Craftsman Collapsible Magnetic Tray

When I first got my hands on the Craftsman Collapsible Magnetic Tray (model CMMT98343), I was intrigued by its unique design and potential utility. The idea of a tray that could securely hold small metal parts while also being able to collapse for easy storage seemed like a game-changer for anyone who frequently works with screws, bolts, and other small components. However, my experience with this tool was a mixed bag.

First, let's talk about what the tray gets right. The collapsible feature is genuinely useful. When fully expanded, the tray has ample space to hold a variety of small parts, and when collapsed, it takes up minimal space in my toolbox. This is a significant advantage over traditional metal trays, which can be bulky and cumbersome to store. The tray's dimensions (9.4 inches in length, 7.4 inches in width, and 2 inches in height when expanded) strike a good balance between capacity and portability.

The tray is made from a combination of soft rubber and hard plastic, which makes it durable and resistant to chemicals commonly found in garage environments. This material choice also means that the tray won't scratch delicate surfaces like car hoods, which is a nice touch. Cleaning the tray is a breeze; a quick rinse is usually enough to get it looking like new again.

However, the magnetic base, which is supposed to be one of the tray's main selling points, leaves much to be desired. The base features five embedded magnets, but they are relatively weak. While they can hold small screws and bolts under ideal conditions, they struggle to keep these items in place if the tray is jostled or tipped over. This is particularly problematic if you're working in a dynamic environment where the tray might be subject to movement.

Moreover, the weak magnets also mean that the tray doesn't adhere well to vertical or angled metal surfaces. This limits its versatility significantly. In many cases, I found myself having to place the tray on a flat, stable surface to ensure that the contents wouldn't spill out. This somewhat defeats the purpose of having a magnetic tray in the first place.

Another issue I encountered was with the tray's internal color. The black interior makes it difficult to see small parts, especially in low-light conditions. A lighter color would have been more practical, making it easier to identify and retrieve the items stored within the tray.

Despite these shortcomings, the tray does have its merits. It excels in situations where you need a compact, easy-to-store solution for holding small parts. The collapsible design is genuinely innovative, and the soft rubber exterior is a thoughtful touch that prevents scratches and other damage to delicate surfaces. For light-duty tasks around the house, such as changing door knobs or assembling furniture, the tray performs adequately.

However, for more demanding tasks, especially in professional settings, the tray's weaknesses become apparent. The weak magnets and the black interior color are significant drawbacks that hinder its overall utility. If you're looking for a magnetic tray that can securely hold a large number of small parts and adhere to various surfaces, you might want to consider other options.

In conclusion, while the Craftsman Collapsible Magnetic Tray has some innovative features and is convenient for light-duty tasks, it falls short in several key areas. The weak magnets and the black interior color are significant drawbacks that limit its overall utility. If you need a reliable magnetic tray for professional or heavy-duty use, you might be better off looking elsewhere. However, if you're looking for a compact, easy-to-store tray for occasional use, this product could still be a worthwhile addition to your toolbox.