Stolen Tools. Security options and methods

SON240sx Automotive
1

So this weekend I had some tools stolen. I know others have had this happen to them as well.

I’d like to start a thread on tool security.
I’ll be the first to admit I never thought this would happen to me, but it has and I’d really like to prevent this from happening again.

So…
Aside from locking everything up (which I typically do) what other measures can be taken?

I’ve started making an extensive inventory of what I have. I’m thinking of photographing everything as well as engraving serial numbers into everything.

I don’t want people asking what was taken or what happened or a “sorry to hear that”, or “that sucks bro”. I just want ideas and method to prevent this from occurring again.

Yes, a police report has already been filed and an investigation has already begun.

Thanks,
Adam

2

I used to have a flat bar that fit through my handles on my tool chest that was bent at the top and had to be unlocked from the bottom of the chest it was tough and pretty tough to not look suspicious while trying to unlock. was really affective. an other thing was dipping my tools in a hard to remove paint. so they were noticeable. engraving works too. a few other things my friend does is he said turning his chest arond facing the wall and using the bar technique works well too.

3

I like the painting idea… I’m going to look into this one.

Any ideas on tougher than shit paint?

4

angle grinder. + vise then put a noticeable mark in all your tools, a x, or two ticks, or whatever. Thats what I do.

5

I used Armor coating found at CT in many different bright noticeable colours. its tough enough i also added a slight clear coat just to make sure. worked wonders to protect my investment.

6

powder coat them if you get really serious and there metal of course

7

My old boss had all his tools engraved, it takes time but it’s worth it.

Engraving will only help you find tools, not stop them being stolen in the first place. I like Boost-hungry’s flat bar idea, you could also consider just straight bolting your box to the wall/floor.

8

weed out the people who are scum from your life.

after you do that, you shouldnt need much security.

Also, I’m sure that acting like a dick to the majority of people who have a different opinion or style than you doesn’t help your case either.

You rent out your garage to other people as well if im not mistaken?

It really sucks that this happened though, I feel your pain, paranoia & anger.
I’ve been in your position, and its no fun.

How about a make-shift electric tool chest…hook up your battery chargered every night to it haha . THATS if you don’t care about being sued by the fucktards/family of fucktards who are breaking and entering after they get injured or die… fucking bulshit laws…

---------- Post added at 09:07 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:55 PM ----------

If they want it They will just take the whole chest - happened to my buddy… dont ask how as I know they are heavy as FUCK when full

9

Cameras work well, plus engraving your initials. A night-vision camera system is a bit pricy but when you have a few thousand dollers in tools, its well worth it.

10

msglength

11

$99 dollar powder coating kit /w powder

toaster oven off kijiji

Done deal

Though in your case sounds like a B&E was involved? sounds like building needs to be secured moreso than your tools. The garage have a phone line? you can get a cheapo security system that is preprogrammed to call any phone numbers you set. It is set off through door contacts and/or glass break sensors, once activated it will call the numbers you set be it your cellphone or a security monitoring service (monthly fees) the cellphone option is free… but you gotta handle it yourself, be it calling 911 or with a baseball bat/shotgun =)