I first laid eyes on this new item from Yeti at Outdoor Retailer in July. Although 5 gallon buckets have been around for awhile, I had to take a closer look at the Yeti LoadOut 5 Gallon Bucket. Typical Yeti over engineering was evident as soon as I picked it up. Made from injection molded plastic and weighing a hefty 5.8 pounds empty, this thing feels virtually indestructible. Featuring a comfortable nylon strap handle and a rubber base pad, this is the perfect item to throw in the back of my work truck. I’m certain there are endless uses for this bucket, but I’m only going to describe how I’ve been utilizing it at work.

One look inside my tool trailer shows a trail of bucket destruction. Orange Homer buckets in various states of degradation are stacked up in the back corner. An array of ugly orange buckets with broken handles and worn out interiors from my grout mixing drill attachment. And a reminder of their inferiority. Owning a successful general contracting company for over 15 years, I’ve gone through my share of these disposable buckets. Of course, they only cost a few bucks so my expectations are pretty low. But if you total up how many I’ve consumed in the last 15 years, it makes sense to look into something a little more durable. At $39.99, the average person might not be able to justify this purchase. But for the Professional, it makes perfect sense.

With several accessories offered for the Yeti LoadOut Bucket, I’m able to customize it for my intended use. First is the Utility Gear Belt. This heavy nylon attachment with a QuadPocket design allows storage and easy access to all my hand tools. It also features a small row of HitchPoint Grid webbing for items like the YETI MOLLE bottle opener…for after work activities. Second accessory is the LoadOut Caddy. With a retractible handle, this plastic 3 compartment organizer fits securely just below the lip of the Yeti LoadOut Bucket. Useful for storing and separating various nails and fasteners. To top off the list of accessories is the LoadOut Lid. Inspired by the Rambler lids, this clear reinforced top can handle up to 300 pounds of pressure while still allowing full view of its contents.

Yeti LoadOut Bucket specs courtesy of yeti.com

• Dimensions – 15 7/8″ Tall x 10 1/4″ Wide (base) x 12 7/8″ Wide (top)
• Weight – 5.8 pounds
• BEARFOOT™ NON-SLIP RING – No slipping, no sliding, and it’s non-marking
• FOOD SAFE – Just in case
• SURESTRONG™ BUILD – This workhorse is high-impact-resistant and virtually indestructible
• HEFTYHAULER™ HANDLE – Designed for easy hauling and comfortable carrying
• ANCHORPOINT™ TIE-DOWN SLOTS – Secure your bucket to the back of your ATV, truck, or boat to keep it snug and secure
• LIPGRIP™ HANDLE – Makes carrying your catch seem like less of a chore
• MSRP – $39.99

Many readers may scoff at the cost of the Yeti LoadOut Bucket. But I can tell you that I own a couple for work and one for my car washing tools. Knowing that these buckets will never need to be replaced is what sold me. It just makes financial sense. Builders, fishermen, farmers and other professionals will appreciate the durability and value of this product. And with the holidays closing in, you might want to consider the LoadOut Bucket as a gift for the person that has everything.