Craftsman Large Mouth Toolbag

Grabbing a tool bag that can handle everything from a quick DIY project to a full-blown job site assignment is crucial for any serious handyman or homeowner. Recently, I got my hands on the Craftsman Large Mouth Toolbag (model CMST513100), and it’s been an interesting experience. Here’s my take on this tool tote, and whether it lives up to the Craftsman name.

One of the first things you'll notice about this tool bag is its impressive size. With dimensions of 14.4 inches in length, 8.25 inches in depth, and 9.8 inches in height, it’s compact enough to carry around easily, yet spacious enough to hold a substantial amount of tools. The bag weighs just under a pound (0.9 lbs), which is a plus for portability.

Design and Build Quality

The open-mouth structure of the bag is one of its standout features. It allows for quick and easy access to tools, which is a godsend when you’re in the middle of a project and need to grab something fast. The bag is made from 600D Denier material, which is known for its durability and moisture resistance. This feature is particularly useful if you’re working in damp conditions or need to leave your tools outside temporarily.

The handle is another strong point. It's durable and makes the bag easy to carry around. There’s also a padded nylon shoulder strap, which can be a real lifesaver if your bag is loaded with heavy tools. The bag features three mesh pockets for personal belongings or additional storage, which adds to its organizational capabilities.

Storage and Organization

Speaking of organization, this tool bag is a dream come true for anyone who likes to keep their tools neatly arranged. The bag boasts 57 pockets, both inside and outside, allowing you to categorize your tools efficiently. There’s even a removable Velcro divider in the middle, offering the flexibility to customize the internal layout based on the tools you need for a particular job.

The bottom of the bag is waterproof, which is an excellent feature if you’re working in muddy or wet environments. It ensures that moisture doesn’t seep into the bag and damage your tools. Additionally, the bag has a front zipper pocket pouch that is perfect for storing smaller items like screws, notepads, or even your phone.

Performance and Usability

In terms of performance, the Craftsman tool bag holds up remarkably well. I’ve used it for various projects, from simple home repairs to more complex tasks, and it has consistently proven to be a reliable companion. The bag’s large capacity allows it to hold a variety of tools without feeling cramped. I’ve managed to fit hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, and even a small drill without any issues.

The open-top design has its pros and cons. On the one hand, it makes it easy to see and access all your tools at once. On the other hand, it doesn’t provide any protection against dust or dirt, which can be a downside if you’re working in particularly messy environments. However, the bag’s sturdy build and well-designed compartments make up for this minor inconvenience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Large Capacity: The bag is spacious enough to carry a wide range of tools, making it ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
• Durable Build: Made from 600D Denier material, the bag is resistant to wear and moisture, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Excellent Organization: With 57 pockets and a removable divider, the bag offers ample storage and organizational options.
• Portability: The durable handle and padded shoulder strap make it easy to carry the bag around, even when it’s fully loaded.
• Waterproof Bottom: The waterproof base protects your tools from moisture and keeps the bag’s contents dry.

Cons:

• Open-Top Design: While it allows for easy access to tools, the open-top design doesn’t protect against dust or dirt.
• Handle Durability: Although generally sturdy, the handle could use more reinforcement to ensure it remains intact under heavy loads.
• Limited Divider Availability: The bag comes with only one divider, and obtaining additional dividers can be a challenge.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman Large Mouth Toolbag is a robust and versatile tool bag that offers excellent storage and organization options. Its spacious design, durable build, and thoughtful features make it a valuable addition to any handyman’s toolkit. While it does have a few minor drawbacks, such as the open-top design and the limited availability of additional dividers, these are outweighed by its numerous benefits.

Would I recommend this tool bag? Absolutely. Whether you’re a professional tradesman or a DIY enthusiast, this tool bag provides the capacity, durability, and organizational features you need to keep your tools in order and easily accessible. It’s a well-made, practical solution that can handle a wide range of tasks, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their tools.