DeWalt 24 in. D Resin 1-Touch Hand Tool Box

First impressions and setup

I put the DeWalt 24-inch box into service as a grab-and-go hauler for jobsite essentials: a drill/driver set, impact bits, a 3/8 in. mechanics kit, a hammer, pliers, a few chisels, and sundries like tape, blades, and markers. Empty, it’s about 6.5 lb, which is light for its size. Packed sensibly, it’s easy to carry with one hand, and the one-touch latch is convenient when the other hand is full. This isn’t a modular stack-and-lock system; it’s a straightforward, single-compartment box with a half-length tray and a lid gasket. That simplicity is its appeal.

Build and materials

The shell is resin with a metal center latch and metal hinge pins. The plastic isn’t brittle; it has a bit of give that helps it absorb bumps without cracking. The hinge runs the width of the lid and feels robust—no play or racking after repeated openings. DeWalt added a soft-grip handle, and while that sounds trivial, it matters when the load pushes toward the 55 lb capacity. The handle stays comfortable through a long walk.

At 24 in long by 11.4 in wide by 11.4 in tall, it rides well in a truck bed or trunk and fits a shelf without hogging space. Internally, the main cavity measures roughly 20 x 7.5 x 8.2 in (L x W x D), with 9.6 in of usable internal depth under the lid. That extra depth comes from the lid’s dome, which is useful for taller items.

Storage layout

The removable, half-length tray is the smartest part of the layout. Because it spans only half the box, you can slide it to either side or lift it out. I keep frequently used hand tools (utility knife, tape measure, nut drivers, pencil, small squares) in the tray. On taller days—spray adhesive, lubricant, or a glue bottle—I slide the tray to one side and stand those items upright in the open half. The lid closes cleanly without colliding with them.

The main compartment swallows two 20V drills or a drill-and-driver pair, chargers, spare batteries, and a compact socket set. Long hand saws up to 20 in fit straight, and a 16 oz hammer fits diagonally without fuss. It’s not the right box for very bulky tools like a 7-1/4 in circular saw; the 7.5 in internal width is the limiting factor. Think “medium-to-large hand tools and compact power tools,” and you’ll be using it as intended.

Total stated capacity is 3,064 cubic inches, which tracks with what I can fit before it starts feeling crowded. The walls are relatively straight, so you don’t lose much space to odd tapers or molded protrusions.

Latch and security

The single one-touch latch is strong and easy to use with gloves on. It’s also the one area where you need to be thoughtful. The resin shell has some flex; load the box near its 55 lb limit or cram the sides with awkward items, and the sidewalls can bow slightly. On those days, I’ve had to give the lid a firm seat and watch for a positive click from the latch. If you rush and only half-engage it, you can create a false close. Lift from the handle and the lid will remind you of that mistake.

Two practical habits solved this for me:
- Pack heavier, denser items toward the center and bottom so the sides don’t splay.
- After closing, pull up gently on the handle to confirm the latch engagement before walking away.

There’s a padlock hasp; drop in a small padlock and the hasp’s shackle ensures the latch can’t pop even if you bump it. It’s light theft deterrence and a nice mechanical backup.

Weather resistance

There’s a rubbery seal under the lid that provides real water resistance. I’ve left the box in steady rain and through an overnight storm; the inside stayed dry. It’s not a submersible case and won’t protect against pressure washing or a tipped cooler. But for jobsite drizzle, unexpected showers, and dusty shops, the gasket earns its keep. The lid closes squarely onto the seal without needing to slam it.

Portability and ergonomics

At 6.47 lb empty, you can afford to fill it with tools before it becomes unwieldy. The handle’s geometry keeps the box balanced, and the soft overmold reduces hand fatigue. The one-handed operation is more than a bullet point—coming down a ladder or out of a truck, I can drop the box and pop it open without setting anything else down.

There are molded feet on the bottom that keep it stable on uneven surfaces. The lid has a V-groove and ruler markings. The groove isn’t just decorative; it’s genuinely handy for cutting PVC, conduit, or dowels when you don’t want to drag out saw horses. I’ve used it to hold 1/2 in and 3/4 in pipe steady while making clean hacksaw cuts.

Durability on the job

The resin shell shrugs off scratches, and the corners don’t chip when bumped into concrete or tailgates. I’ve had a couple of “oops” moments—a short drop from the truck and a sideways slide off a bench. The box stayed latched and nothing spilled. The tray still sits flat, and the lid hasn’t warped or lost alignment. With normal use, I’d expect the box to last years.

I don’t use it as a step stool, and I wouldn’t advise doing so. The lid is strong, but that’s outside its design intent. As a seat for a quick break? Sure. As a tool carrier and small work support? Absolutely.

What could be better

• Latch tolerance under load: The center latch works, but the shell flex means you should respect the 55 lb limit and pack thoughtfully. If you habitually overload your boxes or toss in odd-shaped items that press outward, you’ll occasionally fight the latch alignment.
• Organization: The half-tray is practical, yet there are no small covered compartments for fasteners or delicate bits. I supplement with small organizers or pouches.
• No modular integration: If you’re invested in a stackable system with interlocking cases, this box won’t clip in. It’s a standalone workhorse.

Who it suits best

• Homeowners and DIYers who want a single, tough, water-resistant box for essential tools.
• Service techs and trades who prefer a light, grab-and-go box for task-specific kits (electrical, plumbing repairs, punch lists).
• Van and trailer users who need a box that rides well, doesn’t leak in rain, and opens easily on site.

If your work demands daily transport of very heavy loads, or you want IP-rated waterproofing and modular stacks, you’ll be happier with a heavier-duty system case. If you need a simple, durable, reasonably priced box that you won’t baby, this hits the mark.

Practical packing tips

• Keep dense items low and centered to minimize sidewall spread.
• Use the half-tray for high-frequency tools and slide it to leave vertical space for cans or bottles.
• Stow cords and chargers along the long sides; the 20 in internal length favors them.
• Click the latch firmly and tug the handle before moving. Add a padlock when transporting long distances.

The bottom line

The DeWalt 24-inch box is a straightforward, durable tool box with a smart half-tray, genuinely useful V-groove, comfortable carry, and a weather-resistant seal that actually works. The latch is strong but rewards proper packing and a conscious close, especially near max load. Treat it as a 55 lb, water-resistant hauler for medium-to-large tools, not a do-everything crate, and it will serve you well.

Recommendation: I recommend it for anyone who wants a tough, light, and simple job box with real rain protection and easy one-handed operation. It’s ideal as a primary homeowner box or a task-specific kit for pros. If you routinely overstuff tool boxes or need modular stacking and absolute latch rigidity regardless of load, consider a heavier-duty system case instead.