A plastic toolbox can be a handy tool to store items like screwdrivers, hammers, screws, and washers among other things. Usually, when you store these items in a plastic toolbox, you might not think much about locking them. However, it makes sense to keep the plastic toolbox under lock and key – it not only increases the security of the items stored but also makes sure you don’t lose the items inadvertently.
Does My Toolbox Even Need to Lock?
You might be already asking whether you need to lock your toolbox. Although it is not a necessity if you don’t have expensive and sophisticated tools, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Even if you don’t own expensive tools, it can be quite upsetting for you if you discovered that someone accessed your toolbox without your permission. Likewise, a small, unlocked toolbox is likely to be a more tempting target than a locked or bigger toolbox. If your tools are valuable to someone, they might be tempted to take them, especially if they are easily accessible.
When you work around people or leave your tools unattended for longer periods, the opportunity to steal would arise. Also, if someone else uses your tools they might not replace them in their place. Things might be jumbled, and you might find it difficult to access the right tools when you need them. A lock is a sure deterrent in such cases.
Why Are Tools a Theft Target?
In most cases, people steal tools for economic reasons. Professional tools are expensive and enjoy high resale value. As they are difficult to identify, a thief comes can make several hundred dollars of gear by pawing or selling the tools online. Even if the thief only manages to get half the money for the tools, along with a toolbox, it can mean a few hundred dollars. A big toolbox with a lock makes it more difficult for thieves to steal the box and sell/pawn the tools.
Types of Locks to Keep your Plastic Toolbox Safe
There are several options to keep your plastic toolbox safe. Some are mentioned below:
Key locks – the traditional padlock solution that is easy to use. However, it is easy to break the lock open as well. Go for a recognised brand and complicated-looking key that fits the locking hasp of your toolbox.
Combination locks – a popular choice that works as well as keyed locks. However, if you forget the combination, you’ll not be able to access the tools. A good choice would be a recognised brand with a 5-digit (make sure you keep the combination key safe, away from the toolbox and prying eyes).
Cylinder toolbox locks – the latest in fashion option that uses the same locking technology used in your front door and your car. The base of a cylinder lock is a series of spring-loaded pins or tumblers within the lock body. When you insert a key, it forces the pins up and down and so only the correct key will both fit in the lock and jostle all of the pins into the correct positions to unlock.
Whatever your choice is, make sure you opt for a toolbox and lock from a recognised brand. Don’t compromise on quality for a few cents or else you will end up paying more. For some excellent toolbox options, click here.