Craftsman Large Storage Organizer

Organizing small parts in a workshop or hobby space can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with various sizes and types of items. The Craftsman Large Storage Organizer (model CMST40739) aims to tackle this challenge with its 39 compartments, promising a mix of small and large drawers to help keep everything in place. Having used this organizer myself, I have gathered some insights that might help you decide if this storage solution is right for you.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the Craftsman organizer is its sturdy yet lightweight design. The unit measures 14.2 inches in length, 8.8 inches in height, and 6.1 inches in depth, making it compact enough to fit on a workbench or be mounted on a wall. The overall weight of 5.2 pounds adds to its portability without compromising on stability.

The organizer features 39 transparent drawers, which is a significant advantage. The clear plastic allows you to see the contents without having to open each drawer, saving you time and hassle. The drawers are made of a slightly malleable plastic, which adds to their durability. They can withstand some rough handling without cracking, unlike more rigid materials that are prone to breakage.

Usability and Functionality

One of the standout features of this organizer is the ease with which you can remove the drawers. This design element is particularly useful when you need to carry a drawer's contents to a different workspace. The drawers slide out smoothly and can be reinserted just as easily, making the organizer highly user-friendly.

However, the organizer does have its limitations. The lack of horizontal support for the drawers means that they can sag if overloaded with heavy items. This makes the unit more suitable for lighter materials like screws, nuts, bolts, and other small parts. For heavier items, you might want to consider a different storage solution.

Customization and Versatility

The Craftsman organizer comes with slots for dividers in each drawer, but it does not include the dividers themselves. This omission is a significant drawback, especially for those who need to compartmentalize their storage further. While it is possible to create your own dividers using materials like cardboard or plastic sheets, this requires additional effort and expense.

On the upside, the organizer is versatile enough to be used in various settings. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to sort LEGO pieces or a professional needing to organize hardware, the mix of small and large drawers offers flexibility. The unit can also be stacked or mounted, providing multiple options for integrating it into your workspace.

Practical Applications

In my own use, I found the Craftsman organizer to be particularly effective for sorting and storing small hardware items. The small drawers are perfect for screws, nails, and washers, while the larger drawers can accommodate bulkier items like connectors and small hand tools. The transparent drawers make it easy to locate specific items quickly, which is a significant time-saver during projects.

For hobbyists, the organizer is equally useful. I used one unit to sort various crafting supplies, including beads, buttons, and small fabric pieces. The ability to remove the drawers and carry them to a different area made my workflow more efficient and less cluttered.

Mounting and Stability

The organizer includes four mounting holes on the back, allowing you to secure it to a wall. This feature is particularly useful if you have limited bench space or want to keep your tools within easy reach. However, if you prefer to keep the unit on a workbench, its lightweight design ensures that it remains stable, provided it is not overloaded with heavy items.

Durability and Maintenance

The overall build quality of the Craftsman organizer is satisfactory for its price point. The plastic frame and drawers are robust enough for everyday use but may not withstand heavy-duty applications. Regular cleaning and occasional maintenance, such as checking for any wear and tear, will help extend the life of the unit.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Large Storage Organizer (CMST40739) is a practical and versatile solution for organizing small parts in a workshop or hobby space. Its transparent drawers, ease of use, and customizable options make it a valuable addition to any workspace. However, the lack of included dividers and limited support for heavier items are notable drawbacks.

Would I recommend this tool?

Yes, but with reservations. If you are looking for an affordable, flexible, and user-friendly organizer for lightweight items, this unit is an excellent choice. Its design and functionality make it well-suited for both professional and hobbyist use. However, if you need to store heavier materials or require built-in dividers, you might want to explore other options or be prepared to invest additional time and resources into customizing the unit to meet your needs.

In summary, the Craftsman Large Storage Organizer offers good value for its price, provided you are aware of its limitations and are willing to make some adjustments to optimize its use.