Dewalt has come out with a new LED-lighted tool backpack, model DGL523. It features 48 internal and 9 outside-facing tool pockets, for organizing and storing all sizes of tools, accessories, and parts.
According to Dewalt, the tool bag can hold a drill, extension cords, pliers screwdrivers, wrench sets, drill bits, electrical testers, and other types of tools.
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The back is padded for increased user comfort, as are the carrying handles and shoulder straps. The bottom is padded as well, for reduced abrasion and better wear resistance.
As for the LED, it’s powered by (2) AAA batteries and can be aimed at a work area, or into the backpack itself to help you identify and retrieve tools and other contents. There are 3 light output levels.
Price: $80-100
Buy Now(via Amazon)
First Thoughts
Surprisingly, this isn’t the first lighted tool bag we’ve seen – that honor goes to one of Klein’s newish tool bags.
Having an LED worklight attached to a tool bag can be convenient, but I also see it as needless expense. You can get an inexpensive headlamp – such as this Energizer model – for as little as $15, or even less if you go for a no-name import brand. A good flashlight can be had for under $20 as well.
One could always say that it’s better to have the built-in light and not need it than need it and not have it.
From the looks of it, this bag has a large inner compartment for holding bigger and bulkier tools, unlike Milwaukee’s tool backpack which has a larger outer compartment.
Right now the pre-order price is $100 at Amazon, but at least one independent dealer shows a price of $80. Once the backpack is released and in-stock, its price will likely be closer to $80 everywhere.
Joaquim J Monteiro says
Looks to be the same as:
http://www.goclc.com/ProductDetail.aspx?sku=L255
Stuart says
You’re right, great find!
The CLC Tech Gear bag is priced at $88 and change at Amazon (LINK) and might be a good alternative for those who want a little less yellow in their tool storage gear.
While Dewalt’s image suggests that the main compartment doesn’t unzip all the way, the CLC product images show that the bag’s main compartment can open all the way, with the rear panel laying flat. I think that this makes the bag a lot more appealing to me, as it means the main compartment is not just a bottomless pit to lose tools in.
Chris Fyfe says
Many headlamps come with multiple base plates , to allow for mounting to hard hats etc . The idea of permanent parking for a headlamp isn’t a bad idea .
Chris
pete says
I like the idea for a semi-permanent light attached to the bag for one reason. It’s always there! Granted if your doing work that isn’t table level or ground level it won’t be very useful but still it’s enough to light the general work area.
The bag looks kinda cool maybe because it’s simply new. I have a co-worker that will sure dig it, like all things DeWalt lol.
mikeh says
Hey Stuart – isn’t this a new bag for Dewalt also. not sure I’ve seen this before.
http://www.amazon.com/DeWalt-DG5570-Roller-Tool-17-Inch/dp/B00QNTVVL4/
Stuart says
Yes, that’s also a new one. I plan to cover that and the other new tool bag separately.
Michael says
I can’t remember the brand, but I picked up a lighted tool bag on closeout at Lowes. It looks like it is probably made by the same people. The light comes in handy for lighting up the inside of the bag.
john says
I’m going to have to pass on this. Backpacks belong in a classroom not out in the field. The light is ok for the bag but if you really need light then you should already have one in your bag. I do hvac work an carry a dcl050 or a dcl510.
Jay says
Does this have a laptop slot?
Stuart says
I don’t believe so, but you should be able to pack in a sleeved laptop.
Alden says
I believe I read somewhere that the Dewalt bag is made by CLC for Dewalt. I’m just wondering how much the light adds to the price. Also, I’d like to see it with the heavy duty rubber base that helps it stay upright and keeps out moisture.