I think clearly Snap On makes the gold standard. There are several others that claim to be "as good" but notice that Snap On doesn't claim to be "as good" as anyone else....they are the box everyone is measured against. The only outstanding question is whether or not the increase in quality justifies the significant increase in price?
In general, I buy the best available. A good number of times when I don't buy the best, I end up buying it later because I wish I did. I research everything and typically end up seeing why things cost more and buy it for that reason--I believe most of the time you get what you pay for. Sometimes the problem is that there is a very little bit of increased quality for a greatly increased price. I typically get suckered into spending a lot more for just a little increase in quality but sometimes I can resist. My approach is also typically to buy quality used products over lower level new. If you give me 30K to buy a car, I would go for a used BMW over a new Kia...just my personal approach.
With that being said, I try not to be frivolous or waste my money (a fool and his money soon part!). So, there are times when buying the world's best doesn't make sense. For me right now, I will not be using the box daily (or even weekly) and honestly don't own enough tools to overload the drawers. I really don't see spending $7000 on one of the world's best boxes. I think I am probably leaning towards staying in the $1000-$2000 range, which means either a used top quality box or a new lower level box. My initial inclination is for a used Snap On.
However, in searching for a box for my father, I did look at the Craftsman boxes. Right now, you can buy the upper and lower 19 drawer, premium quality Craftsman (best they make) for $700 with your Sears card discount. The typical price is $1600 and according to reliable sources, the lowest they usually go is $1100 or so for the set. I am well aware that they are no where near the quality of Snap On, but if you are talking bang for your buck (as much as I hate that because it usually means inferior product for the price of one!) I think it is hard to beat. Furthermore, I think for light use without a ton of tools, it will probably do just as well as a more expensive box.
This thought is against everything I normally do--I typically buy the best no matter what, if I don't get the best new I buy great quality used, and I always buy for life and do not buy a "starter" item and plan to upgrade....that wastes money in my opinion. But, I am considering buying the Craftsman set.
What do people think about the premium Craftsman boxes? For a mere $700, the way I see it, as I build my tool collection over the next 3-5 years I can either sell the Craftsman box, demote it to storage for lighter items, give it to a friend, or just throw it away....I feel like it is reasonably functional quality for a virtually disposable price.
I guess my impression at this point is that Snap On is the gold standard, there are boxes that are also "upper tier" like Matco and Lista, but the difference in quality between a $4000 box and these Craftsman boxes for $700 doesn't justify the expense for my current purposes. I am certain I will always have a need for a second storage set as I build my shop.
I welcome any further thoughts or comments!
The data provided is there to help you make an informed decision. I recommend you compare the Shark box's specs to those above. You may find it is the equivalent of other low priced boxes.
For myself, based on my tools and use preferences (full width top drawer, no top box, sturdy construction, 40" width) a used Snap On KRA would best suit my needs. Tho I like the idea of an industrial Lista, or a fancy KRL, these are both more box than I personally need. The HF and craftsman boxes are a bit less than I need.
For myself, based on my tools and use preferences (full width top drawer, no top box, sturdy construction, 40" width) a used Snap On KRA would best suit my needs. Tho I like the idea of an industrial Lista, or a fancy KRL, these are both more box than I personally need. The HF and craftsman boxes are a bit less than I need.
Great responses....I appreciate the further input! I do have a couple questions:
1) Why is Lista "overkill" (according to a previous comment) for mechanic's tools? Doesn't that mean that Snap On and the other upper tier boxes are also overkill?
2) What do folks think about Shark boxes? I know they do stationary boxes but they are coming out with a line of mobile boxes. Any thoughts?
My initial goal here was to determine the best box(es) available. I think clearly Snap On makes the gold standard. There are several others that claim to be "as good" but notice that Snap On doesn't claim to be "as good" as anyone else....they are the box everyone is measured against. The only outstanding question is whether or not the increase in quality justifies the significant increase in price?
In general, I buy the best available. A good number of times when I don't buy the best, I end up buying it later because I wish I did. I research everything and typically end up seeing why things cost more and buy it for that reason--I believe most of the time you get what you pay for. Sometimes the problem is that there is a very little bit of increased quality for a greatly increased price. I typically get suckered into spending a lot more for just a little increase in quality but sometimes I can resist. My approach is also typically to buy quality used products over lower level new. If you give me 30K to buy a car, I would go for a used BMW over a new Kia...just my personal approach.
With that being said, I try not to be frivolous or waste my money (a fool and his money soon part!). So, there are times when buying the world's best doesn't make sense. For me right now, I will not be using the box daily (or even weekly) and honestly don't own enough tools to overload the drawers. I really don't see spending $7000 on one of the world's best boxes. I think I am probably leaning towards staying in the $1000-$2000 range, which means either a used top quality box or a new lower level box. My initial inclination is for a used Snap On.
However, in searching for a box for my father, I did look at the Craftsman boxes. Right now, you can buy the upper and lower 19 drawer, premium quality Craftsman (best they make) for $700 with your Sears card discount. The typical price is $1600 and according to reliable sources, the lowest they usually go is $1100 or so for the set. I am well aware that they are no where near the quality of Snap On, but if you are talking bang for your buck (as much as I hate that because it usually means inferior product for the price of one!) I think it is hard to beat. Furthermore, I think for light use without a ton of tools, it will probably do just as well as a more expensive box.
This thought is against everything I normally do--I typically buy the best no matter what, if I don't get the best new I buy great quality used, and I always buy for life and do not buy a "starter" item and plan to upgrade....that wastes money in my opinion. But, I am considering buying the Craftsman set.
What do people think about the premium Craftsman boxes? For a mere $700, the way I see it, as I build my tool collection over the next 3-5 years I can either sell the Craftsman box, demote it to storage for lighter items, give it to a friend, or just throw it away....I feel like it is reasonably functional quality for a virtually disposable price.
I guess my impression at this point is that Snap On is the gold standard, there are boxes that are also "upper tier" like Matco and Lista, but the difference in quality between a $4000 box and these Craftsman boxes for $700 doesn't justify the expense for my current purposes. I am certain I will always have a need for a second storage set as I build my shop.
I welcome any further thoughts or comments!
I own Snap-on boxes and I love them. That being said, they aren't for everyone. Always remember that tools earn you your paycheck, a toolbox is just something you keep them in. It seems that you really want a Snap-On or other similar "status symbol" box, but are trying to talk yourself out of it. That might be a smart move on your part.
My approach to buying anything is to buy the best that I can for the money that fits the purpose. For example, if there is a tool I'll only use once or twice I'll go to Harbor Freight but my ratchets, wrenches, screwdrivers, and torque wrenches are from Snap-On. Make sure you have quality tools and equipment to earn your living before worrying about a box.
You mentioned Craftsman "premium" boxes. I would avoid them if it was me. Better stuff out there for the money imo. Kevin54 mentioned the Menards Masterforce boxes. I think those are great boxes for the money. They are made by the same company that makes Montezuma boxes. If I did not own Snap-On, the Menards boxes is what i'd buy.
Ed
Thanks! I appreciate the comments and thoughts. To be honest, I don't earn a penny from anything to do with tools...this is completely purely for fun! Regardless, the advice still applies. I appreciate the great advice everyone has given on this thread and am always open to other opinions!
panknuckshovel
Well-known member
What's the difference between these 2 HF 44 boxes? The only thing I can tell is one has the US GENERAL decal on the front, the other doesn't. Both are the same price, just 2 different item #s.
http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-s...ossy-red-industrial-roller-cabinet-68784.html
http://www.harborfreight.com/tool-s...ossy-red-industrial-roller-cabinet-69387.html
Nothing, Harbor Freight item numbers are just as useless as the items. They are equal pieces of shot.
It appears to me that Snap On provides specific features to accommodate automotive professionals. Drawer layouts, sizes, load capacities all seem to cater to a fairly specific usage.
Lista boxes are industrial storage. Not sure what they were designed for, but I could imagine heavy industrial users, modern machine shops, factory part storage etc, were the design goals.
Certainly you can use a Lista box to hold mechanic tools. That's a little like taking the kids to school in a Dodge Sprinter van fitted with seats instead of the Dodge mini van. Bigger isn't bad, but it's not always better. The mini van has a few convenience features, the Sprinter doesn't have. For example, I believe you can only open one drawer on a Lista box at a time. I dont think I would like that. And Snap On has far greater variety in drawer layouts,more and thinner drawers sized for wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, colors, sizes, casters etc all aimed at automotive techs. I think it's fair to consider Snap On the gold standard.
Lista boxes are industrial storage. Not sure what they were designed for, but I could imagine heavy industrial users, modern machine shops, factory part storage etc, were the design goals.
Certainly you can use a Lista box to hold mechanic tools. That's a little like taking the kids to school in a Dodge Sprinter van fitted with seats instead of the Dodge mini van. Bigger isn't bad, but it's not always better. The mini van has a few convenience features, the Sprinter doesn't have. For example, I believe you can only open one drawer on a Lista box at a time. I dont think I would like that. And Snap On has far greater variety in drawer layouts,more and thinner drawers sized for wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, colors, sizes, casters etc all aimed at automotive techs. I think it's fair to consider Snap On the gold standard.
danski0224
Well-known member
It is hard to beat the Harbor Freight US General Pro series boxes in their price categories- even at full price. The only thing that comes close are the Masterforce boxes at Menards, and those boxes have lots of short drawers.
If I was seriously in the market for tool truck branded boxes and the pricing they command, I'd look at Lista.
Lista boxes can be configured with any drawer height combination, as long as the stack fits into the housing. Lista also offers a couple of options that look more like a tool truck cabinet. There are also a myriad of drawer dividers that are available.
If I was seriously in the market for tool truck branded boxes and the pricing they command, I'd look at Lista.
Lista boxes can be configured with any drawer height combination, as long as the stack fits into the housing. Lista also offers a couple of options that look more like a tool truck cabinet. There are also a myriad of drawer dividers that are available.
Bruce57
Well-known member
I would try to find a used Snapon or Matco box.
I second this. There are lots of like new Snap-on and Matco boxes out there at a more reasonable price than new off the trucks.
Another thing to think about if you are on the market for a truck brand box is to talk to the driver. Several years ago my older brother bought a used SO box from the truck. Not sure of the model number, but it is about 6' long. It was pretty rough looking when he got it, but he got it off the truck for $700. A quick cleanup and paint job later, he had a very nice, usable box.