This is a beautiful bag with an abundance of compartments for storage. My tablet reader fits perfectly with room to spare. I can store and carry lots of items such as a knife, flashlight, first aid kit, wallet, multi-tool, lipstick, etc. with ease, most of it out of sight. There are large, zipper pockets for carrying documents, and a long leather tether or keys. It is well made with thick leather and heavy stitching and hardware. I am unhappy with the finish, which scratched the first time I used the bag, and continues to scratch with gentle use. It is also extremely heavy, even empty. My lower back problems have returned in the two weeks I've used it. This is a great piece for travel or to carry for work, and is perfect for a working mother of young children. I am no longer either, and will probably switch to a lighter bag for daily use.
First the details: The leather is supple, the inside organizer is nice (fits 3 pens, and a passport external hard drive), but I can't imagine putting credit cards or anything of real value in those card slots (maybe a hotel key?). The strap is sturdy and comfortable, webbing-reinforced leather (or vice-versa) is smart. Front latch is quick and efficient for opening and closing the top flap, better than I expected there on the merging of elegant look and functionality. The front pocket is a little awkward, could use a top snap or zip closure or something. The main compartment zipper is also awkward; it could be sewn to the side of the bag, so that the bag seals completely at the top without loss of functionality. Inside back zipper pocket is nice for "do not lose" items. The inside flap zippered pocket is another weird one. The outside back zippered pocket is an interesting touch, but it is only 2/3 the length of the bag, why? Finally, there is no beverage sleeve (inside or out); I guess I'm just used to that from other messenger bags, but those things are handy!
Overall: Looks great! Holds my laptop, tablet, binder, and a book or two at the same time in the main compartment. Keeps pens at the ready, and has enough pockets to keep reasonably organized. Those pockets however are a far cry from ideal (awkwardly sized). If LL Bean makes some minor adjustments focused on the intent of their pockets, this bag could be a top of the line messenger.
My Usage: Daily, as a teacher moving around campus by foot throughout the day; and, hopefully as my "personal item" when I travel.
I ordered this bag for my husband as a gift. The bag is nice quality but the color is more of a light tan leather rather than a dark brown as pictured on the website. I am returning this bag because I wanted a darker, richer brown not a tan bag.
This bag is really great in many ways. The leather is a high quality and wears beautifully. The size is just about perfect for a laptop, files, and other miscellaneous items, though another inch or two in its depth might have been nice. I regularly receive compliments about it, and people always think that it is made by a more expensive manufacturer. However, like many of the other reviewers, I too had an issue with the clasp of the bag staying shut despite my best efforts. Luckily, the excellent customer service team tested and sent a new bag immediately to replace the one with the defective clasp. I am completely satisfied with the replacement bag, and highly recommend it.
