Craftsman 41 in. 6-Drawer Chest W/Light & Divide

As a seasoned DIY enthusiast and an avid collector of quality tools, I recently had the opportunity to put the Craftsman 41 in. 6-Drawer Chest W/Light & Divide to the test in my workshop. This tool chest, model CMST34162RB, boasts a range of features that caught my eye immediately. From its steel I-frame construction to its full-extension, soft-close drawer slides, I was eager to see how it would hold up under the demands of my various projects.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the solid construction. The steel build gives it a robust feel, and the overall design exudes a sense of durability. The chest itself is quite weighty at 108 pounds, which speaks to its sturdy construction. However, this weight also means it's not the easiest to move around, so you might want to ensure you have a fixed spot for it in your workshop.

The 41-inch width provides ample storage space, and the six drawers offer a variety of depths to accommodate different types of tools. I particularly appreciated the 100-lb drawer capacity, which means you can stock these drawers with heavier tools without worrying about them sagging or malfunctioning. The soft-close feature is a nice touch, preventing the drawers from slamming shut and potentially damaging the contents or the chest itself.

One of the standout features for me was the integrated power strip, which includes six outlets and two USB ports. This is incredibly convenient for charging cordless tool batteries or even keeping your phone handy while you work. The power strip is thoughtfully placed within the chest's top compartment, making it easy to access and use without cluttering your workspace. However, I did notice that the grounding wire installation was a bit cumbersome. It would have been more user-friendly if it came pre-grounded.

The built-in pegboard is another practical addition, allowing for easy customization and organization of frequently used tools. I found it particularly useful for hanging smaller hand tools and accessories that I need to grab quickly. The inclusion of magnetic drawer dividers also helps keep things organized, though I did feel that more dividers could have been included to maximize this feature.

As for the drawer slides, they are indeed full-extension, which makes accessing tools at the back of the drawer much easier. The soft-close mechanism works smoothly, and there’s a satisfying quality to the way the drawers glide in and out. However, I did find that the drawers could use a bit more grease, as they felt slightly rougher than I expected. This is a minor issue that can be easily rectified with some additional lubrication.

One minor drawback I encountered was the internal locking system. While it works well enough to keep the drawers secure, it feels somewhat weak. The over-molded keys are a nice touch, but the latch system inside the top lid could be more robust. I had an instance where the latch handle became detached, and I had to reattach it with a washer and cotter pin. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it does indicate an area where Craftsman could improve the design.

Another point worth mentioning is the cosmetic condition of the chest upon arrival. While mine arrived in good condition, I've heard from others who received units with dents and dings. It seems like the quality control during shipping could be improved. If you're purchasing this tool chest, I highly recommend inspecting it thoroughly before taking it home to avoid any potential disappointments.

Despite these minor issues, the overall functionality and design of this Craftsman tool chest are impressive. The magnetic LED pivot light is another thoughtful feature, providing additional illumination exactly where you need it. This is especially useful when working late into the evening or in poorly lit areas of the workshop.

The chest also comes with a top mat and drawer liners, which help protect both the chest and your tools from scratches and wear. The gas struts that support the chest lid are reliable and hold the lid open securely, ensuring you don't have to worry about it slamming shut unexpectedly.

In terms of aesthetics, the chest has a classic Craftsman look with its red and black color scheme. It’s not just a functional piece but also an attractive addition to any workshop. The side handles are sturdy and make maneuvering the chest easier, though you’ll likely need a second person to help with moving it due to its weight.

Overall, I would recommend the Craftsman 41 in. 6-Drawer Chest W/Light & Divide to anyone looking for a reliable and spacious tool storage solution. Its combination of ample storage, integrated power options, and thoughtful design features make it a valuable addition to any workshop. While there are a few areas where it could be improved, these are relatively minor and do not significantly detract from the chest’s overall utility and quality.

If you’re in the market for a new tool chest and value durability, functionality, and a bit of style, this Craftsman model is well worth considering. Just be sure to inspect it carefully upon arrival and perhaps be prepared to make a few minor adjustments to get it working perfectly for your needs.