Milwaukee 56” High Capacity Steel Storage Combo

If you're serious about tool organization, the Milwaukee 56” High Capacity Steel Storage Combo (Model 48-22-8556) is a storage solution that's tough to beat. As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the workshop, I can confidently say that this tool chest delivers on multiple fronts, from build quality to functionality, with only a few minor drawbacks.

First impressions matter, and this storage combo exudes a sense of sturdiness and durability right off the bat. The frame, reinforced with angle iron, feels rock-solid. This isn't just a tool chest that's going to sit in the corner of your garage—it's built to withstand the rigors of a busy workshop. The 18-gauge steel construction adds to this sense of robustness, ensuring that the chest can handle whatever you throw its way.

One of the standout features for me is the drawer system. With 18 drawers, each equipped with 150lbs soft-close full extension slides, there's ample storage space for a wide array of tools. The soft-close mechanism is a particularly nice touch, preventing tools from shifting to the back every time you shut a drawer. It’s a small feature, but it makes a big difference in maintaining organization and accessibility. The pre-cut drawer liners included with the unit are another thoughtful addition, although I found them a bit too thin for my liking and they tend to move around. Replacing them with thicker, more adhesive liners might be worth considering.

Mobility is another area where this tool chest shines. The six-inch industrial casters make moving this behemoth relatively easy. Given its weight capacity of 3000 lbs, you can load this chest up without worrying about the integrity of the wheels. However, I did notice that the casters could be improved. They’re not the smoothest, especially when fully loaded, and lack built-in bearings which would make for easier maneuverability. Swapping them out for higher-quality casters might be a good upgrade if you plan to move it frequently.

The built-in power center is a fantastic feature, especially if you’re like me and have multiple battery-powered tools that need regular charging. However, the design of the power strip could use some tweaking. The plugs are angled in such a way that it’s challenging to use both outlets simultaneously on a standard duplex outlet. This can be a bit of a hassle, but it’s not a deal-breaker.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the folding side shelf. It adds a significant amount of workspace without taking up additional floor space when not in use. The pull-out work surface is equally handy, providing a convenient area to lay out tools or plans without cluttering the main workbench.

Speaking of space, the 43,000 cubic inches of storage capacity is more than enough for most professional or serious DIY enthusiasts. The layout of the drawers is generally well thought out, although combining some of the shallower drawers into deeper ones could make the space even more usable. The integrated bottle opener is a quirky, but welcome addition for those long workshop sessions.

The finish on the tool chest seems durable and has held up well so far, resisting both scratches and stains. However, I did encounter a small issue with the locks and keys. Initially, they were a bit stiff, but they did seem to break in over time. It might be worth lubricating them right from the start to avoid any frustration.

Assembly was straightforward, but definitely a two-person job given the weight and size of the unit. Milwaukee has done a good job with the instructions, making the process as painless as possible. Once assembled, the tool chest feels like an indestructible fortress for your tools.

There are a few drawbacks worth noting. The quality control could be better. I had a minor issue with one of the drawer handles, which wasn’t welded properly and moved around more than it should. This wasn’t a major problem and was easily fixed, but it’s something to be aware of. Additionally, the LED light that comes with the unit is somewhat underwhelming. It started flickering after a short period of use, which was disappointing. Replacing it with a more reliable light source is advisable if you plan on using the hutch area frequently.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 56” High Capacity Steel Storage Combo is an impressive piece of equipment that offers excellent value for its price. It has a few minor flaws, but they are far outweighed by its many strengths. The ample storage space, robust build, and practical features make it a worthy investment for anyone looking to improve their tool organization and workflow. If you’re in the market for a high-capacity tool chest that can stand up to the demands of a busy workshop, I would highly recommend giving this one a serious look.