Craftsman Tool Organizer, 3-Piece 14-Compartment Drawer Set

When organizing a workshop or garage, having a reliable and versatile storage system can make a world of difference. I recently had the opportunity to test out the Craftsman Tool Organizer, a 3-piece 14-compartment drawer set (model number CMST98018), and I must say, it has significantly improved my workspace efficiency.

Design and Build Quality

The Craftsman Tool Organizer consists of three separate trays, each with different sizes of compartments. This design allows for a variety of storage options, accommodating everything from small screws and nails to larger hand tools. The trays are constructed from a sturdy molded plastic, which feels durable and capable of withstanding daily use. Despite its robust build, the organizer remains lightweight, making it easy to handle and transport.

One of the standout features is the clear lid, which provides excellent visibility into the contents of each tray without the need to open them. This is particularly useful when you’re in the middle of a project and need to quickly locate a specific item. The lid also interlocks with each individual compartment, ensuring that small items stay in their designated spots, even when the organizer is moved around.

Customizability

The ability to customize the compartments is where this organizer truly shines. Each tray comes with several removable dividers, allowing you to adjust the size of the compartments to fit your specific needs. This flexibility is invaluable for anyone who works with a variety of tools and small parts. I found it particularly useful for organizing my collection of screws, nuts, and bolts, which often end up scattered and difficult to find.

The side latches are another thoughtful addition. They securely lock the lid in place, preventing any accidental spills. These latches also allow you to stack multiple organizers together, creating a compact and efficient storage system. I appreciated this feature as it helped me save space in my already crowded workshop.

Practical Use

In practice, the Craftsman Tool Organizer proved to be incredibly versatile. I used one tray to store all the small parts for my home drip watering system, including 1/4” drip emitters, couplings, and installation tools. The other trays were dedicated to my 1/2” connectors, shut-off valves, ground staples, and other related tools. This methodical organization made it much easier to find and access the parts I needed, streamlining my workflow and reducing frustration.

The organizer’s portability is another major plus. It’s compact enough to fit into drawers up to 22.5 inches wide, 16.5 inches deep, and 3 inches high, making it suitable for most standard tool chests. The built-in carry handle is sturdy and comfortable to hold, allowing you to easily transport the organizer from one workspace to another.

Durability

Durability is often a concern with plastic storage solutions, but the Craftsman Tool Organizer holds up well under regular use. The plastic is thick and resilient, showing no signs of warping or cracking even after being loaded with heavy items. The dividers fit snugly and remain in place, and the latches have a solid feel, giving me confidence that they will last over time.

However, there were a few minor drawbacks. The lid has a tendency to fall closed if not fully opened, which can be a bit frustrating when you’re trying to fill or access the compartments. Additionally, while the latches are generally secure, they may not withstand extremely heavy use over many years. For most home and light workshop applications, though, they should perform adequately.

Overall Performance

Overall, the Craftsman Tool Organizer has exceeded my expectations. Its combination of durability, customizability, and portability makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to keep their tools and small parts organized. The clear lid and interlocking compartments are particularly useful features that enhance its practicality.

Recommendation

I would highly recommend the Craftsman Tool Organizer to both hobbyists and professionals alike. Its thoughtful design and robust build quality make it a valuable addition to any workshop or garage. Whether you’re looking to organize screws, nails, small tools, or other miscellaneous items, this organizer provides a reliable and efficient solution.

In conclusion, the Craftsman Tool Organizer is a well-designed, versatile, and durable storage solution that offers excellent value for its price. Its customizable compartments, secure latches, and clear lid make it easy to keep your workspace tidy and your tools easily accessible. If you’re in the market for a new tool organizer, this one is definitely worth considering.