Craftsman Zippered Tool Bag Combo

Finding a reliable tool bag set that strikes the balance between durability and practicality can be challenging. I recently had the opportunity to put the Craftsman Zippered Tool Bag Combo (Model CMST513518) to the test, and it certainly left an impression. This combo set includes a 13-inch bag and an 18-inch bag, both made from 600D Denier material, which promises to resist moisture and wear. Whether you're a weekend DIYer, a professional tradesperson, or just need a convenient way to organize your tools, this set might be just what you need.

First impressions matter, and the Craftsman combo does not disappoint. The aesthetic appeal of the bags with their black and red color scheme is classic Craftsman, and the material feels robust right out of the box. The 600D Denier fabric is thick and appears capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use.

One of the standout features of these bags is their open-mouth structure, which makes accessing tools much more manageable. Unlike some tool bags that have a narrow opening, these bags allow you to see and reach for your tools without fuss. This is particularly useful when you're in the middle of a project and need to grab a specific tool quickly. I found this design element incredibly beneficial, especially when working on time-sensitive tasks.

The inclusion of handles makes it easy to carry these bags around, even when loaded with tools. The handles are sturdy and comfortable to grip, a testament to the thoughtful design that went into these bags. However, it's worth noting that the handles do not extend across the bottom of the bag. Instead, they are stitched into the reinforced sides. While this design is generally solid, it could potentially lead to the handles tearing out if the bags are overloaded. For typical use, though, this shouldn't be an issue.

The 13-inch bag comes with three mesh pockets on the outside, which are handy for storing smaller items like screws, nails, and pens. These pockets are a great addition, making it easy to keep small items organized and within reach. However, I was slightly disappointed to find that neither of the bags has interior pockets. For those of us who like to keep our tools super organized, this might be a minor drawback. Internal pockets could have significantly enhanced the organizational capabilities of these bags.

Despite the lack of interior pockets, the bags offer ample space. The larger 18-inch bag is quite accommodating and can hold longer tools like levels and saws with ease. I managed to fit a variety of tools, including a cordless drill, batteries, bit boxes, and even a small saw, without any issues. The smaller 13-inch bag is perfect for more compact tools and accessories. It's great for carrying a drill, a set of wrenches, and a few other essentials for smaller jobs.

One of the most impressive aspects of these bags is the quality of the zippers. Many tool bags have good material but skimp on the zippers, which can be frustrating. Thankfully, Craftsman did not cut corners here. The zippers are heavy-duty and slide smoothly, even when the bags are full. This adds to the overall durability and usability of the bags.

Over the course of several weeks, I used these bags in various settings—around the house, in the garage, and even on a few job sites. They held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear and tear. The material indeed seems moisture-resistant, as advertised. I accidentally left the bags outside during a light rain, and the tools inside remained dry, which was a pleasant surprise.

The versatility of these bags is another point worth mentioning. While I primarily used them for tools, they could easily double as storage for other items. For instance, the larger bag could be used to transport camping gear, and the smaller one could hold art supplies or hobby materials. The open-mouth design and sturdy construction make them suitable for a variety of uses beyond just tools.

Overall, the Craftsman Zippered Tool Bag Combo offers excellent value for the price, especially if you can catch them on sale. They are well-made, sturdy, and practical for everyday use. While the lack of internal pockets might be a minor inconvenience for some, the overall quality and functionality of these bags make up for it.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Craftsman Zippered Tool Bag Combo to anyone in need of reliable, durable tool storage. Whether you're a professional who needs to transport tools to various job sites or a homeowner looking to organize your tools, these bags are a fantastic choice. Their robust construction, ample storage space, and thoughtful design features make them a worthwhile investment.