Craftsman Magnetic Tray

Magnetic trays are a staple in many toolboxes, and the Craftsman Magnetic Tray, model CMMT98286, certainly holds its own in this category. Having had the opportunity to integrate this tool into my daily workflow, I can confidently share some insights on its performance and utility.

First impressions matter, and the Craftsman Magnetic Tray leaves a lasting one with its robust construction and sleek design. The tray measures a substantial 14.2 inches in length, 7.7 inches in width, and stands 1.7 inches tall. This size is a significant advantage, offering ample space to hold a variety of small metal parts, from nuts and bolts to screws and washers. The flat bottom design ensures stability, which is crucial when you need it to stay put on your workbench or any other surface.

One of the standout features of this tray is its magnetic capability. While the entire tray isn't magnetic, the two circular areas on the underside house strong magnets that provide a firm grip on metal parts. This design decision might initially seem limiting, but in practice, it works quite effectively. The magnets are potent enough to hold several metallic items securely, preventing the frustration of spilled parts. Whether you're working on a car lift or a cluttered workbench, this magnetic tray ensures that your fasteners and small components stay exactly where you need them.

The rubber base of the tray is a thoughtful addition that prevents scratching on delicate surfaces. This is especially useful when working on painted or polished surfaces where even minor scratches can be problematic. The rubber base also helps to keep the tray from sliding around, adding an extra layer of stability.

It's worth noting that the tray's sides are not particularly tall. While this design makes it easy to retrieve items quickly, it does mean that you need to be cautious when moving the tray to avoid spilling its contents. However, the firm magnetic base somewhat mitigates this issue by holding items securely even when the tray is tilted or moved around.

In terms of durability, the Craftsman Magnetic Tray feels solid and well-built. Weighing in at 1.5 pounds, it has a reassuring heft that speaks to its quality. The tray's materials and construction suggest it will stand up to regular use in a busy workshop environment. And with Craftsman's full lifetime warranty, you have the peace of mind that the company stands behind its product.

The size and strength of the magnets make this tray particularly useful for larger projects. If you're working on a vehicle or any task that involves numerous small metal parts, this tray will quickly become indispensable. It has enough capacity to hold everything you need without feeling cramped, and the magnetic hold is strong enough to keep everything in place, even when the tray is not on a flat surface.

One aspect that could be improved is the magnetic coverage. As mentioned, only the two circular areas on the underside are magnetic. Expanding the magnetic surface area would provide more versatility and potentially allow for better organization within the tray. However, this is a minor quibble given the overall effectiveness of the tray in its current design.

From an organizational standpoint, this tray is a game-changer. It keeps small parts from rolling off your workbench and getting lost, which is a common frustration in any workshop. The tray's substantial size means you can lay out all the parts you need for a project and have them within easy reach. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces the time spent hunting for missing pieces.

In conclusion, the Craftsman Magnetic Tray, model CMMT98286, is a highly effective tool for managing small metal parts in any workshop setting. Its robust construction, strong magnets, and ample size make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. While the magnetic coverage could be more extensive, the tray's overall performance and utility far outweigh this minor drawback. Given its durability and the lifetime warranty, it's a tool that promises to serve you well for years to come.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Craftsman Magnetic Tray to anyone in need of a reliable solution for organizing small metal parts. Its combination of strong magnets, sturdy build, and ample capacity make it a standout choice in the realm of magnetic trays. Whether you're a professional mechanic, a dedicated DIY enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates well-organized tools, this tray is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.