Sadly, the ultimate tool box may be a five gallon plastic bucket. Hardly what one considers a timeless classic, but then again, I doubt future archeologists will consider them a rare find.
The main downside, is also an upside. There is no great appeal to the old pickle bucket. Just as the Japanese wooden tool box is a purely utilitarian crate, this is purely utilitarian. The plastic bucket does not attract attention and hardly announces that valuable tools are kept inside it. Another downside, is that in a hundred years, I doubt the plastic will be in great shape. Additionally the aesthetic does not really speak of refined tool work. With a bit of grunge ground into the outside the aesthetic goes even further downhill.
On the upside however, these are tough, available, secure storage. They will survive a canoe trip, flood, or whatever and still keep tools in good shape. They keep weather and insects at bay, while making a pretty good stool. Additionally there are slews of organizers available for them. So for planning for emergencies, these may be the ultimate TEOTWAWKI tool box.
Personally I think I like the six or seven gallon better, a few tools are a bit longer and need the room. In any case they should be equipped with a Gamma Seal, the best most secure and easy to use lid.
I will still be making and using wooden tool boxes. Art matters. Maybe I should make a wooden tool box that fits in a seven gallon bucket.
Bob
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