As per my nickname am a tad bit obsessive and arrived at ordering this after stalking any derivations of canvas/leather back packs online for the last two months before stumbling across this. The closest other models I had liked had all had a few issues - either the straps were too short and not padded sufficiently or they were a little more military looking than I wanted.
I also dug the original Swiss Army rucksacks but preferred LL Bean's side pocket additions - as well as their life time guarantee; my last LL Bean backpack was purchased in high school and just recently expired - outlasting numerous relationships, decisions and nearly two decades. (Thank you for such great construction!)
Anyway - after all that I really, really wanted to love this - and all the specific details are great and it really solved all the above issues - it's just that it's a little too large.
I'm a 5'7 180 lb female - not exactly small but also not average male height/build either and it's just too bulky for me - the strap/loop on the back hits the back of my neck too high up and the bottom hits my, er, bottom :)
So sadly I think it's going back and my search continues. However, I would be so thrilled if they could offer two sizes. Everything else please keep exactly the same - love the quality/utilitarian design and the tactile canvas/leather combo and color - as well as the strap pad style - but just reduce the size a tad and this OCD shopper will be AOK.
I bought this over a year ago to carry stuff while I was on crutches. Spent about 5 months rehabing and this bag did everything from briefcase duties to grocery bag to just move things around the house ( I have lots of stairs). This fall I then used it hunting to carry extra gear. It even went on several waterfowl hunts and worked very well. Best pack I have owned. Extremely rugged and versatile. Lots of places to store stuff.
This is the perfect bag for the overnight bag, or just a perfect bag if you need to lug stuff. The classic "old school" look and the quality of LL Bean have created the perfect bag. The straps and hardware are absolute quality and the middle pouch on the front also has a zipper behind the strap and hardware. This is the perfect spot for the cellphone, wallet and car keys. I have had this bag for a few weeks and have used it many times already and it will get a tremendous amount of use once it warms up around here in good ol New England. I can imagine how great this bag will be once it is completely broken in and is filled to the max. The waxed cotton gets better with age.... good going on this one LL Bean.
This backpack is the old-fashioned looking bag with modern uses galore. You can easily stuff 2 days worth of clothes into the main compartment and all of your extras into the hidden pocket under the flap-over top. Netted insdie pockets with elastic trim prevent anything from sliding out of the side pockets. Excellent for the looks, excellent for the utilities, Durable through rain and heat.
