It's real simple...I love this bag. I bring it to work with me everyday and it's my primary carry-on when I fly.
Here's what's so great about it: First off, it looks fantastic. I'm not a leather briefcase kind of guy, so I prefer the aged-canvas with leather accents look that the Maine Guide Briefcase provides (although I was sorely tempted by L.L. Bean's brown leather messenger bags). It has the look and feel of an old-fashioned men's travelling bag. That's the look I was after, not a sleek, modern, all-black-laptop-bag type look. I have the khaki brown color, and I think it's the more attractive choice for a natural, organic, old-fashioned handcrafted look. And while it is a professional accessory, make no mistake...this is a tough piece of travel gear. The waterproof waxed canvas makes it outdoors-worthy and guarantees it'll just about last forever.
Since we live in the modern world, I should point out that the built-in cushioned laptop storage pocket was one of the features that sold me on this bag. It's a feature that all briefcases should have, so as to avoid having to buy a seperate laptop insert. The interior office organizer (for cell phone, PDA, wallet, MP3 player, pens, cards, etc.) is another indispensable feature that no travel bag should be without. And the other internal pockets make for exceptional and secure storage space. I think the zippered internal side pocket in the back compartment is a particularly nice touch. The shoulder strap is comfortable (and very very adjustable), though the soft leather handle makes it perfectly comfortable to carry by hand if you prefer.
Having said all that, some improvements could be made. I can really only think of two. First, the bag is constructed a little narrow. I believe it only expands to 3 or so inches. It's perfect for a book and legal pads and a laptop and files. Try carrying something the slightest bit bulky, however, and it's a tight squeeze and makes the bag bulge way out. Building it a little wider would make it a nice compromise between a wide open carry-all messenger bag and a compact briefcase. The other (minor) problem I have is that the open back pocket is kind of hard to access when the handle is fastened shut. Since the handle straps are sewn UNDER the opening of the pocket, the pocket essentially gets shut when the handle is strapped together. It adds a little security, but it makes grabbing things on the run kind of hard.
Despite its few minor shortcomings (which won't bother most folks and don't substantially detract from my enjoyment of or satisfaction with the product) this is a perfect briefcase. Its blend of old-fashioned style, modern functionality and relative affordability make it a great choice for anyone who has a lot of stuff to haul around and want to do so comfortably and look cool while doing it.
