Metal Box? Gatemouth? Bucket Boss? Make your own? I’m looking for something that will carry all of my basic stuff (including a 2′ level) yet not be insanely heavy. It’s probably a long order. I’ve tried everything-I hate the metal carpenters’ boxes, gatemouth bags are good for power tools but smaller things get lost in them, buckets are just excuses to overload, etc. Currently I carry 2 smaller bags, and that okrs ok, but it’s still in 2 places. Debating whether to make something (when, I don’t know) or to keep searching. Saw the Veto Pro Pac but I kinda choked on the price, plus it won’t hold a level. I know they’re making a framer’s bag but that’s even more expensive.
Also, I’m kind of a toolbox junkie so I just was curious.
Replies
"something that will carry all of my basic stuff (including a 2' level)"
So, aside from the level, what constitutes all of your basic stuff??
I fit almost all of "my basic stuff" into a simple 18" plastic tool box, plus what's in my vest. Put on the vest and grab the box and I'm all set. At least until the first of many trips back for one of the many tools that didn't make it into the "basic stuff" category.
Of course, the list of tools constitutes "my basic stuff" seems to change every few weeks. Still looking for the optimum mix...keeping bulk and weight down but limiting trips to the van.
I look forward to getting the Vetro Pro Pac as soon as I have some $ to throw at it.
Rich Beckman
Another day, another tool.
I can fit most of my basics in a 6'x12' Trailer.
The rest goes in my truck.
the specialty stuff I keep in my shop.
and theres some stuff in the shed
then theres the bosses shop....
and I'm always buying more.
1 toolbox!!??
waddayou a jeweler?
:)
Mr T
Happiness is a cold wet nose
Life is is never to busy to stop and pet the Doggies!!
OK, ok, the shop is full of machinery and the power tools I don't need for a particular job. By "basic stuff" I mean your average everyday hand tools-screwdrivers, wrench, pliers, hammers, nailsets, glue, etc etc. I do small jobs on weekends only (I clean up what contractors don't want to waste their time on) so a trailerful would be overkill for me, though it would be nice to not have to pack the wagon up all the time.
Ain't no such thing as a perfect thing to put tools in... I do have a bucket boss, a shop, a van and a pickup.. Also have a 6x16 flatbed trailer. I got stuff on shelves, hanging and stuffed into things.
For the little stuff like screwdrivers and pliers, I use a Kennedy machinist's case that I picked up at a swap meet years ago. It's about as much weight as is reasonable to carry long distances. The other stuff gets sorted out by type and carried together. Like the belt and orbital sander plus belts and sandpaper all go in a big milk crate. The brace and bits in their cloth roll fit in an old wooden drawer. There's a tough canvas bag for all the copper plumbing stuff, and another for the steel threaded plumbing stuff. Power tools that come in cases stay in their cases. And there's a lot I don't have properly organized yet.
-- J.S.
This is certainly an entertaining thread! I am a tool box nut, and after many trials, I am of the opinion that what you are looking for does not exist. The closest I have come is one of those wheeled models by Stanley or Zag or such. I have the smaller Stanley and one made by Keeter; both are ok but I finding that when poking around in one, I am wishing for the features of the other.
Build your own, and never ever buy anymore tools.
If you are TRULY a "tool box junkie"... get the Veto Pro Pac. I'd buy 3 or 4 more of the damn things if I could afford 'em!
True, it won't hold a 2 foot level, but honestly... a torpedo IMHO works for many things that you'd need a 2 footer for. I too was a tool box junkie... but I got so sick of dumping them out just to clean them!
http://www.duluthtrading.com
My life is my passion!
http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
Edited 5/7/2004 5:11 pm ET by Andy Clifford(Andybuildz)
Along with my own business, I do repair work for a furniture store. This involves some work in customer's homes. I had a similar need for an "all in one" box. I ended up making a wooden "mechanic's" chest, with drawers and the like. It is exactly what I needed, but quite heavy.
Carolina suitcase
Vietnamese wheelbarrow
Mexican Toolbox, a.k.a 5 gal. bucket
4 out of 6 guys on our crew use rigger's bags, you know the canvas bags with pockets all around. we got that from out boss, I think it's from boatbuilding (soft bag doesn't mess up a boat's bright work?)
here's something to think about:
our apprentice carries an ENORMOUS wood toolbox he made.
I carry a rigger's bag (OK, actually I got like 4 bags, a rubbermaid big tote, a couple of buckets, and the power tool boxes) but the main one is the rigger's)
our old man carries just the tray from a toolbox, not the toolbox, just that little plastic tray that goes on top.
the other crew's old man carries a leather toolbelt that's so old and corroded it's shriveled up to about 3/4 of a pocket and a hammer ring. Actually he used to have the big Makita bags they were giving away with the new circular saw but he got rid of those because it was too big.
our boss carries a cell phone,
best, GO
"Rigger's bags" -- cheap, durable, with no preconceived notion of what you're going to put into them. A 2-foot level won't fit in one but will fit across the top OK for carrying. Available from Harbor Freight and elsewhere.
had the riggers bag for years..love it..used to build pipeorgans and that took a LOT of odd tools like 14" bent needle nose pliers..still got the same one 12 yrs later..no holes..
starting to hate bucket boss's..
milk crates, totes, and a bunch of 2' boxes with compartments in the lids..Rmaid one has removeable storage compartments..8.99 at wally world..
a tool belt for each task..roofing, sheetrock, ele..a surplus gas mask bag for plumbimg..I can toss it ahead and crawl to it..
and a general carp. belt that gets new goodies when needed..
View Image
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations.
I'm not a fan of the bag type units, so I have two four drawer craftsman rally boxes. They allow me to carry my hand tools plus all those "little things" that you always need but tend to forget.
Toting stuff around from truck to job, keeping things organized I figured was less about having large, carry everything, devices and more about having a lot of smaller units. I stumbled onto an asset.
Was in Wallyworld and took a short cut back from the bathrooms through the crafts section. There I saw plain cotton canvas totes. The type you see folks with going to the beach. These are dead cheap. Small for $2. Medium for $4. Large for $6. Simple off-white and of fairly tough cotton. I bought three medium and a large.
At the job I put on my tool belt with the few common tools and stuff a tote or two with tools and materials. On jobs where I'm working with a lot of conduit, good to have something to help hold while I hacksaw, or need a low step I try to remember to toss a plastic egg crate into the truck.
Still those totes have been good. Cheap, light, effective and when not being used they fold up to nothing
http://www.lowes.com/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=213506-82673-213506
this is what I use. The bottom is big and deep, seperate tray that holds alot. 2 footer straps inside the top. The top box holds all the regular use tools. I throw the drill case on top and roll it in.
Your link only shows the Lowes home shopping page.
Jon Blakemore
Doesn't it ask for a zip code to log into the nearest store? Maybe you are already logged in and your local stores does not have it.
Anyway it is the Stanley rolling tool box. Looks exactly like this one;
http://eggshop.net/stanmetrolst.html
But Lowes is price at $60.
Except at Christmas when they sale them out;o)
Here's some pics from the Duluth Trading Co. website (they make the bucket boss).
It seems to be exactly what you are looking for and comes in two sizes to fit you even better.
here's the link:
http://www.duluthtrading.com/a/shop/dproduct.asp?UID=2004050811410719&GEN0=&GEN1=&T1=91104+BLK&c=catorg&s=3RGZAN
hope it helps
gk
The problem with those "gatemouth" bags is that the "mouth" will never close over odd-sized tools. I find the rigger's bags to work better at about 1/6 the cost.
I don't use bags like that anyway, just saw those pics and thought that was what he was after.
I like plano cases or custom made cases. The only bags I use are the "Chutes" style. One for electrical work and another for metal work (snips, etc). Another bag I have is a real lineman's bag which is a simple cylindrical canvas bucket with a plastic bottom. It works great for working on a ladder as it has a rope and clip system attached to it.
gk
After trying all the usual methods (and before VetoPro came out) I made this box. Works well for me. I tried a VetoPro at the JLC show; my box carries about the same amount of tools plus a 2' level and 2 framing squares.
I like to have 2 framing squares 'cause sometimes I use them as giant calipers, or I'll have one tied up as a stair stringer jig.
I'll also post pics of my very low-tech "bed extender." Works well for me, and it was cheap.
While I'm at it I'll post a pic of my truck showing my cap and racks, which are track racks mounted low on the cap. Works great for light- to medium loads, and I like how it looks.
Mike
I have the same thing in my truck as you do except I built a carcase to house the drawers, that way I can pull one out all the way and no tipping.
On top of the box I got a set of those 6' full extension drawer guides and made a 4' wide by 6' long pull out shelf, same as you piece of ply that you have mounted up above the long boxes. I'm getting to old to climb up in the truck and get my table saw and chop saw.
Doug
My 'basic' box is a black steel 9x12x19 box with a tray. Carries all the chisels, the tri square, the bevel gauge, the PicQuick, the tin snips, the chicken scissors, a pair of slip-joints, collet and blade-nut wrenches, three or four hammers, a 16" back saw, block plane, a T-50 and a T-18 and boxes of staples for each in all available lengths, a Prince Albert can full of coloured wax crayons, four plumb bobs, the torpedo level, a line level, a scribing compass, a set of stair gauges, two magic roofing bars, a cat's paw, four tin mini-cigar boxes with screw gun bits in various assortments, the 100' tape measure, a bunch of Dixon and FHB pencils, Sharpie markers and lumber crayons, a small vernier caliper and a General 6" x 1/32" steel ruler, about 5 or 6 popsicle sticks, and a spare packet of cigarette papers and a book of matches.
I also keep dedicated metal tool boxes for each trade or specialized job--plumbing, electric, drilling, locksmithying and door-hanging; plus dedicated milk crates with stock items like plumbing fittings, electrical hardware (wire nuts, knock-out collars, pvc conduit fittings, etc), gyprock tapes. Oversized or awkwardly shaped tools like gyprock or concrete trowels and so forth each have their own 5-gal bucket. It's kind of like a modular filing system for tools and small parts.
Hardware assortments are in a series of nine 18-compartment plastic tray boxes which can be stacked independently into a milk crate for transport; bulk fasteners are carried in milk crates in their original packaging or in 2-lb. tobacco cans. Hoses and extension cords live in the truck hanging from a rack bolted to the overhead of the cap.
The only plastic 'tool box' I own (aside from milk crates and 5-gal paint buckets, of course) is a medium sized (16Hx32Wx18D) Rubbermaid footlocker into which I throw all the stuff that I don't have tool cases for--a couple of framing nailers, the caulking guns, the 2' level, the power planer and the real plane, the site radio, the screw guns, two HT-65's, the jig saw, both air and manual caulking guns, the plunge router, the framing square, the 2lb. sledge, the Ramset and its ammo-box of loads, and a partridge in a pear tree. Takes two guys to get that sucker off the ground and into the wheelbarrow. I call it the poor man's version of a Greenlee site box....
.
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
A picture is worth a thousand words (or 406 at least);)
couple of questions...
what is a PicQuick?
what is a "magic" roofing bar? is it really magic?
What are the popsicle sticks for?
and finally.....what are you rolling in those papers?
gk
I'd have taken a few pictures to post, but the boxes in question are over at the site. So here goes another few hundred, LOL....
A PicQuick (maybe it's spelled Pic Quik or Kwik or bog knows) is the only interchangeable-bit screwdriver I can stand to have near me without getting the urge to run the so-called designer through a paper shredder. It comes in a couple of different formats that I know of; I've got a standard size model, which lives in the tool box, and a marine-grade stubby which lives in the bottom of my backpack when I'm skiing backcountry (you ever try to find a stubby version of a #3 Phillips or Posidrive (binding screws)? Forget it). The handle has five longitundinal holes in it and sports a plastic friction collar that keeps the 3" bits neatly in those holes without fuss. To extricate a bit, you take the sixth bit--which lives in the shaft--and shove it through the hole in which is the bit you want. It pushes that one out and you slip it into the shaft where it is held by a spring-clip and ball-bearing retainer. (The stubby uses a magnet.) The bits don't fall out in use; the spares don't fall out of the handle; you don't have to unscrew a plastic cap to a compartment; it just works well. Amazing. And it uses standard quarter-inch hex drive bits, so you can put any danged bit you want in it: I've got sets of nut drivers, torx and mini-torx, metric and SAE Allens, #00, 0, 1,2,3 Robertson, Phillips, and Posidrives that all fit in the same handle or in my screw gun. Unbelievable! No duplication necessary....
'Magic' roofing bars are my own name for small flat pry bars made by the A. Richard Company here in Quebec. They are pint-sized versions of marine paint scraper/can tools. They're about 10" long with a 90-degree bend to a 1"-long foot at one end. They have a knife-edge taper on the flat end and a paint-scraper grind on the bent foot end. There is also a nail-puller keyhole slot cut out just above the bend. It will sit in your pouch all day without getting in your way or falling out; it will scrape a blown gasket off a water pump; it will scrap paint off a wall or deck; it will open a standard or tabbed paint can; it can act as a make-shift chisel or knife in a pinch; it will lift the most fragile moulding off the wall without busting it; it will pull a rusty ¾" finisher out of solid hardwood; it will pop a roofing nail or HT65 staple right out of the roof deck in one stroke; and I can't imagine going anywhere without one. Probably the single most multifarious tool I own.
The popsicle sticks are for spreading glue or cleaning the sawdust out of narrow dadoes (cut an eagle's-beak end to one and zip it up the groove--all the packed-in sawdust left by the router bit flies right out.
And, finally--I used to roll Gitane or Gaulois until our healthier-than-thou anti-tobacco labelling laws convinced the French companies that produce those brands to flip us the bird a few years ago. Now I roll Drum Blue. Thank bog for the Dutch....Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
And the chicken scissors?what the heck was I thinking?
$3.50 Chinese chicken shears: handles big enough to take work gloves, short thick blue-steel blades for lots of leverage and easy sharpening--these things will cut through 28 ga galvanized flashing and snip aluminum roof trim like it was paper. They'll also trim off that half-busted fingernail that's driving you nuts. Available in any housewares store in your local Chinese Quarter (formerly known as 'Chinatown' before that name became politically incorrect). Don't know if that price is still current; mine are 20 years old....Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
How do I carry my tools?
Usually with one or both hands. I try carrying things with my teeth, sometimes, but I like to limit that to pencils.
Sometimes, if my hands are full and my teeth also, I will try to balance something on my head, like an African farmer taking wheat to market. Maybe I can practice and learn to carry my chopsaw up there.
You know, chicken scissors.....ya gotta eat!
http://www.cutleryandmore.com/shop/prodlist.asp?FamilyID=88&src=Google
yum
gk
I would starve, no more chickens do I see on my jobsites...Do they work on turkeys?what the heck was I thinking?
You're spot on with the links for the PicQuic and the 'magic' roofing bar, but the chicken scissors I use resemble those shown on the Henkle's page like a star drill resembles a Bosch Bulldog. You won't find these puppies anywhere but in a Chinese market--or maybe in a cook's catalog like Willy Sonoma. Possibly Lee Valley; their product managers have a tendency to think like me, and they're not afraid to put anything in the catalog if it really works well....
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
For chicken scissors, you must mean these:
http://www.leevalley.com/garden/page.asp?SID=&ccurrency=1&page=10215&category=2,2080,33080
View Image
Yeah, that's exactly what I've got. Somehow I'm not surprised Lee Valley carries them.
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
Ahh....the odd spelling hindered my pursuit.
Here's what the fellow is talking about. Quite interesting.
http://www.picquic.com/
I think your magic roofing bar is the same as the RedDevil paint n'pry bar that I also find invaluable and use every single day.
http://www.reddevil.com/browseresults.cfm?SeriesXRefNum=7&CategoryID=6
As for popsicle sticks....I use acid brushes to spread glue (or my pry bar of course)
I also used to have a slightly different use for the rolling papers.
thanks
gk
Here's one way I carry my tools.....I love to show this thing off....not that thing pal.
gk
...And that's a very purty box. Bubinga...?Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
The drill box is cherry.
Here's another cherry tool box...I built it specifically for doing cabinet and countertop installations. Since I install in finished houses where people live, I don't want my tools lying all over the place, BUT.........I showed it to my wife after I got it done and she loved it, she needed a tote for her crafts, it was near a holiday.....you see where I'm going. I'll just have to make another sometime.
Also, Here's the case I made for my 3.5HP PC plunge router and accessories...why do most routers not come with cases? It is one of the most delicate handheld power tools you can own. Darn you power tool companies!
enjoy.
gk
What bugs me about tool cases is that even high-end tool makers like Bosch are coming out with plastic cases now. What garbage. Whatever happened to serious metal cases? Don't tell me...the answer is always the same: $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
BTW, anybody know a source of decent metal tool cases? And does Porter Cable still offer the option of a metal case as they did a few years back (if you could get your tool vendor to order it...)?Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
I couldn't agree more. I am so sick of the plastic cases, they never last under any real use. I think you can buy metal cases from Harbor Freight catalogue or the Great Northern catalogue of tools.
Are those paper catalogues or on the internet?Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
http://www.NorthernTool.com Try that
Thanks--They've got a good search function on that site; I'll take a bit more time some night and check it out thoroughly.Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
7 Corners Hardware in St. Paul, MN has a nice Bosch metal case for $15. See them every time I am in there. Metal case that is foam lined about 10" by 15" and about 4" high.
I know they do a lot of mail order business. Don't think they have their catalog online, but, thier website is http://www.7corners.com . I highly reccommend getting one of thier catalogs if you don't already have one - it is a great reference.
Thanks, I'll check it out. Another tool catalog--just what I need to help me hang onto my money, LOL!Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
> why do most routers not come with cases?
If your router came in a blow molded plastic case, would you have used it, or would you have built the oak case? What router company could provide a box anywhere near that nice an an affordable price?
-- J.S.
My new Bosch router kit came in a blow molded case and it works very well. The only complaint that I have with it is that there is not enough room for the precision edge guide. Bosch is probably the best at making usable plastic cases though. The worst is Porter Cable.
gk
BTW; Here's a better case than what you'll find at HF
http://www.hartvilletool.com/product.php?search_id=71974
Milwaukee still offers metal cases as an option for their tools and Porter Cable offers it as an option with some tools.
-Ray
I knew that was true a few years ago, but I wasn't sure if they had kept it up. Good to know.
Now the only problem is getting the local dealer to admit it and go to the trouble of ordering it. Unfortunately, the worst yard in town is the PC dealer. (For Milwaukee, I've got to drive halfway to Montreal....)
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
I've heard rumours that there is another use for cigarette papers, but I figure I've already got enough expensive bad habits and don't need another one....
Dinosaur
'Y-a-tu de la justice dans ce maudit monde?
My basic hand tools are in a 10"x10"x30" box with 4 drawers and top tray that I made. This box goes into a 24"x24"x60" JOBOX that also holds the circ saw, sawzall, drills, cords, levels, blades and bits in plastic boxes, etc. Even with the basics there is room for more. The JOBOX is in the open bed of an extended cab, longbed pickup. Milwaukee cordless tools are in a bag in the back seat. There is a cargo rack built high enough so that the JOBOX lid opens even if there is material in the rack. The cross bars on the rack are removable so when there is no material on the rack I can walk upright in the bed.
In my office/shop I have tool cards for each type of job that I do. For instance if I am going to install cabinets, I pull that card and pick the additional tools and material I will need. Yes it takes additional time, (vs having everything always with me), but I bill for this time and it has cut my running to the lumberyard and back to the shop by 80%.I can also get a ton of gravel loaded without having to remove a cap, or take the JOBOX out. I am not in a high crime area, but if I have to stop somewhere with tools in the bed,(Miter box, table saw,etc.) I have a 10' cable to loop through all the tools and it gets locked to a cargo ring in the bed
My former transport was a pickup with cap, and the saws, drills etc, in 2 large shop made chests. (Too hard on the knees crawling in to get stuff). Before that was a pickup with cap and some extendo bed boxes, that seemed to become catch-alls for all kinds of crap. Stuff also always seemed to fall off the top of the boxes, and get stuck in front of the wheel well.
.The "Burbasaurus" brought back a few memories. My second construction vehicle was a rusty suburban.
Edited to remove the suburban's nickname.
Edited 5/9/2004 12:35 am ET by Bowz
Here are some more "custom" touches to the Burbasaurus.
The insignia is genuine black sharpie and the oh-so-patriotic hood ornament came off of a yard light.
oh yeah, the rims are "hillbilly chrome" too
I want to sell it, but how do you put a price on that kind of custom?
gk
It's a good question that has no one right answer, each one has their own preference. I keep trying new ways myself. Right now I operate out of a larger home made wood box with a place for all the planes screwdrivers, wrenches etc. Then I transfer what I usually need to a smaller electricians tote I got from HD (it's about $26) which is open mouth and keeps all the stuff very available. I keep looking for the perfect solution but I don't think there is one.
Gabe,
Nice touch on the custom windshield cracks also!
The first 'burban I gave to the junkyard after pulling the engine, tires, and rims. Custom touches were mostly dents from watching too much "Dukes of Hazzard".
Second 'burban was a combination of plow truck, self-propelled dumpster, and back up to the F-150. Custom touches included pipe bumper welded up by a farmer friend, custom sheetmetal work from backing into a tree, back window in the permanent "down" position, and so far out of alignment that it went down the road kind-of sideways.
Sold it in '95 to someone who only wanted the plow. But the truck still lives! I saw it on a roofing job, a block down from a house I was working on, last fall.
That must have been one hell of a strong roof!!
Many thanks to all for the ideas. I noticed the link to Duluth Trading and in all honesty I think I've bought about $400 worth of their stuff. And in some way they are all lacking. Clearly that never stopped me from searching for that "holy grail". I really should make something but with a 5-month-old daughter and a wife that will kill me if I do anything else in the shop for myself (instead of get to work on several of the pieces that she wants me to make) I think I have to go the commercial route. Right now I'm using a Gatemouth Sidekick (a shoulder pouch from Duluth, which I realy like) and some yellow nylon "carpenter's box" from HD. Together they hold everything I need but they have little room for anything else. I usually only need cordless tools so I carry the Milwaukee drill, circ saw, and sawzall and the DeWalt impact driver in the nylon bag that came with the Milwaukee set. That's 3 bags, along with the sawhorses or workmate. Cutting it down to 2 bags or boxes would be keen.
I haev a rigger's bag and that has my plumbing tools. I know the electrical bag someone mentioned from HD and I have that too, with all my electrical stuff. Tiling tools are in a beat-up 5-gal bucket full of dried thinset crust. "Good" tools (woodworking stuff) never leave the shop-they stay on the wall. And so on.
Thanks for all the responses. And for the guy that said "never buy another tool", what are you, on crack or something??? ;-)
Veto Pro is coming out witha 25 inch long version late in the summer, looks like a good bag. May wait and see what that is like. I have used riggers bags for years doing interior remodel, they work great but may have to check into a Veto Pro, they sure look nice.
Joe
I've been working on this for a long time, and have inadvertantly become a tool box/bag/bucket collector. But after much refining, here's what I use"
Tool bag for basic tools that will fix most things, even other tools. It's a small gatemouth, I think 14". but heavy. It contains:
#0,1,2 Phillips, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4 inch flathead screwdrivers. That's 6 screwdrivers total. All on the outside pockets for easy access.
Pliers set: needle nose, slip joint, channel locks, diagonal cutters, linesman's pliers. Again, outside pockets.
Aviation snips - outsied pocket
Adjustable wrench - outside pocket
"Snappy" pipe wrench (don't know what it's really called) outside pocket
Socket set, 3/8 & 1/4 drive, standard and metric. Basic stuff, not the 32,000 piece craftsman set.
Combo wrench set, SAE & metric
Allen wrench sets, SAE & Metric
Snap ring pliers, just in case
Utility knife, outside pocket (extra blades in there somewheres)
Hammer
A cold chisel or 2
nail set
small bottle of oil
duct tape
work gloves
safety glasses
But then again, I have another bag just for my 2 12V cordless drills, drivers, & bits & charger.
1 hard tool box just for sweating copper (fittings, mostly 1/2", solder, flux, cutter, etc
2 other hard tool boxes for other plumbing
1 for electrical
bucket boss or 2 for drywall (I split it into hanging and finishing)
Basically the tool bag goes on every singly job. Drill bag goes on 98%. Then, depending on what I'm doing that day, I load up each trad box I need.
The jobs that really suck are "fixing" tile, which needs basic tools, drywall hanging, finishing, plumbing box or 2, plus tile tools.
Oh yeah, I put a bunch of caulk tubes of various types in a soft bag with the caulk gun, paper towels, and nitrile gloves.
Things seem to go well organized this way. I'm sure there is a better system, and I will continue my quest. Right now, I'm refining the shelf (or table top) in my garage, so when I load/unload, I don't have to lug it all up and down the basement stairs.
I didn't even mention the clean up bucket and shop vac. nuff for now.
Pete Duffy, Handyman
That sounds all too familiar. The "basic" kit comes with me everywhere, and it probably has too much in it, but I got tired of going back to the driveway for a saw or a prybar. And forget it if there is any kind of bathroom job-you need to bring everything. Because I just do this on weekends I wouldn't feel comfortable leaving my tools in someone's home so I am always packing and unpacking. That's why I wanted to condense it from 2 bags to one.
To that end, I caved and picked up the Veto. This thing is bombproof. I packed both small bags I was carrying and there is room to stuff it further, not to mention hang things off the d-rings. That's how I got around the level issue-I used a couple of strapits (some stretchy bands secured by velcro) and lashed the level to the d-rings on the outside. Works like a charm. I'm happy with it.
And someone mentioned metal toolboxes for power tools. I have a bunch sitting in my shop gathering dust. Outside of the ones for the sawzall and right-angle drill, I never use them. Personally I think the gatemouth bags work better for that purpose. I'll be selling them at a yard sale in the near future, along with all the other ones I finally gave up on.
Someday tool designers, or rather, power tool case designers, will realize that with any power tool, there are a lot of different attachments. What good is a case for a drill if there is no room for bits? Not to mention the fact the there is usually onle ONE way to get the tool back in the case that was a "great offer!" Gotta wrap that cord just right, retract the gizmo, and clean out all the dust because just one speck will keep the thing from closing or will stress the hinges to breaking.
Dewalt brand of the Rotozip. Nice original cardboard box that it came in, but why couldn't they have made the thing 3/4" longer so I don't have to remove the bit every time. and retract the collar? Would it have cost the company THAT much money for that extra length on a cardboard package?
When time permits, I will redesign boxes for all my tools and accessories. And when I have more time, I might even build them!
The case for my PC Tiger saw is nice, in that I can leave the blade on, store extras, and an allen wrench or two, and still get the saw in the case and close it. Even a built in slot for the owners manual. But I find that to be the exception rather than the rule.Pete Duffy, Handyman
I also saw that someone mentioned Bosch making usable plastic cases-the case for their 1 1/8' rotary hammer is great. There is a plenty of room for the tool and cord, so it doesn't need to be coiled just so, 2 separate sections for accessories, and-best of all, in my mind-7 or 8 clips on the lid to hold the bits. What a concept.
As you said, the exception rather than the rule. The case for the DeWalt 12v impact driver is huge-so much so that even with the tool, spare battery, and charger I could pack enough stuff for an overnight visit somewhere. That, too, sits unused in my shop.
Edited 5/12/2004 2:37 pm ET by johnniev
> and clean out all the dust because just one speck will keep the thing from closing
Mole-Richardson lighting equipment has had cases like that forever. We used that as a sort of automatic check: If it closes easy, you left something out. ;-)
-- J.S.
We used that as a sort of automatic check: If it closes easy, you left something out.
That's how it is loading my truck (the Burbasaurus). I load up every night to keep good track of tool inventory...and everyone else knows to never try to put away tools in my truck.
gk
I've all but given up on Bucket Boss. I only use them now to stash tools that I don't use....they just get too heavy.
Otherwise I use the "parachute style" totes stacked in a bucket.
I have found that tools that are kept in the outside pockets of softside organizers are the first to get lost.
I have also found that the best system for organizing tools in a manner that allows them to be easily plucked out of the back of the truck are those in hard, rectangular cases. So now I try to only buy tools with cases and square sided tool boxes. I still have two bucket bosses but they never leave the truck and remain centered among all the rectangular cases. For drywall, I use a milk crate that is modified with a 3/4" ply bottom with holes so that the tools dry out and I can stand on it while mudding ceilings.
I'm just about out of room in my Burb so organization is extremely important to me.
Here's some examples out of my inventory pics.
gk
I thought I'd throw in a pic of my chisel box too. I collect chisels and like to have a good assortment on hand so I keep them in an oak box that I bought from Lowes. It's a nice box and it was cheaper to buy than for me to make so I might get some more soon.
Gabe , got a good laugh as I loaded the chisels pic. Like you I have a large mostly unmatched chisel collection. In the middle, just like your picture, is my lone 3/4 blue Marples chisel. It is also the only chisel that still has the plastic protector left. Nice kits. I keep trying to arrange my trim tools together and they keep ending up weighing way to much to carry in one pack. Maybe oneday I will actually build the boxes I keep dreaming up.
Gabe,
As usual, I am impressed with your organization. Thanks for the pics.
I noticed, in the front row of your electrical tools, two offset-shank screwdrivers that appear to be designed for speed. Saw them at HQ and wondered if they are worth buying. Do they work well? Stay on the screw head when you turn then fast?
I carry one of the six-way screwdrivers in my electrical kit - discovered the two hex sockets of the shaft fit most of the hex screws on boxes, outlets and switches.
oldfred
Fred,
Yeah those are Klein offset screwdrivers and they work great if you have to install or remove alot of switchplates. When I bought them, I also wondered if they would fall out of the screwhead...but they stay in great. I think it may have to do with their design. Klein tools makes tools specifically for electrical work and they do it well.
If I did more electrical work though, I'd probably get a cordless screwdriver.
gk
ummm...ALL screwdrivers are cordless..ain't they? LOL
Screw guns now are different..<G>
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Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations.
ok, cordless power screwdriver.
ever use one? I'm only familiar with the cheesy home models (black and decker I think). My dad had one and it was pretty weak, not used very often, and eventually couldn't hold a charge but that was like 10yrs ago.
If I were to get one now, I would most likely get a Milwaukee....although it is not currently a tool that is very high on my list.
http://www.milwaukeeconnect.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=27&catalogId=40027&langId=-1&productId=284478&mainHeader=Tools&categoryId=189329&mainCategoryId=362&parentProd=281130#
gk
yup..a Ho in the past had one..I was doing a rewire coincidently..and I used it till it ran outta juice..took like over nite to recharge..but it was handy.
I'd use one if I had one..just never think of it.
They make a nifty attachment for guitar tuners that have a hex shaft for those screw drivers...wind yer stings on an off rite quick...I wrap mine with very few turns tho' so that's not an option for me. But restringing my 12 string or an 8 string mandolin can get tiring..
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Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations.
I never really gave much thought to cordless power screw drivers untill this week. I was working on a pretty large camera install and the tech I was with always kept his handy. I could definatley see a big use for one.Who Dares Wins.
Gabe,
I bought a cordless screwdriver a month ago when I was putting hinges on 35 cabinet doors. Picked up a Craftsman (I know, I know) that looks like and has all the same features as the Milwaulkee you mentioned. Paid $25, battery and charger included, and it works super. Rocker switch for forward and reverse, 180 rpm, seems to run forever on one charge. Slow, but that's good for slotted screws. Handled three inch sheet rock screws easily.
Still think I'll get the Klein offsets.
oldfred
Gee, I think $25 is less than I paid for those two offset screwdrivers ($16 ea. ?)
I still recommend them....better to have too many of the right tools than the wrong one at the wrong time.
gk
Plastic Milk Crates. They stack; they are cheap; and there is an endless upply of them. Add some bunji cords and you got my system.
Boris
"Sir, I may be drunk, but you're crazy, and I'll be sober tomorrow" -- WC Fields, "Its a Gift" 1934
I'm on the fence as to whether I like putting the tools back with a bit in them, occasionally it's a bad thing for me as I use multiple drills and than can't find the bit I left on the drill if its not in its proper place. The Porter Cable cordless tool boxes will let you put the drill back in with a bit in. I built the toolbox described in Boat Joinery & Cabinetmaking Simplified by Fred Bingham, I've recently been taking it in with me as well as cardboard box a mortise lock came in that has some specialty tools in it, been hanging mostly doors recently so its working out. It's hard to know when to stop loading the toolbox with tools, at some point it gets heavier than is practical. I think part of my problem is I prefer single use screwdriver to the 10-in-1 variants, I'd like to get the Channelock 18-in-1 screwdriver but it is 70 dollars.
-Ray
> I'm on the fence as to whether I like putting the tools back with a bit in them,
For small drills, no way. Too much risk of bending or breaking the bit. For routers, absolutely required if you want to do work tomorrow that matches identically what you did today. For any large job, you need to be able to leave a router set up and untouched overnight.
-- J.S.
I made open tool boxes that stack. I have five of them. It was nice when working in confined quarters like a bathroom. I could stack all the boxs up one wall out of the way. A couple of them have drawers for small Items and one has plastic organizers that pull out the side. that way you dont have to unstack to get at anything. I dont use them any more. not since I got my 18' cargo trailor.
Here's what works for my business as a pro handyman. Since I need to carry a variety of tools, my basic box is a plastic Rubbermaid 22" with a removeable pair of trays. It has the storage compartment lid which is handy for some of the small things. I also have a couple of 'duck' bags for specialty tools, one for plumbing items (solder, flux, pipe wrenches etc) and one for electrical (meters, circuit tester, a small divided box with Wire Nuts, screws, etc).
I regularly go through the box and remove anything I don't use much, it's important to keep things as light as possible when you're lugging across lawns and up and down steps.
Bob.
John,
I recently ordered the following items from Duluth's "Master Series" and with each, what I like/don't like about it:
1) Long Hauler tool bag--pretty nice bag but not square, ie, the bag tapers towards the top, limiting space.
2) Sawzall Bag-nice, with just enough useful room...not sure if the Hitachi or new PC saws could fit, though
3) The "Fortress" circ saw bag- a little too big for either my Red or Blue sidewinders, and has a large pad in the bottom. With a blade pocket inside it'd be really nice, though.
4) 4' Level case--probably not any better than the cheapo plastic ones, but a lot less bulky and looks sleek.
5)The "Drill Sergeant" cordless drill bag--my favorite--plenty of room for my 9.6v Makita, charger, spare battery, Dewalt bit set & case, and a whole lot of other loose bits.
6) I also bought a cheap HD tool bag to carry all my mechanics tool, pliers, wrenches, etc. in--it's as well made as Duluth's.
7) Gunner nailer bag--this is my second favorite
All in all the MS bags are good, but they need further refinement. They do store nicely in my deep well truck box. I keep a PC compressor locked to the bed and a 2' step stool in the back, along with a small workbench.
Jason Pharez Construction
Mobile, Alabama
General Carpentry, Home Repairs, and Remodeling
When quality is your only consideration
"Gunner nailer bag--this is my second favorite"
Thanks for your support, we're trying to improve everyday and always strive to be number one.Who Dares Wins.