About Extreme Tools
About Extreme Tools
Extreme Tools was founded in 1999 by Larry Grela, an auto industry veteran who started the business with a single mobile tool route before growing it into 12 mobile tool trucks and a stocking warehouse. That distribution background gave the company direct insight into what technicians wanted from their storage equipment before it ever built a tool chest of its own.
In 2004, Extreme Tools shifted its focus to building tool chests and cabinets, a move that became the foundation of the brand's current business. Since then, the company has concentrated on tool carts, chests, and boxes rather than broadening into the hand tools themselves, developing the EX, RX, and DX product series along the way.
Extreme Tools' RX Series is known for the company's patented Quick Release self-latching drawer pull, a feature aimed at the automotive, mechanical, and home garage technicians who make up its core customer base. The company remains headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, with Larry Grela still serving as owner.
Prefer a quick quote?
Get Extreme Tools Pricing in Your Inbox
Tell us the chest size and application and we'll match the right Extreme Tools product.
Frequently asked questions
What product series does Extreme Tools offer?
Extreme Tools manufactures its EX, RX, and DX series of tool chests, cabinets, and carts, each with different construction and feature sets. Tell us your drawer count and mobility needs and we'll match the right series.
What is the Quick Release feature on Extreme Tools' RX Series?
The Quick Release is Extreme Tools' patented self-latching drawer pull system featured on its RX Series toolboxes, designed to simplify opening drawers without a separate latch step. Let us know if this feature matters for your workflow and we'll confirm which models include it.
Does Extreme Tools make rolling tool carts?
Yes, rolling carts are part of Extreme Tools' core lineup alongside its stationary chests and cabinets. Tell us your shop layout and mobility requirements and we'll help match the right cart configuration.
Who founded Extreme Tools and when?
Extreme Tools was founded in 1999 by Larry Grela, who remains the company's owner today. The business started as a mobile tool route before shifting to tool chest and cabinet manufacturing in 2004.
What industries use Extreme Tools products?
Extreme Tools targets professionals in automotive, mechanical, and home garage sectors who need durable tool storage. Tell us your trade and we'll help identify the right chest or cabinet size for your tools.