I just watched an interesting Tested video, where they take a thorough look at Adam Savage’s (from MythBusters) homemade tool storage stands. He emptied out a stack of ball bearing storage chests and loaded the tools into his tool stand.
I enjoyed the video, but can’t help wondering whether I should build something similar, perhaps with spare 80/20 aluminum t-slot extrusions I have around, or if I should stick with tool drawers.
We’re moving shop soon, and I plan to continue utilizing L-Boxxes for power tools and less frequently used tools. But what about the tools I use most often? I like having most tools in drawers, as it helps keep them from sawdust, metal chips, and even fluid contamination. That’s why I moved away from using pegboard and Gladiator’s rail-style organization system.
I must have a couple of a dozen saved photos of random tool storage ideas I found on the web over the years. While many made me think “oh, that looks cool, I could use something like that,” I have yet to switch over, even partially. Maybe one day my affinity for tool drawers will come to an end.
What about you? Do you keep your tools out in the open, or in tool drawers? What’s your take on tool stands like the one in the above video?
Oh, and who else desperately wants their own pair of medical stapler turned long-reach pistol-grip pliers?
One thing that never ceases to surprise me about Adam Savage and his workshop is how practical yet simple his constructions are. He’s got more money invested in Sortimo T-Boxxes and racks than many of us have invested in tools. Then there’s this plywood and wood rack that could have cost maybe $50 in materials and parts, maybe even including the casters.
If you have made your own DIY tool stands or organizers, please share a photo if you have one! I know I’m not the only one who’s interested for ideas and inspiration.
(P.S. the photo shown next to the headline in the main page is of the Tool Changer tool box, which I posted about nearly 4 years ago. It is completely unrelated to this post, but the discussion made me think back to it.)