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| The new MakTrak Modular Storage System is loaded with features that are firsts in the category, including a horizontal design and unique handle that enables a single user to load and unload their MakTrak into a truck bed, even in a stacked configuration. |
Toolboxes, Bags and Belts
PPE for Your Tools
Given the investments that contractors make in their tools, it makes perfect sense that manufacturers are also developing new systems for carrying, protecting and organizing them. These leading global companies are driving the trend of “a place for every tool and every tool in its place.”
MAKITA
Entering an established and competitive market gave Makita the opportunity to work with contractors to identify gaps with current competitive systems. When committing to a modular storage system, a user is looking to harmonize the transportation, access, storage and organization of their job site equipment.
Another discovery is that current systems struggle to integrate with the vehicle. MakTrak transforms the pickup truck into a tool of the trade with two category-first capabilities: The intentional horizontal design combined with the unique handle design that enables a single user to load and unload their MakTrak into a truck bed – even in a stacked configuration. And for more secure transport, multiple layers will fit under a truck bed cover.
Access is another core function of modular storage. MakTrak gives users more convenience with the ability to open storage boxes without unstacking. The dual-hinging lids allow access from both sides and the innovative horizontal design means the handle won’t get in the way.
“Storage capacity is all about functional space and MakTrak has a horizontal design with more storage space for larger tools like nailers and saws,” Donoghue says. “At the same time, the shallow depth improves accessibility.
“MakTrak offers unmatched organization capabilities. The side-to-side interlocking connection allows attachment from either direction and allows for multiple stacking configurations. It also features unique interior organization components and the most advanced lid in the category.”
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| CLC WorkGear’s molded-base tool bag line consists of five versions, all of which feature rugged 1680D ballistic polyester with reinforced webbing around pockets and handles for durability. |
CLC / CUSTOM LEATHERCRAFT
The tool storage and work gear market has experienced notable expansion, driven by a surge in construction activities and greater adoption of organized tool management. Tool storage solutions, including pouches and belts, facilitate the efficient transport and organization of tools, catering to various jobsite needs.
Professionals seek tool bags, pouches, and belts that combine comfort with durability, aiming to boost job efficiency by minimizing time spent searching for tools while enduring harsh conditions. There’s been a shift toward tool bags and belts featuring specialized pockets for tools and electronics (laptops, tablets, cell phones) and portable designs for versatile use.
Made from rugged 1680D ballistic polyester with reinforced webbing around pockets and handles, these bags are built to handle heavy tools. The molded base, secured with double-stitched tape binding, ensures tool safety and dryness while remaining lightweight enough for easy transport. Each bag features a padded shoulder strap, ergonomic handles, large metal zipper pulls, heavy-duty hardware, and various pocket configurations for optimal tool organization.
“Our tool carriers offer different sizes and compartment layouts to meet specific trade requirements,” Mort adds. “Notably, our molded base backpack provides ample space for tools and includes a padded compartment for electronics such as laptops or tablets. Its square bottom design keeps it stable on the ground, and the softer material ensures added comfort. The backpack also features three large foam back pads and a two-way adjustable sternum strap for enhanced carrying support.”
DIAMONDBACK
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| Diamondback’s Tempo belt fits every user with a dualaxis adjustment system and a continuous-adjust buckle. The model 701 vest has instructions for helpers in case of accidents. |
A growing awareness of injury prevention and safety are driving development in the world of construction gear. Back pain is the leading cause of disability claims and missed days in construction and a leading cause of workers leaving the industry. Diamondback is leading the way with a variety of innovative designs and technologies to address this.
Diamondback released the revolutionary Tempo belt in early 2024. The Tempo’s patent-pending three-piece design is engineered to fit each unique body through a dual-axis adjustment system and a continuous-adjust buckle. A perfect fit maximizes support in the lumbar area while avoiding damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the hips.
Diamondback has also taken the next step on the industry-leading 701 Vest by incorporating twICEme Help the Helpers (HTH) technology which gives bystanders the information they need to help someone who has become incapacitated in an accident.
Diamondback will release their newest Cirro Suspender System this fall. Diamondback worked with D30, a global leader in impact protection, to find the perfect padding combination to offset the weight of a tool belt on the shoulders and upper body. The Cirro Suspenders will also feature twICEme technology.
L-BOXX
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| Developed for the U.S. market and produced locally, the L-Boxx U.S. offers customizing options. Likewise, the ProClick tool belt is highly adaptable. |
Nowadays, many tradespeople work on the go, spending most of their time outside the workshop and visiting multiple job sites or customers each day. This means they regularly need to transport tools and small parts from the vehicle to the job site and back to the workshop. Working with numerous tool cases, boxes and other containers can lead to significant time loss, stress and disorganization. The daily transport process is labor-intensive and requires a lot of time for loading, unloading and finding the right parts – time that professionals ultimately lose on the job site or with customers.
This is where the innovative and well-designed L-Boxx system comes into play. For professional tradespeople looking to enhance their daily work through better organization and efficiency, this modular system offers nearly limitless possibilities for storing and transporting tools and materials. The product lineup includes various tool cases, numerous tool bags, a tool belt system and a wide range of accessories.
“The L-Boxx U.S., specifically developed for the U.S. market and produced locally, continues the success story of the L-Boxx system,” says Ryan Martin, international sales manager, USA. “It is made from high-quality polypropylene offers customizable options, and is fully compatible with the 45 million L-Boxxes already sold worldwide. Thanks to its robust construction, the L-Boxx US is the ideal solution for professional users.”
The ProClick tool belt with holder forms the basis of the system. The click connection enables an intuitive, fast, and secure “clicking-on” of the tool belt’s pouches, storage solutions and holders to the holder. This means everything is at hand, despite you having your hands free. The belt bags are made of high quality and robust polyethylene fabric and are available in numerous sizes and design variations.
FESTOOL
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| Festool’s impressive Systainer line continues to grow with the compact Systainer S box for parts and the Systainer Rack to hold six Systainer S boxes for organization and transport. |
Festool unveiled a new lineup of advanced storage as part of a larger release of new products in September 2024.
Compact and portable, the Systainer S stores small parts and accessories. Its low profile, small dimensions and built-in handle ensure easy transport. Combine it with the Systainer rack to store and transport up to six units, fully customizable with partitions and inserts.
The expandable Systainer rack accommodates six Mini-Systainer S 76 or SYS-Mini 1 T-Loc units and integrates seamlessly with other Systainers.
The Systainer Combi merges a Systainer and Sortainer for efficient tool and accessory storage. The top section holds power and hand tools, while the customizable bottom drawer stores small parts like nails and screws.
The Sortainer offers versatile drawer-based storage for accessories. Customizable with partitions or plastic containers, it keeps small parts easily accessible for smart organization and time savings.
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| Weaver Tool Gear’s durable American craftsmanship blends premium harness and bridle leathers and cutting-edge innovations to produce high-performance, top-quality products. |
WEAVER TOOL GEAR
Rooted in a rich tradition of American craftsmanship, Weaver Tool Gear is the product of over 50 years of manufacturing excellence across diverse industries. Every stitch and every material embody Weaver Tool Gear’s commitment to quality. From premium harness and bridle leathers to cutting-edge innovations, every detail ensures enduring performance.
“Our goal in developing this product line was to honor our heritage of creating superior leather goods while embracing modern advancements,” says Jordan Stoltzfus, business development manager. “Weaver Tool Gear is where time-honored craftsmanship meets innovation, creating products that truly embody our brand’s essence.”
A hallmark of the Leather Classic Framer is its construction from the finest, weather-resistant water buffalo and harness leathers. The all-leather design ensures durability, flexibility and resilience against the elements. Its lightweight design holds all the essentials, including a hammer, square, chalk line, screwdrivers, nail strips and more, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips.
With a retail price under $250, the Leather Classic Framer is 100% made in America and backed by Weaver Tool Gear’s industry-leading, 2-year warranty. It’s a versatile and reliable choice for professionals who demand the best from their gear.
WRIGHT TOOL
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| Made in the U.S., Wright’s blow-molded cases are now offered for 1/2-inch drive impact socket sets to keep their premium-quality sockets organized and secure. |
“Tough jobs need tough protection, which is why we have increased our product offerings to give our customers cases that hold 1/2-inch drive impact socket sets,” says Tom Futey, president and co-owner, Wright. “Our true American blow-molded cases can withstand harsh environments, have outstanding resistance and are made with our customers in mind.”
Featuring double-wall construction for superior product protection, the cases provide a cushion of air that acts as a shock absorber between the exterior and interior. With extra storage spaces, case lids can be used to store materials such as product manuals while the bottom spaces are ideal for cables or hoses.
The blow-molded cases feature a Mold-Tech exterior finish that is scratch-resistant and is designed to retain its good looks even after years of hard use. The blow-molded cases’ HDPE material resists solvents, oils, moisture, insects, rot and chemicals, which prevents rust or corrosion.
This article originally appeared in the October/November 2024 issue of Contractor Supply magazine. Copyright 2024, Direct Business Media.
CONTRACTOR SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The October/November 2024 of Contractor Supply magazine is here!
Our cover story, A Rewarding Passion - Dale Hahs II, third-generation of Denver's AIS Industrial & Construction Supply, is STAFDA's incoming 2025 president.
A Special STAFDA section featuring a welcome address, an agenda, session previewss by presenters and much more. Also in this issue are our Industry Updates on: Lifting, Moving and Material Handling; Lasers, Levels and Measurement; Hand Tools; Cordless Power Tools; Drill Bits and Cutting Tools; and Toolboxes, Bags and Belts.
This digital edition, sponsored by BECK AMERICA Inc., is fully searchable and contains live links to every advertiser and new product listing. Click away!
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