Tekton Tool Cabinet Walkthrough with Ian Johnson

Check out all available Tekton tool cabinets at www.tekton.com....
Ian Johnson of @Big Tire Garage takes a moment to review his 48-inch Tekton tool chest. He covers top questions, such as how the box compares to other professional and industrial-grade tool boxes, where it's made (Canada), as well as key features including the independent steel carriage drawer system, heavy-duty steel top, overall storage capacity, and strength.

[@ronalddean4834]

I've used and loved truck brand tools for my whole career but they have out priced themselves and now I'm looking at Tekton. Tekton is doing the job and I can afford them without financial stress.

[@carlosgaray9212]

I like good quality tools. But the tool trucks brands I have looked in to are crazy. #1 in this day and age I don’t pay for shipping, unless the product price is reduced to make up the difference. #2. I get 0% financing or pay over time at no extra cost. These tool truck are riding off the backs of the mechanics what a shame.

[@pierremihatov3483]

Dude - I love the tools - and the company - use them daily at the shop! But you have a 3 and 1/2 minute video and you only open 2 drawers which we barely sneak a peak at how they're stacked - c'mon man!! you spent a minute on weight and casters etc. Show us the BOX!!!

[@claytonscheiber3493]

Nice boxes. I really like Tekton. Real nice, very affordable stuff. I will be buying more. Eventually switching all sockets, wrenches, and pliers over to Tekton. I'd really like to see some standard size, 5 or 6 inch, flush cut wire cutters. Maybe some locking flex head ratchets too.

[@blanchetsimon8480]

They are made at Rousseau métal Québec Canada

[@bakkencutter189]

I can't wait to pick the 60" up next summer.

[@badhandjim2524]

Many years ago a wise aircraft technician told me that, "no one makes money off their tool box. You make money off the actual tools." His point was that spending thousands on an empty tool box is a waste. Save the money and spend it on the tools inside. That said, I am a big Tekton fan.

[@1966johnnywayne]

That drawer closes with a very satisfying thud. Industrial quality tool storage without the "brand name" pricing.

[@RhinoAg]

That steel carriage for each carriage. Very nice and beefy. These are very nice toolboxes. Getting that 10% back via $300 worth of free tools isn't bad either.

[@deadsmile2023]

I was a FORD technician now a Chrysler tech, and I bought the Tekton impact sockets in 3/8 deep & shallow and 1/2 deep. Not a single socket has cracked or deformed. And I just bought $300 more of tools.

[@donaldhollums3278]

The Tekton tools I have bought and used are holding up very well. I like the tool cabinet, but it will take some time to get the funds together for one. Despite the hype built up by Harbor Freight about the ICON stuff Tekton is the better value for the money.

[@jmackinjersey1]

Ten times better in quality, value and of course Warranty.

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@Bryan916 I mean, I don't want to buy a warranty extension every year, plus need to bring in a receipt. I can't stand companies that mandate that the tool "lifetime warranty" is only for the original purchaser. Either have a lifetime warranty on the TOOL, or don't have a warranty at all. Oh and they also have a "warranty of manufacturer defects" and do not warrant based on "normal wear and tear." These are TOOLS, and are going to see nothing but wear and tear.

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@Bryan916 , Yeah I mean I want a quality tool that will perform the job, but if I am going to be charged more than a Walmart brand price, then I would like an upfront and honest company to back their tools with a realistic warranty. GW is infamous for the way they treat their customers. I am in the market for a lot of new tools, from construction/tradesman tools to a complete set for the garage/shed. So I'm going to be spending a lot of money. I have my trades tools picked out for the most part, but the garage/shed box/storage and hand tools are still up in the air. I mean, I want to buy as many US Made tools as possible in this category, and SK has my eye, but a little pricey, Proto is WAY too overpriced, and so are the other big brands. So, even though Tekton doesn't manufacture all of their tools in the States, at least a lot of them are, and they are making more and more here. And I can support Canada if I buy one of these boxes, at least they aren't communist,... yet. (I know, I know, Taiwan isn't Commie either.) I still want to support and promote my neighbors, and get a good quality tool. I'm actually working on a business plan for a manufacturing company, and I am trying to make my finished products out of as many US Made products/components as possible if I cannot manufacture all of it in-house. I'm also trying to use as many US Made tools and boxes as well.

[@felixf5211]

I like this box a lot. Actually, it's perfect for my needs. The price is a problem. Yes, it's priced significantly lower than tool truck boxes, but not on the secondhand market. A nice SO box sells for about $1500 in my area; I've looked at a few. Sometimes a triple bank can be had for that price. I understand that we're talking new vs used, but the ending result is the same - both are robust toolboxes that will last for decades. Would you rather pay for a new Tekton box or half the price for a Snap-on from CL or Marketplace? I know which scenario I'd prefer.

[@nsmturbo5902]

Your entitled to your own opinion and you can certainly spend your money the way you want. *BUT* I can tell you that I spent 6x the price on a EPIQ series box that don't even compare in quality. The Snap-On "looks" nicer but it doesn't have the industrial feel compared to these Tekton boxes. These boxes are made by ROUSSEAU and the quality is top notch, don't let the price steer you away!

[@MrToemass]

Such a nice box! I love all my tekton Tools, the only ones that have failed me (repeatedly I might add) are the impact torx sockets. They constantly break.

[@rcud1]

Oh that box would be so nice. I'm stuck with my 26" Craftsman stack for awhile.

[@mikehenthorn1778]

they look great. now selling my boss on this is a bit harder at this price. i work on boilers and chillers so most of my tools are heavy and big. i love the tecton 1/2 in socket set i had work buy me. they are great even when i abuse them. ( breaker bar with a 4ft pipe to break loose , or break, 3/4 studs that are steam gauled ) the so cket and tools work. they are so good i will be picking up some for home.

[@codykooman9023]

I wana see a tool box tour lets see all these tools ? Love the box ill be buying one soon

[@richardbowles7690]

I'd put Tekton up with Lista and way ahead of Snapon, Mac and others for overall value

[@Gotchatwice]

If these were made in Michigan and came with a stainless steel top and a hutch and modular drawers I would be all in!

[@boosted2.4_sky]

Nice... this is the second video I've seen of Tekton's new boxes... im liking them... gonna need a credit card Tekton...🤔

[@yetigrande]

Wish I could afford one of tekton's boxes, especially being from my home state I like to support local companies. For now I'll have to go with a U.S. General box 🙁

[@A_Bust]

Tekton should start taking affirm or some kind of payment plans for big purchases like this, or even like for people going to school and need tool kits all at once and can't buy a few tools a week

[@Tektontools]

Hey Ace! We do accept Paypal and I know they have some financing options built into their Paypay Credit program. Hope this helps!

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@Tektontools Are you planning on adding more colors to the boxes? Please say yes, red and black are SOOOOO played out.

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@Tektontools Also,what about a top box and hutch option, and side boxes/attachments?

[@WizzRacing]

Them tool carts are great.. And I work out of them everyday... I think every tech does..

[@app4902]

It’s awesome that they’re built in Canada. I didn’t know that

[@cardo1111]

When competition increases and more companies are now making these boxes that is a win for the consumer, as it drives prices down. Some brands remain highly priced out of the realm/budget of most consumers and those who don't want to put themselves in large debt to pay for them. Will be interesting to see if they eventually lower their prices or go out of business as a result of not remaining cost competitive. I realize tool truck brands are often high quality boxes but are they really worth 3-6 times the cost of other good quality boxes.

[@Medevil9908]

These boxes look really nice but the reason I buy Tekton is the affordability/bang for your buck. Maybe I'm not the intended audience for these boxes but I would have expected the prices to be lower. These current prices are hitting that professional category. Their tools are professional quality but with "pro-sumer" prices.

[@jmackinjersey1]

Compare the size and quality of this box to any high end box and this is way less. Compare this box size and quality to a Big Box or other internet store, and this is way better Quality. Buy once, cry once. These are actually affordable and you definitely get a big bang for your buck.

[@kjmdrumz3]

I agree with you. It’s priced between big box store and took truck prices. IMO, for a DIY garage, the US General boxes are tough to beat. I don’t wrench for a living so I don’t need tools/boxes designed for that purpose. My crappy little 26” Craftsman bottom cabinet has served me well for the last 15 years. Still functions flawlessly. So recently when shopping for a new box, Strap-On, Mac, and Matco weren’t even on the RADAR. A US General 72” bottom cabinet and 44” top cabinet stuffed with Tekton tools suits my needs just fine.

[@GeoffPesos]

I would get it but I wish they made heavy duty suspension casters for these.

[@thebackwoodsmechanic5029]

Hey Tekton, as my channel grows, keep.me in mind for affiliation. I'll sat this much, Tekton is the best replacement for anyone looking to replace your old USA Craftsman. Theyre far better than Icon , as good as Gearwrench with better warranty . Great products

[@andybub45]

If you guys come out with a 73 or 80 inch, and add some options for a hutch and a side locker, I'm sold.

[@Ozzypup1]

Ive got a decent amount of Tekton tools. And honestly for the money they seem to be pretty good.

[@garykolbo7228]

I believe they are the international brand box made in Canada

[@epicragegaming2016]

i've been saying for a long time, a company needs to come out and just undercut the tool truck brands and offer almost if not the same quality and they will sell. very interested.

[@timm5970]

gearwrench, tekton, and Icon all have that idea

[@trainer2018]

How deep are the drawers from front to back?

[@nicholausstraach458]

Are y’all going to make chest for those cabinets?

[@TONYSTARK-jh2wu]

Wish there was more color options

[@jmackinjersey1]

Me too. But they did just come out with these boxes a few months ago, so maybe if we keep on asking them through their website, they will listen and add more choices. I'd like to get one in a nice copper color.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Ian did you notice you can bolt a vice down to it?

[@larszchzsche9070]

I worked offshore on B.O.P'S and no one makes a better impact socket Wright tools. Whether you use a truck tool or domestic or a snap on or import, from half inch to three inch e Wright is the winner period. I busted them but not a wright.

[@richardburns9772]

When will the long reach pliers be available again? I see them in the video but not on your website

[@joshk8316]

Shout out to texton for hooking up Kyle from Boostedboiz with the new tools 🧰 🛠 looking forward to purchasing my next month 🤘🏽💪🏽

[@AndrewTa530]

how much gel do you use?

[@ratchetwise440]

Man. That bottom drawer is almost...ALMOST... big enough to hold a custom hair clipper for you ;-)

[@LITTLEBRAT775081]

I wish they had a more economical one for people that don't work on stuff professionally.

[@itsatoolthing6323]

Not sure about these new boxes. Looks like they are just repurpose Parts storage bins. The mac HD series are set up like this box and Snap-on speed drawers but not using this slide system.

[@adamparker8604able]

I be neat if tekton would do toolbox packages with tools

[@jmackinjersey1]

I made that suggestion on another video. I would definitely like to see one, especially with their student sets. This way a new tech can get to work rather inexpensively and be able to add on to the set they have without a lot of overlap in tools.

[@adamparker8604able]

Yeah thats what I was thinking also it would help out young mechanics that doesn't have anything

[@brianreese9318]

I didn’t know they sold tool box’s wow

[@jmackinjersey1]

Just started a few months ago.

[@eespino1]

Are you fan of Paul Phoenix?🤪

[@michaelsieber6601]

Need Cabnets and hutches

[@carlosgaray9212]

Remember buy the box use the %10 back to fill the box. No company does that.

[@CSLFiero]

Love you tekton, mean it, but you don't need to pay influencers. In the long run, it's just a slippery slope to cutting quality or raising prices. Word of mouth is the way to go. It's free and cynics hate it.

[@G34RH34D]

Not a fan of their tool box designs. But I love their chrome tools for sure.

[@jmackinjersey1]

Really? What don't you like?

[@G34RH34D]

@@jmackinjersey1 It's kinda grown on to me now, but at first the really big drawer handles.

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@G34RH34D I went to their site and checked them out. They have a comparison to SO boxes right there for you to see. I think these boxes will take the market by storm and maybe even force the other companies to rethink their pricing. But we both know that if they were to drop the prices of their boxes, then those that currently own a box will be outraged, especially when they try to trade in/sell their boxes and have a huge decrease in "Supposed" value. I also asked them when they are going to come out with top box options as well as a hutch option. Of course I also asked about color options, since red and black are so old and boring. I like the larger handles. I also like the "one drawer open at a time" feature. I have been rolling my cart, didn't have the drawers completely closed and tipped it and the other drawers slid open, transferred weight and tipped. So that is a huge safety feature. I'm sure that they are testing the waters to see how they sell before they expand.

[@A.Dude.]

Mate, it's the first time in my life I encounter you... My take from this video goes as follows: Someone will have to explain to me why a $2.5k cabinet is needed to hold tools of a fraction of the cost; next, going drawer by drawer I will have to understand the need for the capability of holding the weight it is rated for. In the upper drawer which, to my standards is a disaster, you have not more then 50lb (and I'm generous), in the second drawer, the one with the ratcheting wrenches placed in a manner you can't read on them (LOL), you don't exceed 25lb... You don't show more, but I will assume it goes the same way with most likely a drawer wasted on pliers, one on screw-drivers and the bottom one will hold a bit more stuff and eventually something heavy. The "technology" involved in building such is in engineering terms for a four-grader; compare it to a similar priced whatever (from motorcycle, to photo camera, to furnace, AC or anything else...). Next; Tekton does s few things nice and other things not so nice... Their sockets have a very detailed torque specification sheet on their website and that is something I like to see, but holding their chrome polished tools in your hand, you find-out at first touch why they are cheap. I'm not complaining!!! However, if not advertised as being "beautifully" made, I would not have a problem. The chrome shows bubbles out of the box (if you look closely). Next... Their free shipping takes forever!!! Imagine you have a warranty issue and you will have to wait that long... Next: Their organizing devices suck! (BADLY). There is a new kid on the block doing organizing shit and those are dope! (Not telling that name because I don't want to create a false impression that I would be affiliated with anyone). All in all, the tools are cheap and these cabinets are not and your way of filling the cabinet is terrible, BUT... It's your mess and you might be happy with it. As I was a little boy, my mom always "cleaned-up" after me and I never ever found my shit and I told her to leave my stuff alone. She didn't know exactly what those engine parts were, but I spent more time searching then doing shit. In my "disaster" I knew where everything was... Lesson to be learned, is to keep your things ORGANIZED in a manner which makes sense to anyone... Have a good one and stay safe!

[@yarbrouc1]

There’s more than 50lbs in that top and the weight bearing capabilities increase longevity from consistent use even with less weight. If the drawers were straining than it wouldn’t take long slamming open and closed for something to break. For a DIY’er maybe it’s not justifiable but for someone who constantly uses their tools it’s worth the expense.

[@A.Dude.]

@@yarbrouc1 Please watch SHARK TANK for 10 min. and you will understand my point. I'm so sick and tired about the PRO vs. DIY topic... A crap cabinet is crap in both worlds. The cost for such is a tiny fraction of the selling price and whyle I understand that anyone needs to make a buck, these people have mark-ups above decency; Tekton most likely less then the truck brands... It's the addiction and the myth (of "amazing tools") which these people exploit. At the end of the day, it's you who is paying for this shit, not me; do whatever with your money, but remember this: In MOST mechanics families, there is a lot of explaining going-on (LOL)...You need to talk yourself into such a purchase and any such, for the same matter.

[@yarbrouc1]

You mention the engineering aspect so let’s look at that as well. I know for a fact there’s WAY more than 50lbs in my top drawer (shallow/semi/deep in 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 both metric SAE, universals etc) now your focused on the drawer slide rating but what about the structure of the box? Store boxes will typically be 20guage at best with heavy duty being 18. Next drawer again full sets long, standard short, standard and short in ratcheting both metric and SAE. Now we have compounded the weight of the top (obviously less but still more force to the bottom). Most people load there boxes with stuff you use at top and the bottom is blow molds, impacts etc etc. expensive boxes are 14-16guage (drawers typically 18) and are rolled and structured for added strength. Remember our tin can width store box? Now, go stand on a soda can. The can (in excellent condtion) will hold you but slightly dent the side and now it smashes flat. Now, go stand on the CO2 tank for the soda fountain. You could hammer the side and it would hold you. A DIY box usually sits in one spot for long periods, of not forever. That reduces not only damage but regular wear and tear (I’m a DIY’er by the way that grew up in a shop, love tools, have my own shop that I work on things I love as a hobby) where as a technician if not stationed in a bay will move there box pretty regularly. Wear and tear diminishes strength and performance. That’s true with everything or you would never have to replace moving parts. I had a craftsman box that I bought in 2007 that I used for 10 years, but last time I moved I went to roll it out of its spot and the caster fell off. I pushed my grandfathers snap on box all over the shop for 30 years and never had an issue and it had way more in it than mine. Engineering, manufacturing process, material and additional craftsmanship required is where the costs come in. A stamped pot metal wrench will always be cheaper than a quality steel, highly accurate and polished wrench. It will also last longer under continuous use.

[@A.Dude.]

@@yarbrouc1 I have no problem spending on stuff I like and my tools are not cheap to start with... I'm kind of addicted to Stahlwille, Gedore and Knipex, but I have the good stuff from WERA and my to go tool kit in 1/2" is 30 years old and I paid a fortune back in the day for it, while I was still living in Germany; it's a Proxxon Industrial...Few mechanics beat-up a tool as I did those and they hold-up perfectly to the day. This being said, I added in time and my tools are not only high end but super versatile; I need to think very long for something on a vehicle of any kind and job I would not have the right tool for, including the inner of a gearbox, honing a block and so on. I even have my own Nitrogen station and electronic AC tools... I only mentioned all this because I intend to point-out that I-m not cheap and I don't judge by price; if I like something I buy it... Unfortunately I know how shit is made and I also know how much materials and labor cost. I also don't agree with those who set the price just below something which is notorious for the high price due to branding, tradition and pedigree... While I don't like US made tools AT ALL and I hate the Snapon - must have narrative, I must agree they are not bad. It's really, really very low engineering skill required to design a tool cabinet and a low skilled worker can make you one with blindfolded eyes. Steel is cheap; even the best steel is cheap. Paint and protective layers are done industrial and this is cheap as well... Now, it depends from what angle you rate skill. I took a closer look at how Harleys are welded and it almost made me vomit. Again, it depends from what angle you look at things. Japanese motorcycles also have terrible welds, don't get me started on that... How many people look at welds, when on a bike show-room with the intention of buying one? I recommended Shark-tank for a reason; they don't invest if the business doesn't make 500%-600% profit from cost to retail... That is no different with these cabinets. You can tell me all night long how sturdy they are and still they come out the door for no more then 3-5 hundred bucks and I'm being generous. The retail price is below (in the case of Tekton) Tool-truck because there is no pedigree and because of the "if you don't buy Snapon, you're a nobody", narrative... Have a good one and stay safe! P.S. Use tools with joy and always have a smile on your face while doing so!

[@yarbrouc1]

A Dude I concur there is a huge markup and branding has a lot to do with it. There just aren’t many proven middle ground boxes. I also have a knipex obsession and really just enjoy tools in general. My favorite screwdrivers are the Matco Torque II which are made in Germany and while my boxes do have a lot of Snap On in them I have no brand loyalty. I am a terrible welder but that’s why I bought a good grinder lol

[@terrellscaife2411]

It’s a nice box but if I had a choice I will get the US general Their 72 inch box is always on sale for around $1000

[@jmackinjersey1]

You get what you pay for.

[@terrellscaife2411]

Not exactly sure of your comment but if I can get a 72 inch US general box for thousand dollars I’m getting more bang for the buck Actually I can get two 72 inch boxes And then have money left over to buy some tools to put in there

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@terrellscaife2411 You can buy a Hyundai for less money than you can buy a Honda, but that doesn't make the Hyundai a better buy. The amount of money you are paying for these boxes directly correlates to build quality and material. If you have a big box that sits on the side of your shop and holds the tools, it will obviously last a little longer than the same box that is rolled around. However, this box is made to roll around and will hold heavier loads as well.

[@terrellscaife2411]

Jeremiah I kind of understand your point have a freight have the icon series which are higher quality tool boxes comparable to price to the tekton toolbox But maybe somebody can comment on here If They work in a professional shop and they had their harbor freight box for many many years and compare them to a comparable snap on box Speculation is just speculation

[@terrellscaife2411]

I do think that it’s neat that tekton is stepping up their game and expanding their tool line but realistically speaking the harbor freight US general is the better value for the money and their icon is more of a true competitor to the high-end tool truck brand because there tool box offers a lot more options you can get the bottom the top you can get site lockers side cabinets you can get a hutch you can get upper storage cabinets you can get a stainless steel top 🔝 which makes it a real competitor to Snap On Mackle Mac and Cornwell

[@neilmays6744]

Y’all could gift me that box and it would be appreciated more than every influencer given box combined

[@vdub1955]

Like 👍 👍

[@jeffcuevas5918]

Made in Canada? Good.. sell them in Canada... Not USA, NOT IN MY GARAGE

[@1991tommygun]

Way too expensive, seems like a nice box tho

[@jmackinjersey1]

Too expensive for what?

[@CSLFiero]

@@jmackinjersey1 they're selling you a 20ga box for icon price bro. Yeah, they stiffen it where it matters, but icon is selling you a 16ga box for that price that is stiff freaking everywhere.

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@CSLFiero Even though Icon only uses 16 ga in 2 places on their boxes, 18 in a few other places, and 14 gauge "channels" under the frame. Tek uses 14 ga for the top. Icon doesn't have an internal, structural frame. It is All Low Quality, Chinese Junk Steel. Tekton uses higher quality American steel. Even if they are using lower gauge steel, it is still better quality to begin with. Not to mention better craftsmanship. Icon drawers use ball bearing slides with only 265 lbs / set, and they have to double up their sliders for larger drawers. Tek 400 lbs per drawer. On top of all that, they are now begging people to buy their junk because they have a rather large 20% coupon. I mean, if these were selling so great, then they wouldn't need to discount them already. Yes, Tekton has a 10% back in rewards as well s a student program. But not everyone is going to qualify for the student discount. Wait until you try to warranty their crap. Better keep the original receipt. Think about it, Tekton doesn't make you do any of that, because they stand behind their products, NQA. In the end, we buy what we like and what works for us.

[@jmackinjersey1]

@@CSLFiero I sent an email to Tekton, asking about their boxes. I'll let you know what,... if, they respond. They typically do though.

[@byronlogan7496]

Way overpriced! I love Tektin tools! I have a lot!! But come on man,,,, $2500 for the smallest one... cut that price by 30-40% and you're going to see sales sky rocket!! Several people I've spoken to have said something similar... I'm not trying to impress my kids, my lady, or next door neighbor. No one sees it... It's us. general for me... full of tektin tools... now I won't say it's like snap-on or Mac, or a few others with ridiculous prices (icon). But overpriced nonetheless!

[@ChickenPermissionOG]

to much for a box

[@toowace01]

too much$$$$$$