DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron Tool Belt and Yoke-style Suspenders
Show Contents
Hide Contents
As a handyman or carpenter, you have probably used a lot of tool belts, and you just can’t seem to find the right one. Well, don’t give up just yet. In this review, we have provided you with a list of top-notch tool belts that would definitely not disappoint you.
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT CARPENTERS’ TOOL BELT
Below is a list of factors to consider when buying a tool belt.
Waist Size: It is important to get a tool belt that fits perfectly. Think of it like getting new clothes, just as your clothes need to fit your body properly, so does your tool belt. You should not get one that is too loose or too tight.
Comfort: Working with your tool belt on should not be uncomfortable. You might need to wear your tool belt for hours depending on how hectic the project might be; your tool belt should, therefore, be comfortable enough to allow a free range of movement. Check to make sure you like the feel of the material it’s made with and also make sure it does not dig into your skin.
Weight: This refers to the weight of the tool belt when it is empty. It is important that the empty tool belt is lightweight as the tools being accommodated by it already have their own weight.
Durability: Tools like nails, hammers and other sharp or heavy objects would be going into the tool belt, it should be made of materials that can’t be ripped or punctured easily. Look out for a tool belt that is durable enough to last a lifetime with proper maintenance.
Number of Pockets: This is the main reason for getting a tool belt. This depends on the number of tools you would like it to accommodate. Go for a tool belt with as many pockets as you want. The depth of the pockets is also something to put into consideration.
HOW TO PROPERLY WEAR A TOOL BELT
- If the belt has removable pouches and holders, attach them to the tool belt. Attaching them after wearing your tool belt can be uncomfortable
- Attach the tool belt to the back of your trouser. To fasten it, pass the belt through the waistband of your trousers
- If you use suspenders, ensure the braces cross your back and come up to your chest; attach the braces to the side of your trouser
- If your belt has a holster, fix heavy tools like your hammer in it. Check to make sure the hammer is not loosely held
- Place the tools you mostly use adjacent to the hand that dominates when performing a task. Put the less used tools that are also important adjacent to the other hand or helper’s hand
- Carry fewer tools when climbing a ladder. You don’t need a heavyweight pulling you down when you are climbing. Carry only the tools you need. This also ensures your safety
- Buy an extra pad if your belt does not come with one, it improves your comfort. Also, you could get suspenders to reduce the weight on your waist and keep your back free of pain
ORGANIZING YOUR TOOL BELT
- Have a separate pouch for different tools. If you put all your tools in the same place, they will mix when walking or shaking the belt. Keep your special tools at the back or front of the belt; these seats are usually located outside the pockets
- There’s always a dominant pouch and a secondary pouch. The dominant pouch is adjacent to your dominant hand. Organize your tools in such a way that the main tools can be easily accessed by your dominant hand. These tools include basic tools like universal hammer, universal cutting knife, pliers and measuring instruments.
Other tools that are not as important should be kept in the secondary pouch. These tools can be called secondary tools, and they include tools like a different sized screwdriver, sets of nails of various sizes, a chisel, pencil and so on.)
- The tool belt pockets should be arranged on your left and right sides to make walking or lifting more comfortable and safe. It’s also advisable to constantly move the centre of heaviness; it is necessary for some tasks, especially those at height. Doing this improves your comfort and safety
BASIC TOOLS FOR A CARPENTER’S TOOL BELT
As previously explained, there are tools for the dominant hand and auxiliary tools
Tools for the dominant hand are:
- Universal Hammer
- Cutting Knife
- Tape measure
- Pliers
- Putty Knife
- Nail puller
The secondary tools kept at the opposite side of the tool belt include:
- Nail set
- Screws
- Speed square
- Screwdriver of different sizes
- Carpenter’s pencil
- Chalk line
Also, see the links below for other necessary carpenter tools
Choosing the best carpenter tool belt can be difficult, especially when you have tried a few that let you down. We have put together a thorough guide that entails a comparison of different tool belts available along with their pros and cons. We also provide answers to questions that may have been on your mind regarding the use of tool belts.
Let’s take a look at the reviews
The 10 Best Carpenters’ Tool Belts Are Reviewed Below
We have thoroughly researched and have come up with a list of the best carpenter tools on the market. This guide will help you choose the tool belt that’s perfect for your work.
1
DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron Tool Belt and Yoke-style Suspenders
The DeWalt Company is popularly known for providing services for hand men and workers. The DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron Tool Belt is no doubt our number one choice because it’s made of high-quality material.
This tool belt comes with suspenders that are padded for comfort and can be adjusted for even distribution of weight, so you don’t feel too heavy when carrying a lot of tools.
It comes with 20 pockets and sleeves, which includes 9 main pockets and other smaller pockets of different sizes that can be used to store nail sets, pencils and other work tools. Its belt is fully padded and has a double-tongue roller buckle to improve comfort and keep it stable. It also comes with a zippered pouch to keep your valuables and a built-in cell phone holder.
Key Features:
- Adjustable work apron with suspenders
- 20 pockets and sleeves
- Padded belt with double-tongue roller buckle
- Waist size – 29 to 46 inches
Specification:
- Brand: DEWALT
- Model: DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron Tool Belt and Yoke-style Suspenders
- Dimension: 24.25 x 7.5 x 17.25 inches
- Weight: 2.75 pounds
Pros
- Its suspender is adjustable
- Padded for comfort
- Includes cell phone holder
- Has a flexible waist design
Cons
- Its cell phone holder cannot hold all type of phones
2
Occidental Leather 9855 Tool Bag
The Occidental Leather 9855 Tool Belt is comfortable and ideal for carpenters because of its flat lip design. It has 10 inches deep industrial nylon bags that are reinforced with leather at the bottom and corners. This tool belt is heavy duty and well built. Although it’s expensive, it is designed to be comfortable; it’s also capable of carrying sharp tools.
If you prefer to use suspenders with your tool belt, it has D rings installed that can be used with your suspenders. It features multiple holders allowing you to keep as many tools as you need, it also has a 2-in-1 Tool & Hammer Holder at the rear side of the belt.
Its pouches stay open because of the type of leather it’s made from making it easy to retrieve and put tools in it. Its pouches are also big enough to hold as many tools as you need, and it has an adjustable waist size of 32 – 44 inches. This high-quality tool is durable enough to last several years.
Key Features:
- Flat lip bag design
- 10- Inch deep industrial nylon bags
- Leather-reinforced bottom and corners
- 5020 2-in-1 Tool & Hammer Holder
Specification:
- Brand: Occidental Leather
- Model: Occidental Leather 9855 Tool Bag
- Dimensions: 18.7 x 17.9 x 6 inches
- Weight: 5 pounds
Pros
- Great storage capacity
- Has deep pockets
- Would last for a really long time
- Has pre-installed D rings for suspenders
Cons
- It is expensive
- Its heavyweight might be a problem
3
Bucket Boss - Builder’s Tool Belt, Tool Belts - Original Series (50200)
Bucket Boss is a brand well-known for producing affordable and high-quality tool belts and organizers for workers. The Bucket Boss – Builder’s Tool Belt (50200) is one of their finest works; it comes with about 12 pouches capable of holding your tools and set of nails.
This tool belt has two large pouches that hold bigger tools. With its reinforced pouch bottoms, you can be rest assured that your sharp tools won’t rip its pocket. Its belt can be adjusted to a maximum waist size of 52 inches.
It also features a double hammer loop, one of which is made of a heavy web material that can be used to carry hammers of any size and the other is made of steel. Its pouch can easily be adjusted by turning it around to access tools at the other side of the belt.
Key Features:
- Reinforced pouch bottoms
- Single body design
- Infinity belt
- Adjustable pouch system
- Barrel-bottom
Specification:
- Brand: Bucket Boss
- Model: Bucket Boss – Builder’s Tool Belt, Tool Belts – Original Series (50200)
- Dimension: 23 x 4 x 13 inches
- Weight: 2.4 pounds
Pros
- Has double hammer loop
- It has an adjustable waist size of up to 52 inches
- It is made of durable denier polyester
- Pouches can be adjusted
Cons
- Lacks high-quality zippers
4
CLC Custom Leathercraft I427X
The CLC Custom Leathercraft I427X is a heavy-duty tool belt made from contractor-grade suede leather. It’s very affordable and has enough pockets, including wide double pockets at the front, making it accessible and satisfying.
It has 12 pockets, 4 main pockets for your nail and tools and 8 smaller pockets to store your set of nails, pencils and pliers. It also features a small pocket at the centre that can be used to hold your tape measure and a hammer loop.
This CLC Custom Leathercraft comes with a combination square holder made of leather and a 2-inch poly web-belt that can fit waist sizes ranging from 29 inches to 46 inches. Its web-belt has an interlocking buckle made of metal to secure it around your waist.
Key Features:
- Leather combination square holder
- Poly web belt
- 12 pocket work apron
- Heavy-duty contractor grade suede leather
- Double front pockets
- Metal interlocking buckle
Specification:
- Brand: CLC
- Model: CLC Custom Leathercraft I427X
- Dimension: 22.75 x 3.75 x 10.25 inches
- Weight: 1.9 pounds
Pros
- Has 12 pockets
- Its waist size can be adjusted to fit a wide range of waist sizes
- Made of durable contractor-grade suede leather
- Has 2-inch poly web-belt
Cons
- Its buckle feels like plastic
5
Gatorback B145 Carpenters Triple Combo w/Pro-Comfort Back Support Belt
The Gatorback B145 Carpenters Triple Combo w/Pro-Comfort Back Support Belt has a distinct air channel design that provides a comfortable, well ventilated and sweat-free experience while working on a hot summer day. Its extra padding and ultra-breathable material also help to keep the belt cool and provide extra comfort.
This Gatorback tool belt is made from a heavy-duty 1250 DuraTek nylon that keeps its pouches sturdy and durable. These pouches have all their stress points riveted, and bar tacked to make certain they remain held up for a long period. It is also light enough to carry for a long time without weighing you down.
There’s a hammer loop on the right side of the belt, an 8-inch deep pouch at the centre and 7 pocket fastener tool pouch on its left side. Its pouches have an interior lining giving them a boxed shape that won’t sag, and this box shape help keep them wide open, making it easy to access your tools.
Key Features:
- Patented air channel design
- Heavy-duty 1250 DuraTek nylon
- Box design
- Ultra-breathable material
Specification:
- Brand: Gatorback
- Model: Gatorback B145 Carpenters Triple Combo w/Pro-Comfort Back Support Belt
- Dimension: 22.1 x 14.5 x 7.1 inches
- Weight: 5 pounds
Pros
- Extra padding for comfort
- Has ultra-breathable material that keeps it cool in hot weather
- Patented air channel for sweat-free work experience
- Pouches have interior lining design that prevents it from sagging
Cons
- Material is coarse
- Stitches are weak
6
Dickies Work Gear – 4-Piece Carpenter’s Rig – 57023 – Tool Belt Suspenders
The Dickies 4-Piece Carpenter’s Rig 57023 tool belt an inexpensive tool belt that comes with suspenders. These suspenders are gel-padded and very adjustable; they are designed evenly distribute weight when carrying heavy tools and keep your back free of pain. Its belt is adjustable to fit waist sizes ranging from 32 to 50 inches.
It is made of a built-in heavy-duty canvas making it rip-resistant and ensuring its durability. The left side of this tool belt has a pouch with 3 wide opening pockets for your large tools, 3 smaller tool pockets and 2 tool loops. On the right side is a pouch with 7 pockets to store tools of different sizes. It also has a steel loop hammer holder and pockets for your phone on the suspenders.
Its 5-inch mesh-backed belt a double-tongue roller buckle made of durable steel and extra pads that are secured with hook and loop closure. This carpenter’s rig suspender waist belt is fully built for comfort and can be used for a long time.
Key Features:
- Adjustable 32 to 50 inches waist size
- 5-inch moisture-wicking, mesh-backed waist belt
- Left and right pouches with 13 pockets total
- Padded suspenders
- Steel buckle
Specification:
- Brand: Dickies Work Gear
- Model: Dickies Work Gear – 4-Piece Carpenter’s Rig – 57023 – Tool Belt Suspenders
- Dimension: 14 x 14.5 x 4 inches
- Weight: 3.64 pounds
Pros
- Features double leather coating
- Sturdy and durable
- Comes with a cell phone pocket
- Has enough pockets for both small and large tools
Cons
- The belt does not fit smaller waists
7
Style n Craft 98434 17 Pocket Top Grain 4 Piece Pro-Framers Combo
This Style n Craft 98434 carpenter’s tool belt is a sturdy and long-lasting tool belt made of top grain oiled leather and heavy-duty nylon thread stitching that ensures its durability and prevent it from ripping easily.
This dark tan tool belt comes with 17 pockets; the right side has about 6 internal pockets for keeping small tools like your pencils and nails. Its belt fits waist size ranging from 36 inches to 46 inches and ends in a double prong roller buckle keeping it fit and secure.
Its leather belt is about 3 inches wide and tapered. This firm tool belt also features rivets with caps to ensure safety.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty top grained oil leather
- Nylon thread
- Double pouch design with 17 pockets
- Waist size – 34 – 46 inches
- Capped rivets
Specification:
- Brand: Style n Craft leathers
- Model: Style n Craft 98434 17 Pocket Top Grain 4 Piece Pro-Framers Combo
- Dimension: 24 x 10 x 2 inches
- Weight: 4.14 pounds
Pros
- Leather is durable and of high quality
- Has a double pouch design that ensures versatility
- Has enough pockets and holders for various tools
- Features an easy-to-use carry handle
Cons
- Might take a while to break-in
8
MagnoGrip 002-382 12-Pocket Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt
The MagnoGrip 002-382 12-Pocket Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt is made from a durable double-layered 1680D ballistic polyester material. It is very affordable and provides great value.
It comes with 12 pockets which is enough to store all your big or small-sized tools. The main pockets of this tool belt stay open, making your tools easy to access, these pockets are magnetic, and this keeps your tools from falling out.
This belt comes in just one size, which may not be suitable for people with small or large waist size. It is designed such that it can handle pressure and distribute weight easily without ripping. Its key stress points are strengthened with rivets. With a weight of just 1 pound, this tool belt can be used for long hours without stress or pain.
Key Features:
- Durable 1680D polyester
- 12 magnetic pockets
- Stress points reinforced with rivets
Specification:
- Brand: MagnoGrip
- Model: MagnoGrip 002-382 12-Pocket Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt
- Dimension: 5 x 23 x 8 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
Pros
- Magnetic pockets ensure that your tools don’t fall out
- Very lightweight
- Durable and lasts long
- Affordable
Cons
- Belt has just one size that may not fit all
- Pockets might be too small
9
ToughBuilt - Tradesman Tool Belt Set
This ToughBuilt Tradesman Tool Belt is versatile and durable. It’s a 3 piece belt that includes tape measure clips, 10 pockets and a tool belt hammer loop. Its belt is designed to fit a minimum waist size of 32 inches and a maximum of 48 inches.
It features a modular hammer loop and a holder holster to carry tools like pliers, utility knives, drills and other tools. It has a patented ClipTech hub that works with tough built tool belts for both men and women. It is not only suitable for carpenters but also for electricians, contractors and other handymen as well.
With this ToughBuilt Tradesman tool belt, you can fix other thongs like suspenders, hostlers and pouches to build your tool belt to suit your taste. It also features a rugged 6-layered construction and rivet reinforcement making it last long and durable.
Key Features:
- Fits waist sizes ranging from 32 – 48 inches
- Modular hammer loop
- Patented ClipTech hub
- 10 pockets
- Toolbelt loop
Specification:
- Brand: ToughBuilt
- Model: MagnoGrip 002-382 12-Pocket Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt
- Dimension: 16 x 16 x 16 inches
- Weight: 3.96 pounds
Pros
- Features ClipTech belt that can be clipped in or removed
- Has 10 pockets which can effectively carry all your tools
- Rivet reinforcement making it durable
- Organizing your tools is easy
Cons
- Toolbelt is a bulky
- Clips might break
10
11 Pocket Brown and Black Heavy Duty Construction Tool Belt
Finally, this 11 Pocket Brown and Black Heavy Duty Construction Tool Belt is quite affordable and pretty comfortable. It has 11 pockets big enough to store as many tools as you like and 2 steel loops for hammers.
Its belt is an adjustable 2-inch poly web belt that can fit waist sizes ranging from 33 inches to 52 inches. It has 5 main pockets for nails and 6 other smaller pockets for tools like for pliers, pencils, nail sets and other small tools.
This construction tool belt is made of heavy-duty grade 600D polyester making it a top-quality tool belt. It has rust-proof rivet for extra strength. It is ideal for framers, contractors, construction workers and other workers and also durable enough to last for a long time.
This belt comes with padding that keeps you cool and sweat-free even in hot weather. Its 2-inch belt has a quick-release buckle that securely holds the belt to your waist.
Key Features:
- 11 pocket work belt
- Poly web belt
- Quick-release buckle
- Heavy-duty grade 600D polyester
- Rust-proof rivet
Specification:
- Brand: GlossyEnd
- Model: 11 Pocket Brown and Black Heavy Duty Contractor Tool Belt
- Dimension: 11.81 x 10.1 x 1.5 inches
- Weight: 1.05 pounds
Pros
- Very affordable
- Built with high-quality material
- Durable and can last for a very long time
- Comfortable and neatly designed
Cons
- Waist size is too big
- Rivets fall off easily
Buying Guide Questions
After going through the guide above, you probably have some questions. We have done comprehensive research to answer some frequently asked questions to give you a better understanding of the use of tool belts.
What is the best leather carpenter tool belt?
From the review above, the best leather carpenter tool belt is the Occidental Leather 9855 Tool Belt. It’s comfortable and is built with a flat lip design. Its pockets are about 10 inches deep and are made of industrial nylon reinforced with leather at the bottom and corners to make sure it doesn’t rip irrespective of the type or weight of tool you store in it. It is very convenient to use and has D rings installed just in case you want to use it with suspenders. If you are searching for a leather carpenter tool belt, this CLC Occidental Leather 9855 tool belt is the best money can buy.
What should a carpenter have in his tool belt?
The basic tools a carpenter should have in his tool belt include:
- Set of nails
- Universal hammer
- Framing hammer, this is optional.
You can check Best Framing Hammer for a review on the best framing hammers on the market.
- Screwdrivers or a single 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Carpenter’s pencils
Are carpenter tool belts bad for your back?
Tool belts can contribute to back pain, although it’s not the only cause of back pain for a carpenter. When they are fully loaded with your tools, they can weigh about 50 pounds or more, and that amount of weight on your waist causes strain in your hips and lower back. It is advisable to use suspenders with your tool belts because they distribute the weight of the tool belt and tools evenly causing less strain or pain to your back.
How do I choose a carpenter tool belt?
There are certain factors to consider when choosing a carpenter’s tool belt. Below, we’ve provided a list of some factors to look out for before making a decision
Fit: This is a very important factor because you do not want to buy a waist belt that would be too tight making it difficult for you to breathe and move around or a belt that is way too big that it falls from your waist. We advise that you look for a tool belt with a waist size that can be adjusted to fit your waist.
Comfort: There is no doubt that this is a very important factor to consider. You may have your tool belt on for a very long time depending on the type of project you are working on; hence, your tool belt has to be comfortable enough to be used for that period. Padded tool belts provide extra comfort. In the review above, there are super comfortable padded tool belts that you can buy.
Weight: Getting a lightweight tool belt is very important. This is because the tools you carry in the tool belt may be quite heavy and will add their own weight to the belt. It is, therefore, better to get a belt that is not heavy.
Number of pockets: Now this is the main reason for getting a tool belt. You should get a tool belt with enough pockets that can store all the tools you need. The pockets should also be wide to allow you access your tools easily. Also, getting a tool belt with reinforced pockets is an added advantage as these keep sharp tools from ripping its pockets.
What tools should be in a carpenter’s tool belt?
Tools that should be in a carpenter’s tool belt are
- Hammer
- Measuring tape
- Chalk line
- Speed square
- Carpenter’s pencil
- Nail puller
- 1-inch wood chisel
- Tin snips
- Levels
- Utility knife
There are other tools that can be included in a carpenter’s tool belt. The ones listed above are the main tools stored in the tool belt.
Which direction should a belt be worn?
Your tool belt can be worn normally, that is, facing the front. Sometimes, wearing it backwards can be a lifesaver. Some jobs require that you wear it backwards for more comfort and ease. However, way you want to wear the tool belt, make sure the pouch with your main tools is adjacent to your dominant hand.
Conclusion
Tool belts are very necessary for a carpenter. They make your work much easier and save you from the stress of carrying a toolbox around.
Our top choice is the DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron tool belt because it is very comfortable and made from high-quality material. It also comes with suspenders which reduces the strain on your back and helps to distribute the weight evenly.
We hope that this review has given you a bit more clarity on the best tool belts you can find. Getting a tool belt should, therefore, be a very easy task for you.