Craftsman 5-Drawer Chest

When setting up my workshop, I found myself in need of an organized, reliable storage solution for my tools. Enter the Craftsman 5-Drawer Chest, model CMST22656BK, a tool chest that promises to deliver ample storage space and a sturdy build. After spending some time with this chest, I have gathered my thoughts on its performance, features, and overall value.

First impressions are important, and the Craftsman 5-Drawer Chest looks the part with its sleek black finish and prominent Craftsman logo. The dimensions (26 x 12 x 17.25 inches) make it a compact yet spacious addition to any workspace. The steel construction feels robust at first glance, and the 3,589 cubic inches of internal storage space are quite generous for a chest of this size.

One of the standout features of this tool chest is its full-extension drawers, which can support up to 50 lbs each. This is particularly handy for storing heavier tools without worrying about the drawers sagging or getting stuck. The drawers slide smoothly, and the included drawer liners are a nice touch, preventing tools from scratching the surface or sliding around.

However, the locking mechanism is where the Craftsman 5-Drawer Chest starts to show its weaknesses. The internal keyed locking system only secures the lid, not the individual drawers. This design means that to lock the drawers, you need to ensure they are fully closed before lowering the lid. This process can be a bit cumbersome, and there have been instances where drawers lock themselves if pushed too forcefully. It’s not the most intuitive system, and it left me wanting a more straightforward and reliable locking mechanism.

The chest also features recessed side handles, which are supposed to make it easy to move around. While they do provide a good grip, the chest’s weight (44 lbs) and the thinness of the metal can make it feel a bit flimsy when lifting. It’s not something I would want to move frequently, especially when loaded with tools.

Speaking of the metal, it’s worth noting that the steel used in this chest is quite thin. This thinness can lead to some issues with durability. I noticed that the chest is prone to dents and bends, especially around the corners and edges. It’s clear that this tool chest is built to a price point, and the material quality reflects that.

In terms of storage capacity, the five drawers offer a good range of sizes for different tools. The top compartment is particularly useful for larger items, while the smaller drawers are great for organizing hand tools, screws, and other small items. However, the bottom drawer, which is supposed to be the most robust, struggled under the weight of some heavier tools. The drawer slides did not feel as sturdy as I would have liked, and there were moments when the drawer felt like it might come off its tracks.

Despite these issues, the Craftsman 5-Drawer Chest does have its merits. It’s an affordable option for those who need a basic tool storage solution. The design is functional, and for lighter use, it can serve its purpose well. It’s particularly suited for hobbyists or weekend DIY enthusiasts who don’t need to store very heavy tools or move the chest around frequently.

However, for professionals or those who need a more durable and reliable tool chest, this model might not be the best choice. The thin metal, finicky locking mechanism, and potential issues with the drawer slides are significant drawbacks. If security and durability are top priorities, it might be worth investing in a higher-end model or looking at other brands known for their robust construction.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 5-Drawer Chest offers a decent amount of storage space and a sleek design at an affordable price. It’s a suitable option for light to moderate use, especially for those who need a stationary storage solution. However, its durability and locking mechanism leave much to be desired. If you’re a professional or have more demanding storage needs, I would recommend exploring other options that offer better build quality and more reliable security features. For the casual user, though, this tool chest can be a functional addition to your workspace.