Milwaukee PACKOUT Cabinet

The Milwaukee PACKOUT Cabinet, model 48-22-8445, is a welcome addition to the modular PACKOUT system. As someone who values organization and efficiency on the job site, I found this cabinet to be an essential piece for easy tool access and storage. Milwaukee has consistently been a reliable brand in the tool industry, and this cabinet lives up to that reputation with some minor caveats.

Design and Build Quality

The cabinet's construction is robust, thanks to its impact-resistant materials. This is crucial for those of us who work in tough jobsite environments where durability is a must. The cabinet feels solid in your hands, and the materials used give you confidence that it will withstand the rigors of daily use. The black and red color scheme is also visually appealing and fits well with the rest of the PACKOUT system.

Functionality and Features

One of the standout features of this cabinet is its quick access storage door. It opens from the front, which means you don't have to unstack your entire setup to reach the tools stored inside. This is a significant time-saver and a feature I found particularly useful. The door can also be locked with a padlock or cable, adding an extra layer of security for your valuable tools.

The cabinet's secure hang or stack functionality integrates seamlessly with other PACKOUT components. I found it incredibly easy to attach it to the PACKOUT wall system in my shop and just as simple to incorporate it into a mobile stack for on-the-go jobs. The ability to quickly convert from a stationary to a mobile setup is a huge plus.

Capacity and Storage

With a weight capacity of 50 lbs, the cabinet is roomy enough to store a variety of tools. I was able to fit an M18 light, an M12 fuel band saw, and several other items without any issues. However, it’s worth noting that the cabinet has notches, bumps, and grooves that appear to be designed for internal dividers or shelves. Unfortunately, these accessories are not available for purchase, which is a bit disappointing. It feels like an incomplete product in this regard, and I hope Milwaukee will address this in future updates.

Practical Use

In practical use, the cabinet excels in providing quick access to tools. I leave the door open when working with the tools inside and close it when done. The door lifts up and can be pushed back to stay open, which is very convenient. The only downside I encountered was the cabinet's size compared to other PACKOUT units. It has a smaller footprint, which may not align well with larger bins or other components in the system.

Portability and Installation

Portability is another strong suit of this cabinet. It’s lightweight enough at 16 lbs to be easily moved around but sturdy enough to feel secure when stacked with other units. The ease of installation onto the PACKOUT wall system is also a significant advantage. It literally took me minutes to set it up, and the secure hang functionality ensures it stays in place.

Price Point

The price of the Milwaukee PACKOUT Cabinet is on the higher side, especially considering it doesn’t come with internal dividers or shelves. While the quality and craftsmanship are top-notch, the cost may be a deterrent for some. I do hope Milwaukee considers adjusting the price or offering the missing internal accessories in the future.

User Experience

Overall, my experience with this cabinet has been positive. It has streamlined my workflow by allowing me to access tools quickly without having to unstack multiple units. The build quality is excellent, and the functionality it offers is unparalleled. However, the lack of internal dividers and the higher price point are areas where Milwaukee could improve.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Milwaukee PACKOUT Cabinet? Absolutely, but with some reservations. If you are already invested in the PACKOUT system and need a durable, easy-access storage solution, this cabinet is a great addition. Its robust build and seamless integration with other PACKOUT units make it highly functional for both stationary and mobile setups.

However, if you are on a tight budget or need a storage solution with internal dividers or shelves, you might want to wait until Milwaukee addresses these shortcomings. The price point is also something to consider, as it is higher than some may be willing to pay for a storage cabinet.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee PACKOUT Cabinet is a high-quality, functional piece of the PACKOUT system that offers significant advantages for tool storage and access. While it has areas that could be improved, its strengths make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to enhance their organizational setup on the job site.