Best Bricklaying Trowels of 2026

For any serious mason, amateur DIY enthusiast, or professional bricklayer, the humble bricklaying trowel is arguably the most essential tool in their arsenal. More than just a tool for spreading mortar, a quality trowel contributes significantly to precision, efficiency, and comfort, directly impacting the final aesthetic and structural integrity of a project. With a diverse array of shapes, sizes, and handle materials available, selecting the ideal trowel can be a surprisingly nuanced decision. 

1. MARSHALLTOWN London Style Brick Trowel

• Style: London Pattern
• Blade Material: High carbon steel, taper ground, heat treated
• Handle: DuraSoft, ergonomic
• Origin: Made in USA with Global Materials

The MARSHALLTOWN London Brick Trowel is a benchmark for professional-grade masonry tools, designed to tackle a wide array of brick, block, and stonework projects with unparalleled precision and durability. Its construction from a single piece of high carbon steel, which is then meticulously polished, taper ground, and heat treated. This robust forging process guarantees that the blade maintains its integrity and performance even under rigorous daily use. The variety of lengths and widths available allows masons to select the perfect size for their specific needs.

A significant highlight is the DuraSoft handle, engineered for superior comfort and reduced user fatigue during extended periods of work. The handle is expertly set to provide optimal hang and balance. This thoughtful ergonomic design, combined with its “Made in the USA with Global Materials” assurance, underscores MARSHALLTOWN’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a professional seeking dependable performance or a serious DIYer investing in a tool built to last, this London style trowel delivers on all fronts.

• Pros:
  • Professional-grade quality
  • Exceptional durability from forged steel
  • Ergonomic DuraSoft handle reduces fatigue
• Cons:
  • Premium price point
  • Specific London style might not suit all preferences

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2. SHALL 3-Piece Masonry Tools Set

• Set Includes: 7’’ gauging, 6’’ margin, 5.5’’ pointing trowel
• Blade Material: High-quality carbon steel (1.2mm thickness)
• Corrosion Protection: Brushed finish with dry rust preventive oil
• Handle: PP and TRP soft grip

The SHALL 3-Piece Masonry Tools Set is an excellent entry-level or versatile kit for DIY enthusiasts and apprentice bricklayers tackling various construction projects. This comprehensive set includes a 7-inch gauging trowel, a 6-inch margin trowel, and a 5.5-inch pointing trowel, covering the essential tools needed for concrete, mortar, cement leveling, plaster, and tile work. Each trowel is crafted from high-quality carbon steel with an upgraded thickness of 3/64 inches (1.2mm). The robust material choice guarantees longevity, providing reliable performance across diverse masonry applications.

Beyond their strong build, these tools feature a brushed finish steel surface coated with a dry rust preventive oil. This protective layer also makes the trowels easier to clean after use, a crucial factor in tool maintenance. Comfort during use is addressed by the PP and TRP soft grip handles, which provide a comfortable and anti-slip grip, effectively reducing hand fatigue during prolonged operation. This set is particularly well-suited for bricklayers, stonemasons, and DIYers looking for a cost-effective yet dependable collection of masonry hand tools for a broad range of construction endeavors.

• Pros:
  • Comprehensive 3-piece set for various tasks
  • Durable, thick carbon steel construction
  • Effective anti-rust coating for longevity
• Cons:
  • May not meet professional heavy-duty demands
  • Fixed sizes limit customization

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3. KSEIBI 7-Inch Narrow Bucket Brick Trowel

• Blade Material: Solid forged steel
• Handle: Comfortable wooden handle
• Blade Type: Narrow Bucket, Square Tip
• Size: 7-inch (180mm)

The KSEIBI 7-Inch Narrow Bucket Brick Trowel offers a robust and traditional option for masons who appreciate solid construction and a classic feel. The blade is crafted from solid forged steel, a manufacturing process known for creating tools with ultimate strength and durability. This ensures the trowel can withstand heavy-duty use, making it a reliable choice for scooping, spreading, and shaping mortar in more confined spaces or for specific tasks where a narrow blade is advantageous. The square tip, combined with its bucket shape, is particularly effective for extracting mortar cleanly from a bucket and precisely applying it without excessive spill.

Complementing the sturdy blade is a comfortable wooden handle, providing a traditional grip that many masons prefer. Wooden handles offer a natural feel, absorb some vibration, and can mold to the user’s hand over time, enhancing comfort and control. While it might require a bit more care than synthetic handles, its timeless appeal and tactile feedback are highly valued. This 7-inch trowel is specifically designed for tasks demanding accuracy and a smaller footprint, making it an excellent specialized tool for bricklaying where space is limited or for detailed work requiring a controlled application of mortar. It’s a no-nonsense tool built for strength and purpose.

• Pros:
  • Ultimate strength from solid forged steel
  • Traditional, comfortable wooden handle
  • Ideal for narrow applications and precise mortar placement
• Cons:
  • Wooden handle requires maintenance and care
  • Specific narrow design limits broad utility

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4. Edward Tools 6-inch Gauging Brick Trowel

• Blade Material: Heavy duty high carbon steel
• Blade Type: Gauging Trowel
• Handle: Ergonomic rubber grip
• Warranty: Lifetime Warranty

The Edward Tools 6-inch Gauging Brick Trowel is a robust and reliable option specifically designed for the precise placement of mortar between bricks, stone, and concrete. Constructed from heavy-duty high carbon steel, this trowel promises exceptional durability and resilience against the rigors of masonry work. The choice of high carbon steel ensures that the blade maintains its integrity and sharp edge, making it an ideal tool for professionals and serious DIYers who demand consistent performance. Its gauging design is particularly effective for accurate mortar application, helping to achieve neat and structurally sound joints in various masonry projects.

A standout feature of this Edward Tools trowel is its ergonomic rubber grip handle. Engineered for comfort, this handle significantly reduces hand fatigue during extended use, providing a secure and comfortable hold even when wet or covered in mortar. This allows for greater control and precision, leading to a higher quality finish and increased productivity. The standard 6-inch blade size offers a versatile sweet spot for many bricklaying tasks. Furthermore, the inclusion of a lifetime warranty underscores the manufacturer’s confidence in the tool’s quality and longevity, offering peace of mind to the buyer. This trowel is a solid choice for anyone seeking a durable, comfortable, and reliable gauging trowel for their masonry endeavors.

• Pros:
  • Heavy-duty high carbon steel blade
  • Ergonomic rubber grip for comfort
  • Backed by a lifetime warranty
• Cons:
  • Fixed 6-inch size may not suit all tasks
  • Gauging specific, less versatile for general spreading

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5. QLT by MARSHALLTOWN London Style Brick Trowel

• Brand: QLT by MARSHALLTOWN
• Style: London Pattern
• Handle: Soft grip
• Grade: Contractor-grade

The QLT by MARSHALLTOWN London Style Brick Trowel presents a reliable contractor-grade option for those seeking a durable and comfortable tool for various masonry projects. As part of the QLT line, it brings the trusted heritage of MARSHALLTOWN quality in a more accessible package. This 12 x 5-inch trowel is built to withstand the demands of repeated use on the job site, making it a dependable choice for both seasoned contractors and serious home improvers. Its robust construction ensures longevity and consistent performance, a crucial factor when tackling projects of any size, from small repairs to larger new constructions.

Designed with user comfort in mind, this brick trowel features a soft grip handle. This ergonomic design is key to reducing hand fatigue during long working hours, providing a secure and comfortable hold that enhances control and precision. The London style blade, known for its balanced shape and effectiveness in carrying and spreading mortar, makes this trowel a versatile workhorse for bricklaying, blockwork, and general masonry. Its combination of contractor-grade durability and a comfortable soft grip handle positions it as an excellent value proposition, delivering reliable performance without compromising on user experience, suitable for a wide range of masonry applications.

• Pros:
  • Durable contractor-grade construction
  • Comfortable soft grip handle reduces fatigue
  • Versatile London style blade
• Cons:
  • May not have the premium finish of higher-end MARSHALLTOWN tools
  • Fixed size and style

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6. Goldblatt Trowel Pro Soft-Grip London Brick Trowel

• Blade Material: Premium one-piece drop forged
• Blade Design: Precisely taper-ground
• Handle: Soft-grip with finger guard and mallet-function end
• Blade Size: 11-1/2 in. x 5 in.

The Goldblatt Trowel Pro Soft-Grip London Brick Trowel is engineered for masons who demand precision, durability, and comfort from their tools. Featuring a premium one-piece drop-forged blade, this trowel boasts the highest strength and longevity, making it a reliable choice for professional-grade masonry work. The blade is precisely taper-ground, which ensures excellent balance and flexibility. This precise grinding allows for optimal control when scooping, carrying, and spreading mortar, leading to smoother applications and a more refined finish on any brick, stone, or concrete block project. Its 11-1/2 inch by 5-inch London pattern is a testament to its popularity, being the most common and versatile design for applying mortar.

A significant highlight is the comfortable soft-grip handle, thoughtfully designed with a finger guard to prevent slipping and improve safety during use. What truly sets this trowel apart is the integrated mallet-function end on the handle, providing a convenient way to tap bricks into place without needing a separate tool. This dual functionality enhances efficiency on the job site. The ergonomic soft grip also plays a crucial role in reducing hand fatigue during prolonged tasks, allowing for extended periods of comfortable work. Goldblatt’s commitment to quality makes this trowel an excellent investment for anyone seeking a high-performance, durable, and user-friendly masonry tool.

• Pros:
  • Superior strength from one-piece drop forged blade
  • Excellent balance and flexibility from taper-ground design
  • Comfortable soft-grip handle with finger guard
• Cons:
  • Specific London pattern may not be preferred by all
  • Fixed blade size

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7. Kraft Tool 12-inch Narrow London Brick Trowel

• Blade Style: Narrow London, diamond-heeled
• Handle: Leather handle
• Blade Size: 12 inches
• Application: Veneering, general masonry in narrow areas

The Kraft Tool 12-inch Narrow London Brick Trowel with a Leather Handle is a distinguished tool designed for masons who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and specific functionality. Its narrow London diamond-heeled blade is expertly crafted to carry mortar away from the handle. This design makes it particularly effective for delicate tasks such as veneering, where accuracy in mortar spread is paramount, as well as general masonry projects in tight or confined spaces where a wider trowel might be cumbersome. The 12-inch length provides ample surface area for carrying mortar, while the narrow profile ensures controlled distribution.

A key feature that sets this Kraft Tool trowel apart is its genuine leather handle. Beyond its classic aesthetic, a leather handle offers a unique feel, molding to the user’s hand over time for a custom, comfortable grip. It also provides excellent tactile feedback and vibration dampening, contributing to reduced hand fatigue during long working sessions. While requiring a bit more care than synthetic handles, the durability and traditional appeal of leather are unmatched for many professionals. This trowel is a testament to quality.

• Pros:
  • Ideal for precise mortar application in narrow spaces
  • Excellent for veneering and detailed work
  • Classic, durable leather handle molds to hand
• Cons:
  • Leather handle requires more maintenance
  • Narrow design limits its use for broad applications

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How to Choose Bricklaying Trowels

For any masonry project, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend DIY enthusiast, the quality and type of your bricklaying trowel can significantly impact the outcome of your work. A good trowel isn’t just a tool for spreading mortar; it’s an extension of your hand that dictates precision, efficiency, and comfort. The market offers a dizzying array of trowels, each designed with specific tasks and user preferences in mind. From varying blade shapes and sizes to different handle materials and construction methods, understanding these nuances is crucial for selecting the perfect trowel that not only performs exceptionally but also enhances your overall bricklaying experience. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, helping you make an informed decision to elevate your craftsmanship.

Understanding Trowel Types

Before diving into specific features, it’s vital to recognize the different types of trowels available, as each is designed for particular aspects of masonry work. Choosing the right type for your primary tasks is the first step.

London Pattern Trowel

The London pattern is arguably the most popular and versatile bricklaying trowel. Characterized by its broad heel and pointed tip, it’s excellent for scooping large amounts of mortar, spreading it evenly, and cutting bricks or excess mortar. Its balanced design makes it a go-to for general brick, block, and stonework, offering a good compromise between mortar capacity and maneuverability.

Philadelphia Pattern Trowel

Similar to the London pattern but often larger and with a more rounded heel, the Philadelphia pattern is preferred by masons who need to carry and spread a greater volume of mortar. Its increased surface area allows for quicker application on larger projects, though it might feel slightly heavier and less agile than a London pattern.

Margin Trowel

A smaller, rectangular-bladed trowel, the margin trowel is indispensable for mixing small batches of mortar, patching, or working in tight spaces where a larger trowel won’t fit. Its straight edges are also useful for scraping and cleaning, making it a versatile utility tool on the job site.

Pointing Trowel

Pointing trowels feature a small, often triangular or leaf-shaped blade, specifically designed for finishing mortar joints. Their compact size allows for meticulous work, filling and striking joints neatly, which is crucial for the aesthetic appeal and weather resistance of the finished masonry.

Gauging Trowel

With a deeper, often scoop-like blade, a gauging trowel is primarily used for mixing small quantities of mortar or plaster in a bucket or hawk. It’s also suitable for precise measurement (gauging) and transferring mortar to a hawk or directly to the work surface.

Bucket Trowel

Designed with a wide, often square or rounded blade, the bucket trowel is optimized for scooping mortar directly from a bucket. Its shape minimizes spillage and maximizes the amount of material carried, making it efficient for transferring mortar to a hawk or for direct application.

Key Factors to Consider

Once you understand the basic types, delve into the specifics that differentiate one high-quality trowel from another.

Blade Material and Construction

The blade is the heart of the trowel, and its material and how it’s made significantly impact its performance and longevity.

• Forged vs. Stamped: Forged blades, typically made from a single piece of steel, are heat-treated and often taper-ground. This process results in superior strength, durability, and optimal flexibility, making them a professional’s choice. Stamped blades are cut from a sheet of steel, usually lighter and less expensive, but generally less durable and flexible than forged options.
• Carbon Steel vs. Stainless Steel: High carbon steel is common for its strength and ability to hold an edge, but it’s susceptible to rust if not properly maintained. Stainless steel offers excellent rust resistance and ease of cleaning, though it might be slightly less rigid or more expensive. Many modern trowels strike a balance, using high carbon steel with protective coatings.
• Tapered vs. Uniform Thickness: Taper-ground blades are thinner towards the tip, providing more flexibility and better balance, which reduces fatigue and improves mortar application. Uniform thickness blades are simpler to manufacture but can feel stiffer and heavier.
• Polished Finish: A polished blade allows mortar to slide off easily, preventing buildup and making cleaning simpler.

Blade Size and Shape

The dimensions and specific contours of the blade influence how much mortar you can carry and how accurately you can apply it.

• Length: Standard bricklaying trowels range from 10 to 13 inches. Longer blades carry more mortar, speeding up work on large, open surfaces. Shorter blades offer greater control and are better for intricate work or tight spaces.
• Width: A wider blade typically means more mortar capacity, useful for blockwork. A narrower blade is good for spreading mortar into tighter joints.
• Heel Shape: The heel (closest to the handle) can be diamond-shaped or more rounded. A diamond-heeled London pattern helps push mortar away from the hand, while a rounded heel might be preferred by those who prefer to “drag” mortar.
• Tip Shape: Tips can be pointed (common for London/Philadelphia) for cutting or square for better scooping and spreading in corners.

Handle Design and Material

The handle is crucial for comfort, control, and reducing fatigue, especially during long working hours.

• Ergonomics: Look for a handle that fits comfortably in your hand, reducing strain and providing a secure grip. Contoured or soft-grip handles are designed to minimize fatigue.
• Materials:
  • Wood: Traditional, offers a natural feel, absorbs some vibration, and can mold to the user’s hand over time. Requires more care (oiling) to prevent cracking or splintering.
  • DuraSoft/Rubber/Soft-grip: Modern synthetic materials that provide excellent comfort, anti-slip properties, and often absorb vibration. They are low maintenance and durable.
  • Leather: Another traditional option, leather handles offer a superb grip that improves with age and can conform to the hand. They are durable but require occasional conditioning.
  • Plastic: Lightweight and inexpensive, but may offer less vibration absorption and comfort compared to other materials.
• Balance (Hang and Feel): A well-balanced trowel feels like an extension of your arm, with the weight evenly distributed between the blade and handle. This “hang” is subjective but critical for reducing fatigue and improving control.
• Tang: Ensure the blade extends well into the handle (full tang is ideal) for maximum strength and durability, preventing the blade from separating from the handle.

Weight and Balance

A trowel’s weight can significantly impact your stamina over a long day. While heavier tools might feel more substantial, an excessively heavy trowel can lead to rapid fatigue. Look for a tool that feels balanced in your hand, allowing for smooth, fluid movements without undue strain.

Durability and Longevity

Investing in a high-quality trowel is a smart move. Check reviews, brand reputation, and look for features like forged steel and robust handle construction. A good trowel should last for years, paying for itself many times over in performance and comfort. Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties, which speaks to their confidence in the product’s durability.

Intended Use

Consider how frequently you’ll use the trowel and for what specific tasks. A professional mason will likely need a top-tier, durable forged steel trowel for daily use, while a DIY enthusiast might find a more budget-friendly stamped steel option perfectly adequate for occasional projects. If you’re doing specialized tasks like pointing or mixing, ensure you have the correct type of trowel for that job.

Maintenance Tips for Your Trowel

To ensure your chosen trowel lasts and performs at its best, proper maintenance is key. Always clean your trowel immediately after use, removing all mortar residue, which can cause rust and harden over time. Dry the blade thoroughly and, if it’s carbon steel, apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. Store your trowels in a dry place to avoid exposure to moisture. Periodically check the handle for any signs of wear or loosening and address them promptly. A well-maintained trowel will be a reliable companion for countless projects.

Conclusion

Choosing the best bricklaying trowel is a personal decision that hinges on understanding the different types, materials, and ergonomic considerations. By carefully assessing your specific needs, the nature of your projects, and paying attention to details like blade construction and handle comfort, you can select a trowel that not only enhances your productivity but also makes every bricklaying task more enjoyable and ultimately, more successful. A good trowel is more than just metal and a handle; it’s an investment in your craftsmanship.