This Old Tool Belt

Tom Silva has been joined at the hip with McGuire-Nicholas full-grain leather tool belts for more than 40 years; this is the third one TOH ’s general contractor has owned. Tom says his fondness for this model comes down to two features: its easy-to-adjust, quick-release buckle and its five relatively small pockets. “They’re just the right size for the things I need, and can’t be overloaded with extra stuff.” Here’s what they typically hold

by Thomas Baker

Rafter Square

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

For guiding circular saws when making crosscuts.

Swanson Speed Square

Ear Plugs

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

To protect against hearing loss on noisy job sites.

Ear plugs, Amazon

Combination Square

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

For marking the reveals on door and window casings, among other things.

Swanson 12-in combo square

Trim Hammer

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

Tom drilled holes in his Hart Trimmer to improve his grip.

Hart Tool Company trim hammer 16oz, WorthPoint

Nailset

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

Saves wood from errant hammer tracks when nailing trim.

DeWalt interchangeable nail set

Block Plane

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

This bronze beauty from Lie-Nielsen Toolworks trims edges to the scribe line.

Lie-Nielsen No. 102 low angle block plane

Compass

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

To draw scribe lines for matching up mating surfaces.

School Smart ball bearing compass

Glue

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

Tom uses Super Glue as a quick clamp. The pocket’s crusty buildup is excess wood glue that he wipes off his fingers.

Gorilla Super Glue (clear)

6-in-1 Screwdriver

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

Has two Phillips bits, two flat bits, and two nut drivers.

HDX 6-in-1 screwdriver, Home Depot