BEST TOOLBAGS

We test 10 bags for tools to see which has bragging rights

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IF you need to carry tools, a bag is often a better bet than a box, because its soft edges are kinder to car trim and your legs. They are also a better choice for keeping emergency and get-you-home kit in the car, because a bag can be squashed into places a rigid box can't.

So which is the tool bag to keep your car kit safe and handy? We packed 10 top sellers and tried them out to sort the heavy hitters from the dead weights.

How we tested

WE split our samples between smaller designs for get-you-home kit and the larger versions that could house a more comprehensive selection of tools.

Our selection included a compressor, jump pack and multimeter, plus common automotive hand tools, including a small torque wrench. For the bigger bags we added a full-size torque wrench, cordless impact wrench and drill, plus larger tools.

Divide and conquer is the mantra when storing tools to keep them separate and easy to find, so we looked for plenty of pockets, preferring internal and covered ones, because kit can get lost from open external pouches. Loops were factored in, while we favoured solid plastic bases, comfortable handles and carry straps, plus we assessed practicality and build quality. Price was the final consideration.

Verdict

WITH so many similar designs and prices, picking a winner was difficult and the results were very close, but the Forge Steel is our choice here. Its low price and usable layout secure the victory from the other Screwfix offering by Magnusson. The keenly priced Silverline just edged the win among the larger bags we tested.

Draper 420mm Open Mouth Tool Bag 87359

Price: £17.99 Rating: ✰✰✰✰ Contact: drapertools.​com