I was going to say that when I lived out west I carried a lot more in my trunk then I do now. In the country you spend a lot more time on your own I remember going to work on Sunday morning and seeing none for an hour drive. Here I see like 30 people going to corner store. I don't know how well the need excuse would fly around here with bolt cutters and a slim jim I'd find myself having a long talk course since I'm an old fat wish I was rich white guy I'd be home by bedtime. THe only difference in our list was the Sledge I carried a really heavy axe it did the work I needed.I always carry bolt-cutters, wrecking bar, sledge, snips, ax, saw, shovel, ropes & slings, chains, canvas tarps, etc., in the truck because of the horse and stock trailers. In addition to the regular truck equipment and certain other veterinary medical supplies.
It all rides in the truck, never in the trailers, incase I need to get to it quick.
I've never, and probably will never, ever give a second thought to being searched. For alot of farm people, that is just normal EDC.
You are soooo... right about the chinese bolt cutters, we went thru 3 pairs of them on a job 1 time.If you buy the big bolt cutters (which you will need to cut anything of any size) be sure they are made in US. Chinese stuff or Indo/Pakistani are just junk. Metal is too soft for most cuts. I have a pair that are 4 feet long and will not cut s__t. You will pay more for US made stuff but they are worth it. I had to go back and spend the money on them.
As far as being stopped. I agree with several of the above in that you should carry a box load of tools. If you look like you are a working person they will not care about it at all. Truth is most police officers are just as concerned about survival as you are. I know that statement will make me look like I am with the "enemy" to some but who cares. My best friends are police officers and first responders. If you don't act guilty you aren't.