DeWalt TOUGHSYSTEM® 2.0 EXTRA LARGE TOOLBOX

The TOUGHSYSTEM® 2.0 Extra Large Toolbox from DeWalt caught my eye for its promise of durability and ample storage capacity. As someone who frequently juggles a variety of tools for both DIY projects and professional tasks, I was eager to see how this toolbox would hold up to my demands.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and this toolbox certainly makes a strong one. The black and yellow color scheme is classic DeWalt, and the overall aesthetic is both rugged and professional. The build quality is immediately apparent; the plastic feels thick and robust, and the metal front latches add a layer of confidence that the toolbox will stay securely closed.

One of the standout features is the patented auto-connect side latches, which make stacking and unstacking other TOUGHSYSTEM® boxes a breeze. This is particularly useful if you have a collection of DeWalt toolboxes, as it allows for seamless integration and easy transport. The side latches are intuitive to use, and they lock with a satisfying click that reassures you everything is secure.

Storage and Organization

The internal capacity of this toolbox is impressive. With a depth of 14.625 inches, height of 16.185 inches, and width of 21.645 inches, it offers plenty of room for larger tools like circular saws, impact wrenches, and even a cordless air compressor. The removable inner tray is a nice touch for organizing smaller items, although I found the tray’s handle to be somewhat bulky, taking up more space than necessary.

What really sets this toolbox apart is its ability to accommodate customized foam inserts. This allows for a high degree of organization and protection for your tools. I customized foam cutouts for my impact wrenches, battery chargers, and various other tools, which made it incredibly easy to find and access what I needed without rummaging through a pile of items.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Durability is where this toolbox truly shines. It's built like a tank, and despite loading it up with heavy tools, it held its shape and showed no signs of strain. The IP65 rating for dust and water resistance is another major plus, especially for those who work in environments where the toolbox might be exposed to the elements. I tested this by leaving it outside during a light rain, and true to its rating, the contents remained dry.

However, there is a minor design flaw worth mentioning. When opening the lid after it has been exposed to rain, water tends to pour into the box. This somewhat defeats the purpose of the waterproof seal, so it's something to be mindful of.

Portability

Despite its large size, the toolbox is surprisingly portable. The side handles are heavy-duty and fold down when not in use, making it easy to carry the toolbox either solo or with a partner. The top handle allows for suitcase-like carrying, which is convenient for shorter distances. However, given the size and potential weight when fully loaded, I found myself wishing it had wheels for easier transport over longer distances or rough terrain.

Usability

The usability of this toolbox is generally excellent. The latches are strong and secure, and the lid opens smoothly. One minor gripe is that the lid doesn't open much beyond 90 degrees, which can cause it to fall closed if you're working on uneven or sloped ground. This is a small annoyance but worth noting for those who might be using it in less-than-ideal conditions.

Compatibility

One of the most appealing aspects of this toolbox is its backwards compatibility with any TOUGHSYSTEM® product. This means you don't have to replace your existing setup to integrate this toolbox, making it a cost-effective upgrade. It seamlessly stacks with both Gen 1 and Gen 2 TOUGHSYSTEM® boxes, although I did notice that it doesn’t lock well with some specialty items like the DeWalt Power Station and Tough System Music Station.

Final Thoughts

The DeWalt TOUGHSYSTEM® 2.0 Extra Large Toolbox is a robust, versatile storage solution that caters to both professional and DIY enthusiasts. Its durable build, ample storage capacity, and weather resistance make it a reliable choice for a variety of environments. The minor flaws, such as water pooling in the lid and the lack of wheels, are outweighed by its many strengths.

Would I recommend this toolbox? Absolutely. Its durability, organizational capabilities, and compatibility with other TOUGHSYSTEM® products make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. Whether you're a professional who needs a reliable storage solution on the job site or a DIYer looking to keep your tools organized and protected, this toolbox is well worth the investment.

In conclusion, the DeWalt TOUGHSYSTEM® 2.0 Extra Large Toolbox lives up to its name, offering a tough, reliable, and highly functional storage solution that stands up to the demands of various tasks and environments.