Thread: Small gas struts for blanket chests

I recently did quite a bit of research on this. I ended up ordering Rockler's torsion hinges http://www.rockler.com/lid-stay-tors...-rustic-bronze , and am very happy.

After pricing good quality struts and hinges it worked out to be very close in price comparison. And even though I only needed 1 pair, I ordered 3 to save on shipping. (One day i'll find a project for the others). Ordering a dozen would be even a better saving I would think. And they arrived in under 2 weeks (struggle to get things that quick with some local stores).

I used 2 60lb hinges on my box. Size approx, 1000 * 500, 5kg. new guinea rosewood.
Holds the lid steady all the way down.
Tried 40lb but let the lid fall from about half way.

Originally Posted by shanesmith80

I recently did quite a bit of research on this. I ended up ordering Rockler's torsion hinges http://www.rockler.com/lid-stay-tors...-rustic-bronze , and am very happy.

That was going to be my suggestion.

Everyone loves Rockler!

Beuler? Beuler? Beuler?

A few years ago I built a blanket chest type thing to store outdoor furniture cushions, it was made from Jarrah and fairly heavy.

Outdoor storage box.jpg


I used THIS type of soft close stay and they worked fantastic as they are adjustable; I had them set so no matter how hard or gently you smacked the lid it would descend gracefully down and finally close with the tiniest of thuds.

Unfortunately, they are expensive. The big green shed lists them as $53 each; when I bought them they were about $35. I used to joke that the timber cost me $50 and the fancy stays cost $70!

If as you say it is to protect small fingers then I can't recommend them highly enough, perhaps you can find them cheaper elsewhere especially if you are looking at buying in bulk.