Tools of the Year 2022: Storage

This is the Storage category of the exclusive Successful Farming “Tools of the Year” program to highlight innovations and must-have tools and shop supplies for your farm operation. These tools will help you get the job done.

Our editor selected one tool as an “Editor’s Choice” and other tools as “Recommended” in Metalworking; Storage; Shop Essentials; Shop Supplies; Hand Tools; and Power Tools.

Here is the list of the 2022 winners in Storage.

ULTIMATE TOOL BACKPACK LIGHTS UP

Tool backpacks offer the advantage of slinging a toolbox and more items on your back to tote them out to a field or up into a cab. One of the best such tool carriers on the market is the CLC Tech Gear 53-Pocket Lighted Backpack. This pack offers 28 tool, 14 accessory, and 11 multiuse pockets to hold a wealth of tools, parts, and accessories. Other features include a dual compartment design and two straps to secure a cordless tool and its battery charger. The pack is made of 1680D ballistic polyester with a molded base that has large padded feet, adjustable padded shoulder straps, and a heavy-duty zipper. Plus the backpack is topped off with a swiveling LED light.

The CLC Tech Gear 53-Pocket Lighted Backpack retails for $159. Go to goclc.com.

5 MODULES, 50 TOOL STORAGE COMBINATIONS

The durable, interlocking boxes that are part of the Bauer Modular Storage System are made of high-impact resin equipped with metal latches to keep tools secure during transport. The tool and parts boxes combined offer a working load of up to 60 pounds and are rated to be dust- and water-resistant.

The entire system retails for $69.99, but boxes can be purchased individually as well. Go to harborfreight.com.

CLASSIC CRAFTSMAN SYSTEM DESIGNED

Reengineered from the ground up, Craftsman S2000 Series storage units include a wide variety of updated features including upgraded casters that support a 1,500-pound overall load rating and offer toe-locking brakes. The steel I-frame construction with bumpers was added to the tool chest for increased durability. Other advances include the addition of a pegboard to chests and cabinets, precut non-slide drawer liners, center access power strips, and fullgrip telescoping chest and tubular cabinet handles.

The 52-inch, 10-drawer tool cabinet retails for $519, while the 52-inch eight-drawer chest (on top of the cabinet) retails for $409. Go to craftsman.com.

MILWAUKEE EXPANDS PACKOUT MODULE SYSTEM

The Milwaukee Packout Deep Organizer storage box offering a 50-pound weight capacity and quick-adjust dividers has been added to the Packout system, which now consists of dozens of storage boxes and organizers. Typical of other Packout components, the Deep Organizer (51/2-inch depth) features quick dividers and a transparent lid that seals the compartments to prevent contents from traveling during transport. The IP65-rated weather seal protects tools, accessories, and jobsite materials from rain and debris. 

Packout Deep Organizer retails for $64.97. Go to milwaukeetool.com.

SMALL BAG IS STRONG ENOUGH TO CARRY A BIG LOAD

DeWalt’s ToughSystem Compact Tool Bag offers more than 25 individual storage pockets and a front bungee cord that allows for 40 pounds of vertical storage of power tools, hand tools, and other items. Fabricated from 1680D ballistic fabric, dirt-repellent material, and a waterproof base, this bag is suitable for any work environment.

The DWST08025 retails for $99. Go to dewalt.com.

We welcome your feedback and nominations for 2023!