Pouch, Bag or Bucket
- Thread starter tkb
- Start date
- Status
ryan_618
Senior Member
- Location
- Salt Lake City, Utah
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I was always a belt sort of guy.
Now I am more of a pen and book kind of guy
I was always a belt sort of guy.
Now I am more of a pen and book kind of guy
busman
Senior Member
- Location
- Northern Virginia
- Occupation
- Master Electrician / Electrical Engineer
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I do mostly residential and use the CLC tool pouch (about 12 inches square) with handle and plastic tray for wire nuts, etc in the bottom. I carry this to the site and then put Kleins, stripper, screwdrivers, etc in my pockets at that point. Has most of what I need for service calls. Also carry a 9.6 volt driver/drill.
Mark
I do mostly residential and use the CLC tool pouch (about 12 inches square) with handle and plastic tray for wire nuts, etc in the bottom. I carry this to the site and then put Kleins, stripper, screwdrivers, etc in my pockets at that point. Has most of what I need for service calls. Also carry a 9.6 volt driver/drill.
Mark
big john
Senior Member
- Location
- Portland, ME
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I've progressed from using my pants pockets (would ruin pants in a couple months), to a Klein bag (couldn't find anything), to a large tool pouch (too bulky), to a bucket caddy (couldn't keep it organized), to a large carry-all (weighs 45 pounds).
I finally figured out that I only use a couple tools for any specific job, so now I just have a belt with a very small four-tool pouch, a tape-measure holder, and a hammer loop. Works great.
If I'm going somewhere where I'm likely to need more tools than will fit in my four-pocket pouch, I have all my commonly-used tools in my large tool pouch and I'll carry that to my general work area so I can save trips back to the truck.
The rest of the rarely-used or specialty tools sit in a carry-all that never leaves the van. I prefer things with a bunch of pockets--as opposed to a bag, where you have to root through it--so I can tell at a glance if I'm missing anything. That way things don't get left behind.... anymore.
-John
I've progressed from using my pants pockets (would ruin pants in a couple months), to a Klein bag (couldn't find anything), to a large tool pouch (too bulky), to a bucket caddy (couldn't keep it organized), to a large carry-all (weighs 45 pounds).
I finally figured out that I only use a couple tools for any specific job, so now I just have a belt with a very small four-tool pouch, a tape-measure holder, and a hammer loop. Works great.
If I'm going somewhere where I'm likely to need more tools than will fit in my four-pocket pouch, I have all my commonly-used tools in my large tool pouch and I'll carry that to my general work area so I can save trips back to the truck.
The rest of the rarely-used or specialty tools sit in a carry-all that never leaves the van. I prefer things with a bunch of pockets--as opposed to a bag, where you have to root through it--so I can tell at a glance if I'm missing anything. That way things don't get left behind.... anymore.
-John
sparky_magoo
Senior Member
- Location
- Reno
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I use Klein's bucket buddy. It is new. It has compartments for every tool an electrician would want. It costs a little more than other bucket buddies, but is well worth the cost. The only problem I have is that a bucket is too wide to fit into any of the compartments on my utility truck. If I had a dually utility truck, my Klein bucket would fit.
Another concern is, when I am working, unscrupulous people can rob tools out of my bucket. If you guys want, I can post pictures of my "killer" bucket.
I use Klein's bucket buddy. It is new. It has compartments for every tool an electrician would want. It costs a little more than other bucket buddies, but is well worth the cost. The only problem I have is that a bucket is too wide to fit into any of the compartments on my utility truck. If I had a dually utility truck, my Klein bucket would fit.
Another concern is, when I am working, unscrupulous people can rob tools out of my bucket. If you guys want, I can post pictures of my "killer" bucket.
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I use a hybrid system...tool box(16" Craftsman) to hold it all...large bucket(5gal empty soap bucket ~ Ideal) to hold some parts with a smaller bucket and a pouch in it...in the small bucket(hand cleaner towel bucket ~ Klien) I have the actual tools I will use for the job/task...when it's time to do the job, out comes the pouch (Carhartt) tools and material go in - job gets done. All tools, materials, containers go into the big bucket and off to the next location.
The large bucket also has a set of lanyards on it - great for working off a ladder or in an area where you "don't want to put anything but your feet on the floor".
As the weather changes, the bucket is still vacant enough to hold a set of insulated Carhartts and a spare sweatshirt...in case I need them.
At the end of the day, the whole bucket is basically dropped into the gang box/bins on the truck.
On the last job, the guys were calling my bucket the "magical bucket" - seemed everyone needed something I had in the bucket.
One of these days, I'll upload a pix of the magic bucket.
EDIT:
I do have one of those "bucket buddy" type inserts for the bucket. As indicated in the post above - it makes the bucket BIG. The insert is reserved for the tool set at home - it's a PITA and I really need to just toss that insert.
[ October 24, 2005, 10:20 PM: Message edited by: celtic ]
I use a hybrid system...tool box(16" Craftsman) to hold it all...large bucket(5gal empty soap bucket ~ Ideal) to hold some parts with a smaller bucket and a pouch in it...in the small bucket(hand cleaner towel bucket ~ Klien) I have the actual tools I will use for the job/task...when it's time to do the job, out comes the pouch (Carhartt) tools and material go in - job gets done. All tools, materials, containers go into the big bucket and off to the next location.
The large bucket also has a set of lanyards on it - great for working off a ladder or in an area where you "don't want to put anything but your feet on the floor".
As the weather changes, the bucket is still vacant enough to hold a set of insulated Carhartts and a spare sweatshirt...in case I need them.
At the end of the day, the whole bucket is basically dropped into the gang box/bins on the truck.
On the last job, the guys were calling my bucket the "magical bucket" - seemed everyone needed something I had in the bucket.
One of these days, I'll upload a pix of the magic bucket.
EDIT:
I do have one of those "bucket buddy" type inserts for the bucket. As indicated in the post above - it makes the bucket BIG. The insert is reserved for the tool set at home - it's a PITA and I really need to just toss that insert.
[ October 24, 2005, 10:20 PM: Message edited by: celtic ]
jeff43222
Senior Member
- Location
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I use the CLC 1530, which can hold most of what I need on a regular basis. I keep the most commonly used tools in it and have the less common stuff in the bucket. Meters and digital camera are in a Fluke hard case, cordless tools are in a Bosch bag, and small parts are in Bucket Boss parachute bags (they stack perfectly in 5-gallon buckets).
I use the CLC 1530, which can hold most of what I need on a regular basis. I keep the most commonly used tools in it and have the less common stuff in the bucket. Meters and digital camera are in a Fluke hard case, cordless tools are in a Bosch bag, and small parts are in Bucket Boss parachute bags (they stack perfectly in 5-gallon buckets).
- Location
- Windsor, CO NEC: 2017
- Occupation
- Service Manager
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
Just kidding.
If you cleaned out the back, it would fit in there!
Just kidding.
macmikeman
Senior Member
- Location
- Planet macmikeman
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I hate wearing my bags with a passion. But when I don't and use a bucket buddy, I take longer to acomplish the same job than if I wear the bags. So I keep my tool bag on when I need to speed.
I hate wearing my bags with a passion. But when I don't and use a bucket buddy, I take longer to acomplish the same job than if I wear the bags. So I keep my tool bag on when I need to speed.
Awg-Dawg
Senior Member
- Location
- Dayton Ohio
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I prefer the bucket buddy.I highly recommend it.I have everything at my fingertips.It is only inconvient when he has to go to the bathroom or when his arms get tired of holding it.
I prefer the bucket buddy.I highly recommend it.I have everything at my fingertips.It is only inconvient when he has to go to the bathroom or when his arms get tired of holding it.
peter d
Senior Member
- Location
- New England
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
After going through every possible scenario, I've settled on the bucket. I still use the belt for the most frequently used tools, but it's a small one that won't cause back problems later in life.
After going through every possible scenario, I've settled on the bucket. I still use the belt for the most frequently used tools, but it's a small one that won't cause back problems later in life.
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
Myself,I have a couple of Klein lineman tookbags #5104.(one as a spare)
They are 17"-18" tall,w/ one large factory pocket in the inside wall for holding the nines,the longer screwdrivers,the 430's,the basic back pocket of the such needed.
Inside bag I have four Klein zipped-pouches that I have labeled.I can get quite a bit of hand tools in this bag.Couple of eswings,hacksaw and a two speed ratchet cutter up to 750kcmils,along w/ a many other assorted items.
I need to find something in bag while in the field,if not in the wall pocket its just a matter of pulling the zipped pouches out of bag.
I think I've tried most, of what Klein has to offer in bags @ one time or the other.
These two lineman bags I ordered with the inside pocket,I hadn't seen them before in any electrical supply house.(with inside pocket)
Finding a certain tool in this bag,is not much hassle @ all.Carrying it,would be another story in itself.
I've got about 70lbs of tools in bag,and have recently aquired a handtruck w/handles cut down shorter/ welded.
Toolbelt,not me son..Closest thing,seperate belt w/ tape holder & mag-light.My Carhartts of many pockets double-up for the pouch, just fine.
You guys wearing the larger toolpouches stuffed w/ tools,brothers wear them now,quite possibly pay later..
*It very well could help contribute in getting you a scar, up the backside..."ouch"
dillon3c
[ October 25, 2005, 11:34 PM: Message edited by: dillon3c ]
Myself,I have a couple of Klein lineman tookbags #5104.(one as a spare)
They are 17"-18" tall,w/ one large factory pocket in the inside wall for holding the nines,the longer screwdrivers,the 430's,the basic back pocket of the such needed.
Inside bag I have four Klein zipped-pouches that I have labeled.I can get quite a bit of hand tools in this bag.Couple of eswings,hacksaw and a two speed ratchet cutter up to 750kcmils,along w/ a many other assorted items.
I need to find something in bag while in the field,if not in the wall pocket its just a matter of pulling the zipped pouches out of bag.
I think I've tried most, of what Klein has to offer in bags @ one time or the other.
These two lineman bags I ordered with the inside pocket,I hadn't seen them before in any electrical supply house.(with inside pocket)
Finding a certain tool in this bag,is not much hassle @ all.Carrying it,would be another story in itself.
I've got about 70lbs of tools in bag,and have recently aquired a handtruck w/handles cut down shorter/ welded.
Toolbelt,not me son..Closest thing,seperate belt w/ tape holder & mag-light.My Carhartts of many pockets double-up for the pouch, just fine.
You guys wearing the larger toolpouches stuffed w/ tools,brothers wear them now,quite possibly pay later..
*It very well could help contribute in getting you a scar, up the backside..."ouch"
dillon3c
[ October 25, 2005, 11:34 PM: Message edited by: dillon3c ]
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I would say all this about paying later for wearing a belt is crap. If anything it would strenghten your back. Use it or lose it when it comes to the body. JMO.
[ October 25, 2005, 10:22 PM: Message edited by: jes25 ]
I would say all this about paying later for wearing a belt is crap. If anything it would strenghten your back. Use it or lose it when it comes to the body. JMO.
[ October 25, 2005, 10:22 PM: Message edited by: jes25 ]
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
EDIT:
Just ask your doctor...
[ October 25, 2005, 10:27 PM: Message edited by: celtic ]
I am considering the "upgrade" to the Klien lineman bags...I already have 2 of those Klien "pencil cases" and am in need of a third - those things are great.
EDIT:
Your hips/lower back were NOT designed to hold the extra weight of a toolbelt loaded with 10 or 15 pounds of tools (cordless screwgun optional)
Just ask your doctor...
[ October 25, 2005, 10:27 PM: Message edited by: celtic ]
- Location
- Windsor, CO NEC: 2017
- Occupation
- Service Manager
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
After wearing my bags most of the time...well, maybe just frequently, I have come around to wearing them as little as possible without slowing me down. When trimming, it sits on my ladder, slung over the side. When roughing, it sits on the floor, and then when it comes time to make up, they go on for the hour or two we're stripping out. When I catch myself taking them off and putting them on frequently, I take the cue to either leave them on or off. Getting a routine is half the battle, one I still wage.
I find that not wearing them makes for far less fatigue. Trying to shed tools sucks, because you always reach for that 1/4" nutdriver when you just took it out to save weight. But it also builds character to get the job done with as few tools as possible.
I just can't understand the point of a bucket. One of the handy functions of tool bags is that you have the option of keeping an assortment of tools at reach at all times with them on, hands free. A bucket occupies a hand. Very confusing.
After wearing my bags most of the time...well, maybe just frequently, I have come around to wearing them as little as possible without slowing me down. When trimming, it sits on my ladder, slung over the side. When roughing, it sits on the floor, and then when it comes time to make up, they go on for the hour or two we're stripping out. When I catch myself taking them off and putting them on frequently, I take the cue to either leave them on or off. Getting a routine is half the battle, one I still wage.
I find that not wearing them makes for far less fatigue. Trying to shed tools sucks, because you always reach for that 1/4" nutdriver when you just took it out to save weight. But it also builds character to get the job done with as few tools as possible.
I just can't understand the point of a bucket. One of the handy functions of tool bags is that you have the option of keeping an assortment of tools at reach at all times with them on, hands free. A bucket occupies a hand. Very confusing.
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
In Texas a pouch is what we carry tobacco in, a bag is the girl you dance with at the honky tonk, after a few cold ones and sometimes a bunch of cold ones, a bucket is what you puke in after you leave the honky tonk. I prefer the Klien tool belt, side pouch combo, the black one made out of rigid nylon, you can have every tool at your disposal, not to mention B-caps, screws, staples and the like, and not waste time rummaging thru a bucket or one of those yellow purse looking toolbags from Home Depot, and with time your senses get fine tuned with the location of every tool in the Klien toolbelt, side pouch combo, yes thats right the one made of rigid nylon, that you can lift a tool out of it with out even looking, hows that for saving time, and at $78 dollars per hour the customer will sure like it when you don't have too climb down a ladder every two minutes for tools, b-caps and the like, but that is only IMO Thank you and have a pleasant tomorrow.
[ October 26, 2005, 06:17 PM: Message edited by: Jhr ]
In Texas a pouch is what we carry tobacco in, a bag is the girl you dance with at the honky tonk, after a few cold ones and sometimes a bunch of cold ones, a bucket is what you puke in after you leave the honky tonk. I prefer the Klien tool belt, side pouch combo, the black one made out of rigid nylon, you can have every tool at your disposal, not to mention B-caps, screws, staples and the like, and not waste time rummaging thru a bucket or one of those yellow purse looking toolbags from Home Depot, and with time your senses get fine tuned with the location of every tool in the Klien toolbelt, side pouch combo, yes thats right the one made of rigid nylon, that you can lift a tool out of it with out even looking, hows that for saving time, and at $78 dollars per hour the customer will sure like it when you don't have too climb down a ladder every two minutes for tools, b-caps and the like, but that is only IMO Thank you and have a pleasant tomorrow.
[ October 26, 2005, 06:17 PM: Message edited by: Jhr ]
bphgravity
Senior Member
- Location
- Florida
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I went to this setup when I went to doing service work exclusively.
:roll:
I went to this setup when I went to doing service work exclusively.
:roll:
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
...cutting in/trim of outlets is so much easier on the knees. ...and the bucket will have a few spare parts at the ready.
My bucket seems to see more of my butt than my hands.
Originally posted by georgestolz:
I just can't understand the point of a bucket. One of the handy functions of tool bags is that you have the option of keeping an assortment of tools at reach at all times with them on, hands free. A bucket occupies a hand. Very confusing.
The bucket also doubles as a seatOriginally posted by celtic:
The large bucket also has a set of lanyards on it - great for working off a ladder or in an area where you "don't want to put anything but your feet on the floor".
...cutting in/trim of outlets is so much easier on the knees. ...and the bucket will have a few spare parts at the ready.My bucket seems to see more of my butt than my hands.
mdshunk
Senior Member
- Location
- Right here.
Re: Pouch, Bag or Bucket
I'm a tool pouch guy... well actually two pouches. One on the right for the tools, and one on the left for bcaps, staples, and misc stuff. Hammer holder dead centered in the rear, so that I can grab it with either hand if I'm holding something up.
The best thing (an I mean it) that I ever did was getting a suspension type tool belt to hang these bags off of. The belt is the back supporter type, and it has attached suspenders. The back supporter and the suspenders make all the difference in the world, let me tell you. Greatest thing I ever did for my rig. I pretty much got the idea looking at the Occidental Leather suspension bags that the framers use, and I just got the pieces and parts to make my own version using the Klein bags that I'm used to.
I'm a tool pouch guy... well actually two pouches. One on the right for the tools, and one on the left for bcaps, staples, and misc stuff. Hammer holder dead centered in the rear, so that I can grab it with either hand if I'm holding something up.
The best thing (an I mean it) that I ever did was getting a suspension type tool belt to hang these bags off of. The belt is the back supporter type, and it has attached suspenders. The back supporter and the suspenders make all the difference in the world, let me tell you. Greatest thing I ever did for my rig. I pretty much got the idea looking at the Occidental Leather suspension bags that the framers use, and I just got the pieces and parts to make my own version using the Klein bags that I'm used to.
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