Tool Bags, Belts, and Pouches
Whether you are a professional carpenter looking for a heavy leather pouch, or a homeowner who does occasional repairs, the kind of tool holder you use can make a difference in your productivity. With the wide variety of tool belts, bags, and pouches available, it can be difficult to choose. Taking a few things into account can help you decide which tool holder to pick.
What materials are they made of?Some carriers are constructed entirely of one material, while others feature a pouch in one material with a strap made of another. Some common materials include:
- Leather.
- Canvas and denim.
- Nylon and other synthetic materials.
Tool bags and pouches are transported by hand and have a larger carrying capacity, while tool belts offer the convenience of hands-free use. Steel loops on tool belts offer added carrying capacity for hammers, mallets, and tape measures. Styles include:
- A tool rig is a large-capacity tool belt with heavy duty suspenders for added support.
- Bib-style belts combine the apron and suspenders with a full chest piece and an additional pocket.
- A leather tool pouch with a removable strap can be carried like a bag or worn around your waist.
- An anchored tool pouch is worn around the waist like an apron with the holder in the front; this is useful for lighter tools and small hardware.
- 18-inch rolling carriers are convenient for moving a heavy load of tools and hardware to and from the job site.
- Bucket-style bags are made of heavy duty material and have large carrying capacities.
- Some tool bags resemble carry-on luggage that can be zippered close, with or without additional outside pockets.
Tool belts come in varying sizes, with respect to both their carrying capacity and their fit around your waist. They can have as few as three pockets for a lighter load or as many as 20 pockets of varying sizes. They can fit a range of waist sizes from 26 to 52 inches. Bags and pouches come in varying sizes, depending on their intended purpose.
How do you choose a tool carrier?- Choose your preferred materials. Leather is thick and durable, while canvas and nylon are easy on your skin.
- Pick colors and patterns that you like.
- Opt for a tool pouch with the size and number of pockets for the tools you use.
- Make sure the tool belt fits your waist if choosing this kind of carrier.
- Note the ease of use of the carrier you want.
- Look for solid, riveted corners to prevent sharp objects from poking through.
- Consider a tool pouch with removable straps if you are left-handed, as it can be worn on either side.
Keeping in mind the materials, styles, and features of the tool carriers available can help you choose the one that will work for you.