We have reviewed some of the best tool bags in the industry and put together this helpful buyers guide to make sure you get just the right bag for the job. Take a look below for features found on some of the top rated bags.
For a complete list of some the top rated tool bags be sure to check out our article for:
Tool Bag of the Year
Material, (features of the best tool bags)
Canvas, Nylon, PVC impregnated nylon, leather, polyester and denier. Denier is a common term found when describing many tool bags but what exactly does it mean?
Denier is actually a unit of measure for measuring textiles, the higher the denier count the thicker or heavier the material. This means a tool bag with higher denier count would be more durable then another bag made of the same material with a lower denier count.
The photo below is a close up shot of a Husky Contractors Tool Bag constructed of 600 denier waterproofed Polyester.
Why is this important? Well, if your planning on buying a tool bag for power tools you don’t want a bag made out of a thin material that may rip from the heavy load. Throw in a handful of sharp drill bits it won’t take long for your bag to be looking like Swiss cheese.
Zippers, (feature of the best tool bags)
Not a small part to be overlooked when deciding on what is going to be the best tool bag for the job. In order to gain access to your tools your going to want a high quality zipper that can be opened and closed easily without failure.
The photo above is of the Carhartt Legacy Tool Bag that features YKK zippers for years of trouble free operation, YKK zippers can be found on some of the best tool bags around.
Molded bottom, (feature of the best tool bags)
When your out on the job the weather can change at a moments notice. To protect your bag…and tools, from the elements consider looking for a tool bag that features a plastic molded bottom.
This plastic molded bottom helps prevent the material from soaking up water if placed on a wet surface. The above photo of a Klein Tools Electricians backpack tool bag illustrates how the plastic keeps the main tool bag material dry and allows for upright storage of the bag. No more soggy bottoms here!
Shoulder Strap, (feature of the best tool bags)
As you start to fill your bag with all the “essential” gear, its going to add to the overall weight. To help lighten the load consider a tool bag that features a shoulder strap.
The above photo shows an adjustable shoulder strap on a Custom LeatherCraft 1537 Electricians tool bag. For a more in-depth look at the LeatherCraft 1537 check out our article Best Tool Bag of the Year.
Battery powered power tools, sockets and wrenches can really add to the weight of your pack. It is not uncommon for a plumbers tool bag or construction workers tool bag to weight 40, 50 lbs or more! We suggest picking up a tool bag with an included shoulder strap for carrying your tools between the shop and work-site.
Comfort, (feature of the best tool bags & tool belts)
A well thought out design, high quality materials and features with the end user in mind. These are requirements of Top Rated tool bags and tool belts.
Carpenters and framers who are on their feet, going up and down ladders need a tool belt that is not only functional but also comfortable. High quality leather, framing pouches, suspenders, hammer holders are all features sought after.
To see more highly rated tool belts with comfort in mind, take a look at our article: “Most comfortable tool belt, Framing Tool Pouches”
Wheels & Telescoping handle, (feature of the best tool bags)
While a shoulder strap can make moving a heavy bag from point A to point B easier for the really heavy stuff we recommend a tool bag with wheels. A tool bag with wheels is the perfect solution for moving heavy loads around the shop or around the job site.
Two over-sized 4″ wheels and a large telescoping carry handle can be found on the above rolling tool bag by Snap-On. Think of it as luggage for your tools, add a couple wheels and large telescoping handle and now you have a rolling tool shed! For more Tool Bags featuring wheels, “Rolling Tool Bags” article
Minimalist, (feature of the best tool bags)
Sometimes you don’t need an entire fleet of tools with you everywhere you go but just a few of the essentials. For those applications (boat, RV, airplane, car, motorcycle) a lightweight canvas roll up tool pouch makes a great sidekick.
Behold! The Ergodyne Arsenal roll-up tool pouch! A lightweight tool storage solution that holds your tools safe & organized all while keeping them within arms reach while your on the go.
The roll up design would fit perfect inside of most motorcycle saddle bags and the roll up pouch by Ergodyne Arsenal can be configured for general tool safe keeping or dedicated wrench storage.
Aesthetics, (feature of the best tool bags)
Last but not necessary least is the overall look of your bag. While this may not be as important as how well it performs, a professional looking bag can set the tone the moment you step on the job site.
When it comes to overall looks its hard to beat the TECH-LC Electricians Tool Bag by Veto Pro.
Everything from the rugged carry handle, 1800 PVC Impregnated Denier Nylon fabric, Powder Coated Steel D-rings, 38 zinc (marine grade) rivets and waterproof injection molded polypropylene base scream high quality.
Specifically designed as a HVAC service technicians tool bag, this bag is guaranteed to turn a few heads.
Stand out from the crowd with…PINK
Black not your color? Looking for something bold? How about a gift for the wife, girlfriend or daughter? Have a look at our article “Pink Tool Box, Pink Toolset with Drill, Pink Tool Totes”
The article goes over tool bags, duffel bags, storage chests, and the top rated Craftsman pink tool bag. Yes, all in PINK.
For kids, Tools Designed Specifically for Children
Have a little one with an interest in building & construction? Take a look at this article that showcases smaller sized tools for children.
See More here “Best Tool Utility Belts and Kits for Kids”
Conclusion
We hope this article helps get you thinking about what features you need when it comes to that perfect bag. To see more information on many of the featured bags in this guide along with links to purchase these bags please take a look at our: Best Tool Bag of the year article
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