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I have never needed a toolbox but am at the point now. Notice you can go from a couple hundred big box brand to a $1k high end, but not seeing any huge differences. I like to think of myself as a minimalist so low profile will probably be my preference but any other must have options and brands recommended? Pics are always welcome!
Most folks in the construction industry (myself included) will tell you that Weatherguard are by far the best quality toolbox on the market. Many options. Their locking mechanism, seal system and QC are top notch.
Mine is the largest of the "saddle box" style, made of steel and black powder. The clearcoat over Alum used to peel, but I think they fixed that issue.
Good luck!
Another vote for Weatherguard. After 20 years of buying tool boxes for fleet vehicles, the Weatherguard was a no brainer when I wanted one for personal use. It’ll outlast the truck.
Do you pull a fifth wheel? You're going to want a low profile box if you do.
I had a small box that fit down inside the bed that worked quite well, but I out grew it. Now I have a Craftsman that I picked up at Lowe's that works well without breaking the bank.
I debated back and forth when I got my box. Looked at all sorts of brands. In the end I decided on a Northern Tool Matt Black box and saved about $300 over a Weatherguard. There is not one time that I open or look at my tool box that I don't regret this decision. The cheap boxes are just that, cheap. Thinner materials, cheaper locking mechanism, inferior paint etc... In the store it may look "just" as good, but it isn't when you actually have to use it. I will eventually end up with a Weatherguard it's just a matter of time.
I hate every last one of you who recommended weatherguard. I was really hoping everyone would tell me they are overrated. Just kidding though, really appreciate all the feedback. This is one of my favorite sites for this exact reason!
As much as I need and want a toolbox, I can't give up the bedspace. All of my straps, tools, and recovery items are under the back seat. And yes, if I had to buy one for work, it would be a Weatherguard. If you aren't in and out of it a lot, I'd save the cash and go with a cheaper one.
I hate every last one of you who recommended weatherguard. I was really hoping everyone would tell me they are overrated. Just kidding though, really appreciate all the feedback. This is one of my favorite sites for this exact reason!
Dont be a hater!!!
If you decide to shop Weatherguard, be aware that they have two versions of box. There’s the original box and then there’s the “Defender” series which is quite a bit cheaper. I’m not sure of all the differences but I know it has a less robust lock system and it has a 7 yr warranty instead of lifetime.
I had a big wide Weatherguard for years on my old truck that just held junk. Not a lot of heavy duty tools in it. I sold it with truck as I wanted a black one for new truck. I bought several cheap ones (Northern Tool, Craftsman, Husky). And I returned them all. I got the Weatherguard Defender from Home Depot. I love it so far. Better than the cheap boxes, but not as good as a higher end Weatherguard. All I need for simple tools and tie down straps, jumper cables.
Word of caution if looking. Lowes and Home Depot both have a Weatherguard Defender. They are not the same model number and do not have the same size specs or storage area. The orange stores was bigger.
