Occidental Leather 5135 LG Stronghold Belt System

Important: Skip the Pants Size!

Forget your pants waist measurement – it won't give you the right fit. Here's the proper way to size your tool belt.

Measuring Your Belt Size:

The most accurate method is to measure a tool belt you already wear regularly. Here's how:

1. Put on your typical work clothes (pants, regular belt, shirt, hoodie – whatever you normally wear on the job).
   
2. Wear your current tool belt at your usual position and fasten it to your preferred comfort level. Take note of which hole you're using.
   
3. Remove the belt and lay it flat on a surface. Measure from the buckle's end to the hole you were using. This measurement is your true belt size.
   
4. Match your measurement to the sizing chart below.
   

Don't Have a Tool Belt Yet?

No problem – borrow one from a colleague for measuring, or use a cloth measuring tape or rope around your waist where you'd wear the belt (over your work clothes). Measure where it feels comfortable.

Sizing Tips:

• Between sizes? Go with the larger option for optimal comfort.
• These belts are engineered to fasten at the center hole, giving you 4 inches of adjustment in either direction (9 holes total spanning 8 inches).
• Always measure over your full work outfit – tool belts sit over everything you're wearing.

Sizing Chart:

• Small: 34" (86.5 cm)
• Medium: 37" (94 cm)
• Large: 41" (104.5 cm)
• X-Large: 45" (114.5 cm)
• XX-Large: 49" (124.5 cm)
• XXX-Large: 53" (135 cm)

Why Your Pants Size Doesn't Work:

• Pants use stretchy fabrics that conform to your body; our leather belts mold over time but aren't elastic.
• Clothing sizes are inconsistent – a size 36 in slim fit differs significantly from a relaxed 36.
• Tool belts go over your entire outfit, not just your waist.
• Most people need a belt 3-7 inches larger than their pants waist, depending on wear style and layering.

Measuring Instructions:

1. You'll need a flexible tape measure and your tool belt.
2. With your tool belt on, measure from the top of your toolbelt where the suspenders will attach in the back.
3. Bring the tape measure diagonally up and over the opposite shoulder to the top of the belt where suspenders will attach in the front.
4. Round that measurement up to the nearest whole number.

Sizing Chart:

• Small: ≤ 38" (96.5 cm)
• Standard: 38-48" (96.5 - 122 cm)
• Extension Kit: > 48" (122 cm)

The installation process involves riveting the hammer sleeve directly to your chosen pouch or rig:

1. Position the Sleeve: Determine the optimal placement on your pouch or rig. The sleeve should be positioned where you want to carry your hammer typically behind or on the side of your main pouch for easy access.
2. Mark Your Holes: Align the hammer sleeve with your pouch and mark where the rivet holes will go through both the sleeve and your pouch/rig.
3. Install the Copper Rivets: Using the included copper rivets, secure the hammer sleeve to your pouch. The rivets provide a permanent, durable attachment that will withstand years of daily use.
4. Check the Fit: Once installed, test your hammer's fit. It should slide in and out easily while remaining secure during movement.

Installation Tips:

• Take your time positioning the sleeve before making permanent holes - measure twice, drill once.
• The sleeve is designed to tuck your hammer behind your pouch, keeping it close to your body and out of the way.
• Make sure the hammer head will be easily accessible when you reach for it.
• Consider your dominant hand and work style when choosing placement.
• For detailed visual guidance, refer to the installation video provided with your kit or available on Occidental Leather's website.

What Are the Benefits?

• No More Leg Slapping: Keeps your hammer from swinging and hitting your legs
• Quick Access: Positions hammer at your fingertips for one-handed retrieval
• Compact Carry: Tucks hammer close to your body, ideal for working in tight spaces
• Protects Your Work: Prevents hammer from damaging freshly installed materials like cabinets, drywall, or trim
• High Mobility: Perfect for framing, roofing, finish carpentry, and other jobs requiring freedom of movement

How Long Will It Last?

Made from 8 oz leather and secured with copper rivets, the Occidental Hammer Sleeve is built to endure years of daily jobsite use when properly maintained.

Can I Remove It Later?

No - the copper rivet installation is permanent. Choose your placement carefully before installation. This permanent attachment ensures maximum durability and reliability on the job.

Do I Need Special Tools?

You'll need basic rivet-setting tools to install the copper rivets. If you're not familiar with setting rivets, consider having a leather worker or experienced colleague help with the installation, or watch the provided video tutorial first.