At Holz-Handwerk we saw not only thousands of tools, but several companies creating systems to store and transport those tools. You’d think that there are only so many ways mobile tool storage can be designed, but we saw at least four different approaches.
First up is OPO Oeschger. This Swiss trading company distributes some 35,000 items to tradesfolks around the world, so we can’t really say these few of theirs that we’re going to hone in on are indicative of their sole approach to tool storage, but it’s a good place to start. On display were their collection of box-based tool storage objects in two form factors: A sleek-looking briefcase style, and a series of deeper boxes meant to be dense enough to store a variety of hand tools, yet manageable enough for one person to carry. And they all come pre-loaded with the tools.
Starting with the boxes, their Comfort model is made from birch and features a lid that slides rearward into a fixed vertical position. Interestingly enough, this model contains a built-in battery, a power cord and four sockets; the idea is that you plug the box into a wall when an outlet’s available, and this charges the on-board battery; later when you’re working and no outlet’s available, you plug your devices into the box’s sockets and draw juice from the battery. This box is designed to hold 67 specific tools.
Their smaller Compact III model is also made from birch, though this one’s made for those who solely use hand tools, no on-board power. It features these little removeable wooden boards mounted with like tools, presumably so the user can install the appropriate boards for the day’s work, carrying only what’s necessary for the particular job. Fully laden, the Compact III is designed to hold some 34 tools.
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