What to Look For When Shopping for a Tool Bag
A tool bag is a basic necessity for both professional trade workers and amateur handymen and women. It helps to clean up and organize tools, so all homes should have at least one tool bag, even just for storing the most basic of tools.
What components and factors should you consider when searching for the best tool bag on the market? If you’ve asked yourself that question, you’re not alone. Many people who have never bought a tool bag before are unsure of what to look for. To help your search, here are a few things that make a good and handy tool bag:
Size
A lot of old-school repairmen will always suggest a tool box over a tool bag because it is what they are used to. However, modern homeowners are looking for ways to save space and lessen household clutter.
A tool bag occupies less space and is more compact in nature. Plus, tool bags vary in sizes from small to extra-large giving you the freedom to choose the right size. When the day comes when you no longer want to use a tool bag, it can easily fold up and be stored away quickly.
Expansion Capability
Are you planning to add to your current tool collection? If you fancy adding new tools to the ones you already have, a tool bag can hold more tools than the typical tool box. Since most bags are made with heavy-duty fabrics they can easily accommodate more tools.
Durability
Working in high-risk areas might expose your toolkit to the potential of damage. Tool bags are made with fabric that does not break when dropped and other bags even have a reinforced bottom for added protection. Look for a bag made with high-quality polyester to ensure that is sturdy, durable, and can withstand constant weathering.
Pocket Sizes
Tool bags are perfect for organizing tools of different sizes. Most bags come with an assortment of pockets in varying sizes to accommodate every type of tool you own. The main compartment can even store a power tool with its battery if you choose the right size.
Carrying Handles
Full tool bags can get heavy and hard to carry. This means you should pay attention to the type of handle attached to the bag. A padded handle with reinforced stitching will allow you to carry the weight of your tools without putting too much pressure on your hand.
Consider the Type of Tool Bag
Another factor that will influence your choice of tool bag is the type. There are two common types of tool bags that you can easily find plus a less common type that is better suited for professional use. Find out more about these types so that you can make a better choice.
Handheld Tool Bags
These are the most common type of soft storage option. As the classification suggests it is a tool bag that is similar to a toolbox as it relies on a handle for mobility.
In general, tool bags are the most basic type and they are also the cheapest option. They might not be the best for trade workers who use a wide variety of tools as too much weight and pressure on the carrying hand can result in pain and injuries in the future.
Your typical tool bag also has some storing problems with long tools as it does not have enough space to safely and securely keep long tools in place. Most end up in the main compartment which makes it harder to keep things organized.
Backpack Tool Bag
The backpack type is also a big favorite among handymen and women and trade professionals who need to carry around tools constantly. The backpack is usually made with the same materials as the traditional tool bag, but the carrying method is different. A backpack is carried on the back which can take more weight and distribute it evenly which allows users to bring more tools with them.
A backpack can also carry longer tools without compromising the organization of the main compartment as it has enough standing room in its individual pockets for long tools like screwdrivers.
Rolling Tool Bag
These are not as common as the above types of tool bag and are usually more expensive. This type of tool bag is usually a bit larger and has wheels attached to the bottom. This allows tradespeople to bring all their tools in one go without risking injury by lifting or carrying too much weight and is best for professionals who are often moving around various worksites. The wheels need to be durable as they will be rolling through the tough terrain of a construction site, where a full-size tool box would not be able to cope.
These bags feature large capacities, organized pockets, handles, and wheels for the best blend of portability and organization available.
Conclusion
When it comes to determining what the best tool bag is, you must first determine the uses and the amount of tools you have or plan on collecting. Although all tool bags have the same function, to keep all your tools organized inside one bag, not all of them will meet your expectations.
Consider your line of work, the number of tools you use and the type of tools you own to help you choose a tool bag that will serve its purpose and keep you happy for a long time.