Ideal Framing Tool Belt in 2023 | The Ultimate Guide To Selecting The Right One!

So, why would you need the best framing tool belt?

Well, let’s take the scenario as follows:

You’re working on a wooden piece that requires all of the creativity you can muster. And you need your favorite carving tool. You’ve already taken 10-flights of stairs to make it to the apartment.

Unfortunately, you’ve left your heavy toolbox in the car. You only came up with a handful of essentials.

So now, you’re going to have to climb down 10-flights of stairs and get back up again.

Solution:

To be fair, you shouldn’t have left it lying in the toolbox in the first place (pun intended!). But if you had the best tool belt framing kit, then there would have been no problems.

You could have easily carried it with you.

Short on time? Check out our short list of Best Framing Tool Belt in 2023!

Comparison Table for Framing Tool Belt

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Table of Content

 [show]

• Benefits of Framing Tool Belts [Inspecting the Need]
• How Do the Best Framers Tool Belt Work?
• Why Do You Need to Wear a Framing Tool Belt [Inspecting the Need]?
• The Best Framing Tool Belt Setup: Things to Consider before Buying
• Care and Maintenance [Some Important Tips]
• Closing Remarks

Jump To The Right Framing Tool Belt

Best Overall – Dewalt DG5617
Leather Framing Tool Belt – Occidental Leather 5089 Review
Best Budget – Dead on Framers Rig
Back Support Tool Belt – CLC 51452
Light weight & Comfortable – OX Tools Belt

1. Dewalt Framer Tool Belt- For Lots of Space

DEWALT, as many of our readers already know, has a good reputation overall. They don’t just excel in the power tools market. As a matter of fact, they excel in the peripherals market as well, with the same level of authenticity.

And we are certain you will find that authenticity in the DG5617 from DEWALT.

Features and Benefits

Let’s take a look at the entire package:

Good Adjustability

Adjustable suspenders are one of the key features of the DEWALT DG5617. You will find the padded yoke-style suspenders to be helpful for long hours of work.

Interestingly, there are two more tiny pockets attached to suspenders.

All in all, when you’re using the tool belt, fatigue should not be an issue. The padding will save your shoulders.

It fits for all sizes between 29-inches to 46-inches.

Top-notch Construction 

With DEWALT, you can be sure that there will be no compromise in the overall build quality.

And that holds true for the DG5617. You can store your nails, pencils, and other small tools without a hiccup. The 20 pockets you have come with proper stitching. It has 9 main compartments (including a speed square pocket), 11 smaller compartments, a carabiner, a hammer loop, a zippered storage pocket, a utility knife holder, and a cell phone holder.

All in all, if you’re worried about longevity, then it should not be an issue.

Super comfortable

The Dri-Lex 5-inches padded shoulder suspenders have good adjustability. Also, thanks to their design, comfort shouldn’t be a problem.

As a user, you will feel the difference during the long hours.

Proper pockets and loops

The loops and pockets that accompany the mesh fabric are adjustable as well. You can configure them to a certain degree.

And that, as a professional, will allow better functionality.

Granted, the cleaning issue is a problem. Despite that, it is our strong belief that it will offer the convenience you need.

2. Occidental Tool Belt- Very Impressed Belt

Occidental, as many of you are already aware, is one of the famous brands for professional tools and peripherals. Their reputation lies in offering some of the best framing carpenter tool belt options.

And that’s only possible because they have so many well-rounded features within their products. Also, the features themselves aren’t overwhelming.

They always maintain a balance.

So, let’s see why the Occidental Leather 5089 is in the very top of our framer tool belt review.

Features and Benefits

Here’s what you’re getting:

Superior build

There’s no way you won’t appreciate the top-grain leather construction. As a matter of fact, it’s the very first thing you’ll notice as a user.

All the pockets and pouches come with the same level of construction. And you will find it a treat to use.

Seamless integrity

Integrity goes hand in hand with the construction of a tool belt. And that goes true for the Occidental Leather 5089 as well.

The pockets and tool pouches come with decent quality stitching. Also, the copper riveting increases the overall integrity by a decent amount.

The Occidental belt offers 23 multi-use pockets and necessary tool holders.

All these things tie-down together and offer the best integrity possible.

Intuitive structural support

All the small tools holder has a specific purpose. That is, they are specific to which hands you use.

And that helps with the overall usability. Although there is a learning curve, you will find it to be useful in the long run.

It fits any waist size staring small to XXX-large extent. Moreover, it offers 9 different holes for the clasp to match the strap into your waist size. 

No-spill pattern

Although the no-spill design is a very common thing tool pouches and belts, you’ll find this tool belt does it better. As a matter of fact, the attention to detail is very obvious here.

Despite the not-so-great weight balance, you won’t find anything in particular to nitpick. The features speak for themselves.

3. Dead on Tool Belts- A Real Back Saver

When it comes to the best framing belt, Dead ON DO-FR Framers Rig comes with a lot of decent features. Otherwise, why would it be on our recommendations list?

Features and Benefits

Let’s take a look at the entire package:

On point build quality

You really cannot expect a mediocre construction at this point. And the 600 Denier Poly will not disappoint you.

We know, for a professional, build quality is very important. And we believe the DO-FR Framers Rig with its ballistic fabric will live up to your expectations.  

Decent overall comfort

You have decent padding on the shoulder pads. And that should ensure proper user experience for you.

D-rings are attached on the upper side of the belt. The tool belts adjust from 28-inch to 36 inches waist.

So, there shouldn’t be any concerns regarding comfort levels.

Proper pocket integration 

The 32 pockets for nail and small tools are one of the noteworthy features of this tool belt. Also, it has four boxed shaped front nail pouches, a sturdy hammer loop, and a rafter square pocket. And, for this reason, you don’t need to worry about extra space.

Back support

Although it’s not that important of a feature, when it comes to the best framing tool belt setup, it matters. Back support is a necessity.

And this 5-lbs. rig with its rafter square pocket is able to provide to the point.

Although we don’t appreciate the cheap Velcro, we do believe it’s a product worth noticing. We’ll leave the decision to you.

4. Custom Leathercraft Tool Belt- Jackpot!

The CLC Custom LeatherCraft 51452 is a complete package. You get all the essential features you need as a professional.

Features and Benefits

Here are the things you should know:

Good comfort levels

The 5-inch padded belt along with dual-tongue roller buckle ensures you have a proper fit.

Because of that, you will feel comfortable during long hours.

On-point adjustability

With all its 27 pockets (17 for pliers and 8 for nails and stuff), the belt comes proper adjustability features. You can carry it with one hand.

It fits waist sizes of 29-inch to 46-inch.

And the adjustability allows you to be agile with your workflow.

Decent quality leather build

The 1680D ballistic nylon and top-grain leather offer the best possible experience to a user. And with the proper build quality, you are getting the assurance of long life as well.

Proper stitching and reinforcement

With proper construction comes proper reinforcement. And the double layering along with proper stitching ensures that all your tools remain safe.

Despite the mediocre weight distribution, we believe the features outweigh the minor snags. So, it’s up to you to make the decision.

5. OX Tools Belt- Rugged and Practical

The Framer’s Rig from OX Tool comes with few decent tricks up its sleeve. For that very reason, we believe it deserves to be in our review on the best framing tool belt.

So, let’s have a look at everything the construction rig has to offer. 

Features and Benefits

So, what are you getting?

On point construction 

For starters, the high-quality, oil-tanned leather build quality is one of the best you’ll find out there. Working with this tool belt will feel just right.

Another benefit that comes with such construction is its ability to withstand wear and tear. The intensity of the resistance is commendable.

Furthermore, the ox belt isn’t too stiff and relaxed enough for up to 10-hours working. Isn’t that amazing?

Extended Reinforcement

As always, with such top-of-the-line options, there will some form of reinforcement. And it will be done better than others.

Fortunately, the dual-belt tunnel reinforcement along with the strong rivets make it a very contender. And that’s what you, as a professional would want right?

Antique finish

We’ll have to award extra aesthetic points to this particular framer tool belt. The bronze hardware finish is something you’ll rarely find.

So, if you are a professional with flair, then this toll belt should make the most sense.

Quality compartments and loops

The hammer loops on this tool belt allow no spillage. So, you can rest by eliminating the though of spillage.

According to the product specification, it includes a Pro framer’s tool bag, 3 pouch Pro hammer holder, 3 pouch Pro fastener bag, 3-inch wide tool belt with 22 pockets. There is a lot of room for nails and your necessary tools.

It can fit waist size from 29-inches to 46-inches.

And the quality is top-notch as usual.

Now if you’re a left-handed user, then the orientation may be problematic. Otherwise, it’s a solid choice for any professional.

Benefits of Framing Tool Belts [Inspecting the Need]

In continuation to our scenario, we now have to discuss the benefits of having a framing tool belt for small tools. But before we do that, there is something to clear out first.

Like a carpenter, professionals like electricians and other level technicians could have had the same problem!

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s focus on the benefits.

You don’t have to forget about your tools

From the scenario, it is prudent that you don’t forget the tools you need, even the smallest one (otherwise, you know the drill).

And that’s where the best tool belt for framing comes in. A framing belt ensures you have all the essential tools on you at all times.

It’s a simple harness type contraption that keeps all your creative equipment in one place. For this reason, you don’t have to worry about forgetting them or losing them.

You are portable

One of the key advantages you get with a framing belt is that you can carry around your tools with you.

And you can do it without carrying extra load. All you need to do is harness all the essential tools you need for the job.

That’s it, you’re good to go.

You have proper usability

Proper usability is an essential thing for any electrician or carpenter.

If you have a framing tool belt, then it is understandable that you’d want to utilize it properly.

And that’s possible with a framer belt.

You see, with the proper tool belt you have the option to customize your tools arsenal the way you please. As a matter of fact, oftentimes it’s easier to open the toolbox, grab the tools you need and put them on the belt.

That way you can get on with your work in less amount of time possible.

Also, you don’t have to deal with fatigue all the time. Because using a tool belt will eventually establish muscle memory. And that will make a faster workhorse.

How Do the Best Framers Tool Belt Work?

If you want to know how to wear the best framers tool belt, then it’s pretty much the same as you’d wear in any other case.

• Pass the belt through the waistband of your pull-on trousers. It attaches the framing belt harness to your trousers.
• Make sure the suspenders cover your shoulders and come back onto your chest.
• Now attach the frontal suspender braces to your waist. Your belt should help you out with this.
• Twist the pockets for a better angle.
• Adjust the positioning of the compartments/pockets as you please.
• You are now ready to rock.

Why Do You Need to Wear a Framing Tool Belt [Inspecting the Need]?

The need for the best framing tool belt is kind of obvious.

You are not just paying for a tool belt that works. As a matter of fact, you will need to make sure that the tool belt offers:

• Proper portability
• Good usability and control
• Adequate ease of use
• Flexibility of orientation

If your tool belt has all of these features, then you have the best framing belt setup. And that’s going to be based on your needs in particular.

The Best Framing Tool Belt Setup: Things to Consider before Buying

We believe this is the most crucial part of the entire review.

Here’s why:

Let’s say you’re going with one of the recommended choices. Cool! It means we were able to convey all the right information in a way that makes sense to you.

But that doesn’t mean we’re always correct. Also, there may be a time when you plan on trying out a different framing tool belt.

We get it. Also, we would like to encourage such an enthusiastic approach.

But wait. How will you decide on the best pro framing carpenter tool belt?

Of course, you need some sort of guideline to help you along the way. So, here are a few tips to help you with the decision-making process.

The Size and Fit

If the framing tool belt doesn’t have a proper fit, then it is probably better to skip it entirely.

Because of the sizing is improper, then it’ll probably pose a problem with the overall usability. As a matter of fact, it is possible that you may not be able to use it for a sensible amount of time.

In general, almost 100% of the vendors will list the waist sizes on their respective websites. You may want to keep an eye out on that for good measure.

Also, if possible, try and seek a second opinion from a fellow professional. This always helps. 

The Material Choice and Compartments

In general, the material choices have seen an improvement over the years. In fact, it is probably safe to say that you won’t get fooled by a strange deal (unless you go for a product that’s way too cheap).

The thing that’s going to be a crucial buying factor for the user is the number of compartments and their usability.

And there’s no generalization on this one. Based on your needs, you’ll need to decide on the number that works for you. Generally, if you go with a mid-tier option, then the chances of you getting a better deal are higher.

The Portability and Control

There’s no best way to set up a framing tool belt. As a matter of fact, it’s almost exclusively dependent on the professional.

Although many users claim to have a generalized way of organizing your tool belt, you are the only one who knows what you need.

And that’s the control bit of the framing tool belt.

As far as the portability goes, then the weight balance will play a crucial role here. Putting too much weight on the tool belt will hamper it. So, you will have to play your cards right.

In short, you’ll have to make the experience enjoyable in your favor. And it implies that you lay out your gear in the best possible orientation. 

The Brand Value

It’s the single most important part when it comes to the best tool belt for framing.

You see, if you choose a proper brand, then you don’t have to worry about the overall integrity of the product and the after sales service. The top brands in the market have one thing in common.

They care about their customers. As a matter of fact, they are not just selling the product. They are selling an experience.

So, we would advise you not to cheap out. And if it’s not possible at all and you want the best tool belts for framers under $50, our framing tool belt review can help you out.

Care and Maintenance [Some Important Tips]

There are certain things you can do to take care of your framing tool belt. For instance:

• Make sure you don’t spend too much time in extremely humid weather.
• Once you’re done with a project, clean off the dust from the tool belt.
• Coconut oil is one of the best things to take care of a leather framing belt. You may want to rinse your tool belt every once in a while, with it.
• In order to clean the tool belt, use lukewarm water (temperature should not exceed 38-degree Celsius).
• Gently clean out any grime from the belt with warm soapy water. In general, the soap concentration needs to be lower (2 times water and 1-time soap-2:1 or 3:1 ratio).
• Finally, use your tool belt with care. If you do so, it’s going to last you a long time.

Closing Remarks

Congratulations on making it this far into the best framing tool belt review.

Let’s be honest here for a second; there’s been a lot of information to cover. Unfortunately, we kept on grinding to give you all the information in the most sensible way.

But we couldn’t do that.

So, we decided to reach out and find out your experiences on the matter. If you’ve ever used a framing belt from our recommendations, then why not share your experience.

Maybe you can help a buddy out.

Cheers to that!