Craftsman TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the world of tools and storage solutions, and their TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit (model CMST21404) is no exception. As someone who has experimented with various tool storage systems over the years, I was eager to see how this unit would stack up—pun intended—against the competition. After spending some time with it, I can confidently say that this storage solution offers a compelling mix of durability, functionality, and thoughtful design.

Build Quality and Materials

Right out of the box, the first thing that struck me was the solid construction of the TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit. Made from durable ABS material, the drawers feel robust and ready to withstand the rigors of daily use. The unit weighs in at 16.5 pounds, which isn't exactly light, but this weight contributes to its overall sturdiness. The heavy-duty ball-bearing slides ensure smooth operation, even when the drawers are loaded to their 22-pound capacity.

One feature that stood out was the drop-and-lock mechanism, which makes stacking multiple units a breeze. This is particularly useful if you already have other VERSASTACK modules or CRAFTSMAN organizers, as the TRADESTACK is fully compatible with these systems. The one-touch release mechanism for quick detachment of units is another thoughtful addition, making it easy to reconfigure your setup on the fly.

Functionality and Ease of Use

The TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit excels in terms of functionality. The drawers open and close smoothly, thanks to the ball-bearing slides, and they extend fully, allowing easy access to tools stored at the back. This might seem like a minor detail, but it’s a game-changer when you’re trying to find a specific tool quickly.

One of my favorite features is the automatic stacking system. The drop-and-lock mechanism makes it incredibly easy to stack and secure multiple units, which is perfect for those of us who need to transport our tools frequently. The carrying handle, complete with a coated grip, makes it comfortable to carry the unit around, although I did find it a bit heavy when fully loaded.

Storage Capacity and Organization

With two spacious drawers, this unit offers ample storage for a variety of tools. Each drawer has a load capacity of 22 pounds, bringing the total weight capacity to 88 pounds. This is more than sufficient for most hand tools, power tools, and accessories. However, it’s worth noting that the drawers do not come with dividers, even though there are grooves designed to hold them. This omission is a bit puzzling, especially since dividers would significantly enhance the unit’s organizational capabilities.

Despite this, I found the storage capacity to be quite impressive. The drawers are deep enough to hold larger tools like drills and saws, while still being versatile enough for smaller items. The lack of dividers did mean I had to get a bit creative with how I organized my tools, but this was a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of things.

Durability and Weather Resistance

While the TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit is not officially IP rated for water and dust resistance, it performed admirably when I accidentally left it out in the rain overnight. The contents remained dry, which speaks to the quality of the materials and construction. However, if you frequently work in harsh environments, you might want to consider additional weatherproofing measures.

The unit’s durability is further evidenced by its ability to withstand the knocks and bumps of daily use. Whether it was being moved around the job site or stored in the back of my truck, the TRADESTACK held up remarkably well. The drawers stayed securely closed during transport, thanks to the snap-closed mechanism, although I did wish there was an option to lock them for added security.

Areas for Improvement

While the TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit has a lot going for it, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The most glaring omission is the lack of dividers for the drawers. Given that the grooves are already in place, it’s surprising that Craftsman didn’t include them as standard. This would have greatly enhanced the unit’s organizational capabilities and made it even more versatile.

Another potential improvement would be the addition of a locking mechanism for the drawers. While the snap-closed feature works well for keeping the drawers shut during transport, a lock would provide added peace of mind, especially for those who need to leave their tools unattended on job sites.

Finally, while the unit is designed to be part of a larger system, it would be great if Craftsman offered a trolley or cart specifically designed to accommodate multiple drawer units. This would make it easier to transport a fully loaded stack over rough terrain or up and down stairs.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Craftsman TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional tool storage solution. Its robust construction, smooth drawer operation, and compatibility with other VERSASTACK and CRAFTSMAN products make it a versatile addition to any tool collection. While there are a few areas for improvement, such as the inclusion of dividers and a locking mechanism, these are relatively minor issues that do not detract significantly from the unit’s overall performance.

I would highly recommend the TRADESTACK 2 Drawer Unit to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its combination of durability, functionality, and ease of use makes it a valuable asset for anyone looking to keep their tools organized and easily accessible. Whether you’re working on a job site, in a workshop, or simply need a reliable storage solution for your home garage, this unit is well worth considering.