I still remember my first day on a bricklaying job site. I showed up with a cheap trowel set from a big-box store and watched seasoned masons pull out their well-worn Marshalltowns and W Roses. Within an hour I understood why the right masonry tools for bricklayers matter so much. A good trowel feels like an extension of your hand. A bad one fights you on every brick.
After a decade of building walls, repointing chimneys, and testing gear on real jobs, our team has narrowed down the best masonry tools for bricklayers you can buy in 2026. We focused on the 12 tools that come up again and again in apprentice kits, contractor trucks, and union training programs. Whether you are laying your first brick or upgrading a professional kit, this list covers what works and what is worth your money.
Inside this guide, you will find quick picks for shoppers in a hurry, detailed reviews of every tool, a buying guide for matching gear to your skill level and project, and answers to the questions we hear most often in masonry forums.
Top 3 Picks for Masonry Tools for Bricklayers (August 2026)
MARSHALLTOWN London Brick Trowel
- Forged high carbon steel
- DuraSoft handle
- Made in USA
- 11 inch blade
Goldblatt 12PCS Masonry Tool Set
- 12-piece set
- Hardened steel
- Carrying bag included
- Rust-resistant
Best Masonry Tools for Bricklayers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| MARSHALLTOWN London Brick Trowel |
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 M-D Building Pointing Trowel |
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 Marshalltown Margin Trowel |
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| ESTWING Bricklayers Hammer |
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 Crescent Brick Chisel |
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 MARSHALLTOWN Brick Jointer |
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 Mayhew Handguarded Mason Chisel |
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 Bon Tuck Pointing Tool |
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 MARSHALLTOWN Aluminum Hawk |
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 Marshalltown Rhino Ruler |
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 Stabila 48 Inch Masonry Level |
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| Goldblatt 12PCS Masonry Tool Set |
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1. MARSHALLTOWN London Brick Trowel – The Bricklayer’s Main Trowel
MARSHALLTOWN London Brick Trowel, 11 x 4 7/8 Inch, Assembled in the USA
- Forged one-piece high carbon steel blade
- Taper-ground and heat treated for strength
- DuraSoft handle reduces user fatigue
- Excellent balance for long workdays
- Backed by Marshalltown reputation in trade
- Premium price versus imports
- Limited stock during peak season
The MARSHALLTOWN London Brick Trowel is the trowel I see on more jobs than any other. The London pattern has a curved heel that lets you pick up a full bed of mortar and slap it on the wall in one motion. After laying a few thousand bricks with this trowel, you stop thinking about the tool and start thinking about the wall.
The forged one-piece high carbon steel blade is taper-ground and heat treated, which gives it the right flex without feeling flimsy. I have hammered on the handle to tap bricks into place and the tang has not loosened. The DuraSoft handle genuinely cuts down on hand fatigue compared to the older wood-handle designs.
The 11 inch blade is the workhorse size for standard brick and block work in North America. It holds enough mortar for three to four bricks at a time, which keeps you moving on long runs. Marshalltown assembles this in the USA from US-forged steel, and the brand has been making trowels since 1890.
What I like most is how the blade thins near the tip. You can butter the end of a brick cleanly and slide it into a tight joint without dragging mortar across the face. The polished surface wipes clean at the end of the day with a quick swipe of a wet rag.
Who this trowel is right for
Apprentices and pros who lay brick or block daily will benefit most from this trowel. The DuraSoft handle and forged blade hold up to years of full-time use. If you only do occasional repairs, you can save money with a smaller margin trowel, but the London pattern is the one you grow into.
Who should pass on it
If you are doing stone veneer work or tight repointing jobs, the 11 inch blade is too long. Pick up a margin trowel or a pointing trowel instead. Hobbyists on a tight budget can find imported London patterns for less, but the steel quality varies and the handles often loosen up.
2. M-D Building Pointing Trowel – Affordable Mortar Work
MD Building Pointing Trowel, Mortar Tool, Black/Yellow, 2-7/8in x 5-1/2in
- Stainless steel blade resists rust
- Ergonomic TPR grip is comfortable
- Affordable entry-level price
- Lightweight for overhead work
- Smaller blade limits production on big walls
The M-D Building Pointing Trowel is one of those tools I recommend to first-year apprentices without hesitation. It costs about the same as a fast-food lunch but does real work. I keep one in my bag as a backup, and I have used it for patching, repointing, and small repair jobs for years.
The stainless steel blade holds an edge and cleans up easily after contact with wet mortar. The narrow pointed tip fits into mortar joints and lets you push fresh mortar into gaps without smearing the brick face. For tuck pointing repairs on chimneys and small walls, this is the size I reach for.
The TPR grip is soft enough to keep your hand comfortable on long pointing jobs. I have found it stays grippy even when wet, which is a small detail that matters when you are working in the rain or with wet gloves. At only a few ounces, the trowel is easy to control for detail work.
Where the M-D trowel really earns its place is in the value category. You get a stainless steel blade and a comfortable grip at a price that beats most imported brick trowels. For a homeowner tackling a small garden wall repair, this is more than enough tool.
Who this trowel is right for
Homeowners, DIYers, and beginners who only need to do small repairs will get great value here. It is also a solid secondary trowel for pros who want a dedicated pointing tool without spending big on a specialty brand. If you are repointing an old chimney or patching a stone step, this is the right size.
Who should pass on it
Full-time bricklayers laying new walls will find this blade too small. A pointing trowel is a specialty tool, not a primary laying trowel. If you need a workhorse for daily production, step up to the MARSHALLTOWN London pattern above.
3. Marshalltown Masonry Margin Trowel – Tight Space Specialist
- Carbon steel blade takes and holds an edge
- Classic wood handle is familiar and repairable
- Compact 5 inch blade fits tight spaces
- Best seller in margin trowel category
- Small blade not suited for main laying work
- Wood handle can crack if left wet
The Marshalltown Margin Trowel is the tool I grab when I am working in tight corners, patching small holes, or cleaning out old mortar from a joint. The 5 inch by 2 inch blade fits where a London trowel simply cannot go. It is also the tool I use to butter the ends of bricks when I am doing detailed work.
The carbon steel blade is ground thin enough to flex slightly when you press mortar into a joint, but stiff enough that it does not bend under load. The classic wood handle feels right in the hand and can be replaced easily if it ever wears out, which is something you cannot say about most modern DuraSoft designs.
Marshalltown has sold this exact margin trowel for decades, and it remains a top seller in the masonry category. The combination of a time-tested shape, solid steel, and reasonable price makes it a no-brainer for any kit. I have owned two of these over my career and both earned their keep until the handle finally cracked.
Margin trowels are not glamorous tools, but every bricklayer uses one daily. They excel at cleanup work, applying mortar in confined spaces, and smoothing out joints in tight corners where your main trowel cannot reach. If you only buy one specialty trowel, make it a margin trowel.
Who this trowel is right for
Anyone doing brick or block work needs a margin trowel. Apprentices will use it to clean out excess mortar and to butter the head joints of bricks. Restoration masons will rely on it for repointing jobs where space is limited. If you have ever tried to scoop mortar out of a bucket with a London trowel, you already know why this tool exists.
Who should pass on it
If you are strictly a homeowner doing one small repair, a pointing trowel like the M-D above might serve you better because of its longer blade. The margin trowel really shines as part of a complete kit, not as a stand-alone tool for occasional use.
4. ESTWING Bricklayers Hammer – Cutting and Setting Bricks
- One-piece steel construction eliminates loose heads
- Patented shock reduction grip protects joints
- Made in USA with quality steel
- Versatile brick hammer for cutting and setting
- Excellent balance and feel
- Finish can vary slightly between units
The ESTWING Bricklayers Hammer is the hammer you will see clipped to almost every bricklayer’s belt on American job sites. I have owned my current Estwing for six years, and the head has never loosened. The one-piece forged steel construction is the reason. There is no joint, no wedge, and no risk of the head flying off mid-swing.
The 22 ounce head has the perfect weight for scoring bricks with the chisel edge and then giving them a sharp tap to split them cleanly. I have split thousands of bricks with this style of hammer, and the Estwing holds its edge better than most competitors. The square head on the other end is great for tapping bricks into place on a bed of mortar.
The patented shock reduction grip is the standout feature. Estwing uses a layer of vinyl or leather over a solid handle to absorb vibration. After a full day of hammering, your elbow and wrist will thank you. The grip also stays secure even when your hands are sweaty or wet.
Made in the USA from American steel, this hammer will outlast several cheaper imports. I have gone through three imported hammers that loosened up within a year, and I keep coming back to Estwing because the tool is reliable and consistent.
Who this hammer is right for
Every bricklayer, whether apprentice or veteran, needs a brick hammer. The Estwing is a great choice if you want one that will last a career. Landscapers, masons, and stone veneer installers also benefit from the dual-purpose head. If you only need to split a few pavers a year, this is still a worthwhile upgrade over a generic hardware store hammer.
Who should pass on it
If you do not work with brick or stone at all, a brick hammer is not for you. Regular carpenters hammers are designed for different tasks. Also, if you are doing large block work where you cut with a saw, you will use the hammer mainly for setting rather than cutting, so a lighter hammer might serve you better.
5. Crescent Brick Chisel – Controlled Brick Splitting
- Durable handguard protects your hand
- Heat treated carbon steel holds a cutting edge
- Tested to 150 percent of ASME standards
- Long blade for cleaner splits
- Less common brand for masonry specialists
The Crescent Brick Chisel is my go-to when I need a clean, controlled cut on a brick or paver. The 3 inch cutting edge lets you score a precise line before driving the chisel through the brick. With the Estwing hammer above, you get cleaner cuts than using the hammer’s built-in chisel edge alone.
What sets this chisel apart is the Hanguard hand protection. The rubber guard sits between your hand and the striking face, which means a missed hammer blow will not split your knuckles. I cannot count how many times that guard has saved me from a flinch-worthy smack.
The carbon steel is heat treated for toughness, and the blade stays sharp through many cuts before needing dressing. The 8-1/2 inch length gives you enough handle to grip securely with one hand while striking with the other. It is a simple tool that does exactly what it should.
For decorative cuts, half-brick closure units, and detailed stonework, a dedicated chisel beats the hammer edge every time. The cleaner cuts mean less grinding and patching after the wall is up. Professional finish depends on this kind of attention.
Who this chisel is right for
Bricklayers who need precise cuts on brick, block, or stone will appreciate the control. It is also useful for masons doing restoration work where you cannot run a saw. DIYers installing a brick patio or building a small planter will find it useful for occasional cuts.
Who should pass on it
If you are doing high-volume production work with a wet saw, you will rarely need a chisel. Also, if you prefer to split pavers with a hammer alone, you might find the chisel redundant. But for anyone who wants clean, accurate cuts without dust or noise, this tool pays for itself.
6. MARSHALLTOWN Brick Jointer – Smooth Mortar Joints
MARSHALLTOWN QLT Brick Jointer, 1/2 x 3/8 Inch, Assembled in USA, Masonry
- Polished carbon steel glides through mortar
- Two joint sizes in one tool
- Limited lifetime warranty from Marshalltown
- Comfortable shape for push or pull motion
- Specialty tool with limited daily use on simple walls
The MARSHALLTOWN Brick Jointer is the tool that turns a rough mortar joint into a smooth, weather-tight finish. After you bed the brick and strike the joint, you run the jointer along the mortar to compress it and shape the profile. This step is what separates amateur walls from professional ones.
The 1/2 x 3/8 inch size covers the two most common joint profiles used in residential brickwork. The polished high carbon steel glides through fresh mortar without dragging or pulling grit. I have used budget jointers that left streaks in the joint, and the polished Marshalltown blade avoids that problem.
Marshalltown backs this tool with a limited lifetime warranty, which is rare for masonry hand tools. The shape sits comfortably between your thumb and forefinger, and you can push or pull it depending on the joint direction. It is a small, simple tool that does one job very well.
The joint profile you choose affects both the look and the performance of the wall. A concave joint sheds water best, which is why most code-compliant masonry uses it. The jointer handles the shaping in a single pass once you have the motion down.
Who this jointer is right for
Bricklayers who care about finished joint profiles need a quality jointer. Homeowners doing face brick work will see a noticeable improvement in the look of their walls. If you are laying concrete block that will be hidden, you might skip this step, but visible brickwork always benefits from jointing.
Who should pass on it
If your project is purely structural and the wall will be parged or covered, save your money. Also, if you only have one tiny repair to make, a margin trowel can serve double duty as an improvised jointer. But for any visible brickwork, this tool is worth the small investment.
7. Mayhew Select Handguarded Mason Chisel – Reliable Cutting
Mayhew Select 35705 2-1/4-by-7-3/4-Inch Handguarded Mason Chisel , Black
- Handguard absorbs shock and protects hands
- Alloy steel blade holds a sharp edge
- Made in USA with quality control
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind
- Comfortable grip for repetitive cuts
- Smaller cutting edge than dedicated brick chisels
The Mayhew Select Handguarded Mason Chisel is a versatile cutting tool that handles brick, block, stone, and even concrete. I keep one in my truck as a backup for the bigger Crescent chisel above. The handguard does a great job of protecting my hand when I am working fast and miss a strike.
Mayhew has been making chisels and punches in Massachusetts for over 160 years, and the quality shows in the heat treatment and finish. The blade takes and holds a sharp edge through hundreds of cuts. The alloy steel is tougher than standard carbon steel, which means fewer chipped edges on hard material.
The 2-1/4 inch cutting edge is a good general-purpose size for most masonry work. It is wider than a typical brick chisel, which makes it useful for cutting block and stone. The 7-3/4 inch length is comfortable to grip and gives you enough leverage to drive the chisel through tough material.
The 2-year warranty is shorter than the Marshalltown lifetime warranty on the jointer, but it is more than most competitors offer. Mayhew stands behind their tools, and replacement is straightforward if anything goes wrong. For a working mason, this kind of reliability matters.
Who this chisel is right for
Masons who work with a variety of materials will appreciate the versatility. Restoration masons cutting old brick and stone will find the wider blade useful. Apprentices learning proper striking technique will benefit from the handguard. DIYers who need a dependable chisel for occasional projects will get years of use.
Who should pass on it
If you specialize in brick only and want maximum precision, the Crescent brick chisel above is a better fit. Also, if you primarily cut with a saw, a chisel is only useful for cleanup cuts, and you might not need a premium option. For pure stone work, a wider masonry chisel might serve you better.
8. Bon Leaf and Square Tuck Pointing Tool – Repointing Made Easier
- Forged and tempered steel for durability
- Dual leaf and square working tips
- Classic wood handle feels balanced in the hand
- Designed specifically for tuck pointing
- Specialty tool with limited use beyond repointing
The Bon Leaf and Square Tuck Pointing Tool is purpose-built for one job: repointing old mortar joints. The leaf-shaped end lets you push mortar deep into narrow joints without smearing the brick face. The square end finishes the joint profile cleanly. If you do any restoration work, this tool will save you hours.
Bon Tool has been making masonry tools in Pittsburgh since 1958, and their forged and tempered steel holds up to years of hard use. The blade is narrower than a pointing trowel, which means you can press mortar into a 3/8 inch joint without bridging across to the brick face.
The wood handle is comfortable for the repetitive pushing motion of tuck pointing. After grinding out old mortar joints with an angle grinder, you need to push fresh mortar deep into the joint. The leaf tip lets you do that in one motion, compressing the mortar against the back of the joint for a solid bond.
Tuck pointing is one of the most detail-oriented jobs in masonry, and having the right tool matters. A regular trowel is too wide, and a margin trowel is too short. This specialty tool fits the niche perfectly. If you are doing a chimney repoint or restoring an old brick wall, it is well worth the price.
Who this tool is right for
Restoration masons, chimney repair specialists, and historic preservation contractors will use this tool regularly. Homeowners tackling a chimney repoint as a DIY project will find it makes the job much easier. If you have an old stone foundation that needs repointing, this is the right shape.
Who should pass on it
If you only do new construction with fresh mortar, you will rarely use a tuck pointing tool. A margin trowel or pointing trowel will cover most of your needs. Also, if you have no repointing projects on the horizon, skip this specialty tool and put the money toward a more general-purpose item.
9. MARSHALLTOWN Aluminum Hawk – Mortar Carrying Platform
- Lightweight aluminum reduces arm fatigue
- DuraSoft handle is comfortable during long jobs
- 10 inch blade holds a good working amount of mortar
- Made in USA quality construction
- Aluminum blade can dent if dropped on hard surface
The MARSHALLTOWN Aluminum Hawk is the flat platform that holds your mortar while you work. You load it up with mortar from the board, carry it to the wall, and pick off mortar with your trowel as needed. Without a hawk, you are constantly bending back to a mortar board, which slows you down and strains your back.
The 10 inch aluminum blade is the perfect size for most residential work. It is big enough to hold a good amount of mortar but small enough to handle with one hand comfortably. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, which matters when you are holding it for hours at a time.
The DuraSoft handle is comfortable even when your hand is covered in mortar. Marshalltown assembles these hawks in the USA, and the build quality is consistent. I have used cheaper imported hawks that bent under load, and the Marshalltown aluminum is much stiffer and more durable.
On a typical bricklaying job, a bricklayer might make 1000 trips back to a mortar board without a hawk. With a hawk, you cut those trips down dramatically. Over a career, that is thousands of hours of saved bending and walking, which adds up to less back pain and faster production.
Who this hawk is right for
Anyone laying more than a handful of bricks will benefit from a hawk. Apprentices learn to use one early because it is fundamental to productive work. DIYers laying a garden wall will appreciate having mortar within easy reach. Plasterers and tile setters also use hawks for similar tasks.
Who should pass on it
If you are doing one tiny repair with premixed mortar in a small bucket, you might not need a hawk. Also, if you are doing very high walls with a lift or pump system, mortar delivery happens differently. But for the vast majority of bricklaying jobs, a hawk is essential.
10. Marshalltown Rhino Ruler – Layout and Spacing
Marshalltown Rhino Ruler, Oversized Brick Spacing, Masonry Layout Tool
- Washable fiberglass cleans easily after mortar contact
- Weather-resistant scales last on job sites
- Folding design fits in a tool belt
- Oversized markings for quick reading
- Specialty tool with limited use outside bricklaying
The Marshalltown Rhino Ruler is a folding layout tool designed specifically for bricklayers. Standard rulers get covered in mortar and become unreadable within a week. The Rhino Ruler is made from fiberglass that you can actually wash off at the end of the day, and the scales stay clear and legible for years.
The folding design means it fits in a tool belt or pocket without poking you when you bend over. When you need to measure a course of brick or check modular dimensions, it unfolds to a full length that covers typical wall sections. The oversized brick spacing markings are a thoughtful touch for fast reading.
Marshalltown designed this ruler after watching masons struggle with tape measures and wooden folding rules on muddy job sites. The fiberglass does not swell, warp, or crack the way wooden rules do. After a season in the rain, a wooden rule is junk, while the Rhino Ruler still works perfectly.
For modular brickwork where every course needs to land on a specific dimension, a quality folding ruler saves real time. I use mine to mark door and window openings, check coursing heights, and measure offsets. It is one of those tools you forget you have until you need it, and then you cannot do without it.
Who this ruler is right for
Bricklayers who do modular brick or block work will appreciate the durability. Anyone working outdoors in wet conditions will benefit from the washable fiberglass. Apprentices learning layout will find the oversized markings helpful. Restoration masons checking old coursing will use it regularly.
Who should pass on it
If you are doing random rubble stonework or purely structural block work, a simple tape measure will do. Also, if you already have a wooden folding rule that you maintain carefully, you might not need to upgrade. But for face brick or any work where measurements matter, the Rhino Ruler is worth it.
11. Stabila 48 Inch Masonry Spirit Level – Straight and Plumb
- Lifetime accuracy warranty on vials
- Easy to read bubble vials even in low light
- Aluminum frame is rigid and light
- Offset vertical vial for sight lines
- German engineering and quality control
- Premium price versus import levels
The Stabila 48 Inch Masonry Spirit Level is the level I trust on every job where plumb and level really matter. German-engineered and built like a tank, this level stays accurate for decades. I have used my Stabila for over five years, and the vials are still dead-on according to my reference blocks.
The 48 inch length is the workhorse size for bricklaying. It covers a course of block plus mortar joints, which lets you check level across multiple units at once. The aluminum frame is rigid enough that it does not flex when you set it across blocks, which cheaper levels can do and give you false readings.
Stabila offers a lifetime accuracy warranty on the vials, which means if they ever go out of spec, they will replace the level. That kind of confidence comes from precision manufacturing in Germany. The vials are epoxy-locked into the frame so they do not shift from drops or temperature changes.
The offset vertical vial is a small but brilliant feature. When you hold the level against a wall to check plumb, you can see the vertical vial from the front without craning your neck. That saves real time when you are stepping back to check a long wall.
Who this level is right for
Professional bricklayers and contractors who need guaranteed accuracy will love this level. Restoration masons checking old walls will appreciate the reliability. DIYers who want one level that will last a lifetime will get great value. If you do any kind of precision masonry, this is the level to buy.
Who should pass on it
If you only do small repairs and do not need the precision, a cheaper level will work. Also, if you do production block work where speed matters more than absolute accuracy, you might prefer a lighter level. But for face brick, foundation work, or any visible masonry, the Stabila is worth every penny.
12. Goldblatt 12PCS Masonry Tool Set – Complete Starter Kit
Goldblatt 12PCS Masonry Tool Set, Brick Laying Tools with Pointing Trowel
- 12-piece comprehensive set covers basic needs
- Hardened steel blades hold up to regular use
- Carrying bag keeps tools organized
- Rust-resistant finish for outdoor storage
- Excellent value for beginners
- Individual tools not as refined as specialty brands
The Goldblatt 12PCS Masonry Tool Set is the kit I recommend to anyone starting out in bricklaying or tackling a serious DIY project. For the price of one premium trowel, you get a dozen essential tools in a carrying bag. It is a great way to figure out which specialty tools you actually need before investing in top-shelf versions.
The set includes various trowels, a jointing tool, line blocks, a line, and other essentials you need for a complete bricklaying job. The hardened steel blades hold up to regular use, and the rust-resistant finish means you can leave them in the truck without worrying about corrosion.
Goldblatt has been making masonry tools for over 30 years, and this set pulls together the most-used items in one package. The carrying bag keeps everything organized, which matters more than you might think on a busy job site. Losing one tool means a trip to the supplier, but with a kit, you always know what you have.
Individual specialty tools from brands like Marshalltown and Estwing will always outperform the Goldblatt versions in terms of feel and longevity. However, for a beginner who is still learning technique, the Goldblatt tools are more than adequate. As your skills develop, you can upgrade the tools you use most.
Who this kit is right for
First-year apprentices will get everything they need to start work without breaking the bank. Homeowners tackling a multi-week DIY project will save money buying the set versus individual tools. Hobbyists who want to try bricklaying will appreciate having the right tools without committing to expensive purchases. It also makes a great gift for someone considering a masonry career.
Who should pass on it
Experienced bricklayers will want to pick their own specialty tools from premium brands rather than rely on a kit. Also, if you only need one or two tools for a specific repair, buying the kit does not make sense. But for anyone starting fresh, this set is the fastest way to get a functional kit.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Masonry Tools for Bricklayers?
Picking the right masonry tools for bricklayers depends on three factors: your skill level, the type of work you do, and how often you use the tools. A full-time bricklayer needs different gear than a homeowner doing a weekend project. This guide walks you through the key decisions so you spend money on tools you will actually use.
Skill Level and Frequency of Use
If you are a beginner or DIYer, start with a complete kit like the Goldblatt 12-piece set above. You will get all the basics at a fair price, and you can upgrade specific tools as your skills and projects demand. Trying to save money by buying only the cheapest individual tools usually backfires, because you end up with tools that do not work well and you have to replace them anyway.
Apprentices and serious hobbyists should invest in one or two premium hand tools early. A quality London brick trowel and a brick hammer will be with you for decades. Spend money on tools you touch every day, not on tools you use occasionally. The trowel and hammer see more action than anything else in your kit.
Professional bricklayers know that the best masonry tools for bricklayers are the ones that hold up to daily use without fail. A $40 trowel that lasts 10 years is cheaper than three $15 trowels that wear out in a year each. This is why brands like Marshalltown, Estwing, and Stabila dominate professional job sites.
Hand Tools Versus Power Tools
Traditional masonry relies heavily on hand tools, and they remain the foundation of the trade. Trowels, hammers, levels, jointers, and hawks are non-negotiable. Power tools supplement hand tools, but they do not replace them. A skilled bricklayer with basic hand tools can outperform someone with power tools and no technique.
Power tools like angle grinders, hammer drills, and circular saws speed up specific tasks like cutting brick, drilling anchor holes, and grinding out old mortar. If you are doing significant cutting work, a good angle grinder is worth the investment. For pure laying and finishing, hand tools are still the way to go.
Our list focuses on hand tools because they form the core of any masonry kit. If you decide to add power tools later, mid-range brands like DeWalt, Bosch, and Makita offer the best balance of cost and reliability for construction work. Avoid cheap no-name power tools on real job sites.
Brand Considerations: Marshalltown, Estwing, Stabila, and More
Marshalltown dominates American masonry for good reason. Their trowels, jointers, hawks, and levels are consistent in quality, widely available, and supported by a solid warranty. When you ask professional masons which trowel to buy, the answer is almost always Marshalltown or W Rose. Both are excellent choices.
Estwing is the standard for brick hammers and striking tools. Their one-piece steel construction is unmatched, and the shock reduction grip is a genuine innovation. After using an Estwing hammer, it is hard to go back to a two-piece design.
Stabila is the gold standard for levels. German engineering and lifetime vial warranties make them the choice for pros who cannot afford to have a level that lies. The price is higher than imports, but the accuracy and durability justify the investment over the life of the tool.
For budget-conscious buyers, Goldblatt and Bon Tool offer decent quality at lower prices. They are not as refined as the premium brands, but they will not fail you on a small project. Treat them as starter tools you can upgrade later if your needs grow.
Budget Breakdown for Beginners Versus Professionals
A complete beginner kit covering the basics runs roughly $200 to $400 if you buy the Goldblatt set plus a quality hammer and level. This gets you working without overspending on tools you might not use. As you progress, plan to upgrade your trowel and level first, because those see the most action.
A professional starter kit with premium brands runs roughly $400 to $700. This includes a Marshalltown London trowel, Estwing hammer, Stabila level, Marshalltown jointer, hawk, margin trowel, and a pointing trowel. It is a solid foundation that will last your apprenticeship and beyond.
For seasoned pros, expect to spend $800 to $1500 on a complete kit with specialty tools for restoration, stone work, or decorative masonry. The investment pays back in faster production, less fatigue, and fewer tool replacements. Quality hand tools are one of the few areas where spending more actually saves money in the long run.
Maintenance Tips for Longer Tool Life
Clean your tools at the end of every workday. Mortar that dries on a trowel blade is hard to remove and can cause pitting. A quick wipe with a damp rag and a brush on the working edges keeps tools in good shape. For levels, wipe down the frame and check the vials periodically.
Oil metal parts lightly to prevent rust. A thin coat of tool oil or even WD-40 on trowel blades, hammer heads, and level edges prevents oxidation. Wipe off the excess before using the tool. Stored tools last much longer when oiled, especially in humid climates.
Replace wooden handles before they fail. A cracked handle on a hammer or trowel can cause injury. Check handles regularly and replace them at the first sign of damage. Most premium tools offer replacement handles, which is cheaper than buying a new tool.
Store tools in a dry place. A job box with a lock is ideal for working masons. For homeowners, a garage shelf or shed is fine. Avoid leaving tools in the rain or in damp basements, because moisture is the enemy of metal and wood alike.
Frequently Asked Questions About Masonry Tools for Bricklayers
What are the best tools for bricklaying?
The best masonry tools for bricklayers include a London brick trowel for laying, a brick hammer for cutting and setting, a spirit level for accuracy, a margin trowel for tight spaces, a jointer for finishing joints, and a hawk for carrying mortar. Quality brands like Marshalltown, Estwing, and Stabila dominate professional job sites.
What tools should a bricklayer have?
A complete bricklayer tool kit includes a London brick trowel, brick hammer, spirit level, margin trowel, pointing trowel, brick jointer, aluminum hawk, mason’s line, line blocks, chisel, and a sturdy tool belt. Beginners can start with a 12-piece masonry tool set like the Goldblatt and upgrade to premium hand tools as their skills develop.
What is the difference between a bricklayer and a brick mason?
In modern usage, bricklayer and brick mason refer to the same trade. Both terms describe a craftsperson who lays bricks, blocks, and stone using mortar to build walls, chimneys, and structures. Some regions use bricklayer for the worker and brick mason for the more experienced craftsperson, but the job duties are essentially identical.
What are common bricklaying mistakes to avoid?
The most common bricklaying mistakes include not using a level on every course, applying too much or too little mortar, failing to butter the head joints of bricks, striking joints at the wrong time, and not cleaning tools at the end of the day. Beginners should focus on consistent mortar bed thickness and plumb walls before worrying about speed.
Should beginners buy expensive or budget masonry tools?
Beginners should buy mid-range tools to start. A budget 12-piece set like the Goldblatt covers the basics, while one or two premium tools like a Marshalltown trowel and an Estwing hammer will outlast cheaper alternatives. Avoid the cheapest imports because they often fail quickly, but you do not need every premium tool on day one.
Final Verdict on the Best Masonry Tools for Bricklayers
After testing and comparing the top options on the market, our team’s top pick for the best masonry tools for bricklayers in 2026 is the MARSHALLTOWN London Brick Trowel for primary laying work and the ESTWING Brick Hammer as the essential hammer. Add the Goldblatt 12-piece Masonry Tool Set for a complete starter kit, and you have the foundation of a kit that will serve you for years.
For specific jobs, the Stabila 48 Inch Level is the level to trust on any wall where plumb and level really matter. The Marshalltown Margin Trowel and the Crescent Brick Chisel round out the essentials that every bricklayer reaches for daily. Specialty tools like the Bon Tuck Pointing Tool earn their place on restoration jobs.
Quality masonry tools for bricklayers are not glamorous, but they make the difference between a wall you are proud of and one that needs to be torn down. Invest in the tools you touch every day, maintain them well, and they will pay you back many times over the life of your career. Start with our top picks, build your kit as your skills grow, and you will always have the right tool for the job.