The CO2 Tool Bag by Outils Océans According to the manufacturer, it is designed for mobile use and is intended to hold both hand tools and power tools. This makes the bag ideal for boaters who want to know their tools are safely stowed away, even in rough seas.
More space for tools
The CO2 measures 45 x 24 x 26 centimetres and weighs 1.1 kilograms when empty. It is therefore noticeably larger and heavier than the slimline CO3. This difference is crucial for owners: the CO2 offers space for an expanded basic on-board toolkit, such as screwdrivers, pliers, sockets, cable lugs, fuses, a multimeter and a compact cordless drill/driver complete with charger.
However, the manufacturer’s stated load capacity of 15 kilograms should not be taken as an invitation to pack every tool you have. On smaller motorboats, it also matters whether the bag can still be easily lifted out of a storage locker or from under a seat. The main advantage of the CO2 is therefore that it allows you to organise your tools by task: electrical work, engine maintenance and minor repairs can all be kept organised in a single bag, without a large metal case taking up space on board.
Large main compartment with dividers
The CO2 is designed as a rigid bag. According to Outils Océans, it features a large main compartment, a central divider, a tool holder at the front and two pockets on the back of the divider. The bag is closed by a lid with fastenings. It is designed to be carried using a shoulder strap and two handles.
This layout is ideal for everyday life on board, where tools need not only to be stowed away but also found quickly. Frequently used pliers and screwdrivers can be stored in the tool holder. Measuring tools, spare fuses or heat-shrink tubing are best kept in separate compartments so that they do not get lost amongst heavy metal tools. Larger items such as a socket set or a drill can be stored in the large main compartment.
When working on the fuel system and outboard motor, it is also worth keeping tools and consumables clearly separate. The BOOTE guide to Handling jerry cans without spilling shows which aids might be useful to have on board.
Retains its shape, is washable and designed for heavy-duty use
According to the manufacturer, the body of the CO2 is made of semi-rigid polyethylene. The lid and side gussets are made from polyester coated with PVC on both sides. The straps and edging tape are made from polypropylene, the rivets from brass, and the fastenings from injection-moulded polyamide. Outils Océans also describes the bag as washable and waterproof.
For everyday use on a boat, this generally sounds like a good idea: a bag that retains its shape is easier to pack into tight storage spaces than a soft bag. Coated surfaces are more forgiving of dirt and oil stains than untreated fabric. Nevertheless, the CO2 bag is no substitute for a waterproof bag. Anyone storing it in a damp locker, in the open cockpit or permanently near the bilge should check the storage space carefully and take extra care to protect sensitive electronic equipment.
Useful for larger on-board jobs
The CO2 is not only suitable for service staff, but also for boat owners who carry out regular maintenance themselves and wish to keep a more comprehensive range of tools to hand on board. Its design can be particularly advantageous when working on the engine, the electrical system or a pump, when tools and measuring instruments need to be carried together to the work site. Compared to a fixed toolbox, a bag on board has a practical advantage: if it moves in rough seas, it is much less likely to bang against furniture, panelling or other equipment and makes less noise. This can provide additional protection for the boat and the tools, but is no substitute for secure, non-slip stowage wherever possible.
Its limitations lie in the boat’s storage space. At 26 centimetres deep, the bag requires a sufficiently wide and dry storage area. It is probably too big for a small emergency kit containing only pliers, a screwdriver, adhesive tape and spare fuses. On the other hand, additional specialist tools may be required for more extensive work on the drive. BOOTE provides an overview of the key differences to consider with outboard motors Diesel versus petrol in outboard engines.
Price
The Outils-Tool Bag CO2 is ideal for motorboat owners who want to carry more than just a small emergency kit and organise their on-board tools systematically. The large main compartment, the internal compartments and the stated load capacity of 15 kilograms make it a versatile mobile workshop. The large main compartment, the internal dividers and the stated load capacity of 15 kilograms make this a flexible mobile workshop. The manufacturer’s price is 137.52 euros.
Do you prefer a tool bag or a hard-shell case? Share your experiences in the comments.
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik