Craftsman 3 Piece Collapsible Magnetic Trays

Magnetic trays have always been a staple in my workshop, helping to keep small parts organized and within reach. When I came across the Craftsman 3 Piece Collapsible Magnetic Trays (model CMMT98371), I was intrigued by the collapsible design and the promise of strong magnetic holding power. After spending some time with these trays, I have a mix of thoughts to share.

At first glance, the collapsible feature of these trays is quite impressive. The ability to nest them for easy storage is a big plus, especially for someone like me who values space efficiency in an already crowded toolbox. The trays collapse down to a low profile, making them easy to tuck away when not in use. This design also adds a layer of versatility, allowing me to adjust the tray size based on the number of parts I need to manage.

The trays are made of a combination of a durable magnetic mat and a silicone tray, which can be separated for cleaning. This is a thoughtful feature, as it allows for easy maintenance and ensures the trays remain in good condition over time. The full polish chrome finish gives the trays a sleek look, and the steel construction feels robust and sturdy.

However, my experience with the magnetic aspect of these trays has been less than satisfactory. The trays feature five small magnets on the base, which are intended to hold screws, bolts, and other small parts securely. Unfortunately, these magnets are quite weak. They struggle to hold even a few screws in place, and any slight jostle or tilt can cause the parts to spill out. This has proven to be a significant drawback, especially when working on projects that require frequent movement and repositioning.

One of the key selling points for me was the idea of using these trays to keep screws and small parts organized while working on various projects around the house. In practice, however, the weak magnets have made this difficult. The trays do not hold screws securely enough, and they often fall out if the tray is bumped or tilted. This has led to some frustrating moments, as I've had to constantly pick up scattered screws and parts.

On a more positive note, the soft rubber exterior of the trays has been a pleasant surprise. It prevents scratches and dents, making these trays suitable for use on delicate surfaces like car hoods or painted surfaces. This is a thoughtful design choice that adds a layer of protection for both the tray and the surface it rests on.

The collapsible aspect of the trays has proven to be very convenient. When I need to store them, they collapse down to a compact size that fits easily in my toolbox. This has been particularly useful when working on larger projects that require a lot of tools and parts. The collapsible design allows me to keep the trays handy without taking up too much space.

Despite the weak magnets, I've found some use for these trays in specific situations. For example, when working on a flat surface and not needing to move the tray around frequently, they can hold small parts reasonably well. The trays are also useful for organizing parts before starting a project, as long as they remain stationary.

However, the weak magnets have been a consistent issue. In comparison to other magnetic trays I've used in the past, these fall short in terms of holding power. There are other options on the market with stronger magnets that can securely hold a larger number of screws and parts, even when the tray is tilted or moved.

In terms of durability, the trays have held up well so far. The silicone material is easy to clean, and the steel construction feels solid. However, the weak magnets and the occasional tearing of the plastic sides have raised concerns about the long-term durability of these trays.

Overall, my experience with the Craftsman 3 Piece Collapsible Magnetic Trays has been mixed. While the collapsible design and soft rubber exterior are commendable features, the weak magnets significantly hinder the trays' functionality. For someone who needs a reliable magnetic tray to hold screws and small parts securely, these trays may not be the best option.

If you're looking for a compact and easy-to-store tray for holding small parts on a flat surface, these trays might work for you. However, if you need a magnetic tray that can securely hold parts even when tilted or moved, I would recommend looking for alternatives with stronger magnets. The concept and design of these trays are promising, but the execution falls short in terms of magnetic holding power.