Do you remember that person you dated in high school--the one your mom hated because she knew they were no good for you? They were a bit too much for you to handle, they didn’t treat you so great…and you couldn’t care less because they were just that hot? This bag is like that.
Just so we’re clear, Saddleback bags aren’t for everyone. For starters, they’re heavy. Saddleback uses full-grain leather, which means they’re made from the thickest, heaviest, most ass-kicking part of the cowhide. And the hardware is all heavy-duty metal. Completely empty, our large Briefcase (medium and extra large also available) weighs 7.5 pounds, which is more than the backpack I usually use—with my laptop in it. If you’re using a 13-inch or smaller MacBook, you can get away with the medium size (it’s smaller and about a pound lighter), but anything bigger and you’ll need to go large. The bags are also imperfect. The leather scratches and scuffs with daily use. Frankly, I think the lived-in, Indiana Jones look is cool, but if you’re looking for pristine soft leather, this ain’t it.
Saddleback's bags are pure 100 percent leather power.
The Briefcase itself is a fairly simple affair. The main compartment is divided in two by a couple of small internal pockets, and a key strap is riveted inside the bag. Small external pockets also lurk on the ends of the bag, perfect for quickly stashing smaller items. On the flap, three heavy buckles close the bag, although we only used the center strap for the sake of speed. This bag is designed to be carried over one shoulder, but the adjustable 59-inch strap can also be routed through a ring on the top to create backpack-style straps.
In daily use, we got more compliments and curious questions about the Saddleback Briefcase than any other product we’ve ever reviewed. Rest assured—it’s a drop-dead gorgeous bag. But from a practicality standpoint, it’s 15 pounds when loaded with a MacBook and a few extras…so we always felt as if our spine was on the verge of snapping in two. And the stiff, hard leather maintains its shape, so the bag is almost the same size empty as it is stuffed with gear. So yeah, it’s heavy and bulky.
The bottom line. Saddleback’s Briefcase isn’t always practical. But if you’re looking for durability and rugged style more than convenience—and have the ample finances and sturdy backbone to be able to swing it—this will be the last bag you ever buy.
BRIEFCASE
Stuff to carry, strong back, fat wallet
Beautiful and durable. Lifetime warranty. This bag wil outlive you.
Incredibly heavy. Not much in the way of pockets or other organizational frills. Expensive!
Smangouri
April 04, 2011 at 7:37pm
So, this is for anyone who has the large briefcase, and even better if anyone who has the large bag is similarly situated. I am a law student, i frequently have to carry my 15in. MBPro and books (read: 3 thousand plus page compendiums). As it stands now, the weight is no problem when all in my backpack. Unfortunately, I dont like strolling into court sporting my red and black sack. So, anyone who has that bag, and a similar weight being stored therein, do you find it comfortable?
Thanks,
S
tnch98
March 09, 2011 at 8:52am
I want this bag please to cary my MAC book Pro, IPad, Ipod and maybe Ipad 2 too. pjh
iwalker
February 23, 2011 at 4:15pm
HELP! Messenger bag, Satchel or Briefcase??? Need it mostly for daily use- Macbook (13"), day timer, books, general stuff - but occasionally need more space.
Leaning toward medium briefcase but love the messenger bag.
PLEASE - ANY ADVICE?
EricMontgomery
February 20, 2011 at 2:44pm
I just ordered the Large Chestnut briefcase this morning. I've been dying for one of these for years. Ever since it was featured on Uncrate.com. Ny wife finally gave the thumbs up! WOO HOO!
bunnywithscalpel
January 24, 2011 at 8:19am
I can definately bench-press more than the MacLife editors. I have been drooling over this bag since the first time I saw it!
SoItsComeToThis
January 18, 2011 at 11:35am
I have the large briefcase and I love it. It's worth its cost and weight. I've gotten several comments on the briefcase from coworkers.
I also have a wallet from them and I *might* get the iPad case if it fits the new iPad that coming out in the next few months. They are a solid company and do mission work around the world so they're more than just great bag makers.
dahava
December 24, 2010 at 4:55pm
I bought two bags from saddleback this month. First off, I agree they are expensive and my messenger bag could use a few more internal pockets for me to segregate some important things, like iPod, thumb drive, glasses, etc. The second bag is the tote for my wife. I gotta tell you...she has FLIPPED for this bag. Now, I'm not a woman but I guess after years of carrying bags that are "not quite right" or "almost right" when you find the right one it is apparently some kind of spiritual moment! So, certainly no negatives to report on the tote!
d2photo
December 14, 2010 at 3:57pm
You said it, the last bag you'll ever buy. I have one of the messenger bags from them and LOVE IT. I love the look the smell and never have to worry about damaging this thing.
One nice thing about lack of pockets is the inability to carry crap you really don't have a daily use for in the first place. The divider in the messenger bag also nicely holds my iPad withe the apple cover on.
Are the heavy, Yup. Will they be around long after your in the ground, Yup. Do you really need it, no but then again do most of us need a 50+ inch TV or $30k car..
