Craftsman 26" 4-Drawer Chest

The Craftsman 26" 4-Drawer Chest, model CMST32642BK, has been a valuable addition to my garage workspace. Its robust steel I-Frame construction immediately stands out, providing a solid and reliable structure that can handle a significant amount of weight. The chest’s overall build quality exudes durability, which is a hallmark of Craftsman products.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about this tool chest is its substantial build. Weighing in at 78 pounds, it’s clear that this unit is designed to last. The steel frame feels sturdy and doesn’t flex or warp under pressure. The gas struts supporting the lid are a thoughtful addition, making it easy to open and close without any fear of it slamming shut unexpectedly. This is especially useful when you have your hands full or are in the middle of a project.

Drawer Functionality

The drawers are a standout feature for me. They are full-extension, soft-close drawers, which means they slide out smoothly and close quietly and securely. Each drawer boasts a 100-pound capacity, which is more than sufficient for most of my tools. The spacious bottom drawer is particularly handy for storing larger power tools and heavier items. The inclusion of magnetic drawer dividers is a clever touch, allowing for customizable organization within the drawers.

However, I did find that the chest did not come with drawer liners, which would have been a nice inclusion to prevent tools from sliding around and scratching the drawer interiors. I ended up purchasing some aftermarket liners, which solved the issue.

Mobility and Portability

One of the main selling points of this tool chest is its mobility. The unit comes with four casters, which need to be attached during assembly. These casters include a locking mechanism to keep the chest stationary when needed. While the chest moves easily across my cement garage floor, I did find that maneuvering it when fully loaded can be a bit challenging. The wheels are sturdy but might not be as heavy-duty as one would expect for a fully loaded chest. For those planning to move it frequently or load it to its maximum capacity, this could be a consideration.

Storage and Organization

The chest offers ample storage space with a total of 8,202 cubic inches. The variety in drawer sizes is practical, with shallower drawers for smaller tools and accessories, and deeper drawers for larger items. This makes it easy to keep everything organized and within reach. The built-in pegboard is a nice touch for additional storage options, allowing for quick access to frequently used tools.

Additional Features

One of the features that set this chest apart is the built-in power strip with six outlets and two USB ports. This is incredibly convenient for charging batteries, powering tools, or even plugging in a work light. Speaking of lights, the magnetic LED pivot light included with the chest is a handy addition. It provides ample illumination and can be positioned as needed, which is particularly useful in dimly lit areas of my garage.

The internal locking system with over-molded keys adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that my tools are safe from curious little hands or potential theft. The chest also includes a top mat and drawer liners, which help protect both the tools and the chest itself from wear and tear.

Assembly

Assembling the chest was relatively straightforward. The main unit comes pre-assembled, but the drawers and casters need to be installed. While the process was generally easy, I did encounter some sharp edges that resulted in a few minor cuts. It’s worth taking extra caution during assembly to avoid any injuries.

Overall Performance

In terms of performance, the Craftsman 26" 4-Drawer Chest delivers on its promises. The drawers operate smoothly even when heavily loaded, and the overall structure feels solid and dependable. The added features like the power strip and LED light enhance its functionality, making it more than just a storage unit.

Recommendations

I would highly recommend the Craftsman 26" 4-Drawer Chest to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its sturdy construction, ample storage, and thoughtful features make it a versatile and reliable addition to any workspace. While the mobility aspect could be improved with more robust casters, this is a minor drawback considering the overall quality and functionality of the chest.

For those in need of a durable, well-designed tool storage solution that offers both security and convenience, this Craftsman chest is a solid investment. It’s a product that not only meets but exceeds expectations, providing a practical and efficient way to organize and protect your tools.