DeWalt 20 in. PRO Open Mouth Tool Bag

As a general contractor, having the right tools is crucial, but equally important is having a reliable way to organize and transport them. That’s where the DeWalt 20 in. PRO Open Mouth Tool Bag (DWST560104) comes into play. After extensive use on various job sites, I've found this tool bag to be a significant upgrade in terms of functionality, durability, and design.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was the robust build of the bag. Constructed from 1680 denier fabric, it feels incredibly tough and resistant to the usual wear and tear that tool bags face on job sites. The sides are surrounded by a dirt-repellent tarpaulin, which is a thoughtful touch, especially when you’re working in less-than-ideal conditions. The bag's black and yellow color scheme is not just for aesthetics; the yellow hi-vis internal fabric makes it much easier to locate tools quickly, even in low light conditions.

One of the standout features is the waterproof base. This hard shell bottom ensures that you can place the bag on wet surfaces without worrying about water seeping in and damaging your tools. The base also keeps the bag upright, preventing it from collapsing inward, which is a common problem with many other tool bags.

Storage and Organization

Storage space is where this tool bag truly excels. It boasts 33 pockets of various sizes, which makes organizing tools a breeze. There's a dedicated pocket for a cordless drill and its battery, which I found very convenient. The pockets are well-sized for most hand tools and small items, ensuring that everything has its place.

However, I did notice that some of the smaller pockets are a bit too tight for larger items like bigger batteries or bulkier tools. This could be a drawback for those who rely heavily on larger power tools. The exterior straps for a 2ft level and a tape measure clip are excellent additions, making these frequently used tools easily accessible.

Practicality and Comfort

Transporting the bag from one job site to another is comfortable thanks to the padded shoulder strap. The ergonomic U-shaped zipper pull makes it easy to open and close the bag, even with gloves on. Another handy feature is the back strap designed to hang the bag on a telescopic handle, providing hands-free convenience when moving around larger toolboxes or rolling carts.

One minor gripe I have is the placement of the tape measure clasp. It's positioned in such a way that it makes the pockets directly beneath it a bit challenging to use. This could have been better thought out, perhaps with an adjustable or removable option.

Performance on the Job

In practice, this bag has proven its worth. I’ve used it to carry an assortment of tools needed for various tasks, from electrical work to carpentry. The bag's ample pockets and compartments ensured that I could keep everything organized and within reach. For instance, during a recent project at a marina, I had to replace bunk boards on a boat trailer. I managed to fit my drill, impact driver, angle grinder, and a set of hand tools comfortably inside the bag, with plenty of room to spare for fasteners and other small items.

The bag’s durability was put to the test on this job. Despite being tossed around in the bed of my truck and placed on wet surfaces, the hard shell bottom kept it upright and the contents dry. The double-stitched seams and sturdy zippers have held up well, showing no signs of fraying or malfunctioning.

Areas for Improvement

While the bag is highly functional and well-built, there are areas where DeWalt could enhance the design. The strap on the back side, intended to loop over a rolling bag handle, could use a bit more refinement. It tends to snag on things, and adding a bit of Velcro and a D-ring to take up the slack would make it more user-friendly.

Additionally, while the bag is spacious, the internal pockets could be more accommodating for larger batteries and some bulkier tools. This would make it even more versatile for those who carry a wider variety of equipment.

Overall Recommendation

All things considered, the DeWalt 20 in. PRO Open Mouth Tool Bag is a fantastic investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. Its durable construction, thoughtful design, and abundant storage options make it a reliable choice for anyone needing a robust tool bag.

Despite a few minor drawbacks, the advantages far outweigh the negatives. The waterproof base, ample storage, and overall build quality make it a solid choice for organizing and transporting tools. If you’re in the market for a versatile, durable, and well-designed tool bag, I highly recommend giving this one a try. It’s proven itself to be a dependable companion on the job site, ensuring your tools are always within reach and well-protected.