Craftsman 26 in 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Cabinet

When organizing my workspace, I sought a dependable and robust storage solution. Enter the Craftsman 26 in 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Cabinet (Model CMST98268BK), a unit promising ample storage capacity and sturdy construction. My experience with this tool cabinet has been a mix of satisfaction with its functionality and some frustration due to its packaging and minor quality control issues.

Design and Build Quality

The Craftsman tool cabinet stands out with its impressive build quality. Constructed with 18-20 gauge steel, it feels solid and durable. The unit’s embossed top mat and included drawer liners are a nice touch, providing surface protection and ensuring tools stay in place. The cabinet’s total weight capacity is a hefty 1,500 lbs., which gives confidence in its ability to handle a substantial load of tools and hardware.

One of the immediate benefits I noticed was the soft-close drawer mechanism. The five drawers glide smoothly on high-stability slides that support up to 100 lbs. each. This feature not only adds to the cabinet’s functionality but also enhances the overall user experience, making it a pleasure to use daily. The drawers lock securely with the internal locking system and over-mold key, adding an extra layer of security for valuable tools.

Storage and Organization

With a storage capacity of 9,266 cubic inches, the Craftsman cabinet offers ample space for a variety of tools. The drawers are spacious and well-proportioned, allowing for organized storage of everything from small hand tools to larger power tools. I particularly appreciated the included drawer liners, which prevent tools from sliding around and getting disorganized. This thoughtful inclusion makes a significant difference in maintaining an orderly workspace.

The full-grip tubular side handle is another practical feature, making it easy to maneuver the cabinet around the shop. The 5 in. x 2 in. casters, equipped with toe-locking brakes, are robust and facilitate smooth movement. However, I did notice that the casters aren’t as stable as I would have liked. When opening the drawers, the unit tends to wobble slightly, which can be a bit disconcerting.

Assembly and Setup

Setting up the Craftsman tool cabinet was relatively straightforward, though it’s definitely a task best tackled with a helping hand. The cabinet is heavy, and assembling it alone could easily lead to strain or injury. The instructions were clear, and all necessary parts were included in the box. However, attaching the casters was a bit of a hassle due to the use of sheet metal screws instead of more secure bolts and nuts. This choice in fasteners doesn’t inspire confidence, especially if you plan to move the cabinet frequently.

Packaging and Delivery

While the cabinet itself is well-made, the packaging leaves much to be desired. Mine arrived with a couple of minor dents, and the box showed signs of rough handling. It seems that the packaging isn’t quite sufficient to protect the cabinet during shipping, which is disappointing for a product of this caliber. If possible, I’d recommend purchasing the cabinet in-store to inspect it for damage before taking it home.

Usage and Performance

In use, the Craftsman tool cabinet performs admirably. The drawers’ soft-close feature is a highlight, ensuring they close gently and reducing wear and tear over time. The non-slip drawer liners keep tools in place, even when moving the cabinet around. I found the storage capacity more than adequate for my needs, and the unit’s overall sturdiness gives me confidence that it will serve me well for years to come.

One minor annoyance is the drawer opening mechanism. While the soft-close feature is great, it does make the drawers harder to open. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to be aware of, especially if you’re used to older, more straightforward drawer designs.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman 26 in 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Cabinet is a solid investment for anyone looking to organize their tools efficiently. Its sturdy construction, ample storage capacity, and thoughtful features like soft-close drawers and non-slip liners make it a valuable addition to any workshop. However, the packaging issues and minor quality control problems are worth noting. If you can inspect the unit before purchase or are willing to deal with potential minor damage, this tool cabinet offers excellent value for its price.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Craftsman 26 in 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Cabinet? Yes, with some reservations. The cabinet itself is well-designed and functional, making it an excellent choice for both home DIYers and professional mechanics. However, the packaging and assembly issues can be a hassle, so I’d advise purchasing in-store if possible to ensure you get an undamaged unit. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall quality and functionality of the cabinet make it a worthy investment for anyone looking to organize their tools effectively.