Features
- IP54-rated water‑resistant compartment for valuables
- Waterproof/rubberized base with injected plastic feet
- Durable 1680 denier fabric with dirt‑repellent tarpaulin
- 31 pockets and loops for tool organization (14 interior, 5 exterior listed)
- Hi‑visibility internal fabric to improve tool visibility
- Padded, removable shoulder strap for long‑distance carry
- Ergonomic U‑shaped quick‑close zipper pull usable with gloves
- Backstrap designed to hang on a telescopic handle; includes tape clip and metal carabiner
Specifications
Model Number | DWST560103 |
Sku | 120628 |
Color | Black, Yellow |
Primary Material | 1680 denier ballistic nylon |
Secondary Material | Tarpaulin / polyester elements |
Number Of Pockets | 31 (14 interior, 5 exterior reported) |
Interior Storage Capacity (Cu. In.) | 2105 |
Overall Length (In) | 16-1/8 |
Overall Width (In) | 11 |
Overall Height (In) | 11-3/4 |
Overall Length (Mm) | 410 |
Overall Width (Mm) | 280 |
Overall Height (Mm) | 300 |
Net Weight (Kg) | 1.657 |
Net Weight (Lb) | 3.653 |
Gross Weight (Kg) | 2.68 |
Gross Weight (Lb) | 5.9 |
Weight Capacity (Kg) | 25 |
Weight Capacity (Lb) | 55.12 |
Closure Type | Zippered (U‑shaped pull) |
Handle/Strap | Carry handle and padded removable shoulder strap; backstrap for hanging on telescopic handle |
Base Features | Waterproof/rubberized base (injected plastic feet) |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
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Open-mouth tool bag for storing and transporting hand and power tools. Constructed from durable 1680 denier fabric with a dirt‑repellent tarpaulin and a waterproof/rubberized base. Includes an IP54-rated water‑resistant compartment for valuables, multiple internal and external pockets for organization, and carry options for hand or shoulder use.
DeWalt 16" PRO Open Mouth Tool Bag Review
A good tool bag should quietly make the workday easier. After a few weeks of hauling the DeWalt 16-inch open-mouth bag across sites, into server rooms, and through rainy parking lots, I can say it largely does just that: it stays out of the way, keeps tools accessible, and shrugs off abuse.
Build and materials
The first thing I noticed is the fabric. The 1680 denier ballistic nylon feels legitimately heavy-duty, and the tarpaulin panels shed grime better than most bags I’ve used. I’ve set the bag in dust, on damp concrete, and on the bed of a muddy truck; a quick wipe brings it back. The waterproof, rubberized base with injected feet is the standout here. It’s thick enough that you can plunk the bag in a shallow puddle or a fresh mop path without worrying about wicking moisture. The base also helps the bag sit flat and upright, which matters when you’re working out of it.
All the stitching I can see is tidy with good bartacking at stress points. At 3.65 lb empty, it isn’t ultralight, but the heft translates to confidence. I’d rather carry a slightly heavier bag that’s clearly up for the task than a flimsy one that collapses under load.
Layout and organization
Inside, the hi-vis yellow lining sounds like a gimmick until you’re digging for a small driver bit in a dim hallway closet. It genuinely makes small tools pop. The bag claims 31 pockets and loops; the internal ones are the stars. I’ve got long-handled screwdrivers, pliers, and a small pry bar riding in the interior loops with decent separation. My multimeter slots into a padded interior pocket, and there’s still room for a drill, impact driver, two batteries, and a compact charger in the main cavity.
The exterior pockets are fewer than on some tote-style bags—enough for a utility knife, a pack of zip ties, a small notebook, and a pen set, but not a wall of pouches. That’s a trade-off I’m okay with because it keeps the bag cleaner and snag-resistant, though it does mean your quick-grab items require a bit more thought.
The IP54-rated valuables pocket is a great touch. It’s properly water resistant (not submersible) and big enough for a modern phone, car keys, and a slim wallet. I’ve used it to keep paperwork and a USB drive dry during a drizzle. Knowing there’s one compartment I don’t have to baby is reassuring.
There are small quality-of-life features that add up: a metal carabiner for keys or gloves, a tape measure clip that’s actually easy to hook one-handed, and a backstrap that slips over a telescopic handle on a rolling toolbox. That last one makes a big difference if you use a rolling stack—no more bag sliding off as you cross a parking lot.
Access and closure
The bag’s wide-mouth design makes it easy to work straight out of. The U-shaped quick-close zipper pull is oversized and glove-friendly; I could zip the bag without a fumble even with winter gloves on. It’s worth noting that the entire bag isn’t waterproof; only the base is waterproof and only the valuables pocket is IP54. In steady rain, I can zip it up and keep moving, but I still try to keep the main cavity covered or under the truck bed when possible.
Carry and comfort
Between the padded shoulder strap and the hand grips, carrying options are solid. The strap is wide enough to distribute weight decently, and the padding doesn’t collapse into a hard ridge over time. When I loaded the bag to around 40–45 lb (a reasonable portion of its 55 lb rating), I could carry it from parking lot to rooftop without sore spots. The hand grips are comfortable for short hauls or lifting it into a vehicle.
Balanced packing helps. Heavier tools inboard and low keep the bag from feeling top-heavy; the base’s footprint (about 16 x 11 inches) is wide enough to resist tipping even when you lean it against a wall. If you’re routinely carrying the full 25 kg capacity, a backpack might be better ergonomically—but for a typical daily loadout, this bag’s comfort is more than acceptable.
Capacity and fit
With an internal volume of about 2,105 cubic inches (roughly 34.5 liters), the bag hits a sweet spot for on-site service work. It’s big enough for a core power/hand tool kit without turning into a bottomless pit. I fit:
- 18V drill/driver and impact driver
- Two batteries and a compact charger
- Multimeter, clamp meter, and leads
- 10-piece screwdriver set, pliers, cutters, strippers
- Small parts organizer (thin)
- Flashlight, utility knife, tape measure
- Gloves, rags, and a couple tubes of sealant
After that, I’m close to the comfort limit for quick access. If you routinely carry larger specialty tools (e.g., wide-body rotary hammers), you’ll want a larger bag or a hard case.
Weather and site durability
I put the bag through a few weather tests: light rain for 20 minutes, wet ground, and a slushy walk across a site. The rubberized base kept water out even when parked on standing water. The fabric beaded water nicely and dried quickly. The IP54 pocket did its job for electronics. In a heavy downpour, I’d still add a cover if the bag has to sit exposed; the zipper is robust but not a sealed rain zipper.
Jobsite grime is always the long game. The tarpaulin exterior panels make cleanup quick—mud and drywall dust wipe off rather than embed. The injected plastic feet show scuffing (as expected) but protect the base from abrasion.
Durability and warranty
After a few weeks of honest use, nothing is fraying or loosening. The zipper tracks smoothly and doesn’t snag on the lining—common failure points on cheaper bags. The limited lifetime warranty is a nice backstop, though I’d be surprised if it were needed for normal professional use. The 1680D fabric and reinforced base are the right recipe for longevity.
Where it shines
- Field service and diagnostics: The layout and hi-vis interior make it easy to find tools fast in tight spaces.
- Wet or dirty sites: The waterproof base and wipe-clean surfaces are genuinely useful.
- Mixed power/hand tool kits: The main cavity plus interior loops strike a good balance for hybrid loadouts.
- Rolling tool stacks: The backstrap for a telescopic handle is a small but meaningful convenience.
What could be better
- Limited exterior storage: If you rely on many quick-access pouches, you’ll find the outside a bit sparse.
- Not a full weatherproof bag: Great water resistance in key areas, but plan accordingly in sustained rain.
- Weight vs. size: At 3.65 lb empty, it’s not heavy, but if you’re counting ounces for long walks, a lighter (less durable) option might appeal.
- Soft sides: The structure is good, but if the bag is underfilled, the sides can fold in a bit, making one-handed access less tidy.
None of these are deal-breakers, but they’re worth weighing based on your work style.
Tips for setup
- Use interior loops for vertical storage of frequently used drivers and pliers to keep the main cavity clear for power tools.
- Keep electronics and paperwork in the IP54 pocket; it’s large enough for a phone and small tablet in a sleeve.
- Store heavy items low and centered to maintain balance and stability.
- Clip your tape to the dedicated clip and your keys/gloves to the carabiner to keep the exterior pockets free for small consumables.
The bottom line
The DeWalt 16-inch open-mouth bag gets the fundamentals right: durable materials, a stable waterproof base, sensible organization, and comfortable carry. It’s not trying to be a mobile workshop, and that restraint makes it better at what it is—a reliable, medium-capacity bag for daily use.
Recommendation: I recommend this bag for technicians, electricians, HVAC pros, and general trades who want a tough, organized carry that can handle wet floors and rough sites without fuss. If you need a wall of exterior pouches or true waterproofing for the entire bag, look elsewhere. For most day-to-day field work, though, this strikes an excellent balance of capacity, durability, and usability, backed by a limited lifetime warranty that matches the build quality.
Project Ideas
Business
Pop‑Up Handyman Service-in-a-Bag
Standardize service kits (basic repairs, furniture assembly, smart‑home installs) each packed into a bag with a laminated pocket map. Techs grab and go; the IP54 pocket stores work orders and a spare phone. Market flat‑rate packages, upsell add‑ons, and keep utilization high with the shoulder strap for urban jobsites.
Trade Tool-Bag Rentals
Offer daily/weekly rentals of preloaded specialty bags (plumbing, electrical rough‑in, low‑voltage, finish carpentry). QR‑coded inventory sheets and pocket maps reduce loss; waterproof base and durable fabric keep gear presentable. Target DIYers, property managers, and traveling contractors.
Facilities Maintenance Kits Subscription
Provide offices/HOAs with rotating, replenished maintenance bags. Swap bags monthly, restock consumables, and log repairs via QR forms stored in the IP54 pocket. Bundle tiers (basic, HVAC light, grounds) and charge per site with SLAs; the backstrap hangs on custodial carts for easy deployment.
Event & Expo Tech Support Kit
Sell or service event‑ready kits: labeler, cable tester, gaff tape, zip ties, spare power strips, signage hardware. The backstrap rides on a rolling case; the IP54 pocket protects badge stock and Wi‑Fi credentials. Offer on‑site support packages and per‑event rentals to venues and AV companies.
Custom Branding and Organization Service
Start a micro‑brand customizing these bags with embroidered logos, color‑coded inserts, foam dividers, and printed pocket maps tailored to trades. Sell direct to contractors and training programs; add kitting fees and a warranty swap program. Create SKUs for different trades and ship ready‑to‑work kits.
Creative
Modular Maker’s Field Station
Turn the bag into a mobile mini-workshop. Add color‑coded zip pouches in the 31 pockets for soldering, measuring, and fastening; stash a fold‑out silicone work mat rolled at the base; mount a magnetic strip inside for bits; keep your phone/notebook safe in the IP54 pocket. The waterproof base lets you set it down on wet ground while the high‑vis liner makes small parts easy to spot.
Garden-to-Garage Tool Caddy
Convert it into a gardening companion: long‑handle hand tools upright inside, pruners and trowels in outer pockets, twine on the tape clip, plant ties on the carabiner. Store seed packets and plant markers in the water‑resistant compartment. The tarpaulin fabric and waterproof base shrug off damp soil and hose‑downs.
Roadside & Trail Fix Kit
Build a compact car emergency/overland repair kit: tire plug set, compact inflator, fuses, headlamp, multi‑tool, recovery straps, gloves. Keep insurance/registration and a power bank in the IP54 pocket. The rubberized base stays stable on gravel or wet asphalt; the padded strap frees hands when you’re on the shoulder.
DIY Paint & Finishing Bag
Preload for paint touch‑ups: mini rollers, angled brushes, caulk, spackle, sandpaper sheets, drop cloth rolled in the main compartment. Use the hi‑vis interior to find small tins and stir sticks; protect color swatches and finish schedules in the IP54 compartment. Glove‑friendly zipper pull is great with painty hands.
Creator/Photo Field Kit
Use it as a content‑creator caddy: lav mics, batteries, clamps, gaffer tape on the tape clip, mini tripod, lens cloths, color checker. Keep SD cards and phone in the water‑resistant pocket. The waterproof base lets you set it on damp grass at shoots; hang extra pouches from the metal carabiner.