Home tools Buyer's Guides from tech enthusiast who loves technology and clever solutions for better living.
Best framing tool belt 2018 – [Buyer’s Guide]
Last Updated December 1, 2023
Hi! My name is Brayden Diaz. After 46 hours of research including speaking with consultants and experts, and plenty of parents and 18 hours spent testing 10 framing tool belt, I believe that I found the best framing tool belt of 2018.
I will go through the main features and what you should consider when deciding which one to pick over the other. So, you will find reviews on some models of framing tool belt that impressed me (and a good many other people), and you will find a few informational pages as well.
Best framing tool belt of 2018
So, what exactly would anyone want to know about framing tool belt? I know most of us don’t really care much about the history and the origin, all we want to know is which of them is the best. Of course, I will spare you the history and go straight on to the best framing tool belt. I must say I am quite a fan of framing tool belt, so when the question “What are the best framing tool belt available on the market?” came to my mind, I excitedly started gathering information together with personal experience to write this article in the hope that it may help you find the suitable framing tool belt. I browse the various framing tool belt available on the market and list three of the very best. If you’re reading this, it is very likely that you’re scouting for the best framing tool belt.
Test Results and Ratings
| Rank | №1 | №2 | №3 |
| Product |  |
 |
 |
| Total | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.3 |
| Style |
4 points
|
4 points
|
5 points
|
| Materials |
5 points
|
4 points
|
4 points
|
| Performance |
5 points
|
5 points
|
4 points
|
| Quality |
5 points
|
5 points
|
4 points
|
| Awards |  |
||
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the framing tool belt by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
№1 – CLC Custom Leathercraft 1614 20 Pocket
| Total: |
4.8
|
Why did this framing tool belt win the first place?
The product is very strong. Its material is stable and doesn’t crack. The rear part fits perfectly! It is mounted really tight and reliable. I am very happy with the purchase. It is definitely worth its money. The product is top-notch! I don’t know anything about other models from this brand, but I am fully satisfied with this product.
4
|
5
|
5
|
5
|
№2 – DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron Tool Belt and Yoke-style Suspenders
| Total: |
4.5
|
Why did this framing tool belt come in second place?
I like this product. For such a low price, I didn’t even hope it to be any better. It’s decently made. Seems that the material is good. It has a very beautiful color but I don’t really like the texture. I really liked it. It is amazing in every aspect. It did even exceed my expectations for a bit, considering the affordable price. The design quality is top notch and the color is nice.
4
|
4
|
5
|
5
|
№3 – Dead On DO-FR Framers Rig
| Total: |
4.3
|
Why did this framing tool belt take third place?
It doesn’t squeaks nor bents. Looks great in my apartment. This price is appropriate since the product is very well built. It is inconvenient to use due to the size. I am going to get something different next time. We are very pleased with the purchase — the product is great!
5
|
4
|
4
|
4
|
framing tool belt Buyer’s Guide
MagnoGrip 203-01Magnetic Carpenter’s Tool Belt
Where to keep your tools on this belt? Right, it comes with up to 1pockets to provide you with unlimited storage for your tools. Furthermore, these pouches are aligned in easy-access spots to give you an easy time getting any tool you need.
For added convenience, the belt features magnetized nail pockets that prevent spills and keep all your small-sized tools at hand.
All the pockets come with a wide mouth for quick tool access.
The belt has a one-size-fits-most design so that fitting won’t be an issue.
Default button text
In the world of carpenters and other professionals who use tool belts regularly, Occidental is a recognized brand, a household name in these professional circles. You can then confidently rely on this medium size Occidental leather 7-bag framer set to give you excellent service.
The quality of certain products is discernible just from the first glimpse. And that’s what you get with this framing belt: self-evident quality. With its heavy-duty construction, the framer set is favored by professionals as a contractor grade framing belt.
It comes with seven bags in which to store your tools while you work. Being of medium size, you cannot stow away as many tools as you would with some of the other belts we have looked at; nor can it hold large tools.
This particular size (medium) is ideal for carrying smaller tools while you work. As such, you are highly unlikely to develop problems with your lower back or hips.
However, the tool belt does not come in one size. If you want a smaller version of the same belt, you can get it for the same affordable price. This is also true for Large, X-Large, and XX-Large sizes; they are all different-sized versions of the same belt, and cost the same. The XXX-Large costs three dollars extra.
One of the reasons this belt looks so full of excellence is the fact that is a made-in-the-USA product. The hand-made belt promises quality, and that is what it delivers.
Back to my phone call
Even if I gave a belt to each of my guys, I just didn’t have the time to wear these bags long enough to get a real flavor for how they perform and endure so I decided best way to approach this was to systematically go through each tool rig and give you a general overview of important features and accessories.
Even if I gave a belt to each of my guys, I just didn’t have the time to wear these bags long enough to get a real flavor for how they perform and endure so I decided best way to approach this was to systematically go through each tool rig and give you a general overview of important features and accessories.
I’m real rough on my tool bags!
I wear a tool bag most of the time; there are situations where a tool bag is neither feasible nor warranted for the situation.
Wearing a tool bag for me equates to being efficient and methodical. It means having the necessary tools on my person to complete the task.
Judge and Jury!
Once in the shop we sat down, loaded up each tool belt with our own “permanent resident” tools and tried them on. We looked at each and every tool belt and discussed them based on their pros and cons.
DEWALT DG5650 Tool Belt
This tool belt from DEWALT is pretty heavy of pockets. Unlike the other DEWALT belt, there is nothing simple about this one. The belt is modified to make it spacious, easy to handle, comfortable and to offer extra protection for all your tools. The tool belt is an expert in satisfying customers and this is one of those products which you definitely want to get your hands on.
When it comes to pockets are storage space, there aren’t many belts that are better than this one. The bulky, gusset-type pockets can provide a ton of space and easy access. There are a total of 3pockets which include 1main pockets and 2smaller pockets for nails, screws, nuts, tapes, pencils, etc. But, if you don’t want all those pockets or if you don’t like the weight, you can easily remove as many as you want.
As we said earlier, the belt is tailored to provide premium comfort. The belt itself has a inches padding with Dri-Lex liner to make the belt comfortable. The extra padding can be irritating for some people. But, that is a problem because you can remove the extra padding that are velcroed to the belt. The roller double-pin belt buckle is the only thing you need to keep the belt stable and makes sure that the belt stays on and doesn’t end up on the floor. The belt usually fits a waist size in the range of 30 and 4inches. The belt also has a patented pouch handle that can let you carry it easily with just one hand. The zippered pouches are pretty decent because they can add that extra bit of security to your tools and completely eliminate the chances of tools falling from their pockets.
Shop now
Rack-a-Tiers isn’t that big of a company. As a matter of fact, most of you probably didn’t even that such a company exists. But, there are a few unique things about their tool belt that makes them stand out. The first thing is that their tool belt doesn’t look anything like a tool belt. Their belt looks more like a piece of used jeans. This is actually a really good thing because it really blends well with your casual clothing – And you look really cool with this thing on.
The belt comes in three different sizes; Medium, Large and Extra Large. The medium size has a waist length of about 30-3inches, the large 35-40 and the extra large comes with a waist line of 41-4The carrier is made from heavy duty 1250 denier DuraTek fabric to ensure extreme durability. The belt has nylon webbing around the pocket openings. The inside of the belt is double padded to prevent pain from long hours of work. The belt is put together with bar-tack stitching to give the belt that extra strength and to make sure that the belt doesn’t rip even after years of use.
The belt has extremely heavy duty and tough rivets. You can attach a shoulder strap with the belt to add a ton of stability. But, one drawback is that you’re going to have to purchase this strap separately. It doesn’t cost much and it is available at only a fraction of the price of the belt. However, it would be nice to have the shoulder strap for free. Some other manufacturers that produce electricians also provide a shoulder strap with the belt itself. So, this is one of the only things that put Rack-A-Tiers at a disadvantage.
Rolson 6888Oil Tan Double Tool Belt
So as you can see from our top table, there is certainly plenty of choice. Certain brands like Sealey and Stanley have clearly captured this market, and they do make high quality chests and cabinets. Above we have shown you the ten best, that get the highest buyer ratings.
Comfort
Choose Based on Your Job: Choose a tool belt that has pockets for your specific tasks. For example, Choose a tool belt that has a pencil holder, if you are using a pen during construction. Find one that prioritizes your specific tasks. You have to find out what tasks you will do often and then buy a tool belt that is built around your demands. It will go waste if your tool belt is too heavy or bulky to use frequently. Choose one that provides individual tool holders inside the largest compartment.
Detachable Tool Belt accessories
Hammer Loops- Hammer loops will hold your hammers so you can get them easily. There are many tool belts available that have more than one hammer loop.
Drill Holders- Drill holders are designed to hold your drill safely. They are similar to a hammer loop. Drill holder is a leather loop and has a metal hoop that extends out from the tool belt and enough large to hold the nose of a cordless drill. While workers are using their hands for other tasks, they can slip the drill into the hoop and let it hang from their waist.
Tool, Nail and Screw Pockets/Pouches- These pockets/pouches are great for holding tools, nails screws and other small parts that are easy to lose otherwise. There can be multiple pockets or a single pocket in the same loop. These tool pouches can be made from various kinds of materials. Cloth pouches are not very sturdy. They are inexpensive too. Leather pouches are more durable. They will hold more without collapsing or sagging.
Zippered or Latched Pouches- They are the most common type of accessory that is added to a tool belt. They are usually made of rugged cloth or leather. They hold multiple tools from knives to razor cutters.
Belt Hooks- Another slip-on attachment for a tool belt is a simple metal hook that can be used for a multitude of things. Sometimes they may have a loop attached to the belt to slip through or the hook may have a metal clip, loop or clamp. The tool hook can hold lanyards that are attached to tools, closed-end wrenches as well as any type of tool with an open hole for hanging on a pegboard.
Different Tool Belt for Different Profession
The purpose of all tool belt is same though their type varies according to the profession. Different professionals need the different type of tool belts.
Electricians Tool Belt: Electricians tool belt comes with multiple pouches and pockets. Some companies offer special tool belts for professional electricians. Electrician tool belts have some difference from others. They have some special compartments/pockets that are not available for other types of tool belts. Their tool belt should have multiple pouches and enough space for a hydraulic machine, cable monitor and all other instruments. Because sometimes they have to climb the poles or hang high. So, they have to keep all of their necessary tools at once otherwise they have to come down to pick those tools. Nylon and Polyester material will be excellent for electricians tool belt.
Mechanics Tool Belt: there is an exceptional type of tool belt for automobile mechanics. There is some tool belt available that are magnetized. This kind of tool belt is helpful for holding metal equipment that is easy to lose.
Craftsman Tool Belt: The tools type of craftsmen are different than other professionals. So, craftsmen belts should have the capacity of keeping them. There are tool belts available on the market that are specially made for serving craftsmen.
Back to my phone call
Even if I gave a belt to each of my guys, I just didn’t have the time to wear these bags long enough to get a real flavor for how they perform and endure so I decided best way to approach this was to systematically go through each tool rig and give you a general overview of important features and accessories.
Even if I gave a belt to each of my guys, I just didn’t have the time to wear these bags long enough to get a real flavor for how they perform and endure so I decided best way to approach this was to systematically go through each tool rig and give you a general overview of important features and accessories.
Manufacturer
Located on Alameda Street, South Gate, California, Custom LeatherCraft is a hardworking company that has passed through many phases to win the hearts of consumers. It only has one philosophy, which is to make second-to-none work gear at reasonable prices. Ideally, it dedicates its time and makes sure the consumer is fully satisfied with the product. For example, its 153Tool Carrier is not just durable but also measures 1inches long by inches wide by 1inches high to make sure you have enough space for keeping accessories.
Features
Large main inner compartment: It holds a variety of hand and power tools.
Large outer compartments: It has 1pockets for holding accessories.
Adjustable shoulder strap and carrying handles: Carrying handles are padded while the strap is textured and padded for optimum comfort.
Heavy-duty poly fabric body: It has a poly ballistic trim and binding for optimum performance.
CLC 113Tool Bag Backpack
Meet the CLC 113tool bag backpack! If you are an installer or a repair technician who need to transport tools while still have your hands free, this tool backpack is the solution for you. The fact that it leaves you hands-free means you’ll be able to climb a ladder or carry bulky tools/construction equipment.
Klein Tools 55421BP-1Backpack
Whether you are a stadium-lighting contractor, plumber, electrician, or any handyman, the Klein Tools 55421BP-1Backpack is the solution for you. The fact that you can carry it on your back means your hands will be free to carry other heavy items like cable or a piece of drywall. This innovative backpack is arguably the best electrician tool bag in 2017.
DEWALT DGL5257-Pockets Tool Backpack Bag
Custom LeatherCraft and DeWalt came together to manufacture this innovative tool bag backpack. The bag is designed to store all sizes of accessories, parts, and tools, making it the best tool backpack on the market today. Use it to hold a drill, extension cord, electrical testers, screwdrivers, and wrench pliers, among others.
Determining Your Tool Belt Size
If you are considering buying your first Occidental Leather Tool Belt System or replacing an old friend that has been with you for years you may need to resize the tool belt. Here is how it can easily be done.
Place your existing tool belt in a straight line and measure from the end of the buckle to the most commonly used hole. Select the belt size (by midpoint) that is closest to your measurement. If you do not currently have a tool belt to measure, you can get an approximate tool belt size by adding 4” to your pant waist size.
Tends to disintegrate easily.
On the right, you have pockets and a hammer loop. On the left, you have pockets, inclusive of an interior speed square pocket, and slots. The waist size is a medium which is 3to 3inches. But you have plenty of other sizes to choose from, of course.
Now for the best part of this tool belt. This belt is made from DuraTek 1250 fabric, bar-tack stitching, metal rivets and a high-density web-core. You furthermore have the Gatorback Air Ventilated Tool Belt Padding and Breathable Fabric which makes sure that you never feel sweaty and sticky wearing it.
Tends to disintegrate very early.
Now, if you are looking to spend a few extra buck and to get the more feature-packed stuff, then the Occidental Leather 985Adjust-to-Fit Fat Lip Tool Bag Set would be the best carpenters tool belt for you.
The Occidental Leather 985Adjust-to-Fit Fat Lip Tool Bag Set is the ideal tool belt for production carpenters due to its fat Lip design. You have 10-inch deep industrial nylon bags with leather-reinforced bottom and corners.
Occidental Adjust-to-Fit Fat Lip Tool Bag Set
Occidental Adjust-to-Fit Fat Lip Tool Bag Set. Occidental is a well-known name among many professionals, particularly those who need tool belts and bags. The American based company prides themselves on quality products and excellent customer service and have done so for more than 3years.
With an impressive 4.out of a 5-star rating, you can’t go wrong when you choose this tool belt. Pleased customers have had numerous good things to say about this particular belt. For instance, one customer said, “Best bags I’ve ever owned so far, only had them a week, but so far I love them.” Another just said, “Sturdy, adjustable fit, perfect!!” Yet another said, “Nice rig. Quality and well-placed pockets. Hammer loop is where they always are and should be.” Reviewers all seemed to agree this is the best tool belt for HVAC as well as many other jobs.
A couple of customers felt that perhaps the hammer loop was a bit too small. They also felt that the pockets did not have as much room as they hoped for. However, the majority of customers agree that the Occidental Adjust-to-Fit Fat Lip Tool Bag Set offers plenty of room, convenience, comfort, and durability at a price that is well worth paying.
Milwaukee Tool Belt
Last, but certainly not least on the list, is the Milwaukee Tool Belt. As an HVAC professional, you need a tool belt with plenty of room to accommodate all of your necessary tools. Fortunately, this tool belt can do just that and more. When it comes to the best tool belt for HVAC pros, this one is deserving a place on this review list. It offers plenty of pouches so you can store everything you need to get the job done.
Ergodyne Arsenal 5500 28-Pocket Tool Belt
The Ergodyne Arsenal is a 2pocket tool belt made of ballistic polyester. The manufacturer states that this is the same material used in bullet-proof vests. There is also reinforced bindings and PVC reinforced pouches. The stitching is made of heavy gauge 6-ply nylon.
Doug Mahoney
After more than 300 hours of research and tests of more than 180 tools, we’ve put together the best tool kit for your home (and found the best toolbox to hold them all). To come up with these 2recommendations, we consulted three carpenters with a combined experience of 3years, got input from six leading tool experts, and had many, many conversations with tool manufacturers. After we conducted our initial tests and decided on the best tools, I used them to complete a major home renovation as well as countless other projects that have cropped up since my move into a 250-year-old home. After this much work, we’re sure these tools can handle just about everything your house can throw at you.
Our pick
This toolbox stores tools vertically so they’re well organized and easy to grab. It’s nice to carry, doesn’t have a weak hinges or latches, and with the lid on, it can be used as a seat.
The vertical storage of the Milwaukee keeps tools organized.
Milwaukee Fastback Flip with Blade Storage
With an ergonomic handle, a fast one-handed open, and room for one additional blade, the Milwaukee Fastback II was better than 20 other knives for around-the-house cutting needs.
Two excellent Estwing hammers: The 16-ounce Estwing (top), the best for most people, and the smaller 12-ounce, which we pick as an alternate in our guide to The Best Hammer.
This tool’s comfortable, shock-absorbing grip is easy to hold, and its nice balance makes it easy to aim and swing. Like many contractors, I’ve used a metal Estwing as my primary hammer for a decade of construction work and it’s still going strong—if you don’t lose this, it will be in your family for generations. Our expert carpenters confirmed our findings and offered some alternate picks for both lighter-duty and heavier-duty work in our full guide to The Best Hammer.
Pull Quote
The jaws are aggressive, the handles are comfortable to hold, and no one could believe how smooth the unlocking mechanism was. For a tool not commonly associated with finesse, the ease-of-use is fantastic.
Our testers were impressed with the finesse of the Grip-Ons.
Comfort
Since you are going to be wearing this tool belt frequently, it is important to choose one that is comfortable, light, and strong. Leather tool belts tend to be heavier and stiffer when compared to normal fabric belts. Usually, fabric belts are more comfortable than leather belts.
Aside from the material of the belt itself, make sure to get a tool belt that has a sturdy, but not too large, buckle. While a large, sturdy belt buckle will take more force to break, it can dig into your stomach when you lean down. You should buy a belt that allows you to customize the buckle by putting it behind you or sliding in behind one of the pockets.
Make sure to find a tool belt that has hammer loops and combo square holders that are dull, not sharp.
Choose Based on Your Job
Find a tool belt that has pockets suited for your specific tasks. For example, if you plan on using a marker during construction, find a belt that has a marker holder, not just a large general pocket. If you need to do a few specific tasks the most, find a tool belt that prioritizes those tasks.
Figure out which tasks you will do most frequently and purchase a tool belt that is built around your demands. If your tool belt is too bulky or too heavy to use frequently, it will most likely go to waste. Gravitate toward a tool belt that offers great organization by making the most of its space. Choose a tool belt that provides individual tool holders inside the largest compartment.
Consider a Suspension System
If you get back or hip pain, consider investing in a suspension system to disperse the weight of a tool belt.
There may be days you prefer to use a suspension system for your tool belt. These distribute some of the weight to your shoulders and relieves pressure off your hips and lower back.
Experts estimate that up to 80% of the population will have back pain at some point in their lives. Do what you can to stay in the other 20%.
I have a tool belt with two pouches. The right-side has most of my hand tools: pliers, strippers, screw drivers, etc. My left-side pouch has less compartments and larger pockets. This is ideal for wire nuts and larger stuff like tape measure, torpedo level, electrical tape and so on.
Since a tool belt can get heavy, I keep only the tools I use most in the pouch. Everything else goes in a tool box or tote. Many days I am able to work off of a rolling cart.
In like manner, if you are doing trim out work, grab a tool apron and pouch filled with only the tools you need for that job.
Suspension Systems
Take weight off of your back and hips with a suspension system. Suspenders help to evenly distribute the weight of your tools, and should reduce or eliminate lower back pain caused by wearing a tool belt for long periods of time.
If your belt does not have rings to hold suspenders, you can always purchase loop attachments that slide over your belt. Here are some great choices of tool belt suspenders.
Tool Organizers
This DeWalt tool bag features a large interior compartment that pops open for easy access. You will get 20 exterior pockets and 1interior pockets including one zippered pocket. Constructed of heavy-duty poly and ballistic poly fabric to survive drops, pokes, and kicks.
As previously mentioned, every carpenter needs to have a hammer at his fingertips, for this reason, be sure to purchase a belt that will accommodate the much-needed tool.
This polyester tool belt provides twelve convenient pockets that will stay open, making it easy to find what you need in a matter of seconds.
Slits were put into place to keep your pencil at your side, and one of the outside pockets makes a perfect fit for your tape measure.
Although the bag is brilliantly designed with magnetic pockets to keep your nails from spilling, there have been some complaints of the pockets picking up everything else as well.
The belt has three hole choices for fastening, and it looks to be adjustable to give you the perfect fit.
Other than the magnetic pockets, there have not been any other negative points to this belt, which would explain why it is rated with 4.stars out of 5.
Another choice to consider is the
This versatile 4-piece tool belt can be arranged to meet your needs.
With seventeen pockets to store all your necessities, and a place for your hammer, you can put the pockets on the belt where it best suits you.
This belt is made to fit waists from 2to 4inches, and it is designed with 5-inches of wide padding and a double tongue steel roller buckle.
Although it features a double layer of ballistic polyester fabric, some people have stated that it does not hold true to the durability it claims.
With a rating of 4.0 out of stars, it is obvious that the pros beat the cons with this tool belt, and the price is easy to handle as well.
The Milwaukee 49-17-0190 Tool Belt hits a top rating with its high quality, 600 Denier Ripstop Polyester material, and the three separate pouches with a removable capability.
The well-padded belt is constructed of leather and made to fit waist sizes from 30 to 48-inches, although some have complained that it does not fit tight enough on a small waist.
With thirty-three pockets, a rating of 4.out of stars, and an affordable price, you can see why this belt has very few cons.
Are you searching for a power nailer that will be there for saving your money? A very great, perfect, low budget power nailer is here for you, NuMax SFR2190. This one is the best framing nailer if you are going to buy something in low budget. No nail gun is perfect in fact if you are going to judge accurately, but you will get full satisfaction from this nail gun keeping your cost in consideration.
Though this is a low budget nail gun, you can perform many types of nailing such as framing, roof and wall sheathing, siding installation, fencing, making wood box etc. NuMax SFR2190 shoots nails from a 2degree angled magazine which can contain 5nails at a time. It can throw inches to 3-1/inches nails from this magazine.
The tool has anti-dry feature which will automatically stop fastening is the magazine is about to be empty. NuMax SFR2190 comes with a 360 degree air exhaust which protects your face from dust and micro particles. Its depth adjustment drive will allow you to customize the depth of firing nails which will ensure consistent performance for different types of nailing works. The single-fire trigger of this tool is black colored and assembled in the tool which will allow you to perform single fire. In order to perform bump-fire, you will have to assemble the red bump-fire switch.
To protect your workpiece from dents and dings and ensure a professional finish, this tool has a no-mar tip at the front of the barrel of the nail gun. Under the no-mar tip, there are no-slip teeth which ensures a strong grip on the workpiece so that you can throw the nail at the right point.
The magnesium body of NuMax SFR2190 ensures lightweight and durability which results in user comfort because the lightweight of the tool will allow you to use the gun continuously for a longer time without having any pain in shoulder. To provide more comfort, the ergonomic grip helps to have a secure handling of the tool and ensures reduced vibration.
How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the framing tool belt by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
Final Word
First of all thanks for reading my article to the end! I hope you find my reviews listed here useful and that it allows you to make a proper comparison of what is best to fit your needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to try more than one product if your first pick doesn’t do the trick.
Most important, have fun and choose your framing tool belt wisely! Good luck!
So, TOP3 of framing tool belt
- №1 — CLC Custom Leathercraft 1614 20 Pocket
- №2 — DEWALT DG5617 20-Pocket Pro Framer’s Combo Apron Tool Belt and Yoke-style Suspenders
- №3 — Dead On DO-FR Framers Rig
Questions? Leave a comment below!
Chatting about framing tool belt is my passion! Leave me a question in the comments, I answer each and every one and would love to get to know you better!
