Milwaukee vs Klein: The toolbox feud continues

It’s been 18 months since we first dug into the Milwaukee versus Klein saga and boy, has the story moved on. Back in August 2024 we covered the lawsuit over modular toolboxes, the Packout and Modbox systems, and the alleged patent infringements that got everyone talking. At the time, Milwaukee was accusing Klein of “treading too closely” on elements of their designs, and the world was left watching a legal chess game unfold in the Northern District of Illinois.

Since then, there have been some fresh twists and new targets in this ongoing toolbox battle.

Where we left off

In our original post we walked through the alleged infringements: three patents relating to locking catches, coupling mechanisms and carrying handles. Klein’s Modbox had launched in 2023 following Milwaukee’s Packout by six years and the courtroom drama was just beginning.

Fast forward 18 months and the case has evolved. The first hearing is long behind us and there have been additional filings, this time expanding beyond just the modular storage systems.

New developments: tape measures enter the ring

In April 2025 Milwaukee filed a new complaint against Klein, this time over their tape measures. Now with the Klein bit firmly between their teeth his new Milwaukee lawsuit claims that Klein copied a patented feature of their tape measures, specifically a “tape blade profile” that increases standout distance without bending.

For the legally curious or tape measure obsessive, Milwaukee’s concern centres on very some specific dimensions:

• Flat blade width: 29–32 mm
• Curved height: around 9 mm
• Standout distance: over 150 inches

Essentially, Milwaukee argue that Klein’s tape measures mimic these patented measurements, potentially infringing on their intellectual property.

If the court rules the infringement was willful, meaning Klein allegedly knew about the patents but used the designs anyway, damages could triple. Ouch. That’s the kind of figure that could make even the sturdiest tool manufacturer flinch. 

The Modbox 2.0 and product shifts

Since our original post, Klein has also launched Modbox version 2.0. Some of the original units were discontinued and the new line appears to have incorporated some design tweaks, likely in response to the legal pressure and perhaps also to improve usability.

While we haven’t done a full Modbox 2.0 versus original Modbox comparison yet, it’s clear that the system has matured. Some features look more refined and it seems Klein may have pre-emptively sidestepped potential legal pitfalls, a smart move if nothing else. 

What this means for toolbox users

So, what about all of us who are already invested in these modular systems? The answer is complicated.

• If Milwaukee wins the original Packout lawsuit, Klein might have to re-engineer future Modbox modules or pay licensing fees to continue using the mechanisms.
• With the tape measure suit now in play, we could see further product adjustments across Klein’s range.
• For consumers, this is a reminder that even the simplest tool storage solution can carry complex legal baggage.

On the bright side, the Modbox 2.0 appears backward compatible with the original units, meaning your existing setup isn’t suddenly obsolete, and that is always welcome news for anyone who has invested in modular storage. 

Lessons from this

This saga isn’t just about lawsuits and patents. It’s a peek behind the curtain at how innovation, competition and IP law collide in the US tool market. Every time a new modular system hits the shelves, someone is checking whether the catch mechanism, coupling plate or tape measure profile is “just right” or legally too close for comfort.

It’s tempting to see it as Milwaukee flexing their financial muscle, but it’s also a lesson for designers. The line between inspiration and infringement can be surprisingly fine. And for the rest of us, we get to watch the drama unfold with some captivating twists along the way.

Looking ahead

There’s still a lot to watch:

• How the Modbox 2.0 continues to evolve
• Whether Klein can defend their tape measure designs
• And if Milwaukee’s lawsuits will slow innovation or encourage even more clever solutions

We’ll be keeping a close eye and of course we’ll continue reviewing these systems side by side. Shadow foam inserts for both ranges remain available, so we’ve still got hands-on insight into how these systems work in practice, something courtroom filings can’t quite capture.