Klein has recently launched several new Tradesman Pro tool bags and organizers, and they have made significant improvements to the six original Tradesman Pro products.
The new additions include the 55431 lighted tool bag (LED), 55432 17″ tool tote, 5183 drill pouch, 5184 and 5189 medium and large hard cases.
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Notable updates to the original/existing Tradesmen Pro products include lock bars on the Extreme and Ultimate Electrician’s tool bags that help to keep the bags propped open for easy access; greater height to the backpack that helps it accommodate longer screwdrivers, and a new large zippered pocket for storing small tools and parts; fully molded bases for the 8″ and 10″ totes and shoulder pouch for better stability and protection from the elements.
Klein 55431 Lighted Tool Bag
The highlight of the new 55431 lighted tool bag is of course going to be the LED flashlight module. Klein designed the bag with a double-sided mount for the removable light that allows it to illuminate the inside of the tool bag or the outside work area.
The LED module is also built with a magnetic back and equipped with a swivel hook to increase its versatility. It can be attached or removed from the tool bag with a simple twist.
You can buy the LED work light separately, as part number 55437.
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Features include 31 internal and external pockets, including several covered ones that could be useful for keeping smartphones out of plain sight, a fully molded bottom section that resists dirt, wear, and the elements, 1680D waved ballistic nylon construction, and an adjustable padded shoulder strap.
I haven’t yet decided whether this is a gimmick or tradesman convenience, but the fact that the LED light is a removable component eases some of my concerns and hesitations. It’s an interesting feature that helps the new tool bag stand apart from the very many others currently on the market.
Here’s a quick teaser video from Klein:
MSRP: $97.70
Street: $86
LED MSRP: $19.13
LED Street: $17
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Now(LED via Amazon)
Klein 55432 Tool Tote
The new Klein 55432 lunchbox-shaped 17″ tool tote features 1680D weaved nylon construction, a movable metal handle with rubber hand grip, 17 tool pockets included zippered outer compartments, a divided interior to separate hand tools from bulky tools such as drill/drivers, a tape measure hook, adjustable shoulder strap, and durable molded bottom section.
Although this image doesn’t show it, the tool tote comes with a cover that helps to protect contents. What impresses me is how well the tote appears to be constructed. This looks like a tool bag that will deliver years of reliable service.
MSRP: $111.17
Street: $98
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Klein 5183 Drill Pouch
The new 5183 drill holster fits common cordless drills, impact drivers, and screwdrivers, and can accommodate belts up to 2″ wide. Pockets on the outside are sized for convenient stowing of drilling and driving accessories, and a snap closure helps keep your drill or driver from flopping around.
MSRP: $21.38
Street: $23
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Klein 5184 Medium and 5189 Large Tool Cases
Klein’s canvas tool bags are great solutions for loose hand tools and supplies, and they provide some protection, but they’re not ideal for protecting things like multimeters, testers, or other delicate instruments. That’s where these zippered hard cases come into play.
The medium organizer is well sized for smaller multimeters, while the large organizer is spacious enough for larger meters and a couple of accompanying hand tools.
MSRP: $18.26 each
Street: $22 medium, $21 large
Walty
The zippered hard cases are $16.99 + 5.99 shipping on amazon. The large one has a model number of 5189 on amazon. I like the looks of them, but I think I’ll wait until they are a Prime item or try to find them elsewhere. $6 shipping is a little steep.
fred
I think that I’ve noticed Amazon marking up their Prime eligible merchandise by just enough to cover the shipping charge and still stay competitive. So for the $16.99 hard case – it would not surprise me if it got priced between $20 and $22 if and when it gets offered
Walty
I haven’t seen any markup. Almost everything on Prime has been the same price as what I can buy it for locally. I buy on Amazon constantly and I’m a cheap ass so I always compare prices.
Matt
I really like those Klein 5184 Medium and 4189 Large Tool Cases. I’m always grabbing my small zipper case that came with my multimeter and then digging out my screwdrivers. Now I can keep both in one spot. Always have wondered what I would ever do with some of my extra screwdrivers that are just sitting around.