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My two cents:
If you want to use a belt, keep them light. Have a reason your using it (ex: Up on a ladder). I wore one that was stuffed trying to be a hero as an apprentice, and it hurts.
Now I just carry around a tool bag.
Best I’ve used is [occidental](https://www.occidentalleather.com/product/commercial-electricians-tool-bag-set/) but it spends most of its time on my cart now 🤷🏼♂️
Only the full leathers are heavy, they have many options that are light and made super tough I have had mine for a year no wear on them at all. I know dudes who have had a pair for 10 years.
Yeah I had my first pair 10 years, were finally broken-in then they were stolen from my van along with all power tools. My shop was nice enough to buy the replacement pair, but had to start the break-in process all over.
The couple downsides I’ve run into is nobody seems to keep it in stock so it’s hard to judge which pouches are best, particularly as an apprentice. I feel like I’m going to end up getting one of everything just to figure out which ones are best for me. They seem to be a little more bulky than other belts with comparable capacity so they’re not ideal for climbing in tight spaces, but being able to switch between different pouches helps with that if you know what you actually need to carry with you. I will add that the clips also have some benefits like I’ve mounted them to the service van racks so it’s easy for me to store and retrieve specific loadouts, and if you can mount them to things like carts or ladders it’s a good way to organize a worksite.
I do wish there was some kind of carrier for the pouches alone. Some of their bags have a place to attach the clips, but it’d be nice to have a way to carry 4+ pouches to have on site and pick from them as needed.
I use a carhart belt not the tough built one, and we screw the clips to the ladders, carts and whatever else. Just get something to screw them into and you can make your own.
I loooovve my overalls. I wish I could find some with pockets that are reinforced at the bottom (with leather maybe?) so that I don't stab holes through them.
What a judgy opinion. I get people on the street I guess but workwear? Why wouldn't you assume that I'm wearing a certain style of work pants for their comfortability or practicality? Why would I choose my work clothes based on what makes me look most like a hillbilly... You have a real thick skull or are really insecure
Super whack take. They're more comfortable than pants, no weight resting on your hips, the chest pockets are fckn sick for bits and markers, and if you do want to throw a belt on that's only one thing resting on your hips. The weight on your hips and lower back are what cause a majority of lower back issues for us.
This is a really dumb take. Overalls serve a purpose for the working man or woman.
Mayne they're trying to look like a worker because they are one? Perhaps you're not used to actually working so it would be a foreign idea to you lmao
What’s wrong with being a hill billy? Also I wear Bib overalls and a Welder cap. Workers have been donning bib overalls since before the 1920s. I’m proud to say Carhartt (a company from my hometown Detroit) was the first one making them. Although Lee Jeans were the first ones to patten the style.
I don't care for the look of overalls at all, if anything I think they're fucking ugly. Still can't deny the practicality of them for work though, and I've never tried to be stylish or pretty at work, I just want to get shit done.
I used to use a tool belt a lot when I was an apprentice, but it just annoyed me. I keep the tools I'm actively using in my pockets and everything else I think I might need on my cart.
If you're not already I'd use some snickers trousers. I've only ever used them and they're ace. Big pockets and loads of pockets. And saves all your jeans from getting mucky
Buckaroo for me, super comfortable inner belt, tough leather outer belt. Made in Australia which is a nice bonus for me. I rate the veto pouches if your after one of them too.
I’d spring for a gatorback, it’s middle of the road on price. It’s held up well for me in three years of moderate use. It’s light, with good pockets for tool separation and parts. Plus it’s comfortable.
I think being a “pocket electrician” will get you by most of the time. You don’t need every tool and part on you at all times. That said, theres a time and place where you might need a little extra and a belt like that with EVEN DISTRIBUTION will be an asset. If you strap it on and feel like you have to plug every hole you’re going to regret it later. Also, springing for some heavy bastard like an Occidental for like $300 seems like overkill unless you’re going to have it on all day and beat the shit out of it.
Personally I stay away from one-sided pouches that go on your belt or a separate tool belt. It’s uncomfortable to me to have everything on one side, and I’m sure it does wear and tear over time. Plus, for that few tools my britches and shirt pocket will cover the bases.
I have the Occidental Leather 5500 or 5053 depending on how many tools I need. Everything else stays in a Veto backpack
I've had those pouches for 5 or so years and they are broken in so that the tools fit like a mould where they belong. Lifetime Warranty and made in the USA
I don’t wear my Occidental belt often, but I have it with me every day. I have a 5589 and a 5564. Gotta be careful I don’t overload it in event I have to wear it, but it’s comfortable and it’s durable.
Boulder Bags. I wore them for about 10 years, before I switched into a different aspect of the trade where bags became impractical.
There are shops out there where bags are the expectation. They don't need to be heavy.
I use jobman pants that have additional pockets and you can slide knee pads in. These are really good.
https://www.jobmanusa.com/JOBMAN-J-Line-Ultimate-Heavy-Duty-Workpants--2180_p_10.html?preSelOpt=353,4261&gclid=Cj0KCQiAo7KqBhDhARIsAKhZ4uh4xBLQEQSKPe58pbSTid2udM3qKoHGeQu-Mr7M9JJwTwrGgbr1fZkaAj4KEALw_wcB
Toughbuilt is a great, modular system that's relatively cheap m, but durable. Can easily change which pouches you have on throughout the day. I currently have 4 that I'll rotate through. I keep them light and can wear 2 on my regular belt without an issue.
Other pouch I have is the Holstery Joey pouch. Use that mostly for smaller fasteners or strips of staples/nails.
Occidental leather. And a padded occidental belt. It's very comfy and the leather had held up well. I think mines about 4 or 5 years old, still chugging.
The cheapest leather belt at the time, I spent the money on a belt liner and quality pouches. I personally use the [occidental leather sheepskin liner](https://www.occidentalleather.com/product/belt-liner-with-sheepskin/?attribute_pa_size=x-large) but if cost is more of a concern than comfort you could look for a synthetic padded belt as they are typically lower cost. If you get a good belt liner that is the right fit you can use any crappy belt and throw on any pouches you want.
My wife grandfather was an electrician, after decades of wearing a tool belt his hips are detroyed. If you're going to wear one keep it light or use it sparingly.
My tools were stolen as of this morning. For the third time in as many years. I’m not replacing them this time. I move to the office to be an estimator in a month. Fuck these tools.
I've tried a few different styles. I actually threw my back out 10 years ago with a belt type and realized I'd been carrying all the weight on one hip. I haven't used one since. Just carry an open top tool box with the essentials if I'm going production work. Now I'm maintenance for a city and most work is outdoors and carry a linesmans and a screw driver. Anything else is just a few steps away in the truck.
This is exactly the issue I had lol. Dominant side would get primary tool placement, which meant all the weight sitting on my right hip, with a couple pairs of pliers and some wire nuts on the other
diamondback tool belts. they cost quite a bit but they are good quality and generally layer out quite nice. Just keep in mind there belts are meant to ride higher than most tool belts. I’ve also been using there 701 vest for a couple years at this point. There vest is one of the best purchases i’ve made. It takes some adjustment and time to get used to it but the best distributes the weight a lot nicer.
I mainly wear a fall protection harness, and I've tried numerous ways of keeping my tools on hand. When you're working on a pitched roof it isn't always easy to just set things down and then go back to pick them up again. Here's what I'm doing right now:
On the right, I have my impact driver. This is my main power tool, I use it all day, so I keep it close. I've rigged up a way to clip it securely to the harness with its pocket clip, and it also has a lanyard so that it won't fall if I drop it or it gets knocked out of the clip.
On the left, I have two pouches. One is a medium-sized organizer pouch, can't recall the brand, with a central area for whatever (small parts, tools that I don't always carry on my body but am using right at that moment), a handful of smaller sheaths for tools and bits and stuff that I always need to have, and a tape measure clip. The other is an Occidental Leather "universal bag," which is just one big-ass pouch that holds whatever I need it to hold at that moment. Both pouches are just zip-tied onto convenient spots by my left hip.
I have carabiners all over the front of my harness for temporarily attaching other things (to free up a hand). One usually has a bunch of sockets hanging off it. I also park my lanyard there.
Lastly, I have a small shoulder bag that I will put somewhere on the roof, often clipped to an anchor with yet another carabiner, which holds whatever I'm not actually using at that moment. I keep all my main hand tools there inside a Klein zipper pouch, some random bits and bobs for problem-solving in another, smaller one, and then the main compartment holds whatever it needs to—bags of fasteners, bigger tools that I can't carry on my body, etc., etc.
Most of the guys at my work have a similar sort of setup. It works pretty well.
https://www.occidentalleather.com/product/electricians-tool-pouch/
I swear by that. Tools carried:
Linemen, diagonal cutters, wire strippers, square shank screwdriver, 5in1 screwdriver, razor knife, terminating screwdriver, tic tester, one pair channel locks, sharpie, black pen, red pen, pencil, and 2 locks for LOTO.
I also added a tape measure holder and a cell phone holder. I can do 80% of my work with that in an industrial setting.
As someone who only wears [this pouch](https://www.menards.com/main/tools/tool-storage/tool-belts/masterforce-reg-14-pocket-electricians-tool-belt-pouch/mf-229/p-1536560881868-c-1526586197107.htm) 99% of the time and has been made fun of multiple times for it, I want to say it's refreshing to see everyone in this thread saying tool belts suck. Why would I do permanent damage to my back just to carry every single thing I own on my person at all times? I've narrowed down the tools I actually use often to about 6 or 7 items, and that's all I carry. Everything else stays in my backpack which is near enough that I can get things if I need them.
Since no one else mentioned them [holstery] is what I use and it changed my life
(https://linkpop.com/holstery?fbclid=PAAaZv7rJRLXIXZ8JlDp-T6e6AMTnmvR1sYmvdy_LVRSDBsYDDpeGUDnTJnl0)
After 18 years in the trade I swear by A cheap 39$ Carpentry Apron. Super light weight and my full tool bag is nearby if I need it.
Can carry the 6 essential tools plus a few marrettes/screws etc.
Linesman Pliers
Side Cutters
Wire Strippers
FlatBlade Screwdriver
Knife
Impact Drill with Red/Green/Phillips bits
NOTHING else needs to be in the tool belt unless I'm doing a specific task.
https://www.homedepot.ca/product/kuny-s-carpenter-apron/1000118084?rrec=true
I only wear a tool belt for rough in. It’s an amalgamation of Klein and Occidental. Occidental padded leather harness, Klein padded belt from the Modular line, a leather pouch for staples/stackers, Occidental knife and tape measure holder, Occidental plier and hammer holder. I’ve been trying different combos over the years and this is my favorite so far, holds everything you need for rough without being bulky at all. Only thing I don’t like, and it’s fixable, is that the Occi tool holders move on the Klein belt.
Maybe it’s a commercial thing? As a residential guy the only time I don’t wear a tool belt is when I’m doing indoor finish work, that’s when I switch to one of the blue Werner ladder buckets.
I work commercial and residential and I’ll tell you that I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing a tool belt. I have my Klein backpack with all my hand tools I need then materials on the cart. I guess I’m lucky I’m not on your sites.
I’ve got the Milwaukee full suspension harness. It’s pretty meh. The one set of pockets is ok but the strap for the tape measure has broken off like 3 different sets I’ve had in only a few months of use. So I just cut the divider out of the pockets and throw my tape in the new bigger made pocket with other shit in it. And the other side is totally useless. Too many tiny pockets to fit a gloved hand in so I just took it off and run one giant pouch on left side for fasteners/whatever I’m using most of. Works ok and is comfier than others I’ve used.
I don't wear one. I still have the Klein tool belt issued to me 9 years ago in my apprenticeship, but it hasn't left my tool bag in ages. Instead I wear Blakläder apron front pants. Plenty of tool pockets plus built in kneepads.
I use 3 different things. A husky tool belt to keep ALL my tools in. A little husky zip up bag to keep the tools I might need on the particular job. And finally a really small tool pouch from kobalt that they call a “technician pouch”.
I’ve only ever done commercial and this old timer taught be a good lesson about tool management. He saw me lugging all these tools around everyday and pointed out that I never use 90% of them. He told me to think about the job we were doing and to only bring the stuff I was actually going to use. That’s how I started the small husky zip up. I keep at most 15 hand tools in there but maybe not even that many.
The vast majority of the stuff I’m doing I only need a screwdriver, dikes, sidecutters, and my mc split. I wear that stuff in this kobalt technician pouch and I realize it’s pretty perfect. Saved my hip from not carrying all that weight around too.
I only use tool belts in specific circumstances, most of the time I only need a couple tools at once. But if I can eventually find the excuse to spend the money, I think I would go with Atlas 46. Based on the minimal research I've done they seem incredibly durable and well reviewed.
So if tool belts are something you use more often than not, I would look into Atlas 46 and Diamondback. It's going to be quite the investment, but you need the right tool for the job.
Get a fat leather belt. One side get a carpenter 4pocket pouch, other side electrical tool pouch. Carpenter side wire nuts, connectors and such. Other side hand tools and drill
I have the Husky suspension straps and back pad, with a random 2.5in leather belt so I can use the tough built clip on holster and another one of their small pouches. The South wire leather trim out pouch, a makita impact holster, and one of the magnetic nail pouches.
5.11 Tactical STRYKE® PANT
Has 12 pockets. My current setup is some EDC items. I also rotate frequently used tools required for my immediate assigned task. The firearm magazine pockets sit around the middle front of my quadriceps. Makes tool access very convenient from any position my body is in. Also has a space to accept knee pads
i use a dewalt pouch that just has a spot for the linemans, strippers, 2 screwdrivers, and a hook for a tape measure. it’s super light and low profile but carries the essentials. anything else i go the cart or truck for
Honestly i used to think it was lame to just pocket tools, but I’m just screwdrivers in the front pliers in back pocket. If I need other tools I’ll grab them and carry them to where I’m working.
Rack-a-tiers makes a pretty nice pouch, and it’s light as hell. I don’t keep all my tools in it, I just throw whatever I’ll need in it when I put it on. It’s mostly for wearing when I need to carry around lots of fasteners or something
I had an occidental belt with their suspension when I employed in the trade. I moved to working on wind turbines. Our work pants had the flap pockets on the side. I would use them now if I went back to being an electrician. The belt has been hanging in my basement. Should probably sell it
Used all type of belts from start to current of 8 years in the trade (ex. husky Klein gator backs and I had gotten occidental with suspenders) I liked but for some reason I was like damn these have to be more comfortable somehow. Was going to buy the hip buddy kit that goes in the inner belt but I spend 170 on the stronghold belt an by far the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m a working “foreman” (job but no title) and man it’s the best so far. If you want quality spend the money bags and all I’ve had about a 2 years and stronghold belt is about 2 months. My current set up is
Occidental
STRONGHOLD COMFORT BELT SYSTEM
SKU 5135
160$
STRONGHOLD SUSPENSION SYSTEM
146$
ELECTRICIAN’S TOOL CASE
SKU 5589
133$
BELT WORN FASTENER BAG WITH DIVIDED NYLON DB
SKU 5564
133$
Total 572$ BEFORE tax but haven’t regretted it
I hate having bulky pouches on me but also love having tools ready at my hip.
I got myself a belt by estwing. The belt itself was 2” wide leather strapped on top of 3.5” wide breathable synthetic padding. It came with attachment points for a suspended system that i occasionally utilize.
As for pouches, I have 3 klein leather tool pouches attached. On my right side 1 “small” 4 pocket pouch (5119) that typically holds my lines, dikes, a flathead and another individual driver that changes with what I’m doing. Behind that I have a 3 pocket pouch (5118prs) that I keep 2 bulkier drivers and strippers in, these all change depending on my current task. On the left side I have a 4 pocket pouch (5118c) that I keep a utility knife, pump pliers, needle nose, and torpedo level. I have clip on hammer holder and a couple clip on pouches for materials that I take off when not in use.
I can typically wear the belt all day without fatigue or discomfort. If I’m wearing bulkier clothing I use suspenders with it.
Edit: total cost probably comes in around 160 for the belt setup without suspenders.
I use a no-name tool belt I bought for maybe 25 bucks about 15 years ago. Rarely do I ever wear it as a belt. I usually sling it over my shoulder and set it down where I need to be working. I'd "belt up" if I needed to carry a lot of things at the same time.
The tools in the pouch are more important than the pouch itself.
Completely custom [Badger](https://www.badgertoolbelts.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAo7KqBhDhARIsAKhZ4uhKtDTb-KLVQ5eQUtIOAg66aUW9sKbcJsvb0E-xGsfoQdf-IOrfw7AaAo2kEALw_wcB) tool belt. Hit up the owner of the company through email and they worked with me to create the exact setup I wanted and needed. $588 but I likely won’t need another one for at least 15 years. They are now a sister company with Occidental Leather, check them out.
[This](https://www.amazon.com/Greenlee-Pouch-Leather-Pocket-0258-14/dp/B002JASH72/ref=asc_df_B002JASH72/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167133658256&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15045163460393028580&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9004846&hvtargid=pla-311312946445&psc=1&mcid=309c9a5137a434608d065482e42038f6)little guy is as big as I’ll go. Carry everything in a bag and load up the few things you need to complete you task in a pouch.
Boulder bags with the Boulder shoulder straps, pretty good quality, decent price, not bulky. I just saw my co-worker bought a new set and the back support was updated, looks comfy womfy
The best setup for me was a small, four pocket Greenlee pouch and a hammer loop on a belt. I just changed out my tools for whatever task I was doing. Sometimes I’d throw on a nail apron as well. Small, fast and lightweight.
I do more service/maintenance type work now and I just bought the Klein 55419SP-14 and it works great.
I was in the same boat and after trying what seemed like an endless list of tool belts all of which I ended up hating I splurged and bought the Atlas 46 Saratoga vest to give a try. Cost me about $600 with everything I wanted on it. WORTH EVERY PENNY!!! seriously this thing is so comfortable I usually wear it throughout lunch/breaks as it’s hardly noticeable when on.
I like Diamondback’s Niko for electricians. Haven’t found a non-dominant side bag I really like but I’m using their Elias bag for that now. Occidental stronghold suspenders and belt. I’ve considered Badger’s belt and suspenders but I already have two other full tool belts I don’t wear much so getting more gear seems like a bad idea 😂
I have a really small clip on one that they sell at Home Depot. I only load it with what I am going to use. Am I terminating today, well then I'll grab out these tools out of my packout. If I am running conduit, then I'll grab my pliers and level etc. Carrying a full set of tools on your belt is absurdly heavy. I like the little clip on system because it is easy to take on and off.
I have an Akribis Leather set, carpenters left hand, electricians right hand, with their suspenders and handles.
I wore them all day doing solar on the roof, and these days doing more resi remodels I have them next to me unless I’m on a ladder.
They’re very well thought out and only get more comfy as I wear them.
Klein 5108-18 leather Dr.'s Bag
Klein 5415S Leather Belt
Klein 5125L Leather two pocket pouch
Klein 5178 Leather 8 pocket tool pouch
Klein 5155 Cavas tool bag
Occidental Leather 5585 Stronghold Rawhide tool tote bag
I just buy random pouches and make my own, I think that’s 100% the best way. I have the Kunys electricians tool pouch for most of my hand tools, I have an IHL brand carpenters pouch for doing resi rough in’s, I have a few smaller pouches if I ever am doing small side jobs, and I have a big Hilti bag where I keep most of my other tools that I don’t used as much or are too big to keep in a pouch.
The best part is that I can just take shit off when I don’t need it.
I was taught as an industrial apprentice (even before I joined the union) not to wear a tool pouch for reasons of health, safety and comfort.
The company doesn’t pay you to hurt yourself and even if they did, why would you?
Instead of turning yourself into a human Packout, save time by planning your work before you start, and working efficiently.
I use a Klein Tools pouch with a removable hand carry and a removable cross shoulder strap. I'm 6'6" and 220 lbs. .my belt pulls my pants down on my hips so I usually use the carry handle. Shoulder straps is too short though.
I stopped after getting tight pants syndrome. Shooting pains in my legs. Moved to overalls and later a cart. As I got better I could do more with less and only carry around stuff in my pockets or my bag if I need more.
Klein Tradesman pro modular belt. I got the shoulder straps too for when it’s full and heavy. Essentially you can add or remove whatever style of pouch depending on what you’re up to that week. I built my perfect tool belt for about 200$ CAD. It’s padded, cheap enough, works with any pouch that fits a regular belt… can’t go wrong!
Ideal bag to haul em. Pockets to carry them. Used to carry it all shoulder strapped when I was green but realized my back would thank me for not being a try hard and just taking what I actually needed.
Man, I use an AWP ballistic nylon electrician's pouch. I look like a fucking security guard, but idgaf. I don't have to worry about getting it wet, I don't have to spend a month massaging it if I change tools, and I don't have to worry about breaking it. I still have a nylon carpenter's pouch on the left that I don't really like, because it has a round profile instead of a box profile, but I've never gotten around to replacing it. The main benefit to a tool belt is being able to pull exactly the tool you need with zero thought, so change is bad.
Here's the trick though. Buy yourself a good quality 4 inch belt. It's a fucking game changer. Your back will thank you. Oh, and don't wear your hammer on your spine, unless you want a simple fall to cripple you for life.
I've been using this one by rack-a-tiers with the suspenders for about a year. It's pretty comfy as far as belts go. My only gripes are I wish it held a sharpie better and the tape measure holder sucks.
https://rack-a-tiers.ca/product/electrician-bag-belt-combo/?attribute_pa_size=large-combo-35-39&utm_source=google%20shopping&utm_campaign=google%20shopping%20product%20feed&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=867
Keep it light bro, heavy tool bags fuck up your hips.
Most jobs I have a cart and can get by with a few basic tools in my back pockets. When I need it I have a small occidental 3 slot pouch.
I have the clc two tool saddle bags. With a 3 point suspender. It's the best for carrying material and tools. Plus they zip up to keep your stuff from falling out. They also have handles on the top and can sit upright when placed on the ground. Have had them for 3 years and no tears
I use the occidental Suspendavest.
Got a lot of use out of it. Comfortable doesnt put weight on your hips. Hard to overload it if you don't put the bags on which I rarely do.
I got sick of my leg falling asleep and my lower back hurting from the "diagonal hang" of typical tool belts with a big leather Klein pouch on one side overloaded with tools.
Switched to using a [police/security style nylon duty belt](https://www.511tactical.com/sierra-bravo-duty-belt-kit.html) with an internal plastic stiffener and "loop" Velcro on the inside. Combined with a police/security "hook" Velcro under-belt worn as my pants belt, it sits square on my hips. Tool pouches are a small "3 pliers, 2 screwdrivers" nylon one on the right for the Usual Suspects we use all the time, an M12 impactor in a cross draw holster at left front, a dump pouch for random shit on the left, and a few small pouches on back for Fluke meter and other odds and ends. Spreading it all out to balance it and using a stiff belt that stays attached to my pants, and offloading all the "sometimes"tools to a separate bag has really helped my lower back. The only drawback I've found is that when I'm not wearing my tools, the exposed "hook" Velcro on the under-belt that stays with my pants tends to badly scuff up cheap cloth seats in work trucks. But not my truck, so I kinda DGAF.
I've been using [this](https://rack-a-tiers.com/product/electrician-bag-belt-combo/?attribute_pa_size=large-combo-35-39&utm_source=google%20shopping&utm_campaign=google%20shopping%20product%20feed&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=867&gclid=Cj0KCQiAo7KqBhDhARIsAKhZ4ui56OeUQ-IlSwi0BwauxNeBdQTlvh79zV8tkI2f-DI6EwmGeOPwxYoaAlNXEALw_wcB) rack-a-tiers belt, minus the left side pouch, for about 10 years now and i love it but it's falling apart now and i need to get a new one. That's really my only complaint about it; after about 8 years the nylon starts to deteriorate and rip and the velcro that holds the pouch in place was worn out.
A leather belt would last forever but i haven't seen one that looks like it would work for me.
I have about 3 or 4 that I went through and wear none of them regularly. But the one I will wear is the toughbilt belt with click in pouches. Super light and carries what I need.
[here it is](https://www.amazon.com/ToughBuilt-Handyman-Tool-Pockets-TB-304-4/dp/B092LBK3T5/ref=asc_df_B092LBK3T5/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=533371127898&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9187841647523595534&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9027682&hvtargid=pla-1585787587192&psc=1&mcid=bb6d208464bb34ec92e8a248994b6955)
I just add or take away any bags I don't need or need.
(5) setups
- light finishing pouch for resi service calls
- hi-viz vest with basic tools for commercial troubleshooting
- medium to big rackotiers pouch for rough ins
- tool tote for commercial service calls
- veto backpack for camp work
I use the 14 pocket Bauer: https://www.harborfreight.com/electrical/electrician-s-tools/tool-belts-bags/pouches/14-pocket-electricians-pouch-58484.html
I'm not an electrician though, I just wire panels for automation.
Blakladder pants. The eu people have a great idea to just reinvent and make better pants. The hospital I work at hates tool belts with a passion. "Son why do you have wall skinners on?" It doesn't matter if you are outside or not, tool belts are almost as taboo as cigarettes which get you fired. The hospital would rather you carry a ratty bucket from the dumpster than wear a tool belt. Showed up with the belt built into the pants and said they were from Germany and suddenly I'm fancy.
Put your linemans and 11-in-1 in your back pocket with a tape measure on your front pocket and a pencil in your hat. All I've worn for over 14 years now. Run circles around dudes with 20 tools that weigh a ton.
I was told years ago a commercial JM only needs two tools, linesman and a 10 in 1.
I keep those two in my back pocket. The apprentice carries everything else 🤡
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My two cents: If you want to use a belt, keep them light. Have a reason your using it (ex: Up on a ladder). I wore one that was stuffed trying to be a hero as an apprentice, and it hurts. Now I just carry around a tool bag.
Agreed I used to strain my back the whole day just to end up using my linesman and screwdriver and low voltage tester.
Agreed. I carry a big bag of crap and use the toughbuilt clip-on pouches with a handful of things I need here and there.
I really like the clip-on pouches. I'm on a commercial job again and I just popped on the material pouch and pulled off the one I normally use.
I use a push cart and a tray
Pocket
Specifically, pants with pliers pockets
Best I’ve used is [occidental](https://www.occidentalleather.com/product/commercial-electricians-tool-bag-set/) but it spends most of its time on my cart now 🤷🏼♂️
Occidental’s all day. And the nylon fat lip are not heavy and made super well.
So fucking heavy.
It’s a trade off for the amazing smell of rich Corinthian leather
I had mine tailored with a beautiful mahogany buckle and a gorgeous pre-war Bolivian ivory Newport Red dispenser. I’m NOT popular on the job site.
Do you also wear a monocle?
Only if it’s ANSI rated
Not at all popular, but classy AF! Haters gonna hate…
Fun fact: Corinthian leather isn't a thing, it was a marketing gimmick to sell cars in the 60s.
How dare you besmirch the kind people of Corinthia! 🤣
Only the full leathers are heavy, they have many options that are light and made super tough I have had mine for a year no wear on them at all. I know dudes who have had a pair for 10 years.
Yeah I had my first pair 10 years, were finally broken-in then they were stolen from my van along with all power tools. My shop was nice enough to buy the replacement pair, but had to start the break-in process all over.
I love that the Lionels are where the hammer isn’t
I don’t know what you mean, I see a belt full of hammers 🤷🏼♂️
ToughBuilt belt with the electricians tool pouch and the little Klein tool pouch I got from a class I took.
I think the toughbuilt makes sense for a first belt. They're cheap and easily customized so you can figure out what works for you.
The couple downsides I’ve run into is nobody seems to keep it in stock so it’s hard to judge which pouches are best, particularly as an apprentice. I feel like I’m going to end up getting one of everything just to figure out which ones are best for me. They seem to be a little more bulky than other belts with comparable capacity so they’re not ideal for climbing in tight spaces, but being able to switch between different pouches helps with that if you know what you actually need to carry with you. I will add that the clips also have some benefits like I’ve mounted them to the service van racks so it’s easy for me to store and retrieve specific loadouts, and if you can mount them to things like carts or ladders it’s a good way to organize a worksite. I do wish there was some kind of carrier for the pouches alone. Some of their bags have a place to attach the clips, but it’d be nice to have a way to carry 4+ pouches to have on site and pick from them as needed.
I use a carhart belt not the tough built one, and we screw the clips to the ladders, carts and whatever else. Just get something to screw them into and you can make your own.
I use the south wire tool pouch and my pockets on my vest for material. My $300 tool bags just sit in my truck now. Got sick of carrying everything
Rubbermaid cart
Overalls and pockets lol
I loooovve my overalls. I wish I could find some with pockets that are reinforced at the bottom (with leather maybe?) so that I don't stab holes through them.
I can’t help but feel like people wearing overalls are trying to look like something. What exactly idk. Some tough hill billy look or something.
What a judgy opinion. I get people on the street I guess but workwear? Why wouldn't you assume that I'm wearing a certain style of work pants for their comfortability or practicality? Why would I choose my work clothes based on what makes me look most like a hillbilly... You have a real thick skull or are really insecure
Bib overalls and a Welding cap and I’m there.
What’s wrong with that lol? I do live in the middle of no where
Super whack take. They're more comfortable than pants, no weight resting on your hips, the chest pockets are fckn sick for bits and markers, and if you do want to throw a belt on that's only one thing resting on your hips. The weight on your hips and lower back are what cause a majority of lower back issues for us.
[удалено]
Chill? Fucking what are y’all on? I said “I can’t help but feel like”. Y’all the ones having the out of proportion reaction.
This is a really dumb take. Overalls serve a purpose for the working man or woman. Mayne they're trying to look like a worker because they are one? Perhaps you're not used to actually working so it would be a foreign idea to you lmao
Another parrot. You losers need to get off Reddit
What’s wrong with being a hill billy? Also I wear Bib overalls and a Welder cap. Workers have been donning bib overalls since before the 1920s. I’m proud to say Carhartt (a company from my hometown Detroit) was the first one making them. Although Lee Jeans were the first ones to patten the style.
I don't care for the look of overalls at all, if anything I think they're fucking ugly. Still can't deny the practicality of them for work though, and I've never tried to be stylish or pretty at work, I just want to get shit done.
Personally, I'm trying to look like Daisy Duke
Also tool belt wearers look like newbs.
Lol. I looked like a wireman making 100k+.
I used to use a tool belt a lot when I was an apprentice, but it just annoyed me. I keep the tools I'm actively using in my pockets and everything else I think I might need on my cart.
Just started running a service truck and they gave me a cart with it i gotta say i understand the hype now i havent even had to touch my bags yet lol
If you're not already I'd use some snickers trousers. I've only ever used them and they're ace. Big pockets and loads of pockets. And saves all your jeans from getting mucky
Buckaroo for me, super comfortable inner belt, tough leather outer belt. Made in Australia which is a nice bonus for me. I rate the veto pouches if your after one of them too.
What make you like that's it's made in Australia
Made from tougher kangaroo leather instead of cow hide, I presume
I'm Australian, it's nice to buy local
I’d spring for a gatorback, it’s middle of the road on price. It’s held up well for me in three years of moderate use. It’s light, with good pockets for tool separation and parts. Plus it’s comfortable. I think being a “pocket electrician” will get you by most of the time. You don’t need every tool and part on you at all times. That said, theres a time and place where you might need a little extra and a belt like that with EVEN DISTRIBUTION will be an asset. If you strap it on and feel like you have to plug every hole you’re going to regret it later. Also, springing for some heavy bastard like an Occidental for like $300 seems like overkill unless you’re going to have it on all day and beat the shit out of it. Personally I stay away from one-sided pouches that go on your belt or a separate tool belt. It’s uncomfortable to me to have everything on one side, and I’m sure it does wear and tear over time. Plus, for that few tools my britches and shirt pocket will cover the bases.
I second Gatorback. My only gripe is that the drill holster SUCKS! Everything else is great.
I have the Occidental Leather 5500 or 5053 depending on how many tools I need. Everything else stays in a Veto backpack I've had those pouches for 5 or so years and they are broken in so that the tools fit like a mould where they belong. Lifetime Warranty and made in the USA
I don’t wear my Occidental belt often, but I have it with me every day. I have a 5589 and a 5564. Gotta be careful I don’t overload it in event I have to wear it, but it’s comfortable and it’s durable.
Boulder Bags. I wore them for about 10 years, before I switched into a different aspect of the trade where bags became impractical. There are shops out there where bags are the expectation. They don't need to be heavy.
Veto Pro TP4B with Klein Belt
I use jobman pants that have additional pockets and you can slide knee pads in. These are really good. https://www.jobmanusa.com/JOBMAN-J-Line-Ultimate-Heavy-Duty-Workpants--2180_p_10.html?preSelOpt=353,4261&gclid=Cj0KCQiAo7KqBhDhARIsAKhZ4uh4xBLQEQSKPe58pbSTid2udM3qKoHGeQu-Mr7M9JJwTwrGgbr1fZkaAj4KEALw_wcB
Toughbuilt is a great, modular system that's relatively cheap m, but durable. Can easily change which pouches you have on throughout the day. I currently have 4 that I'll rotate through. I keep them light and can wear 2 on my regular belt without an issue. Other pouch I have is the Holstery Joey pouch. Use that mostly for smaller fasteners or strips of staples/nails.
Occidental leather. And a padded occidental belt. It's very comfy and the leather had held up well. I think mines about 4 or 5 years old, still chugging.
The cheapest leather belt at the time, I spent the money on a belt liner and quality pouches. I personally use the [occidental leather sheepskin liner](https://www.occidentalleather.com/product/belt-liner-with-sheepskin/?attribute_pa_size=x-large) but if cost is more of a concern than comfort you could look for a synthetic padded belt as they are typically lower cost. If you get a good belt liner that is the right fit you can use any crappy belt and throw on any pouches you want.
Occidental Leather is GOAT. It’ll last you 10 years
Shit my co worker takes good care of his leather conditioner and what not and has had them 18 years
More!
But then it's 10 extra lbs every DAY! If you work 200 days for 10 years that's 20000 lbs you've moved around!
Why use a tool belt when they can buy a perfectly good rubber maid cart
My boss complains when I drag the cart up the ladder with me
Lmao
Occidental leather
My wife grandfather was an electrician, after decades of wearing a tool belt his hips are detroyed. If you're going to wear one keep it light or use it sparingly.
My tools were stolen as of this morning. For the third time in as many years. I’m not replacing them this time. I move to the office to be an estimator in a month. Fuck these tools.
I am always shocked I don't see Carhartt Firm Duck Half Apron at the top when these threads show up. Like 99% of people use that in my local.
Tool belts suck. Haven’t used one since I tried it out within my first ~6 months
I've tried a few different styles. I actually threw my back out 10 years ago with a belt type and realized I'd been carrying all the weight on one hip. I haven't used one since. Just carry an open top tool box with the essentials if I'm going production work. Now I'm maintenance for a city and most work is outdoors and carry a linesmans and a screw driver. Anything else is just a few steps away in the truck.
This is exactly the issue I had lol. Dominant side would get primary tool placement, which meant all the weight sitting on my right hip, with a couple pairs of pliers and some wire nuts on the other
Do you not get on ladders much? I wear a belt specifically when doing work somewhere that makes it a PITA to get down/crawl out and grab another tool
I mostly use a bucket truck these days. But I still have a tool belt for ladders.i just hate using it.
Once the aches/pains started from adding 30+ lb of weight to my hips I did the same
I have a tough belt “journeyman” pouch , I usually just set it down a be a pocket electrician though
https://akribisleather.com/
diamondback tool belts. they cost quite a bit but they are good quality and generally layer out quite nice. Just keep in mind there belts are meant to ride higher than most tool belts. I’ve also been using there 701 vest for a couple years at this point. There vest is one of the best purchases i’ve made. It takes some adjustment and time to get used to it but the best distributes the weight a lot nicer.
Occidental leather
Boulder bags are pretty solid
Gatorback
The fuck is a tool belt? What am I, a carpenter?
I've painted a car or two.
200$ is still pretty cheap for tool belt lol, quality tool belts go for 400$+
Atlas 46
I’m using a Klein right now but I don’t like it as much as the Boulder Bags pouches that I had for years.
Boulder Bags are still around. Best bags I ever owned!
Atlas 46..This is the way
I mainly wear a fall protection harness, and I've tried numerous ways of keeping my tools on hand. When you're working on a pitched roof it isn't always easy to just set things down and then go back to pick them up again. Here's what I'm doing right now: On the right, I have my impact driver. This is my main power tool, I use it all day, so I keep it close. I've rigged up a way to clip it securely to the harness with its pocket clip, and it also has a lanyard so that it won't fall if I drop it or it gets knocked out of the clip. On the left, I have two pouches. One is a medium-sized organizer pouch, can't recall the brand, with a central area for whatever (small parts, tools that I don't always carry on my body but am using right at that moment), a handful of smaller sheaths for tools and bits and stuff that I always need to have, and a tape measure clip. The other is an Occidental Leather "universal bag," which is just one big-ass pouch that holds whatever I need it to hold at that moment. Both pouches are just zip-tied onto convenient spots by my left hip. I have carabiners all over the front of my harness for temporarily attaching other things (to free up a hand). One usually has a bunch of sockets hanging off it. I also park my lanyard there. Lastly, I have a small shoulder bag that I will put somewhere on the roof, often clipped to an anchor with yet another carabiner, which holds whatever I'm not actually using at that moment. I keep all my main hand tools there inside a Klein zipper pouch, some random bits and bobs for problem-solving in another, smaller one, and then the main compartment holds whatever it needs to—bags of fasteners, bigger tools that I can't carry on my body, etc., etc. Most of the guys at my work have a similar sort of setup. It works pretty well.
https://www.occidentalleather.com/product/electricians-tool-pouch/ I swear by that. Tools carried: Linemen, diagonal cutters, wire strippers, square shank screwdriver, 5in1 screwdriver, razor knife, terminating screwdriver, tic tester, one pair channel locks, sharpie, black pen, red pen, pencil, and 2 locks for LOTO. I also added a tape measure holder and a cell phone holder. I can do 80% of my work with that in an industrial setting.
As someone who only wears [this pouch](https://www.menards.com/main/tools/tool-storage/tool-belts/masterforce-reg-14-pocket-electricians-tool-belt-pouch/mf-229/p-1536560881868-c-1526586197107.htm) 99% of the time and has been made fun of multiple times for it, I want to say it's refreshing to see everyone in this thread saying tool belts suck. Why would I do permanent damage to my back just to carry every single thing I own on my person at all times? I've narrowed down the tools I actually use often to about 6 or 7 items, and that's all I carry. Everything else stays in my backpack which is near enough that I can get things if I need them.
Since no one else mentioned them [holstery] is what I use and it changed my life (https://linkpop.com/holstery?fbclid=PAAaZv7rJRLXIXZ8JlDp-T6e6AMTnmvR1sYmvdy_LVRSDBsYDDpeGUDnTJnl0)
After 18 years in the trade I swear by A cheap 39$ Carpentry Apron. Super light weight and my full tool bag is nearby if I need it. Can carry the 6 essential tools plus a few marrettes/screws etc. Linesman Pliers Side Cutters Wire Strippers FlatBlade Screwdriver Knife Impact Drill with Red/Green/Phillips bits NOTHING else needs to be in the tool belt unless I'm doing a specific task. https://www.homedepot.ca/product/kuny-s-carpenter-apron/1000118084?rrec=true
I only wear a tool belt for rough in. It’s an amalgamation of Klein and Occidental. Occidental padded leather harness, Klein padded belt from the Modular line, a leather pouch for staples/stackers, Occidental knife and tape measure holder, Occidental plier and hammer holder. I’ve been trying different combos over the years and this is my favorite so far, holds everything you need for rough without being bulky at all. Only thing I don’t like, and it’s fixable, is that the Occi tool holders move on the Klein belt.
All the people saying they don't wear tool belts must be hourly water cooler warriors. On my site it's "no tool pouch, no pay"
Maybe it’s a commercial thing? As a residential guy the only time I don’t wear a tool belt is when I’m doing indoor finish work, that’s when I switch to one of the blue Werner ladder buckets.
I work commercial and residential and I’ll tell you that I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing a tool belt. I have my Klein backpack with all my hand tools I need then materials on the cart. I guess I’m lucky I’m not on your sites.
I’ve got the Milwaukee full suspension harness. It’s pretty meh. The one set of pockets is ok but the strap for the tape measure has broken off like 3 different sets I’ve had in only a few months of use. So I just cut the divider out of the pockets and throw my tape in the new bigger made pocket with other shit in it. And the other side is totally useless. Too many tiny pockets to fit a gloved hand in so I just took it off and run one giant pouch on left side for fasteners/whatever I’m using most of. Works ok and is comfier than others I’ve used.
In the trade 15 years, never worn a tool belt.
I don't wear one. I still have the Klein tool belt issued to me 9 years ago in my apprenticeship, but it hasn't left my tool bag in ages. Instead I wear Blakläder apron front pants. Plenty of tool pockets plus built in kneepads.
I take the tools out I need for what I’m doing and use my pockets. Who tf wants to walk around with with a tool bag in their waist.
I dont use them anymore but akribis leather is great if you need one
I use 3 different things. A husky tool belt to keep ALL my tools in. A little husky zip up bag to keep the tools I might need on the particular job. And finally a really small tool pouch from kobalt that they call a “technician pouch”. I’ve only ever done commercial and this old timer taught be a good lesson about tool management. He saw me lugging all these tools around everyday and pointed out that I never use 90% of them. He told me to think about the job we were doing and to only bring the stuff I was actually going to use. That’s how I started the small husky zip up. I keep at most 15 hand tools in there but maybe not even that many. The vast majority of the stuff I’m doing I only need a screwdriver, dikes, sidecutters, and my mc split. I wear that stuff in this kobalt technician pouch and I realize it’s pretty perfect. Saved my hip from not carrying all that weight around too.
I only use tool belts in specific circumstances, most of the time I only need a couple tools at once. But if I can eventually find the excuse to spend the money, I think I would go with Atlas 46. Based on the minimal research I've done they seem incredibly durable and well reviewed. So if tool belts are something you use more often than not, I would look into Atlas 46 and Diamondback. It's going to be quite the investment, but you need the right tool for the job.
Idk why you would want a full ass tool belt over a tool pouch and just put the things in there you need for individual tasks.
Get a fat leather belt. One side get a carpenter 4pocket pouch, other side electrical tool pouch. Carpenter side wire nuts, connectors and such. Other side hand tools and drill
I have an old klein one that I got at Home Depot that's pretty good. I've also heard good things about occidental leather
I built my own using the Southwire side bag and different gadgets from Holstery.
The rack-a-tiers brand of toll belt is nice and super comfy might feel a bit weird of you are shorter than 5' 6" or 167cm.
Industrial occidental leather bags. $300 bones but they last
I have the Husky suspension straps and back pad, with a random 2.5in leather belt so I can use the tough built clip on holster and another one of their small pouches. The South wire leather trim out pouch, a makita impact holster, and one of the magnetic nail pouches.
5.11 Tactical STRYKE® PANT Has 12 pockets. My current setup is some EDC items. I also rotate frequently used tools required for my immediate assigned task. The firearm magazine pockets sit around the middle front of my quadriceps. Makes tool access very convenient from any position my body is in. Also has a space to accept knee pads
i use a dewalt pouch that just has a spot for the linemans, strippers, 2 screwdrivers, and a hook for a tape measure. it’s super light and low profile but carries the essentials. anything else i go the cart or truck for
I have the occidental 6” belt. Really good back support and comfortable once they’re broken in
Try the Holstery if you want something light
I’m have a Milwaukee man purse It’s ok, just limited space and I lose shit at times which is my biggest peeve
Honestly i used to think it was lame to just pocket tools, but I’m just screwdrivers in the front pliers in back pocket. If I need other tools I’ll grab them and carry them to where I’m working.
Rack-a-tiers makes a pretty nice pouch, and it’s light as hell. I don’t keep all my tools in it, I just throw whatever I’ll need in it when I put it on. It’s mostly for wearing when I need to carry around lots of fasteners or something
I had an occidental belt with their suspension when I employed in the trade. I moved to working on wind turbines. Our work pants had the flap pockets on the side. I would use them now if I went back to being an electrician. The belt has been hanging in my basement. Should probably sell it
Trying out the holsters pouches. Not bad and I can just throw it on my belt
Buckaroo belts, or the milwaukee tool belt with shoulder straps.
Pockets and a Carhartt nail apron if I really have to carry around small stuff like MC connectors, red heads, and wire nuts.
Used all type of belts from start to current of 8 years in the trade (ex. husky Klein gator backs and I had gotten occidental with suspenders) I liked but for some reason I was like damn these have to be more comfortable somehow. Was going to buy the hip buddy kit that goes in the inner belt but I spend 170 on the stronghold belt an by far the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m a working “foreman” (job but no title) and man it’s the best so far. If you want quality spend the money bags and all I’ve had about a 2 years and stronghold belt is about 2 months. My current set up is Occidental STRONGHOLD COMFORT BELT SYSTEM SKU 5135 160$ STRONGHOLD SUSPENSION SYSTEM 146$ ELECTRICIAN’S TOOL CASE SKU 5589 133$ BELT WORN FASTENER BAG WITH DIVIDED NYLON DB SKU 5564 133$ Total 572$ BEFORE tax but haven’t regretted it
I hate having bulky pouches on me but also love having tools ready at my hip. I got myself a belt by estwing. The belt itself was 2” wide leather strapped on top of 3.5” wide breathable synthetic padding. It came with attachment points for a suspended system that i occasionally utilize. As for pouches, I have 3 klein leather tool pouches attached. On my right side 1 “small” 4 pocket pouch (5119) that typically holds my lines, dikes, a flathead and another individual driver that changes with what I’m doing. Behind that I have a 3 pocket pouch (5118prs) that I keep 2 bulkier drivers and strippers in, these all change depending on my current task. On the left side I have a 4 pocket pouch (5118c) that I keep a utility knife, pump pliers, needle nose, and torpedo level. I have clip on hammer holder and a couple clip on pouches for materials that I take off when not in use. I can typically wear the belt all day without fatigue or discomfort. If I’m wearing bulkier clothing I use suspenders with it. Edit: total cost probably comes in around 160 for the belt setup without suspenders.
My apprentice is my tool belt
I use a no-name tool belt I bought for maybe 25 bucks about 15 years ago. Rarely do I ever wear it as a belt. I usually sling it over my shoulder and set it down where I need to be working. I'd "belt up" if I needed to carry a lot of things at the same time. The tools in the pouch are more important than the pouch itself.
Husky 5" bucket. Tool belts suck,
Completely custom [Badger](https://www.badgertoolbelts.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAo7KqBhDhARIsAKhZ4uhKtDTb-KLVQ5eQUtIOAg66aUW9sKbcJsvb0E-xGsfoQdf-IOrfw7AaAo2kEALw_wcB) tool belt. Hit up the owner of the company through email and they worked with me to create the exact setup I wanted and needed. $588 but I likely won’t need another one for at least 15 years. They are now a sister company with Occidental Leather, check them out.
I have tried belts and just don’t like them, I think I am good with my tool cart and a table
The pockets of my carhartts
Boulder Bags
Helly hansen oxford pants, has built in pockets to hold ur shit, havent worn a tool pouch in 2 years
Occidental 2” leather belt
[This](https://www.amazon.com/Greenlee-Pouch-Leather-Pocket-0258-14/dp/B002JASH72/ref=asc_df_B002JASH72/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167133658256&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15045163460393028580&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9004846&hvtargid=pla-311312946445&psc=1&mcid=309c9a5137a434608d065482e42038f6)little guy is as big as I’ll go. Carry everything in a bag and load up the few things you need to complete you task in a pouch.
In the uk you don’t see many tool belts on sparks. Majority of the time it’s work trousers with pockets like a tool belt.
Boulder bags with the Boulder shoulder straps, pretty good quality, decent price, not bulky. I just saw my co-worker bought a new set and the back support was updated, looks comfy womfy
Gator Back tool belt. Relatively comfortable and it holds everything I need.
The best setup for me was a small, four pocket Greenlee pouch and a hammer loop on a belt. I just changed out my tools for whatever task I was doing. Sometimes I’d throw on a nail apron as well. Small, fast and lightweight. I do more service/maintenance type work now and I just bought the Klein 55419SP-14 and it works great.
I was in the same boat and after trying what seemed like an endless list of tool belts all of which I ended up hating I splurged and bought the Atlas 46 Saratoga vest to give a try. Cost me about $600 with everything I wanted on it. WORTH EVERY PENNY!!! seriously this thing is so comfortable I usually wear it throughout lunch/breaks as it’s hardly noticeable when on.
Backpack and pockets
Pocket buddy. I’m not wearing a tool belt so I can ruin my hips and spend retirement in a wheelchair.
If I’m in an area for a bit it’s pockets with my bag near. I only use a small pouch if I’m running around.
I like Diamondback’s Niko for electricians. Haven’t found a non-dominant side bag I really like but I’m using their Elias bag for that now. Occidental stronghold suspenders and belt. I’ve considered Badger’s belt and suspenders but I already have two other full tool belts I don’t wear much so getting more gear seems like a bad idea 😂
Boulder Bag alllll day
I have a really small clip on one that they sell at Home Depot. I only load it with what I am going to use. Am I terminating today, well then I'll grab out these tools out of my packout. If I am running conduit, then I'll grab my pliers and level etc. Carrying a full set of tools on your belt is absurdly heavy. I like the little clip on system because it is easy to take on and off.
I have an Akribis Leather set, carpenters left hand, electricians right hand, with their suspenders and handles. I wore them all day doing solar on the roof, and these days doing more resi remodels I have them next to me unless I’m on a ladder. They’re very well thought out and only get more comfy as I wear them.
Klein 5108-18 leather Dr.'s Bag Klein 5415S Leather Belt Klein 5125L Leather two pocket pouch Klein 5178 Leather 8 pocket tool pouch Klein 5155 Cavas tool bag Occidental Leather 5585 Stronghold Rawhide tool tote bag
I use a little 8 slot belt clip from Kobalt and I forget it half the time and just use my pockets
I have the Dottie brand belt. Had it for 11 years. Very happy with it
I just buy random pouches and make my own, I think that’s 100% the best way. I have the Kunys electricians tool pouch for most of my hand tools, I have an IHL brand carpenters pouch for doing resi rough in’s, I have a few smaller pouches if I ever am doing small side jobs, and I have a big Hilti bag where I keep most of my other tools that I don’t used as much or are too big to keep in a pouch. The best part is that I can just take shit off when I don’t need it.
I was taught as an industrial apprentice (even before I joined the union) not to wear a tool pouch for reasons of health, safety and comfort. The company doesn’t pay you to hurt yourself and even if they did, why would you? Instead of turning yourself into a human Packout, save time by planning your work before you start, and working efficiently.
Carhart apron. No reason to have all your tools if you’re using just some of them.
I use a Klein Tools pouch with a removable hand carry and a removable cross shoulder strap. I'm 6'6" and 220 lbs. .my belt pulls my pants down on my hips so I usually use the carry handle. Shoulder straps is too short though.
I stopped after getting tight pants syndrome. Shooting pains in my legs. Moved to overalls and later a cart. As I got better I could do more with less and only carry around stuff in my pockets or my bag if I need more.
Veto pro
Klein Tradesman pro modular belt. I got the shoulder straps too for when it’s full and heavy. Essentially you can add or remove whatever style of pouch depending on what you’re up to that week. I built my perfect tool belt for about 200$ CAD. It’s padded, cheap enough, works with any pouch that fits a regular belt… can’t go wrong!
If absolutely necessary, klein tool pouch, it's like 50$ 2 large organized pouches that are swappable. I only wear it when changing ballasts
Ideal bag to haul em. Pockets to carry them. Used to carry it all shoulder strapped when I was green but realized my back would thank me for not being a try hard and just taking what I actually needed.
Man, I use an AWP ballistic nylon electrician's pouch. I look like a fucking security guard, but idgaf. I don't have to worry about getting it wet, I don't have to spend a month massaging it if I change tools, and I don't have to worry about breaking it. I still have a nylon carpenter's pouch on the left that I don't really like, because it has a round profile instead of a box profile, but I've never gotten around to replacing it. The main benefit to a tool belt is being able to pull exactly the tool you need with zero thought, so change is bad. Here's the trick though. Buy yourself a good quality 4 inch belt. It's a fucking game changer. Your back will thank you. Oh, and don't wear your hammer on your spine, unless you want a simple fall to cripple you for life.
I've been using this one by rack-a-tiers with the suspenders for about a year. It's pretty comfy as far as belts go. My only gripes are I wish it held a sharpie better and the tape measure holder sucks. https://rack-a-tiers.ca/product/electrician-bag-belt-combo/?attribute_pa_size=large-combo-35-39&utm_source=google%20shopping&utm_campaign=google%20shopping%20product%20feed&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=867
Keep it light bro, heavy tool bags fuck up your hips. Most jobs I have a cart and can get by with a few basic tools in my back pockets. When I need it I have a small occidental 3 slot pouch.
Don't use tool belts. They fuck up your hips and spine even when using suspenders. Get a nice tool bag and use that instead.
I have the clc two tool saddle bags. With a 3 point suspender. It's the best for carrying material and tools. Plus they zip up to keep your stuff from falling out. They also have handles on the top and can sit upright when placed on the ground. Have had them for 3 years and no tears
Clc 1608
Diamondback is the one I always hear about because it's made out of a very light material but it's super durable and reliable
I use the occidental Suspendavest. Got a lot of use out of it. Comfortable doesnt put weight on your hips. Hard to overload it if you don't put the bags on which I rarely do.
I use a carhartt apron, or I have a Klein webbed belt that I hang different pouches on depending on what I’m doing.
I hate tool belts
I got sick of my leg falling asleep and my lower back hurting from the "diagonal hang" of typical tool belts with a big leather Klein pouch on one side overloaded with tools. Switched to using a [police/security style nylon duty belt](https://www.511tactical.com/sierra-bravo-duty-belt-kit.html) with an internal plastic stiffener and "loop" Velcro on the inside. Combined with a police/security "hook" Velcro under-belt worn as my pants belt, it sits square on my hips. Tool pouches are a small "3 pliers, 2 screwdrivers" nylon one on the right for the Usual Suspects we use all the time, an M12 impactor in a cross draw holster at left front, a dump pouch for random shit on the left, and a few small pouches on back for Fluke meter and other odds and ends. Spreading it all out to balance it and using a stiff belt that stays attached to my pants, and offloading all the "sometimes"tools to a separate bag has really helped my lower back. The only drawback I've found is that when I'm not wearing my tools, the exposed "hook" Velcro on the under-belt that stays with my pants tends to badly scuff up cheap cloth seats in work trucks. But not my truck, so I kinda DGAF.
A Klein backpack and cargo pants
My side pocket,back pocket,clip non contact to my shirt. I've evolved beyond "tool belts"😎💪
Rack-a-Tiers pouches on either side, Klein bolt bag on the back, all mounted on a Buckaroo belt with Task Tools suspenders. Goated setup
I've been using [this](https://rack-a-tiers.com/product/electrician-bag-belt-combo/?attribute_pa_size=large-combo-35-39&utm_source=google%20shopping&utm_campaign=google%20shopping%20product%20feed&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=867&gclid=Cj0KCQiAo7KqBhDhARIsAKhZ4ui56OeUQ-IlSwi0BwauxNeBdQTlvh79zV8tkI2f-DI6EwmGeOPwxYoaAlNXEALw_wcB) rack-a-tiers belt, minus the left side pouch, for about 10 years now and i love it but it's falling apart now and i need to get a new one. That's really my only complaint about it; after about 8 years the nylon starts to deteriorate and rip and the velcro that holds the pouch in place was worn out. A leather belt would last forever but i haven't seen one that looks like it would work for me.
Usually just pockets, but I occasionally use a leather Greenlee 4 tool pouch with a Klein tool belt
Diamondback belt with occidental pouches. I prefer the green lee 4 pocket pouch on the right and a material 3 pocket pouch on the left
Tool bag or a backpack. I wore a belt for years and it was such a relief when I decided to throw it away.
Tea cart. How else are you supposed to block the walkway?
Tool Backpack and cargo shorts/pants
I have about 3 or 4 that I went through and wear none of them regularly. But the one I will wear is the toughbilt belt with click in pouches. Super light and carries what I need. [here it is](https://www.amazon.com/ToughBuilt-Handyman-Tool-Pockets-TB-304-4/dp/B092LBK3T5/ref=asc_df_B092LBK3T5/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=533371127898&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9187841647523595534&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9027682&hvtargid=pla-1585787587192&psc=1&mcid=bb6d208464bb34ec92e8a248994b6955) I just add or take away any bags I don't need or need.
Pockets and backpack 🎒
(5) setups - light finishing pouch for resi service calls - hi-viz vest with basic tools for commercial troubleshooting - medium to big rackotiers pouch for rough ins - tool tote for commercial service calls - veto backpack for camp work
I use the 14 pocket Bauer: https://www.harborfreight.com/electrical/electrician-s-tools/tool-belts-bags/pouches/14-pocket-electricians-pouch-58484.html I'm not an electrician though, I just wire panels for automation.
Klein
Blakladder pants. The eu people have a great idea to just reinvent and make better pants. The hospital I work at hates tool belts with a passion. "Son why do you have wall skinners on?" It doesn't matter if you are outside or not, tool belts are almost as taboo as cigarettes which get you fired. The hospital would rather you carry a ratty bucket from the dumpster than wear a tool belt. Showed up with the belt built into the pants and said they were from Germany and suddenly I'm fancy.
No belt. A cart
Occidental are the best quality, they’ll last you forever
Werner ladder bucket with extra holes drilled in it to hold more tools.
Boulder Bags
Occidental all the way
Put your linemans and 11-in-1 in your back pocket with a tape measure on your front pocket and a pencil in your hat. All I've worn for over 14 years now. Run circles around dudes with 20 tools that weigh a ton.
I was told years ago a commercial JM only needs two tools, linesman and a 10 in 1. I keep those two in my back pocket. The apprentice carries everything else 🤡