Ulmia Tooltainer or ECE Toptainer

Pete Pedisich

Member
Joined
Jan 22, 2007
Messages
196
Hi, Thinking about getting one of these, just the green systainer and tool insert (I have the tools already [big grin])

I'm sure the shipping from Germany would be more than the actual cost for the product.

Does anyone know of a source for these other than ordering from Germany?

Thanks,

Pete
 
Festool offers that type of tool carrier (SYS-HWZ) in the US. Check with one of the dealers.

Seth
 
Seth,

Thanks, I've looked at the Festool version up close and I like it, but am really looking for the ECE or Ulmia branded ones, which I realize are identical [embarassed]

Pete
 
WillAdams said:
How useful and workable have folks found these to be?

Any notable redundancies or lacunae?
I can’t comment on that particular insert, but I had the Festool SYS-HWZ for a while and eventually got rid of it because I found it more trouble than it was worth.

Firstly, most people have their own personal choice of tools that they want to have in a mobile tool bag/box, specific to the types of job they’re likely to be doing away from their workshop, but these types of insert are very rigid in what tools will fit. And in how many tools they will carry.

Secondly, whilst many of the tools are accessible with just the lid open, there are some that require the whole insert to be lifted out in order to access them. That’s fine, and by design, but for me it just became annoying over time. It kind of felt a bit like putting all my tools in a tool bag, then putting it inside a systainer for no real reason.

And finally, there’s the general space inefficiency. I’ve replaced my SYS-HWZ with a Veto Pro Pac bag and I can now fit way more tools in a slightly smaller space (not to mention, solving the first two problems at the same time).

I think if you find one that fits exactly what you want to carry, and if you’re often wheeling a stack of systainers to a site along with your hand tools, these inserts can still make sense for some people. They’re just so specific that I’d find them hard to recommend as a general solution.
 
Thanks! That makes a lot of sense and echoed my own thoughts and concerns, and brings them into sharper focus.
 
I bought the Festool version many years ago and filled it with all the tools that would fit.

As the years go by more slots become empty as I take tools out to put in the box I’m actually using for a particular task. Makes me feel guilty for not using it more rationally whenever the I see it or the subject come up. On my current project I’m using a cheap open top bag from HD just because it’s convenient and not the least precious.
 
As a matter of interest, how are you getting on with the Ulmia blockplane?
I have one and its got quite a bit of backlash which wouldn't be so bad but for the massive adjustment knob which means its uncomfortable to use without it pushing the blade forward.
Which means the blade is a pain to adjust.

I have one of their wooden planes that I adjust by tapping the blade with a mallet and its much better to use.
 
I plan to buy the ECE, as I do very much like the Festool HWZ.

Uses are different.. mine was taken out of the systainer when new and have only been moved in the SYS once. Mine live mostly on my MFT as pr. pictures to have some of the most used hand tools at arms reach in the middle of the room. I’ve found it to be very effective and ergonomic. When in the way I just place it on another bench. The SYS will only be used for transport.
The ECE seems to be a bit more customisable, with two removable inlays at top. I plan to cut out for my set of tools. Just, haven’t seen it in real life and it could easily be less than the HWZ, but still looks promising. Thinking of having two different tool setups in these.

Inside of my house I have a electrician’s tote, it’s square, compact and with every driver and tool I need inside for general use. For me this works very well (Thus, it means doubling of quality tools.. even though many tools are old, but quality stands when not misused)

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