Atlas 46 Saratoga Vest
Top Pick With Customizable Storage
TOP PICK: ATLAS 46
IN THIS GUIDE:
› BEST OVERALL: ATLAST 46 SARATOGA
› ALL-IN-ONE PICK: SPECOPS ENGINEER VEST
› BEST VALUE: DIAMONDBACK 701
› BUDGET PICK: SNICKERS TOOL VEST
› TRIM CARPENTERS: MAKITA TOOL VEST
Carpenters know that freedom of movement is the most critical part of the job. This is why the best tool vests for carpenters are comfortable, durable, and hold just enough tools to get the job done.
But finding the right tool vest system can be difficult.
So, to maximize your use and investment, when choosing your vest, you’ll want to consider the following:
- Durability of the fabric to last for years
- Pocket locations
- Options for right and left-handed users
- Zipper and buckle quality
- Adjustable to fit your unique body style
- Optional compatibility with tool belts
Lastly, the best vests are designed to adapt to your day’s work. For example, if your day is spent framing and on ladders, then removing bulky pouches will free you up. Or, for a day spent installing doors, adding pouches for hinges or magnetic strips for screws will speed up the job.
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Tool Vest Features
Carpenters understand that quality is #1 in anything they buy.
And with tool vests and belts, the number one guarantee is they will be subjected to harsh use. But beyond durability, when a vest is first strapped on, any woodworker will look for pockets, zippers, storage compartments, and more.
So, as you’re looking at carpenters’ tool vests, the following features are sometimes overlooked but essential to consider:
- Buckles. Most tool vests either zipper or buckle – and with gloves or large hands, an oversized buckle that is easy to reach is a priority.
- Modularity. Everyone wants to use their tool vest slightly differently. The best vests allow for modifying storage.
- Fabric. A durable yet flexible fabric is a must, from dealing with fabric-shredding HVAC systems to squeezing through nail-infested framing sites.
- Safety. Unique to some manufacturers, information about the wearer can be embedded in a chip in case of accidents.
- Ergonomics. It won’t be used if a vest prevents you from doing your job. Top tool vest manufacturers have adjusted and adapted their vests over time to become invisible.
- Visibility. Some jobs and regulations require a carpenter to wear high-viz gear.
Top Vest Manufacturers
There are surprisingly few manufacturers of carpenter tool vests. But, the product quality of the vests produced by these select few is high:
- Atlas 46. It is a small-town USA manufacturer of high-quality vests, suspenders, belts, and more.
- Occidental Tool. Known for their Made in USA leather, this handcrafted manufacturer produces high-quality leather vests.
- SpecOps Tool. This vest manufacturer specializes in military-style vests, belts, and other construction gear with a mission to help Veterans.
- Snickers Work Wear. Stemming from Swedish descent, this manufacturer focuses on high-visibility workwear and tool vests.
- Diamondback Tool. A Diamondback vest is at the top of many carpenters’ lists, featuring attention to detail, modularity, and high-quality components combined with sleek styling.
Best Carpenter Tool Vests
From framing in the heat or sub-zero cold to finishing carpentry inside homes, a carpenter puts their tools and clothing to the test.
But regardless of the elements, a carpenter knows their number one job is quality, and right behind that is efficiency, which means having everything you need on you and ready to go to save needless trips off the ladder or to the truck.
Lastly, before getting started, the tools vests in this review were selected for their quality, storage, and reputation for durability.
Best Overall: Atlas 46 Saratoga Tool Vest
See on Amazon: Atlas 46 Carpenter Vest
Top Features
- Fabric: Mesh
- Pouches: Not included, strips plus hook-and-loop fasteners
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Shoulder Straps: Yes, adjustable
- Body Straps: Yes, under-arm
- Waist Strap: Yes, loops for 2" belt
- Warranty: Lifetime
Overview
The best carpenters vests have one thing in common: you choose the storage location and what you’re wearing for the job. Coupled with the lifetime warranty an Atlas 46 vest is a long-term commitment and value for any carpenter.
Curious what the “46” is about? Well, along with al lifetime warranty the company gives you “46 days” to try one of their vests and decide if it is the right fit for you.
But, after most serious carpenters try theirs out the odds are good they keep it due to:
- Adjustability to almost any body type
- Top tier construction
- Ease of use
- Made in USA (small business)
- Warranty
- And overall fit and feel
However, a vest like this will cost 2-3 times its purchase price fully outfitted. So, be prepared to make a lifetime investment.
Pros
- Rugged YKK zipper
- Hand crated in USA
- Lifetime warranty
- Three straps for storing tools and accessories
- Zippered pocket for cell phone
- Rugged, breathable mesh
Cons
- Doesn’t include pockets – must buy separately
- Cost
- Will not fit over a heavier winter coat
Best Value: Diamondback 701 Tool Vest
See on Amazon: Diamondback 701
Top Features
- Fabric: Nylon
- Pouches: 6 modular attachments, not included
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Shoulder Straps: Yes, adjustable
- Body Straps: Yes, three under-arm
- Waist Strap: Yes, rear adjusting
- Warranty: 5 years
Overview
It’s only fair that when carpenters are asked to build custom projects, the tools (and vests) they use to get the job done can be customized to their needs. And Diamondback is the only manufacturer that allows just that.
With the Diamondback tool vest, the first focus is comfort and then customizing the storage to your unique needs and working style.
While this vest ships without pouches or accessories, there is a good reason: the storage you need, where it’s located, and if you need to change it during a job is up to you.
Why Diamondback? Their quality components include:
- Tough military-grade nylon
- Long five-year warranty and 30-day no-risk return
- USA-based (and made) except the highest grade belt buckle on the market: Cobra Quick Release (this one part is sourced in Austria)
- Embedded TWICEME electronic tags to assist first responders when injured
Pros
- Best modularity of any vest
- High grade materials
- Unique safety features with TWICEME
- Long warranty
- Can be combined with Diamondback tool belts
Cons
- Doesn’t include pockets – must buy separately
- Cost
- Will not fit over a heavier winter coat
All-in-One Pick: SpecOps Tool Vest
See on Amazon: SpecOps Tool Vest
Top Features
- Fabric: 600D Polyester and Nylon
- Pouches: Included
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Shoulder Straps: Yes, adjustable
- Body Straps: Yes, 3 on side
- Waist Strap: Yes
Overview
The Tactical Tool Vest is both functional and supports a cause: they return a portion of the sale to the SOWF (Special Operations Warrior Foundation). Combined with top quality, this vest includes all the pouches you’ll need and top-quality comfort.
The SpecOps Medic tool vest is arguably the most complete for carpenters who want storage without paying for all the additional pouches.
And, with a mission every American supports, their brand is worth the investment. Of course, the vest is top quality and built with high-quality nylon and other protectants that will let you use this vest for years.
Pros
- Best all-in-one vest
- High grade materials
- Maximum storage
- Includes tool belt and hammer hook
- Mission-driven small business
Cons
- Lacks customization of the Diamondback and Atlas 46
- Will not fit over heavy winter coat
Budget Pick: Snickers Workwear
See on Amazon: Snickers All Around Tool Vest
Top Features
- Fabric: Polyamide, Cordura, cotton
- Pouches: Included
- Weight: n/a
- Shoulder Straps: Yes, adjustable
- Body Straps: Yes, under-arm
- Waist Strap: Yes, loops for 2" belt
- Warranty: Lifetime
Overview
While other tradesman vests require the purchase of pockets and a $500 plus investment, this all-in-one vest is an excellent option without breaking the bank.
The Snickers tool vest, however, is built for a professional tradesman but comes with well-designed storage areas.
Pros
- CORDURA enforced pockets
- Mesh ventilation
- Expands to fit over a jacket
- Wide shoulder straps for comfort
- Integrated belt system
- Machine washable
Cons
- Cannot customize storage
- Fabric not as durable as top-grade vests
Best for Trim Carpenters: Makita Tool Vest
See on Amazon: Makita Tool Vest
Top Features
- Pouches: Included, not adjustable
- Weight:2 pounds
- Shoulder Straps: Padded, not adjustable
- Body Straps: Yes, stretch
- Waist Strap: No
Overview
Trim carpenters typically don’t need the bulk of a full-sized construction or framing vest. And this compact, top-tool branded vest has all the essential storage and brand quality.
Only some carpenters who fully outfit a tool vest have $700-1000 to equip a Diamondback or Atlas 46 tool vest.
But, most can afford under $100 to try out this quality vest and see if this is an option. And, while at a budget price, this vest has six pockets for storage (no need to buy separately) and an open design that breathes well in hot weather.
Pros
- Price
- Pouches included
- Simple to use
Cons
- Minimal adjustability versus higher grade carpenter tool vests
- Cannot configure pockets to users liking
- Fabric is not as durable (cotton) as other vests
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tool vests adjustable to allow for adding or removing storage?
The top brands of tool vests for carpenters have storage belts that can be used to store one or more pockets in any location you need. This flexibility works well for left-handed workers needing a different pocket location.
What is the best fabric for a tool vest?
The top tool vests are made from a military-grade nylon mesh that will last years if treated properly.
Can you wash a tool vest?
Some vests can be washed, and most modular vest systems allow the pouches to be cleaned. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid voiding the warranty.
What is the best warranty for a tool vest?
Atlas 46 has a lifetime warranty for its tool vests, while Diamondback features a five-year warranty.
Summary
For the price of a high-quality business suit, a carpenter can improve their trade with one of the best tool vests for carpenters. But, as a plus, carpenters only need to own one vest to make their jobs go. If a vest isn’t for you, another option for indoor use is a premium woodworking apron that protects clothing and offers storage.
- About the Author
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Eric has been a professional woodworker for over thirty years and has worked in small cabinet shops making everything from kitchen cabinets to hand-made furniture. Now working from a home woodworking shop Eric is sharing his passion for woodworking, tool advice and how-to knowledge from his Minnesota-based woodshop.
