Building an arsenal of American-made tools has its own set of challenges, but finding a place to store them, well, that should be a fairly easy affair. That said, finding an American made tool box is a little more tricky.
In the past, many tool boxes were made in America, but in recent decades, companies have begun outsourcing to countries all over the world. That’s why we decide to compile the ultimate list of American made tool boxes of varying sizes and styles.
List of American Made Tool Boxes and Tool Chests
Stanley FATMAX (Great Value)
| Estimated Price | $40 |
| Material | Structural foam (thermoplastic resin and mica flake) |
| Width | 28 inches |
| Height | 12.6 inches |
| Depth | 11.6 inches |
| Location Produced | Hartford and Southington, CT |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Stanley Black & Decker is the largest tool brand in the world and they got to that point by producing great tools at a reasonable price. They could easily send all of their manufacturing overseas, but they understand the importance of making products in America and the impact it has on product quality and American jobs. You’ll see several of their tool boxes on this list, and some of them will be made by another company they own, Proto tools.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
I have to say I really like the Stanley Fatmax, and I feel that it’s just about the perfect size for what the average person needs. The 28″ version here has a ton of room, but for those of you who want something a little more compact, they also offer a 23″ version that’s also American-made. They say it is made of structural foam, but to me, it just seems like any other hard plastic. It’s durable, tough, lightweight, and watertight. Considering it has a storage capacity of 3,192 inches, you will even be able to carry some larger tools.
I really like that it also has a water-tight seal. Stanley has this seal patented, and it is invaluable for folks who work outside in the elements. Also, additional protection is always an added bonus when carrying certain items crucial to the trade.
The only thing I don’t like about this tool box is that it’s “made in the USA with global materials.” Meaning that more than an insignificant amount of the materials are sourced elsewhere. That’s probably why Stanley can produce such a quality toolbox in the USA and sell it at a competitive price point.
That said, many American workers are still hired to put these tool boxes together, and the fact that a large tool company like Stanley is trying to stay as American made as possible seems like a plus to me. For those of you looking for a fully American made tool box we have other options on this list, but I do feel like this is a great value.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend the Stanley Fatmax for people looking for a multifunctional tool box that is affordable and has a massive storage capacity.
The FATMAX has a unique groove feature on the top lid that can hold items in place for hand-cutting. If you frequently find yourself needing to make adjustments to pieces of wood or pipe on the job, this built-in V-groove with a ruler makes it much easier. If you’re on the hunt for a reasonably priced USA-made tool box, Stanley has you covered! Also keep in mind, for those of you who want something smaller, they also have a 23″ version!
Here is a video overview of this toolbox. The tool boxes in the video are not American made, but their features are identical to the American-made versions described above.
Craftsman 3 or 4 Drawer Tool Box (Great American Steel)
| Estimated Price | $100 to $200 |
| Material | Steel |
| Dimensions | Varies by size |
| Location Produced | Sedalia, MO |
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The red of a Craftsman-equipped garage is unmistakable, but you wouldn’t be wrong in having a tasteful selection of black tools and black workspace furnishings either, and thankfully, Craftsman gives us both options. Of course, the color is probably the smallest aspect of these tool boxes, as they build upon that long-lasting and highly reputable Craftsman excellence.
These tool boxes can withstand a beating, and trust me, I know as I am extremely tough on my tools and their storage counterparts. You get what you pay for, and that saying isn’t just words on a page but is an absolute truth, especially when it comes to the world of tools. Craftsman is one of the hardest and toughest tool brands out there, and it’s tough to justify buying anything else. As a long-term Craftsman user myself, I’ve tried to ditch their products just in the name of trying something new, but I always find myself right back in the Craftsman clutches, ditching my cheap foreign stuff or opting against our homeland competitors in favor of my good old Craftsman goodies.
Who We Recommend It for:
We have plenty of budget options available for those that just want an easy and cheap solution to lugging their goodies around, and although I am all for saving a buck and getting only what you need, I think this toolbox is priced at a point that’s really hard to ignore, even for our budget-conscious consumers. The fact is, while it’s not the cheapest, it’s an investment for the long-haul storage and organization of your tools.
This is a very high-quality and well-made tool storage option that, although is a bit more expensive than many of the options on this list, will also outlast and outperform many of the options on this list. Craftsman tool boxes are built for those that are going to be regularly using their tools and genuinely need something with that extended attention to detail.
There are no tool boxes on the market made in the US that have drawers that slide as smooth as Craftsman’s do with weight on them, and they’re constructed from 24 gauge American steel. If you’re in the “buy once, cry once” mentality, this is the tool box for you, and probably your children and their children as well.
Plano Portable Tool Box (Budget Pick)
| Estimated Price | $15-$20 |
| Material | Plastic |
| Width | 10.88 inches |
| Height | 9.13 inches |
| Depth | 9.125 inches |
| Location Produced | Plano, Illinois |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Plano is a US-based plastic injection molding company that’s been making plastic latching boxes for many years now, located in Plano, Illinois, not to be mistaken for Plano, Texas, and owned by New York firm Tinicum since 2007. Plano is associated with several other brands, including Frabill, Caboodles, Tenzing, and Creative Options. Overall, their products have a great reputation and they offer many of the most popular tool boxes out there.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
Ah yes, those little gray indestructible boxes your Grandpa probably had when you were a little kid. Yes, Plano is still around and yes, these little boxes are still as American and as tough as they ever have been! Although not exactly purposefully built for tools specifically, it is certainly not uncommon to find these boxes in dusty old garages full of tools or in the back of that old Chevys bed box. These boxes are among the cheapest and low-cost little storage options on the market.
There isn’t much to say about them aside from the nostalgia and the fact that they are, indeed, a box that you can so choose to put tools in if need be. Personally, I have like 10 of these floating around my property with several different uses, none of which are tool box specific, but all of which have tools, among other stuff, in them.
Plano does have several other options that are actually a lot more oriented toward actual tool organization and storage, but unfortunately, at the time of writing, pretty much all of them are not US-made, so be careful if you decide to stray away from the original Plano box.
Who We Recommend It for:
They’re cheap little boxes that are tough, rust-proof, and great for organizing stuff with. If you have a few loose tools lying around that need a home, this is an inexpensive and durable way to get them sorted and stored. This is a super affordable American made tool box that anyone can grab and find a use for!
Craftsman 52″ Eight Drawer EDGE Series (Premium Pick)
| Estimated Price | $650 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 18.00 inches |
| Height | 19.75 inches |
| Length | 52.00 inches |
| Location Produced | Sedalia, MO |
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
I’m a sucker for these tool boxes in part because I grew up with them. In fact, I didn’t touch a non-craftsman tool box until after I left home for college, and to my surprise, I actually wasn’t surprised at all. Craftsman makes great products, period, and this particular tool box is no exception. What you get here is a rather long-held tried and true design with high-quality Craftsman craftsmanship and metalwork. From the 100lb rated Dynaglide drawer system to the gas-filled strut-equipped steel lid, everything about it is a no holds and no compromise kind of system.
There hasn’t been much change here from the traditional versions, but there are a few small things that do make a big difference, like the handy automatic locking mechanism when the lid is closed or the reinforced sliders that, no matter how heavy the tray, seem to glide seamlessly and effortlessly no matter what. If it fits, those Dynaglide drawers can handle it!
Who We Recommend It for:
If you want value, there are plenty of options on this list. This product isn’t focused on affordability, it’s luxury. If you’re someone that already has a multitude of tools, then you know how expensive of an investment a well-equipped garage or home shop really is, and you also know how crucial a serious and meticulously crafted tools storage solution is, as part of that investment. Pony up, cry once, and buy once, and I think you’ll be quite happy with your decision.
Proto J9971R (Great Roofing Box)
| Estimated Price | $65 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 19.00 inches |
| Height | 7.00 inches |
| Depth | 7.00 inches |
| Location Produced | Dallas, TX, Allentown, PA, or Cheraw, SC |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Proto tools are made by Stanley, and you will find them on this list over and over again. Proto is a favorite among consumers who want to stick with American-manufactured tools and tool storage. Proto believes in providing tools that allow customers to work safely. In fact, safety is one of Proto’s main concerns.
One thing to note with Proto products is that, while they are manufactured in the US, some materials are sourced globally. So, the most hardcore proponents of American made tools may not want to go with Proto since every part cannot be sourced from the states.
It is actually very difficult to pinpoint exactly where in the country Stanley manufactures their Proto tool boxes. There is almost no information about this available online. On Proto’s website, however, there is a very small blurb mentioning manufacturing facilities in Dallas, Texas, Allentown, Pennsylvania, and Cheraw, South Carolina.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The Proto 19-inch hip roof box features a rounded lid that resembles a barn roof, hence the name. It is made of durable powder-coated steel. It is also double-latched, which means it’s extra reinforced and secure.
The Proto J9971R is wide and narrow, which makes it perfect for carrying wrenches, sockets, and extensions, as well as hammers or other items with long handles. However, you can really stuff it full of any smaller miscellaneous tools you might need during a job. With a capacity of 931 cubic inches, it certainly isn’t the largest tool box on this list, but it should suffice for most people.
The removable steel tote tray gives it an advantage over others because it allows for even more storage. Additionally, the tray will keep smaller items organized so you will not have to dig around during a busy job.
Who We Recommend It for:
This is an all-around great box for anyone who needs an average amount of portable hand-held storage in a durable package.
At $60, the J9971R is a great product that will last a long time. We recommend it for someone who does not want to spend a fortune but wants something dependable.
It does not have drawers, however, so if you need separate drawers for different job-related tools, this is not the best choice for you. It has only the removable shelf to separate items inside the box.
Proto J9954-NA
| Estimated Price | $35 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 14.00 inches |
| Height | 6.50 inches |
| Depth | 6.00 inches |
| Location Produced | Dallas, TX, Allentown, PA, or Cheraw, SC |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
As with the other Proto products on this list, the J9954 is made in the USA using global materials.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
This is a great and popular option for carrying small hand tools. It is marketed as “general purpose”, which means it will come in handy most often for average day-to-day needs rather than occupational uses.
Similar to the Proto J9971R, the J9954 also has a removable tray that aids in organization and adds an additional storage option.
If you wish to put small valuables in this box or simply lock up your hand tools, the latch is designed to hold a padlock. Keep in mind, though, that a miniature padlock is likely the only lock that will fit on such a small box.
Who We Recommend It for:
We would recommend this product for someone who needs a sturdy tool box for carrying a few key tools and necessities. it is made of 22 gauge, which makes it quite sturdy despite its small size.
I find it’s is comfortable for carrying around all day if you move from job site to job site. On the other hand, it is also perfect for keeping in your car if you do not have much room to spare.
Since this is on the smaller side, so it would not be fit for large tools that are particularly wide. However, at about $35, this is a highly useful box made of durable steel that should last a long time. When it comes to finding an American made tool box, it’s tough to go wrong with a Proto product.
Related Article: What Tools Are Made in the USA?
Proto J9979-NA (Great Carpenter’s Box)
| Estimated Price | $95 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 32.00 inches |
| Height | 9.50 inches |
| Depth | 8.50 inches |
| Location Produced | Dallas, TX, Allentown, PA, or Cheraw, SC |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
As with the other Proto tool boxes on this list, the J9979 is made in the USA using global materials.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The Proto J9979 is very wide and durable, with a capacity of 2,584 cubic inches. With a removal tray, there is plenty of room for hand tools on top and longer carpenter tools in the bottom compartment.
Because the Proto J9979-NA is so large, it is quite heavy at nearly 24 pounds. Fortunately, there are heavy-duty handles on pretty much all sides of this thing. Additionally, it is double-latched for added reinforcement.
It’s large enough to hold valuable tools necessary for most trades. It would be wise to add a padlock to the center hasp for security to protect those assets.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend this box for carpenters. Proto designed this box for carpenters, and they got it right. The extra-long and narrow design is perfect for handsaws, hammers, levels, and other important tools of the trade.
At approximately $90, it would be overkill for day-to-day miscellaneous tools. But the price is incredible for career carpenters and others with similar occupations.
Because of its size, it fits well in the back of a pick-up truck for easy access on a job site. It will not sit flush in the bed of a truck, so it is not advisable to drive with it unfastened.
Proto J9975R 20-Inch General Purpose Double Tool Box
| Estimated Price | $75 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 20.51 inches |
| Height | 10.98 inches |
| Depth | 9.69 inches |
| Location Produced | Dallas, TX, Allentown, PA, or Cheraw, SC |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
The J9975R is made in the USA using global materials.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The J9975R is very similar to the J9954, but it is much larger. So, if you prefer these square-ish-styled tool boxes, this is a great larger option. Where the smaller box has a capacity of 546 cubic inches, this tool box’s capacity is a whopping 2,133 cubic inches.
Just like the other Proto products on this list, this one is made of durable steel and includes a handy removable tray. Despite its large capacity, it weighs only about 12 pounds, making it convenient and comfortable to carry.
At $75, it is quite a bit more expensive than its smaller counterpart, depending on where you look, but the higher price is typically related to availability.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend it for someone who has miscellaneous tools. It’s perfect for journeymen and apprentices. It would be especially useful for people on job sites who want to lock up their tool boxes using the hasp.
Even at $75, this is an affordable choice considering how long it is built to last. If you are looking for something sizable for daily use, comfort, and affordability, this is an excellent metal tool box.
Kennedy Manufacturing K24B
| Estimated Price | $145 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 24.13 inches |
| Height | 9.75 inches |
| Depth | 8.63 inches |
| Location Produced | Van Wert, Ohio |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Kennedy is another brand that proudly makes its tools and tool boxes in the USA. Customers who shop specifically for tool boxes made in the USA love Kennedy products because they are durable and high-quality.
Unlike some competitors, Kennedy tools are made in America with industrial-grade materials. There is no mention on Kennedy’s company website of sourcing materials from anywhere else in the world.
Kennedy is notorious for its machinist’s chests of all sizes. However, the company’s conventional tool boxes are known for being just as long-lasting and tough. Since there are so few companies that offer solely American-made tool boxes and tools today, Kennedy pretty much sets the standard.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The signature “brown wrinkle” texture does not sound aesthetically pleasant, but Kennedy tool boxes look quite nice. They are made of steel like most other high-quality tool boxes, but the material is constructed in a way that increases its toughness.
Who We Recommend It for:
With a capacity of 1,963, it can hold quite a few tools. It is long, narrow, and tall. This means it can hold lengthy carpentry tools along with hand tools and bulky items. This truly is an all-purpose option.
This product is a little on the pricier side, so we recommend it for someone with a little more cash to spend who wants to cover all their bases. I feel that it that would be great for an independent contractor who frequently moves between various job sites.
Kennedy Manufacturing 520B (Great Machinist Tool Box)
| Estimated Price | $350 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 20.125 inches |
| Height | 13.625 inches |
| Depth | 8.50 inches |
| Location Produced | Van Wert, Ohio |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
As mentioned above, Kennedy is one of the most well-known and popular tool and tool storage companies in the US. The Kennedy Tool Company was officially founded in 1925 and has been making all-American tools since.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
Machinist’s chests are Kennedy’s bread and butter. Machinist’s chests are quite a bit more expensive than typical tool boxes because they are niche items that serve a specific purpose. Seven separate drawers are available for different drill bits, measuring tools, and other small, precision items that need to be kept organized.
The durability and toughness of this Kennedy machinist’s chest mean important tools and pieces are protected from elements encountered at work.
Who We Recommend It for:
Obviously, we recommended this machinist’s chest for a machinist in need of a durable chest with lots of compartments. Machinist chests can get much larger than this, but this is a great chest for someone who has small bits that need organizing. This chest has two full-length drawers at the bottom of this chest for hand tools.
Machinist’s chests are more expensive than conventional tool boxes due to their specific usefulness. For example, this box is $350, while similar non-machinist models are a fifth of that. If you’re looking for a USA-made tool box, these are some of the absolute highest quality available!
Pioneer Steel Cantilever Tool Box
| Estimated Price | $50 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 16.00 inches |
| Height | 7.25 inches |
| Depth | 7.00 inches |
| Location Produced | Brea, CA |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Pioneer steel makes premium steel boxes in the USA. The company has been operating at its own US manufacturing facility for over 45 years. Pioneer prides itself on making high-quality steel boxes of all kinds, from tool boxes to cash boxes to first aid cabinets.
Additionally, the company makes custom steel boxes made to order for special, niche applications.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The Pioneer Steel Cantilever is on the smaller side, with a capacity of 812 cubic inches. Still, it is a nice, sturdy box for day-to-day use. It is made from both 20- and 22-gauge steel, so it is built to last.
At about $50, this box is more expensive than others in its size. However, the cantilever function means it has more to offer than the average tool box. Many comparable products have removable trays, but a cantilever pop-up tray presents advanced storage options with added convenience.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend it for folks who need to make frequent trips in and out of their tool boxes throughout the day. The cantilever tray ensures you can have a full view of everything inside your tool box when it is open without having to take the time to remove a tray.
Many trades require constant switching between tools, so pulling a tray out and pulling it back in is not always practical. Additionally, not all job sites have room to set up a box and a tray separately. Cantilever pop-up trays solve those problems.
The elevated price tag is worth the added benefits. Plus, the high-quality, durable steel construction, hinges, and fasteners ensure this box should last through lots of wear and tear.
Pioneer Steel Portable Standard 20-Inch Tool Box
| Estimated Price | $80 |
| Material | Stee |
| Width | 20.125 inches |
| Height | 9.75 inches |
| Depth | 8.625 inches |
| Location Produced | Produced: Brea, CA |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
As we mentioned above, Pioneer Steel manufactures all of its steel boxes in the US. It is a popular choice for consumers looking to purchase tool boxes made in the USA.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
Unlike the Pioneer Steel box above, this is not a cantilever tool box. However, the tradeoff is that this standard 20-inch tool box has a much greater capacity for more and larger tools. In fact, it has a capacity of about 1,692 inches, meaning that it’s about twice the size of the cantilever tool box above.
As with other Pioneer Steel tool boxes, this one is constructed with cold-roll 20- and 22-gauge steel. It is durable and sturdy. Considering its size, this box would likely get heavy, especially when loaded with tools. Luckily, Pioneer Steel has constructed this box with heavy-duty fasteners and handles to tote it around securely.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend it to those who are not bothered by removing a tray. This is not a cantilever box, so opening the box does not allow one to see everything inside.
Still, this box is quite large, so it holds plenty of tools. It is unlikely that anyone would need all tools from this box on the same day. The removable tray can be used to separate tools by type or by job usefulness.
At about $80, this box is a genuinely affordable, dependable tool box made in the USA.
Gerstner 2610 Journeyman Chest (Great Wooden Tool Chest)
| Estimated Price | $200 |
| Material | Wood (Oak or Walnut) |
| Width | 26.00 inches |
| Height | 17.50 inches |
| Depth | 10.625 inches deep |
| Location Produced | Dayton, OH |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Gerstner & Sons, Inc. was founded back in 1906. The company has always centered around wooden tool chests and woodworking tools. Additionally, Gerstner’s tool chests have been constructed in Dayton, Ohio, since the company’s inception.
In today’s age, most tool boxes and tool chests are made of steel or durable plastic. Wooden tool chests are far less common. However, wooden chests are far more common in the machinist world, Gerstner’s niche.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
Gerstner’s wooden chests are classic and elegant. While this chest does not have “machinist” in the name, it is, without a doubt, a machinist’s chest. This is obvious by the chest’s mirror and 10 compartments, which include a special machinist’s handbook drawer.
With its classic beauty, this chest looks like something out of the 1930s, which is when it was first introduced. Frankly, Gerstner products are known to last for decades and are often handed down for centuries as family heirlooms.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend this tool chest for serious machinists. Gerstner products come with hefty price tags, so they are not for the average consumer. Most people are not looking to shell out over $1,000, and a Gerstner tool chest is not a typical tool box.
Serious machinists use small, precision metal tools that are susceptible to rust when kept in metal boxes. So, high-quality machinist boxes like Gerstner’s are lined with felt and constructed of wood to protect precious instruments from becoming damaged over time. Overall, this is one of the best American made tool chests on the market today.
Huckberry USA Made Tool Box
| Estimated Price | $80 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 10.10 inches |
| Height | 6.10 inches |
| Depth | 5.40 inches |
| Location Produced | Middletown, CT |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Huckberry is a brand that sells premium gear for outdoorsy types. Tools and tool boxes are not the company’s expertise. However, Huckberry’s USA-made tool boxes are manufactured in the USA by Bull Metal, Inc.
Bull Metal specializes in metal boxes and fabrications. The company has been operating since 1954 when it originally started in a bard. Bull Metal is still a small business today, operating in a facility in Middletown, Connecticut.
Bull Metal builds custom specialty metal enclosures and created this model specifically for Huckberry customers.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
At $80, it is far more expensive than comparable options of its size. It has a rather small storage capacity of 332 cubic inches. It is about one-tenth the capacity of the larger products on this list.
At this price point, it is clear that this is a specialty item. Huckberry has loyal customers due to the company’s high-quality catalog of products.
We do not believe it is as useful for work as a journeyman, necessarily, as it is for someone who has to use a specific tool or two every once in a while. Still, its construction is extra-rugged. It can be used and abused in all kinds of circumstances without wearing out.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend it for avid fans of the outdoors. It is clear that Huckberry takes pride in this offering, hence the hefty price tag. This is the kind of product you would want if you prefer having something unique that does not match the conventional branded tool boxes others are familiar with.
As we stated in the section above, this is not the kind of tool box you would want if you have lots of tools to carry around. It does not have nearly enough space for those who frequently use many tools. However, if you need a tough metal tool box that you can keep for a very long time and carry your necessities, this is a great choice.
Craftsman 2000 Rolling Tool Cabinet (Great General Purpose Rolling Tool Box Cabinet)
| Estimated Price | $500 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 26.50 inches |
| Height | 37.50 inches |
| Depth | 18.00 inches |
| Location Produced | Sedalia, MO |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
Craftsman is another of Stanley’s brands. So, like Proto and Stanley, many of Craftsman’s items are made in the USA with global materials. Unfortunately, a majority of Craftsman tools are not made in the USA at all. Craftsman’s website does have a great page for folks specifically looking to buy tools and tool boxes made in the USA.
Craftsman claims that certain products (with more added all the time) are made on US soil. Domestically manufactured items of all categories can be found by searching on the website.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
For $280, this is a well-priced rolling tool cabinet. Five drawers offer organization and functionality for those working in garage-type settings.
This tool cabinet is popular because the ball-bearing drawers are designed to prevent slamming. Slamming drawers can cause injury and damage to tools.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend this tool cabinet for those who own tools but do not do major work out of their garages. This cabinet can hold lots of tools, so average tool collections will fit just fine. However, specialty niche items will likely require more space than this cabinet can provide. These are often coveted with the badge of the best American-made rolling tool chest.
Proto 550S 34-Inch 8-Drawer Roller Cabinet
| Estimated Price | $1920 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 34.00 inches |
| Height | 41.00 inches |
| Depth | 25.25 inches |
| Location Produced | Dallas, TX, Allentown, PA, or Cheraw, SC |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
We return to Proto with this rolling tool cabinet. Just as with the portable tool boxes above, this tool cabinet is conducted in the USA using global materials.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
At $1,915, this is quite a price jump from the Craftsman tool cabinet. However, with the price, you get high-quality construction.
This Proto tool cabinet is known for its smooth, superior design. Customers typically find fewer flaws in Proto tool cabinets than in the less expensive brands, but that is to be expected.
Like the Crafstman, all eight drawers have ball-bearing track slides to prevent slamming for safety and ease of use.
Who We Recommend It for:
If you are in and out of your tool cabinet frequently, this Proto roller cabinet has the space and heavy-duty design you will want. If you have a certain garage aesthetic, this tool cabinet may work well for you since it is available in a couple of different finishes and colors. If you have the money to spend, this cabinet will last. It’s tough to find a USA-made tool box, let alone an American-made rolling tool box, but these checks pretty much every single option anyone could ever need.
Kennedy Manufacturing 277XB (Great Machinist Rolling Tool Cabinet)
| Estimated Price | $1000 |
| Material | Steel |
| Width | 27 inches |
| Height | 35 inches |
| Depth | 18 inches |
| Location Produced | Van Wert, OH |
Product Origin and Manufacturer Information:
As with all Kennedy tool boxes, this rolling tool cabinet is manufactured with American parts in Van Wert, Ohio.
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The brown wrinkle strikes again in the form of a seven-drawer tool cabinet. Kennedy also has rolling drawers available in three- and five-drawer options for those who do not need as much storage.
There are two options for drawer closures, ball-bearing and friction slide, but ball-bearing is the favorite in the tool cabinet world.
As with the Proto cabinet above, the Kennedy cabinet is a bit pricey at approximately $1,000. It is important to keep in mind, though, that Kennedy is a leading name in tool boxes made in the USA. Their tool cabinets and larger tool storage products are no different.
Tool cabinets and tool boxes service similar purposes, but tool cabinets are always going to be quite a bit more expensive. They hold far more tools and are meant to live in a garage, shed, or workshop.
Who We Recommend It for:
We recommend this for anyone in need of a sturdy rolling tool cabinet. Machinists, in particular, flock to Kennedy products. The Kennedy line has always catered to machinists, and their products are renowned in the field. However, anyone with lots of tools and a need for reliable storage should consider a Kennedy cabinet.
Stanley 19-Inch Click n’ Connect 2-in-1 (Most Configurable)
| Estimated Price | $30 |
| Material | Plastic |
| Width | 19.90 inches |
| Height | 9.60 inches |
| Depth | 12.30 inches |
| Location Produced | Hartford and Southington, CT |
What We Like and Don’t Like About This Tool Box:
The Click n’ Connect tool box is one of my favorites offered by Stanley. I’ve found many of these on the market that are made in the USA and some that aren’t, so be sure to check the listing page before purchasing.
Stanley is innovative. The Click n’ Connect is another clever, customizable tool box with several useful organization compartments.
Removable dividers allow users to alter the functionality to fit their exact needs. The short, wide attachment is suitable for small tools like drill bits, sockets, and similar items. The larger compartment will fit a drill. The parts can be detached and carried on their own when the rest is unnecessary.
Who We Recommend It for:
Considering it’s made of plastic, the Click n’ Connect is surprisingly tough. We recommend it to people in need of a portable toolkit. It is fantastic for people who prefer organization and lots of options.
Again, this is another Stanley product made of hard plastic rather than metal, so it will do well in soft interiors. At $30, it’s a very reasonable price, but it is not necessarily built to last the test of time. But, if you just need something for handiwork at home or in the car, this will do the job just fine.
Factors We Considered
We analyzed several main factors when compiling this list. Our major considerations were durability, longevity, price, ease of use, and practicality. The fanciest tool box in the world is useless if it cannot stand up to normal wear and tear. We also tried to pick products that were reasonably priced because if no one can afford a certain tool box, there is no point in recommending it.
Since tool boxes are used by all kinds of people for a variety of work, there isn’t going to be one option that’s best for every person. Each product has something to offer that another does not.
When you spend money on good tools, the price can add up quickly. Storage often becomes an afterthought. However, there is no sense in investing in good tools without having the means to protect them.
It’s surprisingly difficult to find toolboxes made in America. That does not mean you should choose the first toolbox you can get your hands on. You have plenty of options when you dig deep, so you should choose something that fits your needs. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you.
Wrapping Things Up
If you have any questions about any of the products on this list, let us know in the comments below. Determine how you will be using your toolbox; will you carry it to a job site daily or use it infrequently at home for small jobs? Once you decide the scope of your mission, you can choose which product is right for you based on the features, materials, and price point. Let us know if you have any questions below or if you feel there is a tool box we should add to this list.
Hi, my name is Kevin and I’m from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Choosing products made in America is important to me because it supports local economies, creates jobs, helps the environment, and ensures ethical labor practices. I also find that American made products are usually of higher quality so although they’re a little more expensive, you save money in the long run. Before starting this website I was in the USMC infantry and nowadays I work on this website as a hobby.
I decided to go with Craftsman. I had a nice one before but my barn burned down and it was destroyed. I hope they still make them like the used to!
Wow, Zach sorry to hear about your barn. From what I’ve seen Craftsman toolboxes are as good as ever! Let us know how it works out for you or your thoughts about it.