Craftsman 26-In 5 Drawer Cabinet

As a DIY enthusiast, I recently had the opportunity to work with the Craftsman 26-In 5 Drawer Cabinet, model CMST98264BK. This rolling tool cabinet boasts a heavy-duty steel construction and is designed to offer ample storage space with its five drawers. Having spent considerable time organizing my tools and putting this cabinet through its paces, I believe I can provide a comprehensive and objective review that will help you decide if this cabinet is the right fit for your workshop.

Build Quality and Construction

First impressions matter, and the Craftsman tool cabinet certainly makes a positive one. The heavy-duty steel construction feels robust and well-built. The black finish is both attractive and durable, resisting scratches and wear even after heavy use. The cabinet weighs a substantial 103 lbs, which speaks to its solid build but also means you might need a hand moving it around initially.

One of the standout features of this cabinet is its soft-close drawer sliders. These sliders prevent the drawers from slamming shut, which not only protects your tools but also reduces noise in the workshop. The drawers glide smoothly, even when fully loaded, thanks to the roller bearings.

Storage and Organization

The five drawers offer a versatile range of storage options. The top drawer is shallow, making it perfect for smaller hand tools and accessories. The middle drawers are of medium depth, suitable for wrenches, screwdrivers, and other mid-sized tools. The bottom drawer is the deepest and can handle larger items like power tools and bulkier equipment. Each drawer comes with pre-cut mats, which is a nice touch as it prevents tools from sliding around and getting scratched.

The total weight capacity of 650 lbs is more than adequate for most home workshops. I loaded the cabinet with a variety of tools, including some heavier power tools, and it handled the weight without any issues. The balance of the cabinet is excellent, even when the drawers are fully extended.

Mobility and Ease of Assembly

The cabinet comes with durable mounting casters that make it easy to move around the workshop. Two of the casters swivel and lock, providing stability when you need it and mobility when you don't. While I found the casters to be generally effective, they are attached using sheet metal screws, which might raise concerns about long-term durability. In my experience, the casters held up well, but it's something to keep an eye on if you plan to move the cabinet frequently.

Assembling the cabinet was straightforward. The handle and casters were easy to install, and the instructions were clear. However, I do wish that the handle could be mounted on either side without requiring additional drilling. This small inconvenience aside, the overall assembly process was smooth and didn't take more than an hour.

Practical Use and Functionality

In practical use, the Craftsman tool cabinet excels in keeping tools organized and easily accessible. The lockable drawers add a layer of security, which is particularly useful if you share your workspace or have valuable tools. However, the locking mechanism does require you to hold the lock open while accessing the drawers, which can be a bit cumbersome.

The cabinet's size is ideal for a home workshop. It’s compact enough to fit in tight spaces but offers enough storage to keep your tools organized. The combination of drawer sizes is well thought out, allowing you to store a variety of tools efficiently.

Durability and Longevity

The cabinet's heavy-duty steel construction suggests it will stand the test of time. The soft-close drawers and roller bearings add to the overall durability, ensuring that the drawers remain functional even after years of use. The black finish is not just for looks; it effectively protects the cabinet from rust and corrosion.

That said, it's not without its flaws. Some users have reported minor dents and dings upon delivery, which suggests that the packaging could be improved. While my unit arrived in good condition, I would recommend inspecting the cabinet thoroughly before accepting delivery.

Recommendations

Would I recommend the Craftsman 26-In 5 Drawer Cabinet? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you're looking for a sturdy, well-built tool cabinet that offers ample storage and smooth drawer operation, this model is a solid choice. The soft-close drawers, durable construction, and attractive finish make it a worthwhile addition to any workshop.

However, if you plan to move the cabinet frequently, you might want to keep an eye on the durability of the casters. Additionally, be prepared to inspect the cabinet upon delivery to ensure it hasn't sustained any damage during shipping.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 26-In 5 Drawer Cabinet strikes a good balance between quality and functionality. It's not without its minor issues, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. For the price, it offers excellent value and should serve most DIY enthusiasts and home mechanics well for years to come.