I bought this as a gift. When I first got it I was a little disappointed - it seemed smaller than I thought it would be based on the measurements in the description and the leather has larger more pronounced pebbled grain to it. The leather was sort of waxy looking and to me had a weird texture to it that I thought looked cheap. Since it was close to Christmas I gave it anyway figuring that if they didn't like it they could either return it or exchange it for the larger messenger bag which I also was considering. Turned out that the briefcase was a big hit. The bag has a whole bunch of useful compartments and three separate sections (one of which is in fact large enough to fit the laptop in - that was my biggest fear, that the computer wouldn't fit). So while I wouldn't necessarily buy this for myself, it was a great present and was great for the person I bought it for.
I am tremendously pleased to be able to buy a briefcase of this quality for this price. As a lawyer I need a case that can take a lot of wear and tear, has compartments that function well, feels good in the hand and on the shoulder, and looks good, too. I looked at a lot of briefcases out there and decided on this one because it fulfills all my requirements for the lowest price. First, the pebbled black leather looks beautiful and feels very soft and supple. It's the kind of leather on which scratches can be "healed" with a rubbing of wax or lip balm. As soft as the leather is, the case stands up on its own. The handles are reinforced on the underside with tough nylon webbing, the same webbing as on the straps, so I have no doubt the handles and straps can bear the load. There are plenty of differentiated compartments to keep everything organized and secure. Finally, I feel good knowing that my briefcase is backed by L. L. Bean's unconditional warranty. A best buy, for sure.
Great bag with great style. Versatile while maintaining a professional air. I highly recommend it. The only negative is that the black coloring sometimes rubs off onto my khakis and other light colored clothes.
I have been looking for a new briefcase for some time and have been back and forth between an all leather and something similar to this. I am an IT professional and always carry my laptop as well as lots of other stuff. I have been going through backpacks at a fairly regular rate. I finally settled on this bag and must say that I am quite satisfied and anticipate years of hard use.
