What a mason actually needs on the job

For masonry, the core kit is simple: trowels to place and shape mortar, levels and layout tools to keep work plumb and true, and power equipment to mix and cut efficiently. Trade sources consistently list trowels, hammers, chisels, levels, line and measuring tools, mortar mixers, and masonry saws as essential masonry gear.

Hand tools that do the real work

  • Brick or pointing trowel: spreads mortar, beds units, and finishes joints.
  • Margin trowel: useful for tight spaces, repairs, and joint work.
  • Jointer/slicker: compresses and shapes mortar joints for durability and appearance.
  • Brick hammer and chisels: cut, chip, and dress brick or block when a full saw cut is not needed.
  • Mason’s line, tape, and story rod/gauge rod: keep courses straight and spacing consistent.

Levels and layout gear keep the wall honest

A mason does not guess at straight or plumb. Professional guides repeatedly call out spirit levels, line levels, framing squares, and laser levels for long runs and multi-story work. For a working kit, a 2-foot and 4-foot level, mason’s line, tape measure, and chalk line cover most layout tasks.

Power equipment that saves time

On production work, power tools are not optional. Masonry supply and trade sources point to mortar mixers or paddle mixers for consistent batches, plus masonry saws or wet saws for cleaner cuts in brick, block, and stone. Dust control matters too: when dry cutting, use controls that limit silica exposure and keep the work area clean.

Safety is part of the tool list

OSHA is blunt about the risk profile: respirable crystalline silica from cutting, grinding, or drilling masonry materials can cause serious lung disease, and construction employers must control that exposure. OSHA’s construction standards also require fall protection at 6 feet or more, which matters on scaffolded masonry work. In practice, that means eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, respiratory protection where needed, and proper scaffold/fall gear are as important as the trowel in your hand.

Why this trade still pays to learn

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says brickmasons and blockmasons had a median pay of $58,670 per year in May 2024. Employment is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, faster than average, with about 9,600 openings each year on average. That is solid demand for people who can lay true work and keep a jobsite moving.

Bottom line

If you are building a masonry kit, start with trowels, a brick hammer, chisels, mason’s line, tape, levels, and a jointer. Add a mortar mixer and masonry saw when the work volume justifies it, and never treat silica control or fall protection as extra gear.