DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 storage improves in several ways
Tool storage is a huge market segment for several manufacturers. While many will stick with their favorite brand, no one is saying you can't put Craftsman tools in your DeWalt toolbox. The DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 storage system offers some significant improvements over its first-generation systems. We've covered everything you need to know about this portable tool storage system.
advantage
- New auto-locking side latches make stacking and securing easy
- Stronger Latch
- more space
- excellent durability
- Available wheeled bottom box rolls smoothly
- Metal reinforced padlock hole
- Rubber gasket keeps out dust and water
shortcoming
- The lid system does not prevent objects from being removed from the tray
- There are no dedicated strap points on the rolling box for shipping
DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Improvements and Test Results
better latch
The DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 addresses one of the biggest complaints we've seen – latch-ups. They're sturdier on the new system, lock securely, and feel more durable.
We noticed that the metal catch may slide over the top of the latch slot. However, this is not the right question. Instead, it fits perfectly with no wobble.
The catch doesn't swing down freely, so you just have to pay attention. You could argue that DeWalt could have made the lips a little bigger, but that's really a very minor issue.
Super Simple Auto Attach Side Lock
We love the auto-attach side latches on the DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0. They are spring-loaded and automatically lock one box over the other with a simple push. Usually, the weight of the case and its contents are sufficient to do the job without any additional help.
You have to make sure the boxes line up correctly. It might take a day or two, but it gets into muscle memory pretty quickly.
These side latches are very secure. We have no problem with them being apart. Even when we tried to tug and bang them, they held tight.
There's another swivel latch point in the middle. Find half-width boxes, bags, or other storage accessories that use it.
more storage space
Notably, the DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 has approximately 20 percent more storage area than the original design. This isn't necessarily an innovation, but it's useful when you're organizing your toolset.
Great, but is ToughSystem 2.0 really tough?
Overall, the build of the case, including the wheels and handle system on the rolling cart, looks solid. We don't do destructive testing, so we don't drop concrete blocks on them from 10 feet, push them out of the back of a truck at 60 MPH, or see how well they hold up to a 12 gauge turkey load .
However, we also don't just make them sit there and look pretty. Carrying weight in tools and accessories is definitely not a big problem for them. Tom Gaige wasn't on top of them either. Or jump on them. Even my weight of 200 catties is not enough for them to call me uncle.
So, while we'll be looking for breakout limits for those more prone to click-bait headlines, we're confident in saying that the DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 will stand up to harsh job site conditions.
Additional Field Notes
Original ToughSystem Compatibility
DeWalt made some smart calls for an update to their ToughSystem lineup. First, ToughSystem 2.0 is absolutely compatible with all your original ToughSystem boxes and accessories.
We like this because it means we can swap out our boxes as needed without a complete overhaul. It also means that the Storage Racks or DeWalt Music+Charger you already own will still integrate nicely.
What rain?
DeWalt's washer system is excellent. This material can well insulate dust and water. Its yellow color also adds a nice contrast to the black box.
travel goods
The lid system does not abut the open tray inside the box. Anything you put in it still has the potential to move or fall. However, the tray in your carry-on suitcase-style box has a separate non-travel lid to keep items in place.
spring loaded side handle
Like the side latches, the side handles (but not the front handles) are spring loaded. Whether you leave the boxes somewhere or lock them into the system, they will fall without any additional help from you.
While there aren't any dedicated strap points on the rolling case, the side handles are a nice touch if you're going to be stashing more than one case.
Sometimes labeling is a good thing
Sometimes it's the little things that make a big difference. If you're the kind of pro who likes to label boxes, it's easy. The clear plastic cover over the "ToughSystem 2.0" label near the top slides up and you can put your own label there. In fact, you can flip the existing label over and handwrite it if you want.
Famous DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 product
While we can't (or shouldn't) detail every single DeWalt GToughSystem 2.0 storage product in a single article, a few key components stand out.
ToughSystem 2.0 Compact 11" Tool Bag and 22" Tool Bag
The DeWalt DWST08025 ToughSystem 2.0 Compact 11" Tool Bag and the DeWalt DWST08350 22" Jobsite Tool Bag are made of 1680D Ballistic Nylon. The material is both durable and virtually dust-proof. You also get a nice waterproof base to keep your hand tools from getting wet on the job site. These bags feature all-around accessibility for quick and easy tool changes on the job. Bungee cords give you extra storage space on the sides, and both bags include compartments for power tools, hand tools, a tablet, and anything else you might want to take with you.
The ToughSystem 2.0 Compact 11" Tool Bag includes 25 pockets. You can use the shoulder strap or handle, or stack it on top of any ToughSystem 2.0 product. It features a 40-lb load capacity, tape chains, and long tool side compartments, as well as entry on both sides. The ToughSystem 2.0 22-Inch Job Site Tool Bag doubles the number of pockets to 50 and increases durability to 77 lbs. load capacity. It also adds side handles and daisy chain and horizontal brackets.
DeWalt DWST08040 Full Size Organizer
The DeWalt DWST08040 ToughSystem 2.0 Full-Size Organizer looks really tough. You'll get a 44-pound load capacity with 10 customizable, removable trays and a clear lid to easily identify contents. The central area supports the storage of longer tools, and the entire case is IP65 rated. And if that wasn't enough, the organizer is made in the USA (with the caveat that it uses global materials).
DeWalt DWST08320 Double Drawer Chest
drawer! One of the most popular features of the ToughSystem 2.0 has to be the drawers. Now you can pick up the DeWalt DWST08320 Two-Drawer Unit and add it to your ToughSystem 2.0 stack. This allows for easy access to anything from small power tools to accessories.
Unlike most systems we've seen, DeWalt gives you ball-bearing slides on the drawers. Not only does this allow you to open and close smoothly, it also adds stability – eliminating sag.
price
We got the three-piece DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 "Starter" set for $199.99, with individual box prices varying. We compared it to two other popular stacking sets.
The Milwaukee Packout System has a three-piece wheeled kit for $279. The comparable Ridgid costs $97 total (you have to buy it separately). As a result, DeWalt found himself in a very strong position. With solid durability and a really good feature set, you get a lot more for your money than with Ridgid, but it's a lot cheaper than Packout.
the bottom line
The DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 is a thoughtful upgrade to the DeWalt storage system. These improvements are a really useful step forward, the system remains compatible with the ToughSystem equipment you already have, and the price is very good among other products.
Whether you're looking for a ready-to-use storage system, or just looking to replace some of the ToughSytem boxes you already have, the ToughSytem 2.0 is our hearty recommendation.