OK
I took the plunge for the holdzit tool holder as I really don't have time to fabricate anything. I'm totally impressed! Very unique set up that I hadn't expected. The inside is filled with some sort of pliable porous foam with the intent being to fill it with WD40. What I like is that it grips my pliers very snugly. So snugly I can turn the holder upside down and shake it without them so much as moving. Of course I anticipate this will lessen to some degree with use. But still an advantage.

The adjacent file holder works perfectly to hold a jaw spreader. Again holding it very firmly.

The thin Lexan backing that the holders are riveted to had some 2 way tape which I removed and will instead use some industrial velcro for mounting.

All in all a very slick set up. If your looking for a place for your pliers (instead of the bottom of the boat) this might be your answer.
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Slick . I like the way it holds the spreader as well. Don't use one often but when you need it you really need it. Thanks MP.

I have used a small piece of aluminum with a slot for my pliers and mouth opener doohickey.  I have made ones for several of the canoes I have used.  Most of them get screwed into the bottom of a thwart so there is no binding.  This one is mounted differently.
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I have a string going between them so I am less likely to lose them. The short piece of bungee gets looped over the handle of the pliers for portages.
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I have been using variations of this setup for over 10 years and like it.

OK........I admit it, I like being and staying organized. I'm not OC about it but clutter and chaos gives me that "unsettled feeling". I've been trying to figure out what do with my pliers which I think are a must have item item on any canoe trip that involves fishing. They are aluminum so they are light.

I use to wear them on my batman utility belt (bear spray, camera, water bottle, knife.........all right there in reach whenever I want it) but I have come to the realization that the belt is a drowning hazard should it ever tangle in the strap of my seat during a capsize. So I have decided to mount the case more or less permanently on the side of the boat since I use it rather frequently. A place for everything makes things a bit more relaxing.
I stumbled across this product and it looks to have some potential. I will cut the file holder off. Curious to see how the acrylic board will conform and adhere to the boat. Adherent is provided.
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Here is the actual product
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Just thought I would pass it on. They look to have some decent stuff, we'll see how it pans out.