Tool Pouches or Tool Bags? WHY DOES IT MATTER???

One of the bigger debates out there between electricians is whether or not you should be wearing tool belts with pouches or working out of bags. I know, a silly argument to have, but on that occurs often so let's look into it.
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First, we need to understand why people take a stance on this issue, and it's because there are so many different ways to BE an electrician, as well as ways to execute the installation of electrical materials. And...every electrician thinks their way is best. We're a fickle bunch.
Most of the time on construction sites you'll see electricians wearing belts with pouches, as almost anybody on a job site would. There's more efficiency to be had when your tools are on your person, and you're doing work that is the same, repetitive, over and over. You get faster as you go, so having your tools on you constantly helps build speed and efficiency over the course of a day. So construction electricians typically wear their tools.
Service electricians, on the other hand, most often are going between jobs several times a day so having bags that they can pull in and out of their trucks and wheel into a job makes more sense. They're not usually setting up to do some crazy project for the day, they're going in to look at a problem, see what's there, and fix that specific thing, and get out of dodge. So just having a bag with a bunch of different hand tools, multi-meters, a drill, and some oddball things is all you need as a service electrician.
Don't let anybody out there tell you that you should work one way or another, find out for yourself. I've bought so many bags, pouches, belts, tool backpacks, etc...and have tried them out for myself to find what works for me. I'm always slightly unhappy with all of them lol. But there are some that I favor.
My recommendation...have both, and use both when you feel it appropriate to do so.
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[@rfpeace]

I'm a toolbelt guy with a heavy construction background and I used to catch a lot of shit for wearing my bags while on residential service calls yet every dude working with me loved the fact that I had every tool we ever needed right on hand! No bullshit falling out of my pockets while up on a ladder either! Have I fucked up some painted walls trying to squeeze my ass through tight spaces and furniture, yep. At the end of my day if I don't have my bags on I tend to set shit down and loose stuff so I've just trained my self to ALWAYS put my stuff back in its spot on my pouch/bags/belt! PRO TIP: NEVER set ANYTHING down on a ladder rung, EVER!!! Be safe and productive my brothers and sisters :)

[@joshuawright9852]

I can imagine, I'd love to have someone a my beckon call that'd carry every tool I'll ever need for me too.

[@amoncopeland6747]

Yea bro. Everyone is always ready to go to the truck or the store. I just stick my hand in my pocket

[@Peter-976]

Well said and smart! Time is money. Having everything right there is the kind of worker I would hire over and over.

[@JDAfrica]

Good point on losing tools and fittings... that one reason I bought into a packout system... was so tired of buying boxes of fittings - and could never find them again. I must have bought a box of 1 type of Hilti bolt 6 times. Organizing my system, standarding my tools, fittings and daily carry... means I loose less shit, am less tired as I’m not spending time searching

[@abdulelkhatib2674]

Every trades person has said many times I wish I could design my own tool bags, belts, or boxes.

[@TwilightxKnight13]

If a belt manufacturer created an online configuration system so you could design your own pouch arrangement and have them custom built, they would make MILLIONS!

[@Luna-et6dn]

@@TwilightxKnight13 there is a company out there that does custom belts

[@nccv121]

I typically have all my tools near me in my backpack but stay task specific in my small pouch. Do what works best for YOU! Have a great day everyone, work safe!!

[@jarrydee2799]

Same here. I carry my backpack into the job. If I need more than my linesmens and multi driver, I will put my pouch on.

[@s.martinez1301]

Agree, basic rules. Work smarter, not harder.🔌⚡👷‍♂️

[@isaeproductions5217]

I have a small veto pro pac tool belt that I keep my Klein linesman/stripper, 11 in 1 and beater flat blade everything else stays in my Lenox backpack until I need it but 95% of the work I do is done with the 3 tools in my pouch

[@whatacoolguy4094]

I still use my apprenticeship package tool belt, keep my tool belt at minimal all times.

[@TheDrew2022]

I have both a Veto Pro-Pac to carry my tools to the jobsite, but if I know I'm doing a specific task and need 3-4 tools close to me all the time have a couple smaller pouches I can slip on.

[@elBusDriverKC]

On most sites I bring my donkey and saddle him up with all my gear. That way I have everything there at all times. Just watch your step.....

[@reignorshine.]

I want a donkey but instead I have a mule

[@Justin33B]

Going up stair and taking materials through and around the site just becomes very difficult for me.. so I just stick with a belt. My opinion.

[@donzmilky5961]

You mis spelled apprentice

[@choahjinhuay]

@@donzmilky5961 you misspelled “misspelled”

[@donzmilky5961]

@@choahjinhuay im an electrician, not an english teacher.

[@jjthorndike6922]

Love you bro you inspired me. I'm 17 and I started watching your vedios before I got a job as a helper. You just have the best outlook on things and really care. Keep it up love the content.

[@connormurray4334]

Im 17 and i start monday 😬😬

[@JamesSimmons]

I use both a belt and a tote, depending on the situation. New construction? Belt time. Service calls? Grab the tote.

[@itaintrocketscience]

Me too. Belt in a customer house Is a nightmare

[@notsure7874]

​@@itaintrocketscience I found the opposite to be true - coming from the perspective of mostly service work, and mostly residential / light commercial. But I wouldn't want one of these "master electrician" type pouches (or one on each hip with suspenders and shit) though either. I use a nylon journeyman size/style bag that has pretty much everything I need to test and repair whatever random crap I'm going to run into, but also trimmed down so I'm not carrying a bunch of stuff I don't use. Its "right sized" to fit what I need - and only what I need so I don't have a porcupine of giant screwdrivers and metal crap poking out everywhere to snag walls in hallways or floors when you kneel down or whatever.

[@frankanthony6097]

2nd year apprentice, i carried a belt every day for the first year. i then purchased a bag and used for a few months..i found that having my tool belt on me at all times saves a few seconds, rather then walking back and forth to my bag. But with all the tools i accumulated i often bring both cause you know know what u might need.....

[@davidsilverman9806]

Damn skippy bro keep it up

[@kevinloos82087]

That's what I am finding as well.

[@fainjoe]

I often find myself praising the toughbuilt clip tech system for a tool belt. I use it every day and the flexibility of quickly changing your pouches to drop weight, squeeze through tight spaces, or change functions is so FANTASTIC.

[@jonathanwentz8105]

Just got into the trade and went down the toughbuilt route and I love it! Got the XL rolling tool bag and really like being able clip my tool belt pouches to it.

[@gregparker8349]

I am a maintenance electrician in a 500,000 sq ft manufacturing plant. Some days I walk 6 miles around the plant. I have a small belt, several bags and small tool boxes that I put on a Rubbermaid cart. I push the cart as close as possible to where I’m working, then Load up a bag or belt with whatever I need for the job.

[@i.am.ronin.]

🎯

[@colem.4887]

I’m running the Veto XL tool bag with most of my tools in it and the essentials in a small TP1L tool pouch! Perfect combo if you ask me!!!

[@timkingston1980]

Im an apprentice still and still finding my way of doing things. For the job ive been at the longest the cart with bag on top n materials on bottom works best so far. Also my hivis vest has pockets i load up for ladder work.

[@jeremyrodriguez5923]

I just wear two small pouches with what I need. If I need anything else, I’ll keep my bag close by. I refuse to wear big tool belts like that. Just looking at it hurts my back 😂😂

[@darienredsox1878]

I do the same thing. Have tried tool belts, but I am skinny and only a 32" waist, so I have been unsuccessful in finding one that fits around my wast. At the office I have a small tool belt where I place most of what I need for any give job, (I do a mix of Network and AV wiring and repairs). At home, I keep my bag near and use a pouch. The pouch is big enough to fit what I need for most jobs (some tools for rough ins, others for trim out), works well when working around furniture or in tight spaces such as the attic.

[@jeremyrodriguez5923]

Darien Red Sox yeah bro same here, my waist is 30” 😂😂 Skinny dude problems . I keep no more than 5 tools at a time on me

[@davidlatiak]

here's the easiest way to resolve this debate where everyone is happy. Empty your pouches out. Put your bag close by. Think through what you're gonna be doing for the next little stretch. Take only the tools you need to accomplish your immediate mission. If you need another tool grab it if it's not a one off make a mental (or actual... gasp) note to grab that next time you do the same task. Will you forget things sometimes yes are you carrying less than the guy who carries all his tools all day yes, do you have access to your whole bag of tricks yes, are you becoming a better tradesman every day by thinking before you do and then reflecting on the outcome of the doing... HELL YEAH

[@BrentFreyEsq]

"All this time of your life that you're never going to get back because I'm just sitting here rambling about dumb shit like bags" is _precisely_ why I subbed, lol. Keep up the good content!

[@Day_God91]

I really enjoy your videos, I been thinking allot about what I wanna do in life, I'm 29, and have a wife and baby. Your videos are really helping me get started! Thank you

[@tedbownas2748]

I worked as a railroad electrician for 16 years, and did odd jobs and handyman type electrical work on the side. On the railroad, when I worked in big shops, I always worked out of a bag that I kept on a cart. When I worked in trainyards or on the road, I carried a shoulder bag with the few tools I needed for doing daily inspections. When I was doing odd jobs, adding outlets or lights, chasing breaker trips, etc, I carried a Duluth pocket pouch with pliers/screwdrivers/tick tester, and a Fluke meter in a pouch with a shoulder strap. It depends on what you're doing, where you're working, what you like to do with your tools, and how you're comfortable. Good video.

[@mrzee5354]

I've been waiting for a video on this topic and finally found someone who explains well

[@ajjohnson3086]

My Dead On belt used to pop out all the time too. I fixed it by taking my channel locks and squeezing the round part of both metal spikes that stick through the holes, never had that problem again. Love the videos my electrical brother, Keep em coming

[@Einzee]

Yes. I agree that that finding a particular pouch that is fully functional and designed the way I want it to be is impossible. Like yourself, I have been looking for a way to build my own pouch. I have wonderful ideas on designs and know that whatever pouch I create will be 100% functional for me and my way of doing things.

[@Bryan-df7kc]

I use a husky utility pouch for service cause i don’t like having tools in my pockets but i have a husky bag as well where i keep all my stuff in the truck. Sometimes i have to work on ladders or bucket so the pouch definitely helps.. Cool video Dustin! God bless and take care! 👋😎👍

[@robfahey1349]

Man I was just going to say I've been looking at veto bags but I hate that they always say hvac or tech yeah I know electrical trade can use them but man I'd love to see veto get in touch with you and come up with an electricians bag lineup. Bags for apprentice, journeyman and master etc.

[@davep6977]

I literarily have and used the same tan pouch and loved it for tools and a left pouch for task specific. I had/have back problems too. The BEST thing I found was by Klein. It was 6 inch wide thick leather "strip" with 2 leather straps to hold your belt and you wear it in the back. It felt like you had no belt at all on instead of your belt cutting into your back. But you're correct, you need both

[@jakeleibold2187]

Like always, a great video. Every day carry tools in a veto pouch; PLC termination tools in a smaller clip on Veto pouch; occasional use tools in a couple of leather ideal tough totes in the truck.

[@marcogodinez5412]

Damn, I agree with everything you said. Thanks for the video, always enjoy the channel!.

[@PelicanPines]

I add my own Tape Measure clips to my bags and boxes... I rivet them on... sew them on... whatever makes sense. If you can't get a designer to do it from scratch... FIX what you got. Seriously... we have the tools, we have knowledge... FIX IT to be what you want it to be. If you create solutions... you create satisfaction.

[@thewiseguy390]

I’ve seen guys wearing tool pouches with suspenders and they literally have channel locks and a pipe reamer lol

[@poundkake13]

Lol I cant use bags without suspenders because i have no butt. My back with a crack can barely keep my pants up much less any tools.

[@swampcabbage3239]

Poundcake Makes that and the way gravity works is bad stress on your hips

[@shawn576]

You don't take the suspenders off (and lose them) every time you carry fewer tools. That would just be retarded.

[@guillermovazquez1084]

Who's cares good to have both

[@notsure7874]

@@poundkake13 You try the padded belt? I have the same problem, the klein padded belt - the buckle doesn't loosen up, the padding grabs my hips better. I hated belts til I got one of those.

[@chuckcardot866]

Where can I get one of those shirts? Great videos, keep up the good work!

[@Avaddon911]

I use a CLC backpack and a cart and carry what tools I need in a small pouch or my pockets. Unless I'm doing rough in then I'll throw on a larger belt mainly to hold screws, my tape measure and a place to hang my impact. Finish work I usually wear a Klein apron pouch. It really just depends on what you're doing like you said in the video.

[@petegilson1157]

Absolutely right. Different setups work for different people and jobs. I’m with you on the never found a perfect bag yet. But I’ll keep looking.

[@JDAfrica]

Never found the right setup for me... I do some construction, some plumbing and some electrical. I thought having 3 separate boxes would be the winner.... but, ends up being more a hassle. May try a toolbelt approach. Although I’ve never seen anyone locally use one - it’s just not common around here

[@foulphilosopher8624]

I've put together a Hodge podge drop leg bag that I love, whatever I need is at my neutral resting arm length and the perfect compliment to my slim tool pouch.

[@robfahey1349]

I totally agree I work various different jobs so I carry both a bag and belt setup. If I'll be in the same area on a small job I work out of my bag, if we are doing a rough in and I'm going back and forth etc I move the tools I need from my bag to my belt this way I'm not going to my bag all the time for pipe install or running cable.

[@skyemac8]

Love honesty here. Keep the great content going. Big pockets and small tool pouch is all you need. This is commercial electrical work in the IBEW.

[@thomaskenny1819]

38 year Master Electrician ran and worked small jobs, high rise and commercial, and multi million dollar project with 50 plus journeymen and women. I started my apprenticeship with my dad's old Boston bag from the telephone company. Removed center divider and had a small task pouch that I loaded with select tools and a cheap cloth pouch for task materials. Most jobs had a cart to move stock and tools efficiently and organized. Couple of hooks for small ladder. Worked for me and made money by limiting time looking through piles of material scattered around on floor or in boxes. Great video though. Fun to watch.

[@TomCee53]

Excellent discussion/tirade. The only time I wish I had a better belt is when I’m 20 feet up a ladder and the tool I need is still in the bag on the ground.

[@MrYummynomnoms]

Kuny makes a great small pouch. I use a small low weight pouch with a a quick put on Velcro comfort belt. Great for the wearing with winter jackets up in the great white. I use a second belt fully geared out with suspenders that i only use when i have to move a lot and need all the tools

[@AccordBass12]

You’re so right about having both a tool belt and Bags. I have always had both for the 5 years I been doing Electrical work.

[@rayhanquesada6147]

Wear a small tool pouch .... don’t carry so much, carry linesman’s,strippers, philips, flat & squaretip. I prefer a nail apron to a pouch to carry screws and small material . WAY less weight than what most carry

[@kenbrown2808]

I worked for a company that wanted us all to wear a cloth pouch and carry our tools in out pockets. the boss would invariably show up right after I'd made my tenth trip to the van for another tool and just put my belt on and yell about the belt slowing me down. now, I'll shift my tool load for the phase of construction - pull wire with heavy needlenose, hammer, and a vest pocket full of staples, then switch to the belt for makeup. I also have a belt with grab handles, so it becomes a carry bag for when I'm doing everything in one place, or using a cart. biggest thing if you wear a belt - get one with a WIDE belt pad, and spend the money on good suspenders.

[@notsure7874]

You're gonna have a bad time doing residential service calls all day every day... It really depends what you're doing. For new construction? Absolutely. Smaller pouch, carry a larger tote with everything you need in it but you pouch up just what you need right now. Get crawling around attics and crawlspaces, up and down ladders to fans, and switches, and ... you're gonna want everything you need (and nothing you don't need) on your belt at all times - and that belt shouldn't be a giant suspender rig with shit poking out everywhere so you fuck up both walls of a hallway and drop huge screwdrivers on expensive floors while trying to get to Mrs Smith's bathroom GFCI, or have to take it all off to get into a tight space.

[@notsure7874]

@@kenbrown2808 I agree 100%. I don't use a suspender rig because I single bag, and service work is a lot different (think - long narrow halls with costly floors, and pictures hung floor to ceiling the whole way down) but I got the quick release padded klein belt, and it made all the difference in the world with my no-ass havinass! My bag is set up for service work. I generally dump it and load it out for specific jobs on any new construction. Don't need meters and testers to run romex! Your old boss ... I'd LOVE to get his ass out on 8 residential trouble calls in a day. See how fast ole Speedy Gonzalez and his cloth apron is ... He'd be lucky to get 3 of them done. Edit to add: Yes. yes I have completed 8 service calls in 1 8 hour day. It was a bit of a fluke, they were all pretty easy, and not a lot of drive time between them, and only 1 supply run during lunch. That's not happening every day or I'd be one rich motherfucker.

[@kenbrown2808]

@@notsure7874 they were a tract house crew at heart. They hated service calls. Had one of the crew say "you can't make money on t&m jobs". That was another clue it was time to find a better fit.

[@notsure7874]

​@@kenbrown2808 There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a tract house crew, different strokes and whatnot. It's more than possible they have apprentices that would smoke me on wiring a new house. But that's definitely not the only way to make money. One thing you can't do on a T&M job - is lose money. Bid that one layout wrong though ... thats where the saying comes from - "We might lose money on every job, but we make up for it in volume!" :D Service calls have always been my best moneymaker. I'm really good at troubleshooting, and I like helping people - and my work style is a lot like the Livewire helper that's been on this show, so I'd have a hard time keeping pace with those guys I'm sure. I just hate that kind of work. Hustle hustle hustle, more paw less jaw, we don't pay you to think .... hell no. I'd much rather say "You're welcome Mrs Smith, glad I could help you!" 5x / day for service call fees / hourly rates personally. Oh and looking back on the OP's comment, I actually agree his on-person rig might need to be trimmed down a bit. That rig he's showing with the suspenders would WAY slow me down and get in my way (and break the back). I'd rather work out of a smallish tote than work with that. But you do need a good bit more than a pair of pliers, screwdriver and a roll of tape...

[@Aepek]

I use both. Have carts, open totes, & a small pouch that I wear during a job. Can have some main tools in my pouch (that’s not so heavy or bad) & just go at it. Works for me, & that’s what’s important 😁

[@venrik8]

Preach on brutha!!! We need more people like yourself in this world.

[@classicaliclastic]

Lol.. You've got a leather CLC pouch. The logo is facing the camera. Enjoying your channel. Keep it up!

[@qcc5]

I've done construction for 35 years, and your comments about bags is spot on. I have tried everything, and never found the perfect bag. I thought the bucket bags were a great idea, but once you get one fully loaded, you need a hoist to lift it! Come on, someone make a bag that works like we work!

[@lancehuntley2049]

Been working as a carpenter for 6 years, just started my schooling in the electrical field at LTI, but i have found that clients like to see belts being worn. It appears much more put together than as you mentioned, going back and forth to your bag every time you need a tool you have to schlep back to your bag, and then by the time you get back, you realize you also need another tool. Overall both sides have a valid argument but my belt and suspenders have my loyalty

[@ToddBeal]

True words. A little grace goes a long way. I hear you on bag design - just like machine and tool design. Designers/engineers need to shadow the potential everyday users of their intended product: the end result will be successful because it's something people need and, consequently, enjoy using.

[@franciscoburgos787]

20 yr electrician, been contracting the past 6. I started on the Home Depot CLC so I liked it. Got used to it. But when I turned out, I thought I’d get the Klein bags like the big boys have. Hated it. Not organization on my tools. Then I got the Milwaukee. I’m happy with it. Never had the leathers tho. Might go that route next time.

[@LOSER000123]

I just customize my tool pouches I like that way better get exactly what I need ....I prefer tool belts then bags because like he said everything is on me I don't need to be going back and forth I don't think it hurts my back hurts if just preference

[@elijahkaehler9369]

For anyone who doesn't know, toughbuilt came out with the cliptech. You have a clip on ur belt that u can put different interchangeable pouches on, they even have a padded belt so u can have multiple clips on at a time and wear what pouch u need.... I might use the suspender trick tho, seems like it would help

[@zbplumbing647]

I agree belt for construction and bags for service. But I will say as a plumber I do get weird looks when I've got a belt on. Not a lot of plumbers use belts. Idk why.

[@bigdadynickable]

New construction I always use a tool belt. Fixing or doing small jobs I use bags.

[@williamwinn2091]

This is possibly the best video I’ve ever seen for electricians. I’m not talking about bags, belts or bull shit... The man hit it on the head... whatever works for you is the answer; as a Forman i require a pair of Klein’s , screwdriver, Tape measure & a marking Instrument (pencil or Sharpie) at all times. Once i lay them out i expect the journeyman to have certain tools for the job!

[@turboflush]

It's all a personal choice and depending on what task you are doing. As for.. hurting your back.. part of the job the career path you chose. People that sit at a computer get issues also. Every career has its issues.

[@Furicist]

I work on industrial projects. I bring my packout and my work pants have the flappy pockets as an extra layer (don't seem to see them in the US, but they're common in the UK) which are like having a basic fabric belt built in to your work pants, so I can carry adjustable spanners, hacksaw, hammer, grips, screwdrivers, snips/strippers, knife, tape, notepad and pencil and an impact with bits (plus fasteners) if I wanted to, but naturally I only ever carry what I need so I can move more quickly. I also work in confined spaces so wearing a serious belt wouldn't work and would be more of a hindrance over half the time.

[@joshuawright9852]

What kind of pants are they? Post a link, I'd love to at least see them. Sounds interesting.

[@Furicist]

@@joshuawright9852 here is an example by DeWalt, but pretty much every work wear manufacturer sells one or more pairs of pants like these iforcemarketzone.com/products/dewalt-pro-tradesman-multi-pocket-work-trousers-black-grey-uk-34-w-33-l?_pos=2&_sid=9c011975c&_ss=r

[@Furicist]

@@joshuawright9852 I can fit a lot in these pants, the outer tape around the pocket can hold my screwdrivers, spanners, wrench, cutters, pliers, pockets hold all my fasteners, cleats, rawlplugs, saddles, then I've got the inner pockets (there are normal trouser pockets under the flappy pockets) can hold my phone, keys and personal items so they don't get all banged up. Best part is, you can kneel down and it all angles with gravity so it doesn't dig in to you. I usually keep my tool trolley nearish and carry what I need for a few hours at a time in these trousers, as is the industry standard around these parts. If I'm doing industrial or in a cherry picker obviously things change. But on the ground, these pants are fantastic and very common

[@lespaul36]

I usually worked commercial on new install. I use a rolling tool box (looking to switch over to Husky interlock system) and set up my tool belt with what I need for what I am working on, but also have whatever else I need near by. When I first started out I was skinny as hell and trying to find tool belts that fit was a pain. I tried a few and ended up with CLC pouches with an off brand belt that uses Velcro under a sturdy leather belt. Pouches are a pretty strong material and it has lasted me for years though the edges are looking hellish. I tend to feel it in my legs and not my back.

[@jessefield3147]

I have 2 different belts, one strictly for service with all the tools I will need and another light single pouch for rough in so I can run between studs and not get hung up, and a small husky bag for when I have to work in an attic or crawl space. Nowadays I spend less time in attics or crawls since I finally have an apprentice of my own so I let him use my bag.

[@mikesibert1723]

I agree that belt or bag is job specific. I was educated in electronics from the military. The crossover to a civilian job was OEM automation controls. Used a canvas riggers bag for 18 years. Most work was building control panels in shop at a table or installation of panels wiring of devices to J boxes on machinery so sometimes a few days working in the same 100 square area with bag by my side. Next life chapter found me working industrial maintenance. Found that a belt pouch with specific tools worked best for 90 percent of my work. If not then roll out the big box.

[@jeremyrademacher1605]

As a plant journeyman, I use both. I have a small troubleshooting bag that I carry everywhere. It has the basics for getting a piece of equipment up and running quickly. I also have a project bag, with way more tools so I don't have to take multiple trips to my locker.

[@johnfilce9236]

I never wanted a full tool belt because of the weight, but I really like my four pocket apron belt for holding screws and small parts. Tool bags and totes for everything else.

[@anthonysmith9410]

This has to be your best video ever....

[@sanozatsho]

I wear atlas 46 when I'm doing work. Works really well, does get to the lumber sometimes.

[@jimmyatxallday9924]

I have Both. Like you said I have different specific jobs I can fill my tool belt with. Ex.Demo,Roughing in,Trim etc…

[@t0n51]

I work apartment maintenance in a mid rise and use a pouch for edc tools and another for electrical. I also use a tool bag for plumbing and the to store my drill bits and other tools I use every once in awhile

[@CaseyDresser510]

Occidental leather tool bags and the open top Husky electrician’s tool tote sit on top of my cart. Bandsaw, fishtape etc. on the bottom. Pipe benders slip in the back handle. I Mounted a piece of deep strut on the front to hang my ladder on and roll it all around. Also a couple holes on the sides so I can put a piece of 1/2” pipe through them and put a few spools of wire on there for small wire pulls. It’s a pretty handy setup and I generally have everything I need for commercial work

[@bigdaddy4467]

👍👍👍 Agree 100%, people have too much time on there hands. Time and place for both. On a ladder you need a pouch, on the ground in one place a bag. And like you, I use both!

[@endvoltz]

Im a maintenance electrician (appretice) and I use a tool pouch by toughbuilt 20$ and I love it. I can clip it to by belt and take it off whenever. I keep my tools in my box. I dont need to carry tools all day so the toughbuilt clips are awesome.

[@docd-monik4380]

I work for a property management company, we manage over 800 houses and apartment units in the Louisville area. Half of what I do is bigger remodel/repair jobs that could take anywhere from 3-5 days to a couple weeks. The rest of the time Im riding around doing smaller repairs and service calls. I wear a tool belt, Im the only one in the field that does, and I prefer it. I like having all of my most frequently used hand tools right there at my fingertips whenever I need em.

[@anthonythompson2529]

dustin you should talk about how to ask for a raise in our electrical trade do you thimk you deserve it vs i know im worth it selling yourself how to make a video on that and your opinions

[@mikez8277]

I go with the Klein Backpack and it works great just drag it around with me and I have everything I need right next to me then move to the next place with it

[@byronnlangley]

I have a small tool pouch I put task focus tools in, while most of my tools are in my Milwaukee pack out or Klein back pack, I had a tool belt when i started but the union frowns on it, I was told it looked unprofessional so I have a different setup but it works fine.

[@zanehamilton1720]

Not an electrician but a jack of all trades in residential maintenance. I have a toughbuilt pouch I carry with me everywhere that clips onto my belt. I have a tool backpack from veto that carry’s most of my tools. I have other tool bags that holds job specific tools. Lastly I have packouts I keep power tools and parts/supplies in. Just have to figure out what works for you. Side note: Atlas 46 makes some really good stuff but it is pricey. I forgot to mention I have the Saratoga vest for framing/rough in and love it.

[@chrisf9607]

the packout system works great for the project im on i go to multiple unit daily up to 3 floors up i keep my powertools in the one with wheles parts and hardware in the rest of the boxes and only exactly what i use every day in my tool belt

[@j.james.s.2412]

Cool! So I work for Grand River Electric in Grand Junction, Colorado. The owner has been a master for 28 years, and he's been doing electrical far longer than that obviously. The Belt I use is a Gatorback, and I do also have service bags. I'm just an apprentice right now, but I noticed a couple years ago that depending on the nature of the job we were doing that some tools and materials I could fit into my tool belt, so I used a husky bag my brother (who's a plumber) decided he didn't need. Regarding the nature of belts, I enjoy having most of my immediate use tools on my person, and things such as say speed square, rotozip, zip ties, I can have in one of the bags for when we trim out a house, a separate commercial/EMT bag. I also have a bag for attics and crawlers. I get what he's saying, I don't enjoy stopping to go get a tool. I carry a shit ton of weight though, and manage to synch the belt right at my hips so the weight seems to be completely off my back, basically over top of the belt I wear on my pants. My biggest issue is I never have enough space for organization within the material pouches. I have one for staples, one for screws, one for wirenuts, and one for romex connecters, straps, fittings. The Gatorback has small hip pouches which I keep ground crimps and screws in one, and an assortment of screws (8/32 6/32 primarily) carrying all this weight can be difficult at first, over the last two years ive really grown accustomed to it, and added another small husky pouch on the front where I keep my tester, pens and sharpies, pencils, spare batteries, paper pad, second flashlight, nut drivers and few other small things. Just take care of yourselves first, yes this is your job/career but you're replaceable in the company's eyes.

[@jimmyjenkins5744]

Wow. It sounds like you literally carry a SHiT TON of unnecessary tools with you at all times. There’s absolutely no reason to carry all those things with you all the time. Bring in a big tool bag with all your primary tools and jst wear one small 4 or 5 pocket pouch with the few tools your gonna need for the task your doing. Then switch them out depending on each task you do. Saves a bunch of weight and will save your back in the long run. Literally no need to carry all that bull shit around with you that you were talking about. That’s just crazy

[@thewolfe1099]

Dustin... Brother man... You are the bomb. I'm a hardcore homeowner DIYer with a great shop and a great set of tools. I watch your videos and I've learned so much. This comment isn't specific to this particular video but it's specific to all of your videos. What you do is awesome. You are a great teacher You have the gift to teach people s***. I've always known electronics but you took me to the next level and I've learned everything about household wiring 110 and 220. Just wanted to say thank you or what you do thank you for taking the time to teach the rest of us what you know and that the effort you put forth has extreme value and helps our society greatly! There's a trillion KZbin channels out there but yours is consistent uniform and reliable in regards to the information delivered. Thank you

[@wytale2004]

You should really look into the tough built clip tech tool belt system. Highly customizable. The belt is really sturdy and well made. I have one and I absolutely love it.

[@lucysmart1476]

I’m a carpenter going to electrical and seeing as I was taught that you always need the essentials of what’s in your tool belt but I’ve had bad back problems. But belts with a wider belt is better for ur back, suspenders are nice.

[@johndvoracek7683]

I'm a first year apprentice and I use both. My super common shit lives in my belt, everything else is in my bag. Whether im doing service work, generator installs, or construction, I have my belt on and my bag close by. Suspenders and a padded belt are a must. I balance the weight between my shoulders and hips. Reduces strain on both and I'm not restricted while I work.

[@jakubbrewinski8893]

hey man you should look into the diamondback belt for your bag combo, that's what I use and it works great. the clip is really quick and easy to remove and put on.

[@rmiller6483]

I think you’re my long lost brother dustin. Love the channel man... I say that too, fuck whatever everybody else does and do what works best for you. Thanks for your service and what you do for all us viewers...👍👍👍

[@phoon32]

I feel the same

[@tylerrainville2533]

Ever tried Occidental leather tool pouches? At this point it's all I use. Price point is a little high but the quality is insane and they are laid out pretty well. It's all I use at this point. They also have a few different option in terms of electrician dedicated pouches.

[@jusrobington]

I'm a backpack and belt guy. If it's light and I need the mobility it's belt all day. Most of the service work i do, definitely my backpack.

[@ronhughes1822]

I agree. Bags/pouches I have a lot, and change often. I've thought of designing the perfect bag also😎

[@dadtothebone4859]

I'm in production new construction residential job sites, so everyone I work with and me use belts. I could see the different options if I was in another type of electrical work

[@Cerilloalamo]

I like the concept of the channel, Im pretty sure it helps a lot of young cats out there and I’d like to drop my 2 cent opinion. Regardless of what tools or how many you like to carry on your tool pouches, either way my friend you will need a tool bag, back pack or one of those tool cases with wheels, for all your hand tools and, or power tools. Having the tool you need at that right moment makes a big difference. Know what you need for the whole week and get your shit together pack it all up and have a pretty easy week at work.

[@joshuawright9852]

Join a union and the contractor will provide all the pricey power tools & once in a blue moon tools. They'll also have them in a gang box to keep you from having to run to your truck.

[@stevebuchanan5773]

I have a millwaukee 18" rolling bag for service and tool belt for rough in etc.. alot of guys I work with have jumped on the pack out band wagon, there cool but no need

[@thedewdster]

I had a packout set up, but found it extremely cumbersome. So back to tool bags it is! Haha

[@stevenvicino8687]

I love your video. I'm in two camps, used to do apartment maintenance for almost 600 apartments. Now I'm building defense department equipment, war stuff. Whole different ball game. First choice was tool belt, now tool backpack. I'm the right tool for every job I guess.

[@tomthinks2089]

Small pouch or bag great for service. Have a back pack for bigger jobs or climbing to roof. Stopped using belts a long time ago. Made my back sore and now my girth doesn’t allow for a belt anymore.

[@Und3rGroundRappers]

Chicago Carpenter here we wear pouches but the OLD school Vietnam era Electricians guys just wear a small apron with some Linemans pliers and a few other small hand tools also carts are BIG

[@wayneeshelor639]

We had 3 wheel cycles with steel box on back. Contained laptop and shop made canvas pouch with steal frame a little smaller than the one you are showing. A few items clipped in shirt (or coverall) top pocket and pant pocket. Nobody carried a tool pouch.

[@milkhoneybreadwine]

I buy Firehose cargo pants from Duluth Trading Company. I pair them with suspenders and then I have the majority of tools that I need for the day in my pockets. Everything else is in a bag. I've found this to work the best after a lot of trial amd error.

[@zackiemay]

I've got this Dickie apron and its almost perfect.

[@theoisaac3564]

Appreciate this content it will help

[@salvatoregalluzzo851]

I have all 3. I'm working new construction and always have a belt and bag. I keep a small belt with everything I use daily in it and all extra hand tools, drill, meter etc. in the bag itself. And if I get put in a project, I'll put my bag in my shopping cart again with the material I need and I'm set. Got to be efficient and productive.

[@kahlil4745]

Belts are great when you are working with your hands above your head a lot. Not having to look down to find your tools is huge and not running up and down ladders is huge too. But generally I use a bag. Out in the field I find all I need are like four tools for any given repetitive job. Toss them and your materials in a 5 gallon bucket and you're good to go most of the time.

[@drewleamon6343]

I do residential work and I use the veto mp1 for the essentials and bring a tool bag if I need any other tools

[@eodchase4]

I know I am not an electrician but I was in the military for 10 years and carried a lot of tools on a belt because I was an EOD tech. Have you looked at military belts I can send you a few links if you would like but they are padded have suspender attachments and they have locking clips so they don't disconnect on you. Food for thought I used to carry a lot of weight for a long time they are the deal

[@TheJoeCool1964]

Love the Spider tattoo. I have one but mine is walking down, not walking up. Love your channel. I wish that I could talk to you for 15 minutes. I'd be able to fix my problem.

[@tommymadux3646]

Check out the vests with occidental work vests. I hate wearing a tool belt and I do find at times having a tool belt was better then having to carry a bag with me. So not I try and pick the tools I need for the job and that day and use a tool vest and I have little pouches I will add or remove depending on the job. But the vest so so much nicer then wearing a belt.

[@funbricknj]

I use both together big bag on wheels with retractable pull handle. my hand tools are in the leather pouch with a heavy leather belt on it. so I either wear it or I will strap it over the step ladder top and work from the bag while on the ladder. and in the bag is everything else that i will need and is close enough to me that i don't have far to go

[@scarlettstang1645]

I do industrial work, I wire and assemble the automotive robot assembly lines, it's a unique job every time because sometimes I'll need to carry tools on my body because I'm on a lift and I'm in the air and I cannot come down every 5 minutes. Sometimes, I get to wheel my packout system there and use it all day. But I keep my packout tote with me because I can load that up in the truck before I go up on the lift. It really depends on the situation, what I'm working on and the level of tools required

[@texasproud3332]

Veto is the greatest bag out there enough said!!!

[@marklucas4274]

I use a packout backpack and a belt with a milwaukee electricians tool bag & drill frog for my drill/impact. I just keep everything in my backpack then load up the belt as required. Most of the time i just use pliers & screwdrivers or hammer & clips. Just depends on the task.

[@VictorReyes-rc9xp]

I personally carry a tool belt and pouch inside or with my tool bag. I only put it on if and when I need it.