Topic: Talk to me about tool storage

[Mike]

So, I'm like really really terrible at keeping things organized in meat space.  I have a couple of basic tool boxes but they are a pain to use and don't really contain everything.

I need something I can store the basic tools in (like screwdrivers, hammers, sockets, etc) as well as some things like soldering irons, clamps, wire, and even a keyboard, monitor, and mouse.  Also, need to thing of how to organize the batteries and chargers.  Some of the bigger tools I'm fine keeping in the barn but it doesn't have electricity and I don't want to go out there just for a screwdriver and the like.

So, what do you all use?

[ober]

I have a spot in my basement - I built the workbench out of 2x6 and it just has the top and 1 shelf.  Above that on the wall, I have pegboard and I bought one of those kits with all the pegboard hangers.  That's where I hang hammers/screwdrivers/tape/etc.  Now granted, I also have a pretty large built-in countertop to the right with a shelf underneath plus 2 giant cabinets with drawers that I stole/bought from an office move from an old company.  Plus a few random toolbox/shelf units in my garage.  But most of my main tools are in my workshop area in the basement.  I wouldn't say it's the best but at least most of my tools are in one place.

[Jake]

I found that drawers are really the best way to keep tools organized and easily accessible. you know, like you see mechanics use.

Depending on how many tools you have and how much space, I would recommend a tool storage cabinet or a traditional tool chest.

Something like this: https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-2000-Series-26-5-in-W-x-34-in-H-5-Drawer-Steel-Rolling-Tool-Cabinet-Red/1000615515
Some come with a nice counter top as well.

If you have more space get a bench like this: https://www.costco.com/trinity-66%22-stainless-steel-rolling-workbench.product.100491860.html

My wife got me this setup for father's day, and I absolutely love it: https://www.costco.com/newage-products-bold-3.0-series-storage-cabinet-12-piece-set.product.100247326.html

I really tried many different ways to store tools through out the years, and drawers just make it easiest.

There are some models that come with pre wired drawers just for batteries.

[Jake]

The new house has a 35x25 pole building - it was just open space and I don't think the previous owners used it very much. I took a section of it and put up a wall to separate it from the rest of the garage. Those cabinets fit in perfectly and I am so happy when my tools are organized in the coming weeks I will be insulating the walls and covering them with ply or something similar. And I am looking for a small wood burning stove. last picture is the other side of the wall with the cabinets

[Jake]

also, if you don't have that much room, you can get a bench top tool chest. https://www.farmandfleet.com/products/1224770-milwaukee-56-high-capacity-8-drawer-steel-storage-tool-chest.html

that one is very expensive, but you can find cheaper ones.

Also, look at marketplace or craigslist, you can find these things on there as well.

[Perspective]

I got a bench top tool chest for Father's Day this year, similar to what Jake linked above. It's currently empty in my basement but one day I'll move all the crap in my plastic toolboxes into it. It does seem to have much better organization potential. On the other hand, it's not mobile so I can't bring the whole thing around to a job like I do with the tool box. I suppose I should pull the tools I need out of the chest and put them in the box for a particular job...