A metal tool box is a practical way to store and organize one’s tools and supplies. Whether its is just a hodgepodge of random tools or a tool collection that you put a hardware store to shame, a metal tool box will be the best way to keep tools organized and protected from damage. Tool boxes, sometimes known as tool chests or workboxes, should ideally function to store and organize tools, as well as allow the owner to carry and transport them with relative ease.
Most tool boxes are either made from metal or plastic. While plastic tool boxes have their advantages in weight and other areas, the metal tool box seem to be the preference of professionals due to its vastly superior durability and ruggedness. Where most plastic tool boxes would become distorted or break, a metal tool box would easily absorb damage, which could possibly be hammered out. Due to its ability to withstand greater amounts of usage and abuse, the metal tool box remains the choice for machinist, carpenter, mechanics and serious do-it-yourselfers. These are usually steel and aluminum tool boxes.
The metal tool box’s design has evolved over the years. What was once the practical rectangular container with a latch and handle is no longer an option. As machines and tools become more complex, tool boxes have changed to accommodate the increase in space requirements and organization capabilities. Thus metal tool boxes have incorporated an increasing number of compartments into their design. These can sometimes be found as part of the lid, which folds out into different levels of compartments. Some tool boxes now have a number of drawers made into the body so that tools can be organized according to size or frequency of use. Others incorporate both these designs, making a very complex looking design. This doesn’t completely address the need for space, though. For those people who work in shops or factories where the concern is more about space and organization than transportation, rolling tool boxes and tool cabinets are now being used. These are oversized metal tool boxes that have a great number of compartments of varying sizes to accommodate the numerous tools and supplies that are typically needed in factories and shops. To address the difficulty of moving about such a heavy storage place, these are put on sets of wheels so that the user can cart them around through the facility without expending too much energy.
On the other end of the spectrum, the weight and hassle of carrying tool boxes has push other people to consider alternatives. The other options include tool sets that have plastic moldings in which only the tools necessary for the job can be stored. Also available are tool belts and aprons that allow tools to be carried conveniently close when on the job. There are also utility carts in automobiles such as pickup truck tool boxes that can be installed onto the truck. These options value transportability and convenience over space and organization. While these are all viable options, at the end of the work day, tools and supplies still need to be storage in metal tool boxes to keep them from getting lost or damaged.
An example of the traditional tool box is the Portable Metal Tool Box from Boston Industrial. It is made of steel and has a powder coated paint finish to make it resistant to damage from scratches and chemicals. This makes it very durable. It also has one tray inside in order to give some avenue for organizing one’s supplies and equipment. This tool box weighs approximately 4 pounds when empty and ideal for carrying around hand tools. It is priced at $8.25, making it an economic way to keep your tools clean and damage free.
For those with more complex storage and organization needs, the metal tool box with numerous compartments may be more appropriate. An example of this would be the 18 inch Split Lid Cantilever Tool Box from Waterloo Industries. It is made from solid steel and has a weather resistant cantilever design. Its cover opens into two, revealing 4 cantilever trays on which various tools can be stored. It also features heavy duty latches with piano hinges for a secure lock and a comfort grip handle for easier transport. This tool box should be able to address the needs of even the most demanding professionals. It is priced at $169 but can be found online for prices ranging from $100 to $110.